You book a five-star stay, expecting VIP service, jaw-dropping views, and next-level food. Instead, you get long check-in lines, cold eggs at breakfast, and a pool packed with influencers taking selfies. But not at these hotels. Luxury hotels get hyped up all the time. But do they actually live up to it?
Some of these hotels cost $5,000+ per night—but are they actually worth it? Here’s the list of the 60 best hotels in the world—voted by real travelers in 2025 including what makes them different, who stays there, and whether they’re worth the splurge. Not by influencers, hotel chains, or people who stayed there and said, “This was unforgettable.” If you’ve been spending hours scrolling through reviews, this is the only list you need to pick your next hotel.
1. Capella Bangkok – Bangkok, Thailand
Location: Chao Phraya River, Bangkok
What It’s Known For: Ultra-personalized service, riverside tranquility, and a Michelin-starred restaurant
Awards: Voted #1 in 2025 for its highly personalized guest experience
Capella Bangkok redefines urban luxury with just 101 suites and villas, ensuring every guest gets undivided attention. The hotel’s riverside infinity pool provides uninterrupted views of the Chao Phraya River, making it the perfect spot for an evening cocktail. The hotel is home to Côte by Mauro Colagreco, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Mediterranean cuisine with a Thai twist.
Ask your Capella Culturist (personal guide) to arrange a private long-tail boat tour through Bangkok’s hidden canals for an exclusive local experience.
2. Passalacqua – Lake Como, Italy
Location: Lake Como, Italy
What It’s Known For: A private 18th-century villa turned into an opulent retreat
Awards: Best Boutique Hotel in the World (2025)
Once the summer home of composer Vincenzo Bellini, Passalacqua blends old-world charm with modern indulgence. With just 24 suites, it offers the feel of a private mansion rather than a hotel. The gardens spill down towards the lake, offering cinematic views that make you feel like you’ve entered an Italian romance movie. Book Suite Bellini for the most stunning frescoed ceilings and a balcony that overlooks Lake Como in full cinematic glory.
3. Rosewood Hong Kong – Hong Kong
Location: Victoria Dockside, Hong Kong
What It’s Known For: A modern palace in the sky with art-filled interiors
Awards: Best City Hotel in Asia (2025)
Rosewood Hong Kong dominates the skyline with luxurious, spacious suites overlooking Victoria Harbour. The hotel’s Asaya wellness center offers some of the best holistic healing treatments in Asia. If you’re after skyline views, impeccable service, and world-class dining (hint: eight incredible restaurants), this is the one. Book a Manor Suite for exclusive butler service and access to Manor Club, the hotel’s ultra-exclusive VIP lounge.
4. Cheval Blanc – Paris, France
Location: Right on the Seine, next to the Louvre
What It’s Known For: Parisian elegance with ultra-modern luxury
Awards: Best Luxury Hotel in Europe (2025)
Cheval Blanc Paris is where historic charm meets contemporary opulence. Located inside the former La Samaritaine department store, it delivers a chic, fashion-forward take on classic Parisian luxury. The hotel’s Dior Spa is a bucket-list-worthy experience for wellness lovers. Order the table-side soufflé at Plénitude, the hotel’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s legendary.
5. The Upper House – Hong Kong
Location: Pacific Place, Hong Kong
What It’s Known For: Minimalist luxury and jaw-dropping harbor views
Awards: Best Contemporary Hotel (2025)
Designed by architect André Fu, The Upper House is all about tranquil luxury. With only 117 suites, it feels more like an exclusive members’ club than a hotel. The hotel’s Sky Lounge on the 49th floor offers 360-degree views of Hong Kong and a bar menu curated by some of Asia’s best mixologists. Take advantage of the complimentary in-room Maxi Bar—no overpriced snacks here!
