(CNN) -- Some travelers never stray from giant hotel chains, preferring familiarity and the reassuring presence of a pants press.
For those willing to throw their loyalty points to the wind and spend a few extra dollars, there's the world of boutique hotels.
The "boutique" concept has become overused in recent years.
Some hoteliers think funky wallpaper, scatter cushions and an in-room iPod dock are enough to justify the label.
Europe's latest crop of high end boutiques are a far cry from this, bridging historical architecture with cutting-edge design to create destinations that are as much an attraction as the surrounding landmarks.
These are hotels that exude so much style, their customers won't care where the pants press is.
Here are some of the best celebrating their first summer:
Chiltern Firehouse (London)
The 26-room Chiltern, which opened in spring, is the first property outside the United States for Andre Balazs, the man behind L.A.'s Chateau Marmont and The Mercer in New York.
Located in a former fire station in London's Marylebone district, the hotel's Firehouse's restaurant attracts celebs like Robert Pattinson and Lindsay Lohan.
It also attracts an occasional crowd of paparazzi photographers outside.
The kitchen is equally star-studded, with Nuno Mendes of Portugal's Michelin-starred Viajante supplying the dishes.
Good for visiting: The clothing boutiques in nearby Marylebone High Street frequented by the same Hollywood stars staying at the hotel.
Chiltern Firehouse, 1 Chiltern St., Marylebone, London; +44 20 7073 7676
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