World’s Coolest Cinemas
Forget binge-watching on a tiny laptop screen and have a cultural and entertainment experience by spending your next movie night at one of the world’s coolest cinemas. From old-fashioned, glamorous movie palaces to uber-chic venues boasting the top entertainment systems. This list of the world’s coolest cinemas definitely beats a night of Netflix and chill
The Castro Theatre – San Francisco, US
Built in 1922, the Castro Theatre was named a landmark of San Francisco in 1976 and is one of the few remaining movie palaces still open from the 1920s in the US. Still owned by its founding family, the elegantly decorated Castro hosts events, festivals, sing-a-longs and new releases. Today, it’s also known as an LGBTQ landmark as it was one of the first venues to showcase LGBTQ films back in the 1970s and quickly became the cultural and political centre for the LGBTQ community.
After a trip to the Castro, film fanatics will love the Hotel Rex San Francisco in keeping with the 1920s art and décor. This boutique hotel offers charming and elegant rooms in a central location.
Orange Cinema Club – Beijing, China
Located in the Pacific Shopping Mall, the Orange Cinema Club is arguably the most exclusive cinema in China, offering cinema-goers a luxurious movie experience. Designed by artist Robert Majkut, the Orange Cinema Club boasts a Piano Bar Zone, private VIP rooms, a Cigar Club and three screening rooms. This is not your average movie theatre! During your trip to Beijing, make sure you also soak up the sightseeing, culture and history.
The Shichahai Shadow Art Performance Hotel is a hidden gem in the heart of Beijing. Nestled in the historical Hutong area, guests will love this peaceful retreat away from the bustling urban scene. Traditional cultural activities can be experienced here, including shadow art painting classes, calligraphy practising and dumpling making. For those interested in a show beyond the big screen, guests are invited to watch a free shadow art performance every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Pula Arena – Pula, Croatia
The Pula Arena in Croatia is one of the last remaining Amphitheatres. It’s therefore no surprise that Pula is highly endorsed for history and ancient landmarks by Booking.com travellers. Remarkably built back in the 1st Century AD, the arena would have originally been used for gladiator fights during the Roman Empire. However, nowadays the only action you will see in the arena is from screenings at the Pula Film Festival.
And to kick back after a hard day of movie watching, the charming Apartments Forum, overlooking the Temple of Augustus, the Forum and the famous Arena Pula, is perfect. Travellers will love this home away from home stay with a fully equipped kitchen, furnished balcony, airy and spacious rooms and a wealth of amenities on your doorstep.
St. George Open Air Cinema – Sydney, Australia
Dubbed the world’s most beautiful cinema, moviegoers will love a trip to the St. George Open Air Cinema in Sydney. From your seats, watch the harbour-front screen rise up with the Opera House and Sydney Harbour as the backdrop and a selection of bars and restaurants either side.
Ideally located in central Sydney, the stylish Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Central offers modern apartments, an outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tub, fitness centre, sauna and barbeque area. This is the perfect spot to relax after you’ve shopped, museum-hopped and taken in all the great things Sydney has to offer.
Sol Cinema – Swansea, Wales
Famous for being the world’s smallest solar powered cinema, a trip to Wales is made more exciting with a visit to the Sol Cinema. Although it may not boast the usual A-list style, film lovers are treated to a red carpet, usherette service and popcorn. What’s not to love about a mobile cinema in a charming vintage caravan?
Eco-friendly moviegoers will love a stay at the Parc-Le-Breos House. Surrounded by picturesque Welsh countryside and offering locally sourced ingredients and traditional farmhouse food, this getaway is made of all things dreamy and quaint. However, unlike the cosy Sol Cinema, you can unwind in your spacious room and ensuite and feel at home in your fluffy bathrobe and slippers. Make sure to explore the stunning beaches of Swansea in between movies.