6. Raffles Singapore – Singapore
Location: Beach Road, Singapore
What It’s Known For: The birthplace of the Singapore Sling and unmatched colonial grandeur
Awards: Best Heritage Hotel in Asia (2025)
Raffles Singapore is the definition of timeless elegance. Since 1887, this all-suite hotel has hosted everyone from Charlie Chaplin to royalty. Its immaculately restored colonial architecture, butler service, and Michelin-star dining make it a must for those who appreciate old-school luxury with modern refinement.
Stay where history was made, sipping a Singapore Sling in the very bar where it was invented. Book the Palm Court Suite for a serene garden view away from the city’s buzz.
7. Aman Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan
Location: Otemachi Tower, Tokyo
What It’s Known For: Minimalist Zen luxury with floor-to-ceiling skyline views
Awards: Best Urban Sanctuary (2025)
Aman Tokyo isn’t just a hotel—it’s a peaceful retreat floating above the city. With its soaring ceilings, black volcanic stone baths, and understated elegance, it blends traditional Japanese ryokan aesthetics with sleek, modern design. It’s the quietest place in Tokyo’s bustling heart, offering serene tea ceremonies and a 33rd-floor infinity pool overlooking Mount Fuji. Book a Corner Suite for an unobstructed sunrise over Tokyo.
8. Soneva Fushi – Maldives
Location: Baa Atoll, Maldives
What It’s Known For: Barefoot luxury with private villas hidden in the jungle
Awards: Best Sustainable Luxury Resort (2025)
Forget conventional luxury—Soneva Fushi redefines it. No shoes, no news is the resort’s motto, embracing laid-back indulgence where even the butlers go barefoot. Think outdoor showers, stargazing observatories, and eco-conscious luxury. Each villa has a private water slide into the ocean. Enough said. Dine in the treetops at the resort’s famous Flying Sauces restaurant—it’s a floating dining pod above the jungle canopy.
9. Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, UAE
Location: Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
What It’s Known For: The most over-the-top hotel ever built
Awards: Best Mega-Luxury Resort (2025)
Atlantis The Royal redefines excess—think rooftop infinity pools, a fire-and-water fountain show, and celebrity chef restaurants (Gordon Ramsay, Heston Blumenthal, and Nobu all under one roof). It has the largest jellyfish aquarium in the world, and the sky pool suites have private infinity pools overlooking the Persian Gulf. Book the Royal Mansion—it’s literally more prominent than most penthouses in New York.
10. Nihi Sumba – Sumba Island, Indonesia
Location: Sumba Island, Indonesia
What It’s Known For: A private island paradise with untamed beauty
Awards: Best Private Island Retreat (2025)
Hidden in the wilderness of Sumba Island, Nihi Sumba isn’t just a resort—it’s an adventure wrapped in luxury. With only 28 villas, guests enjoy exclusive access to world-class surfing, wild jungle hikes, and horseback rides along untouched beaches. Stay in a cliffside villa with a private plunge pool overlooking the Indian Ocean. Don’t miss The Spa Safari—an all-day wellness journey through rice paddies and coastal cliffs.
11. Claridge’s – London, UK
Location: Mayfair, London
What It’s Known For: The epitome of British elegance and tradition
Awards: Best Heritage Hotel in the UK (2025)
Claridge’s isn’t just a hotel—it’s a British institution. Since the 1850s, it has hosted Hollywood stars, world leaders, and royalty. Its Art Deco design, legendary afternoon tea, and white-gloved service make it a timeless classic. Stay where Winston Churchill and Audrey Hepburn once dined—and where the suites come with personal butlers. Book the Penthouse Suite for a full Mayfair skyline view, or try The Painter’s Room for exquisite cocktails.
12. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – Bangkok, Thailand
Location: Chao Phraya River, Bangkok
What It’s Known For: Timeless luxury with Thai hospitality at its finest
Awards: Most Iconic Asian Hotel (2025)
A staple of luxury since 1876, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is where history meets modern comfort. With butler service in every room, a world-famous spa, and a riverside setting straight out of a postcard, this hotel is legendary. The Oriental Spa is considered one of the best in Asia, offering ancient Thai healing rituals in a century-old teak house. Ask for a table at Sala Rim Naam—a restaurant only accessible by boat with traditional Thai dance performances.
