Wondering what the creme de la creme of accommodation looks like? Find out as we take you on a tour of the world’s most luxurious hotels!
Luxury is defined as the state of great comfort and extravagant living. It comes in all shapes and sizes and can be experienced all over the planet, especially in hotels. In a world where travel is not just about reaching your destination but experiencing a journey of indulgence and comfort, luxury hotels stand as the epitome of opulence. These beacons of extravagance offer an unparalleled blend of impeccable service, awe-inspiring architecture, and sumptuous amenities.
Whether you're dreaming of traveling to a once-in-a-lifetime location, looking for inspiration for a special event, searching for examples of luxurious changes you can make to your own hotel, or anything in between — we've got you covered.
From butler service and private pools to incredible amenities and perks, keep reading to see some of the most luxurious hotels the world has to offer.
14 of the world’s most luxurious hotels
These hotels represent the best of the best in luxury, with high-end finishes, unique architecture, one-of-a-kind amenities, and more. Travelers will feel like they're surrounded by the best the world has to offer.
1. Burj Al Arab, Dubai
The Burj Al Arab has often been described as the world’s first “seven-star hotel” or "the most luxurious hotel in the world" since opening its doors in 1999. And while the brand doesn’t describe itself this way, it’s easy to see why others do.
Built on an artificial island off the coast of Dubai’s white sandy beaches, the Burj Al Arab is an all-suite hotel with 28 double stories and 202 luxury duplexes ranging from 1,830 to 8,396 square feet. Each suite offers a range of unique first-class flourishes, including an extensive selection of complimentary Hermes toiletries, a "pillow menu" with 17 options, and a "bath menu" along with a butler available to explain the different options.
With six high-end restaurants, a rooftop helipad, a Rolls Royce shuttle service from the airport, and walls decked in 24-karat gold leaf, the hotel relies on opulence to satisfy even the most travel-worn guests. The design and architecture of the hotel are as unique as it can get, with its dhow shape noticeable from miles and miles away. And if all of that isn’t enough luxury, there’s always the 24-karat gold iPads that guests receive upon arrival, which are programmed to include access to all guest services and hotel information.
2. The Ritz Paris, France
Nestled in the heart of the City of Light, The Ritz Paris has been a playground for royalty, artists, and celebrities for over a century. Its lavishly appointed rooms, Michelin-star dining, and impeccable service have made it the benchmark for luxury hotels worldwide.
The hotel's rich history and legendary status make every stay here a journey through time. Guests can book the Coco Chanel Suite, where the famous designer once resided. They can also dine at L'Espadon, the onsite Michelin-star restaurant, offering delectable French cuisine in a lavishly decorated setting.
But perhaps the best part of this luxurious hotel is that you don’t even have to book a room to enjoy it! Simply plan to visit the Hemingway Bar inside the hotel. It’s a historic spot where you can savor some of the world's finest cocktails and enjoy some people-watching.
3. The Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris
Paris continues to enchant with another gem, the Four Seasons Hotel George V. This quintessential Parisian palace boasts regal suites, a three-Michelin-star restaurant, and an inner courtyard adorned with flowers.
But the hotel is not just about luxury—it’s an artistic immersion! It earns the title of one of the world’s most luxurious hotels because it features an extraordinary collection of 18th-century tapestries, antique furniture, and art, creating a museum-like atmosphere within the hotel.
Plus its prime location near the Champs-Élysées makes it an ideal base for exploring the romantic streets of Paris.
While there are many types of hotel rooms available, and booking online will secure a gorgeous accommodation, we suggest calling or messaging the hotel directly to request a room with a view of the Eiffel Tower. It’s a little-known fact that this particular hotel's location makes it one of the few places in Paris where this iconic structure serves as a constant backdrop during your stay!
4. The Palms, Las Vegas
While there are many luxury properties to choose from on the Las Vegas Strip, The Palms is known for its iconic high-rolling atmosphere. The penthouse suites at The Palms have been home to some of the most high-profile parties Las Vegas has ever seen, and are designed with entertaining in mind. With penthouses, villas, and themed suites, the property has luxury and style to suit every taste.
