Top luxury hotels around the world
Rather than listing hotels by country, let’s group them by the kind of experience they offer. From vibrant cities to quiet islands, these categories reflect how luxury travelers explore the world and how the best hotels deliver what matters most.
Below, we look at some of the world’s leading hotels, categorised by type.
Urban elegance: comfort in the heart of the city
City hotels bring guests into the center of culture, design and style. These properties offer:
- Quick access to top dining and entertainment
- Calm, elegant rooms away from the hustle and bustle of the city
- Helpful services such as a butler and hotel credit
The Ritz Paris, France
This hotel is known for its elegant rooms, legendary service and close ties to the world of fashion.
From the bar to the courtyard garden, every space feels considered. Staff provide personalized care, helping guests relax after a full day in the city.
Aman Tokyo, Japan
At the top of a tower in Otemachi, Aman Tokyo offers peaceful spaces away from the noise of the city. The design is clean and quiet, inspired by Japanese tradition.
Guests enjoy panoramic views, spa treatments and access to art collections in the building.
The Peninsula Hong Kong
This hotel blends history with modernity. Guests can arrive in a signature Rolls-Royce, visit luxury boutiques and use a tablet to adjust lighting, order room service or book a spa visit.
Other locations in the group, such as the Peninsula Shanghai and Peninsula Bangkok, follow the same high standards.
Island retreats: quiet stays with nature and care
Luxury island hotels focus on space, calm and connection with nature. Guests often stay in private villas or bungalows and follow itineraries that match this relaxed pace. Common features include:
- Outdoor pools and private terraces
- Activities such as snorkeling, spa treatments and forest walks
- Natural materials and low-impact design
Soneva Fushi, Maldives
This island retreat encourages guests to go barefoot, relax in villas made from sustainable wood and enjoy butler service that feels personal and easy.
As part of the Soneva group, the hotel supports eco-projects and offers experiences such as stargazing and sustainable dining. Locations such as Soneva Secret continue to shape the idea of what a dream journey can look like.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Located in a turquoise lagoon, this property is known for its infinity pool, overwater bungalows and warm, intuitive service.
Guests often enjoy yoga at sunrise, snorkeling with marine guides or simply relaxing in a hammock – moments that help build lasting memories that go beyond the stay itself.
qualia, Hamilton Island, Australia
Located on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, qualia is known for its seclusion, artful design and privacy. Guests stay in pavilions with plunge pools and dine on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Activities include guided reef tours, helicopter rides and curated spa packages. As one of Australia’s top island resorts, it reflects the rising demand for exclusive, experience-led luxury.
Historic and heritage icons: luxury that lasts
Historic hotels are built on stories. These properties offer more than charm – they deliver a feeling of belonging, with design and service that reflect years of care.
Guests are welcomed into a tradition of excellence, often with features that include:
- Historic architecture and original furnishings
- Longstanding reputations for personalized service
- Cultural heritage, storytelling and sense of place
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, France
Perched on the French Riviera, this historic property has long drawn royalty, artists and celebrities. Guests enjoy manicured gardens, a heated saltwater pool and butler service delivered with quiet confidence.
Every stay offers a glimpse of the golden age of travel, wrapped in timeless French style.
Raffles Singapore
Famous for its colonial heritage and signature Singapore Sling, Raffles mixes past and present effortlessly. High ceilings, marble corridors and a deep focus on guest rituals define the experience.
The hotel’s dining options include Michelin-starred restaurants, while its art collection highlights local and regional creativity.
The May Fair, London
This central London hotel combines 1920s glamour with modern comfort. Located near iconic theatres and galleries, The May Fair is ideal for travelers looking for luxury and culture.
Known for its heated pools, curated spa experiences and attentive staff, it remains one of the most accessible historic properties in the UK.
Boutique luxury: small-scale, big impact
Originality and attention to detail are what make boutique hotels stand out. They are often located off the beaten path, offering unique stays with strong links to local culture. These hotels appeal to guests looking for:
- Smaller guest counts and highly personal service
- Design-led interiors and curated experiences
- Emphasis on wellness, nature and privacy
COMO Hotels and Resorts
From Bhutan to Miami, COMO blends minimalist design with wellness-focused hospitality. Guests enjoy tailored spa treatments, healthy gourmet dining and calm environments.
Whether it’s COMO Parrot Cay or COMO Metropolitan, every property offers personal attention and intuitive service.
Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal
Located in the hills of northern Portugal, this hotel offers modern comforts in a restored 19th-century manor. Guests are invited to take part in vineyard walks, forest therapy and farm-to-table cooking classes.
With private terraces and forest views, it’s ideal for a nature-focused luxury retreat.
Fogo Island Inn, Canada
Set on a remote island off Newfoundland, this striking hotel is built to celebrate local heritage and sustainability. Each room overlooks the ocean and features handcrafted furniture and textiles.
The staff, all island residents, welcome guests as neighbors. Activities include stargazing, foraging and storytelling sessions led by local experts.
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