13. Raffles London at The OWO – London, UK
Location: Whitehall, London
What It’s Known For: A historic transformation into London’s most opulent hotel
Awards: Best New Luxury Hotel (2025)
Once Winston Churchill’s war headquarters, this century-old building has been reimagined into a lavish Raffles hotel with nine signature restaurants, a Guerlain Spa, and exclusive suites named after famous British leaders. Stay in a WWII-era government office transformed into a luxury suite—history buffs will love it. The rooftop bar offers a VIP view of Buckingham Palace—perfect for cocktail hour.
14. Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River – Bangkok, Thailand
Location: Bangkok Riverside, Thailand
What It’s Known For: Sleek modern luxury with unbeatable riverfront views
Awards: Best Riverside City Hotel (2025)
If you love modern architecture blended with Thai craftsmanship, this is your spot. The hotel’s infinity pools, Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, and spa with a Himalayan salt chamber set it apart. Wake up to panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River in an ultra-modern suite. Try the private boat tour arranged by the hotel—it’s the best way to see Bangkok’s hidden waterways.
15. Hôtel de Crillon – Paris, France
Location: Place de la Concorde, Paris
What It’s Known For: 18th-century grandeur with contemporary luxury
Awards: Best Parisian Luxury Hotel (2025)
Originally built in 1758, Hôtel de Crillon is French royalty turned hotel. After a multi-million-dollar restoration, it now features opulent suites designed by Karl Lagerfeld and a spa offering personalized Dior treatments. It’s like stepping into a royal palace, except you’re the guest of honor. Order the signature Crillon cocktail at Les Ambassadeurs Bar—it’s been served since the 18th century.
16. Chablé Yucatán – Chocholá, Mexico
Location: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
What It’s Known For: A luxury wellness retreat built around a sacred cenote
Awards: Best Spa & Wellness Resort (2025)
Hidden deep in Mexico’s lush Yucatán jungle, Chablé Yucatán offers private casitas with their own pools, Mayan healing rituals, and a cenote-fed spa. The resort focuses on holistic well-being, blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge wellness programs.
This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a place to reset your soul. Think floating meditation sessions, cacao ceremonies, and hydrotherapy pools surrounded by the jungle. Book a private Temazcal (Mayan sweat lodge) experience to purify your body and mind.
17. Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc – Antibes, France
Location: French Riviera, France
What It’s Known For: A legendary Riviera retreat for the world’s elite
Awards: Best Mediterranean Luxury Hotel (2025)
This 1870s-era mansion turned ultra-glamorous hotel has hosted everyone from F. Scott Fitzgerald to Beyoncé. Perched on a rocky cliff above the Côte d’Azur, it features a saltwater infinity pool, private seaside cabanas, and butler-serviced villas.
It’s the epitome of Riviera glam. Guests arrive by private yacht, sip rosé at sunset, and lounge in the same cabanas where Hollywood icons have vacationed for decades. Dine at Eden-Roc Grill at sunset for the best Riviera views—it’s where royalty and celebrities unwind.
18. Maroma – Riviera Maya, Mexico
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
What It’s Known For: A beachfront hideaway infused with Mayan heritage
Awards: Best Beachfront Hotel in the Americas (2025)
After a multi-million-dollar revamp, Maroma is where the jungle meets the Caribbean Sea. The hotel’s hand-painted tiles, thatched-roof casitas, and ocean-facing infinity pools create an atmosphere of refined simplicity.
If you want luxury without the crowds, this is it. Think secluded beaches, organic farm-to-table dining, and the kind of tranquility you only find in off-the-grid paradise. Take a guided cenote dive—the Riviera Maya is home to some of the world’s most stunning underwater caves.
19. Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – Florence, Italy
Location: Florence, Italy
What It’s Known For: A Renaissance-era palace with the largest private garden in Florence
Awards: Best Historic Luxury Hotel (2025)
Ever wanted to live like a Medici? Four Seasons Firenze is housed in a 15th-century noble palace, complete with original frescoes, marble staircases, and a lush 11-acre garden. You’re literally sleeping inside history—but with modern comforts like a world-class spa and Michelin-starred dining. Request a private tour of the hotel’s hidden chapel—it’s not open to the public and filled with Renaissance art.
20. Borgo Santandrea – Amalfi Coast, Italy
Location: Amalfi Coast, Italy
What It’s Known For: Cliffside elegance with breathtaking sea views
Awards: Best Amalfi Coast Hotel (2025)
Built into the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, this boutique hotel offers unobstructed views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, private beach access, and white-and-blue Mediterranean-inspired interiors. Every corner of this hotel is Instagram-worthy, and the food? Some of the best Italian cuisine you’ll ever eat. Take a private boat to Capri at sunrise—the hotel arranges exclusive excursions that avoid the tourist crowds.
21. Desa Potato Head – Bali, Indonesia
Location: Seminyak, Bali
What It’s Known For: Bali’s trendiest sustainable resort
Awards: Best Eco-Friendly Hotel (2025)
More than just a hotel, Desa Potato Head is a creative village with beachfront vibes, music festivals, and art installations. The resort is built from recycled materials and offers zero-waste dining and a focus on conscious travel.
It’s the ultimate Bali experience—where sustainability meets luxury, culture, and nightlife. Catch a sunset DJ session at the Beach Club—it’s one of the best places to party in Bali.
22. Bulgari Hotel Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan
Location: Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, Tokyo
What It’s Known For: Italian luxury meets Japanese precision
Awards: Best Luxury City Hotel in Japan (2025)
Set on the 40th to 45th floors of a skyscraper in central Tokyo, Bulgari Hotel offers unmatched skyline views, a rooftop restaurant with a Michelin-starred chef, and one of the highest infinity pools in the world. It’s where Japanese minimalism meets Italian sophistication—every detail is perfection. Try the Signature Bulgari Aperitivo at the rooftop bar—it’s the chicest sunset experience in Tokyo.
23. The Lana – Dubai, UAE
Location: Business Bay, Dubai
What It’s Known For: A modern masterpiece designed by Foster + Partners
Awards: Best Futuristic Hotel (2025)
The Lana is the future of luxury hospitality. With curved glass walls, private pools in every suite, and an avant-garde design, this hotel feels straight out of a sci-fi movie. It’s modern, ultra-sleek, and offers the best views of the Burj Khalifa. Don’t miss The Lana Spa—it’s one of the first in the world to offer AI-personalized wellness treatments.
24. Rosewood São Paulo – São Paulo, Brazil
Location: São Paulo, Brazil
What It’s Known For: A repurposed historic building turned into a tropical oasis
Awards: Best Urban Jungle Hotel (2025)
Housed in a former hospital, Rosewood São Paulo combines Brazilian craftsmanship, lush gardens, and a rooftop infinity pool surrounded by jungle-like greenery. It’s a nature lover’s dream in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world. Book a spa treatment using Amazonian plant extracts—they offer custom therapies inspired by indigenous traditions.
25. The Calile – Brisbane, Australia
Location: Brisbane, Australia
What It’s Known For: A Miami-meets-Mediterranean aesthetic in Australia
Awards: Best Design Hotel (2025)
Think pastel pinks, mid-century vibes, and sun-drenched terraces—The Calile is Brisbane’s most Instagrammable hotel. Every room has custom terrazzo floors, linen-covered furnishings, and a pool that feels straight out of Palm Springs. If you love aesthetics, cocktails, and sunshine, this place is a dream. Grab a poolside cabana and order a lychee martini—it’s the ultimate way to unwind.
