Wolf Theiss advises the owner of the Grand Hotel Europa in Innsbruck on the conclusion of a development and lease agreement with Minor Hotels

Vienna, 3 July 2025 – Wolf Theiss advised the owner of the Grand Hotel Europa in Innsbruck on contract negotiations with the international hotel group Minor Hotels. The historic hotel will undergo comprehensive revitalisation and will in future operate under the NH Collection Hotels & Resorts brand.

Opened in 1869, the Grand Hotel Europa is one of Innsbruck’s most prominent hotels and has for decades been among the city’s most renowned addresses. The property is closely linked to the history of Innsbruck and has long served as a meeting place for international guests as well as figures from business, culture and society. As part of the planned revitalisation, the historic Baroque hall in particular is to be re-established as a central event venue.

Among other agreements, a hotel development agreement has been concluded with Minor Hotels, while future operations are secured through a long-term lease agreement. Following extensive refurbishment, reopening is planned for 2029. The hotel will offer approximately 120 rooms and combine its historic character with international brand standards.

Minor Hotels operates more than 640 hotels, resorts and branded residences in 63 countries worldwide and brings extensive experience in the upscale hospitality sector as well as established distribution structures. The NH Collection Hotels & Resorts brand stands for high-quality hotel concepts with a strong local connection and is particularly suited to historic properties in urban locations.

“The Grand Hotel Europa is far more than just a hotel – it is an important part of Innsbruck’s history. My aim is to lead this exceptional property into a new future with great respect for its past. It should not only appeal to international guests but also once again become a vibrant meeting place for the people of Innsbruck. We are very pleased to have found a strong long-term partner in Minor Hotels for this project”,

says Dr Ernst Hutterer, owner of the Grand Hotel Europa.

“The repositioning of the Grand Hotel Europa combines historic substance with an internationally experienced operator and creates a solid foundation for the future development of the site. We are pleased to have supported this project and congratulate the parties on the successful conclusion.”

– Stefan Horn, Partner

Wolf Theiss provided comprehensive advice on all legal aspects of the transaction, including the structuring and negotiation of the operator agreement as well as real estate and contractual matters.

The Wolf Theiss team was led by Partner and hospitality expert Stefan Horn and further included Associate Katharina Ettl (both Real Estate).

The operator selection process was supported by the international real estate advisory firm Christie & Co, led by Manuel Strasser, Associate Director, through a structured selection process.