Take the two-story Sky Villa, for example. About as luxurious and unique as a hotel room can get, this 8,500-square-foot oasis features a 17-seat bar, fitness center, massage room, game area, private pool overlooking the lights of Vegas, and much more. Then there's the themed Hardwood Suite, which is dubbed a "10,000-square-foot" arena featuring a private basketball court, professional locker room, pool table, whiskey room, and 11 televisions. And that's only the beginning.
5. Kamalaya Koh Samui, Thailand
Luxury doesn’t always mean opulent furnishings and indulgent decor. At Kamalaya retreat, wellness is inextricably linked with luxury. Guests are greeted with signature mocktails for a one-on-one consultation on arrival, where they can design their perfect wellness experience. Guest's days are filled with an effortless blend of expert-led exercise classes, specialized spa treatments, and five-star healthy cuisine for their entire stay.
The setting for Kamalaya couldn’t be more perfect. The complex rests on a large hill overlooking a white sand beach with a calm lagoon, and all the buildings blend in seamlessly with the surrounding jungle. Guests can find quiet hidden gems throughout, including a cave for contemplation, swings that extend over the water, and suites with private plunge pools. Guests rave about the “once in a lifetime experience” and speak fondly of their dreams for returning. And we can't blame them.
6. The Ritz Carlton Wolfsburg, Germany
If your visions of luxury don’t normally include views of a car manufacturing plant, you’re in for a delightful surprise. Set within the Volkswagen Autostadt theme park, the five-star Ritz Carlton Wolfsburg is surrounded by automotive, architectural, design, art, and culinary innovation.
Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Autostadt or historic Volkswagen plant are juxtaposed with minimalist, contemporary decor in rooms and suites. The two-bedroom black and white suite is the belle of the ball, with a relaxing steam shower, separate soaking tub, living room fireplace, and pool table.
Additional hotel amenities and features include a three-star Michelin restaurant, "Aqua," with modern European cuisine, a floating outdoor swimming pool in the harbor basin, and a spa focused on organic treatments and products.
7. The Plaza, New York City
Across the Atlantic, The Plaza Hotel reigns supreme on Fifth Avenue. Since its debut in 1907, The Plaza has remained a New York icon hosting world leaders, dignitaries, captains of industry, Broadway legends, and Hollywood royalty. But it's much more than simply an historic property.
The Plaza offers "One-Of-A-Kind Rooms & Suites," which go above and beyond to give guests a unique — and luxurious — experience. Take the Tower Room, for example, which features a dramatic 23-foot exposed brick turret ceiling. Or the Fitzgerald Suite King, which was designed by Oscar-winning designer Catherine Martin as a tribute to the Jazz Age and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
While you’re there, make sure to carve out some time to explore the hotel's incredible underground passages. The Plaza itself has a fascinating history, including secret tunnels that were once used for VIPs to move discreetly throughout the building.
And of course, how could we forget the hotel's many dining options, highlighted by The Rose Club? Complete with plush lounge seating and an array of signature cocktails, this legendary space is luxury at its finest. And don’t forget to make a reservation at the Palm Court's afternoon tea! This timeless tradition embodies the elegance of this iconic establishment.
8. Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
This well-known flagship retreat in the heart of Hong Kong gives guests a welcome place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong’s 501 rooms and suites have lovely views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour, while the entertaining space of the Mandarin Suite has a balcony stretching its entire length on two sides for unparalleled vistas.
By combining traditional service with a sleek contemporary design, excellent dining and cutting-edge facilities, the Mandarin Oriental is certainly one of the world's most luxurious hotels. The space combines top-quality business facilities with relaxed room environments, appealing to leisure and business travelers alike.
9. The Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables
In the heart of sunny Florida, The Biltmore Hotel stands as a testament to Mediterranean Revival architecture. Its sprawling golf course, opulent spa, and the legendary Sunday Champagne Brunch at the Fontana restaurant are just a few gems for luxury seekers.