26. The Siam – Bangkok, Thailand
Location: Dusit, Bangkok
What It’s Known For: A riverside sanctuary blending Thai heritage with Art Deco luxury
Awards: Best Boutique Luxury Hotel in Bangkok (2025)
Set along the Chao Phraya River, The Siam is part museum, part luxury retreat, with hand-curated antiques, teakwood villas, and an aura of exclusivity. It’s one of Bangkok’s most intimate hotels, offering just 39 suites and private pool villas.
If you love history, culture, and privacy, this is a rare escape within bustling Bangkok. Opt for one of the Riverside Pool Villas—you’ll get a private butler and direct access to a long-tail boat tour.
27. Park Hyatt Kyoto – Kyoto, Japan
Location: Higashiyama, Kyoto
What It’s Known For: Minimalist elegance with panoramic views of Kyoto’s historic temples
Awards: Best Luxury Ryokan-Style Hotel (2025)
Nestled on the slopes of Ninenzaka Hill, this hotel blends modern luxury with traditional Japanese aesthetics—think handcrafted woodwork, shoji screens, and a restaurant inside a 400-year-old teahouse. You’re staying in the heart of Kyoto’s most picturesque district, surrounded by cherry blossoms and temples. Book the Yasaka Suite—it has a private terrace overlooking the iconic Yasaka Pagoda.
28. Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel – Cape Town, South Africa
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
What It’s Known For: A pink-hued colonial palace with Table Mountain views
Awards: Best Historic Hotel in Africa (2025)
Nicknamed “The Pink Lady,” this century-old hotel has hosted Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama. With lush gardens, grand verandas, and a legendary afternoon tea, it’s the epitome of timeless luxury in Cape Town. It’s like stepping back in time while enjoying modern five-star indulgence. Don’t miss the sunrise hike up Table Mountain, arranged exclusively for guests.
29. One&Only Mandarina – Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Location: Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
What It’s Known For: Treehouse-style villas perched in a tropical rainforest
Awards: Best Jungle Luxury Resort (2025)
Hidden within lush Mexican jungle, One&Only Mandarina offers ultra-luxurious treehouse villas with infinity pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It’s where eco-conscious design meets celebrity-level exclusivity. You get the best of both worlds—seclusion in the jungle and a private beachfront just steps away. Take a horseback ride along the coastline at sunset—it’s one of the most stunning trails in Mexico.
30. The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel – New York, USA
Location: Upper East Side, New York City
What It’s Known For: New York’s most glamorous and discreet celebrity hideaway
Awards: Best Luxury Hotel in NYC (2025)
A favorite of Princess Diana, JFK, and modern A-listers, The Carlyle drips in old-world elegance. It’s home to Café Carlyle (famous for live jazz), white-gloved elevator operators, and some of the most sought-after suites in Manhattan. It’s the most elegant way to experience NYC—with a touch of 1920s nostalgia. Ask for a table at Bemelmans Bar, where live jazz meets hand-painted murals by Ludwig Bemelmans (creator of Madeline).
31. La Mamounia – Marrakech, Morocco
Location: Marrakech, Morocco
What It’s Known For: An opulent Moroccan palace with legendary gardens
Awards: Best Luxury Hotel in Africa (2025)
With zellige-tiled courtyards, grand archways, and sprawling gardens, La Mamounia is Morocco’s most celebrated luxury hotel. It’s hosted Winston Churchill, Yves Saint Laurent, and royalty from around the world. It’s a sensory overload of Moroccan luxury, from the scent of orange blossoms to the intricate mosaics everywhere you look. Book a private hammam at the spa—it’s one of the most authentic Moroccan experiences money can buy.
