Hospitality company Leonardo Hotels’ Central Europe division has revealed plans to expand its portfolio with the acquisition of four IntercityHotels in Germany.

Located in Freiburg, Magdeburg, Nuremberg and Erfurt, the hotels form part of Leonardo Hotels’ efforts to increase its presence within Germany by expanding its regional portfolio. The acquired hotels collectively provide 638 rooms.

Leonardo Hotels Central Europe managing director Yoram Biton said: “The acquisition of these four hotels marks a major milestone in our growth strategy. Freiburg und Magdeburg open up new doors to exciting destinations, and the launching of a second presence in Erfurt will deepen our commitment to the location.

“We are also delighted that the venture in Nuremberg will even be our third operation in the city.  All of this consolidates our brand profile and strengthens our market footprint in Germany, where we now run 73 hotels.”

Notable features at these locations include sound-proofed rooms in Nuremberg, a garden terrace in Magdeburg, conference facilities of up to 381m² in Erfurt, and proximity to Freiburg’s historical quarter.

The company will operate these hotels under a white label until renovation work concludes, with completion targeted for the second quarter (Q2) of 2026.

Following these refurbishments, the hotels will be rebranded as Leonardo Hotels.

Throughout the renovation period, all four properties will remain open to guests, with plans in place to update rooms and, at certain sites, upgrade bathrooms and public spaces.

Leonardo Hotels has indicated that its refurbishment strategy centres on resource efficiency by retaining selected existing elements and modernising only where necessary.

This approach is intended to maintain the value of the hotels during their transition into the Leonardo portfolio.

Leonardo Hotels development vice-president Jan Heringa said: “The hotels will become part of our Leonardo Hotels brand once the programme has been concluded. Their fresh design, the contemporary fixtures and fittings and our characteristic service philosophy will create attractive offerings for both business and leisure travellers.”

In 2024, German hotel company Deutsche Hospitality rebranded to H World International. The brand family includes Steigenberger Icons, Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, IntercityHotel, and more.

Steigenberger Hotels managing director Dr Stephan Hungeling said: “DWS Alternatives has sold these properties, and the new owner wishes to incorporate the operation of the hotels under its own brand umbrella. This means that they will now be leaving our portfolio after over 30 years.”