This historic hotel is also a destination for lovers of Mediterranean Revival architecture and has grounds surrounded by lush gardens. Nature and history lovers alike can enjoy a guided tour of the hotel. Experts reveal its storied past, including its time as a WWII hospital and its Hollywood connections. We love that this tour doubles as the perfect photo op!
10. The Inn at Little Washington, Virginia
For a quieter elegance and spectacular culinary experience, there's The Inn at Little Washington. Located in a sleepy town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Inn has 24 rooms, suites, and cottages. While the furnishings are grand, they are also whimsical and comfortable.
The accommodations and setting are tranquil and pristine, but the undeniable draw for this property is the food. The Inn is home to the only three-star Michelin restaurant in Virginia. The restaurant, run by chef Patrick O’Connell, is known for innovative, unfussy cuisine that elevates individual ingredients and takes advantage of the fresh bounty of the Mid-Atlantic region. Guests return again and again for meals that have been described as “exceptional in every way.”
11. Aman Tokyo, Japan
From historic opulence to contemporary grace, we journey to Tokyo, where the Aman Tokyo offers a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling metropolis. With its minimalist design, panoramic city views, and an exquisite spa, this hotel embodies the Zen-like tranquility that Japan is renowned for. They’ve infused traditional Japanese wellness practices into their hotel through Kampo herbal medicine, Onsen bathing, and Shiatsu Massage to name a few.
Make sure to visit the hotel's Sky Gallery at sunset. It's one of the best places to watch Tokyo's skyline transform as the city's lights come to life in the evening.
12. Four Seasons Private Island, Maldives
Nothing says pure luxury like having your own private island. The Four Seasons Maldives at Voavah is the pinnacle of secluded extravagance. The island includes a beach house with seven luxury suites for up to 22 guests. No expense has been spared to make sure guests feel comfortable and relaxed. Guests have exclusive-use of Voavah Summer, the 62-foot private luxury yacht, a dedicated 24-hour security team, and a staff of 28 to make all their dreams come true.
13. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
The oldest hotel in Thailand is also one of the world’s most luxurious.
In the heart of Thailand's vibrant capital, the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, is an oasis of luxury along the Chao Phraya River. This historic hotel blends colonial charm with modern sophistication. It also boasts a world-renowned spa, plus nine dining options, including the legendary Le Normandie.
A couple of their most unique historical features include the Author’s Wing and the Wharf. The Author’s Wing has hosted notable writers, who have supposedly been inspired to write their great works. The historic Wharf, also known as the Oriental Pier, has been the arrival and departure point for countless travelers over the years.
The hotel is also known for its extensive use of teak wood, a nod to Thailand's rich teak heritage. It’s so iconic that film buffs may even recognize the grounds and interior of the hotel from the 1927 silent movie, "The Road to Mandalay."
Want to enjoy a magical sunset dining experience on the riverfront? You can enjoy the view from the Riverside Terrace restaurant.
14. Titanic Mardan Palace, Turkey
For all-inclusive luxury on the shores of the Mediterranean, look no further than the Titanic Mardan Palace. Guests can experience over 30 dining options, a championship golf course, water sports activities, entertainment options, and a world-class spa at this sprawling Turkish estate.
While some luxury options are purely focused on adults, this resort caters to families that want an extravagant vacation. The five-acre pool complex and huge kids club with a playground and splash park are sure to delight the resort’s younger guests.
The architectural design of Titanic Mardan Palace is one of a kind. It pays homage to four of İstanbul’s most iconic landmarks – highlighted by the massive Dolmabahçe Lobby, which evokes the atmosphere of a lavish palace with its five-story tall glass ceiling and monumental staircase.
Experience the world's most luxurious hotels
Whether you’re sipping gold-flaked coffee in a Middle Eastern palace or refreshing with a camphor, kuromoji powder, and Japanese clay body scrub in a minimalist East Asian spa, the world’s most luxurious hotels offer experiences of a lifetime. Each one has its own style, history, and activities, so no matter which one your go to, you're in for a great time. While our journey today is virtual, rest assured that the world’s most luxurious hotels will be there when you’re ready to visit in person!
Up next, keep exploring some of the world's most unique properties with the coolest ice hotels around the world and our favorite green hotels.