32. Four Seasons Madrid – Madrid, Spain
Location: Madrid, Spain
What It’s Known For: A restored 19th-century bank transformed into a luxury hotel
Awards: Best New Hotel in Spain (2025)
Located in the heart of Madrid, this hotel blends historic grandeur with contemporary luxury. Its rooftop pool, award-winning spa, and a three-story atrium bar make it a must-stay. It’s Madrid’s best mix of history and modern elegance—perfect for culture lovers. Try the Michelin-starred Dani Brasserie—the terrace views over Madrid are unreal.
33. Capella Singapore – Singapore
Location: Sentosa Island, Singapore
What It’s Known For: Secluded luxury on a tropical island, just minutes from the city
Awards: Best Resort in Southeast Asia (2025)
This colonial-meets-contemporary retreat sits on 30 acres of lush rainforest, offering a peaceful escape from the city with an award-winning Auriga Spa. You get a tropical island experience while still being minutes away from Singapore’s best attractions. Book the Constellation Room for a private outdoor jacuzzi under the stars.
34. Four Seasons at The Surf Club – Surfside, Florida
Location: Miami Beach, Florida
What It’s Known For: Old-school Miami glamour with modern luxury
Awards: Best Beachfront Hotel in the USA (2025)
Once a 1950s social club, Four Seasons Surf Club is now a refined beachfront retreat with an Amalfi Coast vibe. The hotel features pastel interiors, a world-class spa, and Italian fine dining by Thomas Keller. It’s Miami, but without the crowds—just pure beachfront serenity. Have a leisurely breakfast at Le Sirenuse, the sister restaurant to Italy’s famous Positano hotspot.
35. Hotel Bel-Air – Los Angeles, USA
Location: Bel-Air, Los Angeles
What It’s Known For: A secret celebrity retreat hidden in the hills
Awards: Best Hidden Luxury Hotel in the USA (2025)
Tucked away in the lush hills of Bel-Air, this iconic hotel offers Spanish Colonial charm, private bungalow suites, and swan-filled gardens. It’s where Hollywood’s elite go to escape the paparazzi. If you want Beverly Hills luxury without the flash, this is the ultimate hideaway. Order the iconic Wolfgang Puck breakfast in your private garden suite—it’s how Hollywood royalty starts their day.
36. Eden Rock – St. Barths
Location: St. Jean Bay, St. Barths
What It’s Known For: A celebrity-favorite retreat with private villas and white-sand beaches
Awards: Best Caribbean Luxury Hotel (2025)
Eden Rock is the epitome of St. Barths glamor. Once a writer’s retreat, it’s now a favorite of celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Beyoncé. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the hotel offers luxury beachfront suites, world-class dining, and turquoise waters perfect for yachting.
It’s St. Barths—need we say more? The beach, the exclusivity, and the effortless luxury make it the ultimate Caribbean escape. Book the Rockstar Villa, complete with a recording studio, infinity pool, and private beach access.
37. Aman New York – New York City, USA
Location: Midtown Manhattan, NYC
What It’s Known For: A serene oasis in the middle of the city that never sleeps
Awards: Best Urban Retreat in North America (2025)
Aman New York is unlike any other NYC hotel—think Japanese minimalism meets Art Deco elegance, with a rooftop garden, enormous spa, and a members-only club for the city’s elite. It’s a peaceful, Zen-like hideaway in the heart of Manhattan’s chaos. Take a dip in the heated rooftop pool at night—it’s a surreal experience surrounded by NYC’s skyline.
38. Royal Mansour – Marrakech, Morocco
Location: Marrakech, Morocco
What It’s Known For: A palace designed by the Moroccan king himself
Awards: Best Luxury Hotel in Africa (2025)
Royal Mansour is a literal palace—commissioned by King Mohammed VI, it features 53 private riads, secret tunnels for staff, and an over-the-top spa that looks straight out of Arabian Nights. It’s the most extravagant way to experience Moroccan luxury—like stepping into a real-life fairytale. Book a spa treatment inside the all-white, three-story hammam—it’s one of the most beautiful in the world.
39. Amangalla – Galle, Sri Lanka
Location: Galle Fort, Sri Lanka
What It’s Known For: Colonial-era luxury inside a 17th-century fort
Awards: Best Heritage Hotel in South Asia (2025)
Set inside Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Amangalla blends Dutch colonial charm with Aman’s signature understated luxury. With antique four-poster beds, deep soaking tubs, and an Ayurvedic spa, it’s a perfect mix of history and indulgence. Stay inside a piece of history, with views over ancient ramparts and the Indian Ocean. Take an early morning walk along the fort walls—it’s the best time to enjoy Galle’s beauty without the crowds.
40. Le Bristol – Paris, France
Location: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris
What It’s Known For: Parisian elegance at its finest, with a three-Michelin-star restaurant
Awards: Best French Luxury Hotel (2025)
Le Bristol is synonymous with old-school Parisian glamor. Home to Epicure, a three-star Michelin restaurant, and a rooftop garden with stunning city views, it’s where fashion icons and world leaders stay. If you want classic Paris with impeccable service, Le Bristol delivers. Keep an eye out for Socrate, the hotel’s resident cat, who roams the lobby like a Parisian aristocrat.
41. Gleneagles – Auchterarder, Scotland
Location: Scottish Highlands
What It’s Known For: A countryside estate with world-class golf and outdoor adventures
Awards: Best Country Retreat (2025)
Gleneagles is Scotland’s most famous luxury escape, offering three championship golf courses, falconry experiences, horseback riding, and traditional whisky tastings. It’s like staying in a grand countryside manor—except with five-star service and Michelin-starred dining. Try the whisky pairing dinner at Andrew Fairlie’s restaurant—it’s a two-star Michelin culinary masterpiece.
42. Castello di Reschio – Lisciano Niccone, Italy
Location: Umbria, Italy
What It’s Known For: A restored 10th-century castle turned into a romantic retreat
Awards: Best Castle Hotel (2025)
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a real medieval castle, Castello di Reschio is the ultimate fantasy. With hand-restored frescoes, sprawling vineyards, and private farmhouses, it’s a secluded, storybook-like retreat. Because staying in a castle in the rolling hills of Umbria is every traveler’s dream. Request a sunset horseback ride through the estate’s private forest—it’s pure magic.
43. Suján Jawai – Rajasthan, India
Location: Rajasthan, India
What It’s Known For: Luxury tented camp with up-close leopard sightings
Awards: Best Luxury Safari Camp (2025)
This tented camp is nestled in Rajasthan’s wild landscapes, offering intimate safari experiences where guests can spot wild leopards from their private decks. Imagine waking up to sunrise views over the Aravalli Hills while sipping chai in a luxury tent. Opt for a private guided leopard safari at dawn—it’s the best chance to see these elusive big cats.
44. Singita – Kruger National Park, South Africa
Location: Kruger National Park, South Africa
What It’s Known For: Ultra-exclusive safari lodges in the heart of the wild
Awards: Best Safari Lodge in Africa (2025)
Singita isn’t just a safari lodge—it’s a conservation-focused luxury experience, offering private game drives, top-tier dining, and designer safari lodges with private plunge pools. It’s one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five—without the crowds. Stay at Singita Lebombo Lodge for glass-walled suites that let you sleep under the African stars.
45. Six Senses Zighy Bay – Oman
Location: Musandam Peninsula, Oman
What It’s Known For: A desert-meets-beach oasis with over-the-top experiences
Awards: Best Adventure-Luxury Resort (2025)
This secluded resort sits between desert mountains and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman. The best part? You can literally paraglide into the hotel instead of arriving by car. It’s an adventure-lover’s paradise, with scuba diving, dune bashing, and private beachfront villas. Try the stargazing experience in the desert—it’s a surreal escape from city lights.
46. The Connaught – London, UK
Location: Mayfair, London
What It’s Known For: Old-world British charm with Michelin-starred dining
Awards: Best Classic Luxury Hotel in London (2025)
The Connaught is a quintessential Mayfair institution, known for its impeccable butler service, stylish suites, and one of London’s best martinis at The Connaught Bar (which has been crowned the World’s Best Bar multiple times). It’s where timeless British elegance meets modern sophistication. Plus, the in-house Jean-Georges restaurant is a must for food lovers. Try the table-side Martini experience at The Connaught Bar—it’s an art form in itself.
47. The Brando – Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
Location: Tetiaroa Atoll, French Polynesia
What It’s Known For: A private island paradise once owned by Marlon Brando
Awards: Best Eco-Luxury Resort in the Pacific (2025)
The Brando is a Hollywood legend turned sustainable luxury retreat, with thatched-roof overwater villas, crystal-clear lagoons, and a full commitment to environmental conservation. It’s an untouched Polynesian dream, offering unparalleled seclusion and beauty. Book a private Polynesian canoe tour at sunrise—it’s a surreal way to start the day.
48. Hotel Esencia – Tulum, Mexico
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
What It’s Known For: A boutique retreat once owned by Italian royalty
Awards: Best Secluded Beach Resort (2025)
This white-washed, design-forward retreat sits on a pristine stretch of sand between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, offering an exclusive and intimate alternative to the usual Riviera Maya resorts. It’s low-key, stylish, and effortlessly luxurious—perfect for travelers who want peace and privacy. Try the chocolate-based spa treatment at Esencia Spa—it’s inspired by ancient Mayan rituals.
49. The Tasman – Hobart, Australia
Location: Hobart, Tasmania
What It’s Known For: A heritage-listed hotel blending history and modern luxury
Awards: Best New Luxury Hotel in Australia (2025)
The Tasman is a celebration of Tasmania’s unique history, built within a 19th-century sandstone building, offering artful interiors, fireplaces in select suites, and an unbeatable location by the waterfront. It’s one of the most beautifully designed hotels in Australia, with a deep connection to local culture and produce. Order the whisky flight at the hotel’s cocktail bar—Tasmania is home to some of the world’s best craft distilleries.
50. Kokomo Private Island – Yaukuve Levu, Fiji
Location: Yaukuve Levu Island, Fiji
What It’s Known For: The ultimate private island escape in Fiji
Awards: Best Private Island Resort (2025)
Kokomo is a barefoot-luxury paradise, with secluded beachfront villas, a world-class spa, and private yachts for island-hopping adventures. It’s the definition of tropical luxury, where the hardest decision you’ll make is whether to snorkel, surf, or sip cocktails by your private infinity pool. Book a manta ray snorkeling trip—Fiji’s waters are one of the few places in the world where you can swim with these gentle giants.
51. Shinta Mani Wild – Cambodia
Location: Cardamom National Park, Cambodia
What It’s Known For: An all-inclusive jungle safari lodge designed by Bill Bensley
Awards: Best Luxury Adventure Hotel (2025)
Shinta Mani Wild is no ordinary hotel—it’s a conservation-focused wilderness retreat where guests zip-line into the lobby, embark on anti-poaching patrols, and explore untouched rainforest by kayak. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime jungle experience, where adventure and luxury collide. Book the riverside tent for the most immersive jungle experience.
52. Aman Venice – Venice, Italy
Location: Grand Canal, Venice
What It’s Known For: A 16th-century palace turned ultra-luxury hotel
Awards: Best Palazzo Hotel (2025)
Aman Venice is where Old World meets Aman’s signature minimalist elegance, with hand-painted frescoes, Murano chandeliers, and canalside gardens. It’s the most exclusive way to experience Venice—far from the crowds. Book a private gondola ride directly from the hotel’s dock.
53. Arctic Bath – Sweden
Location: Lule River, Swedish Lapland
What It’s Known For: A floating spa hotel with direct access to Arctic waters
Awards: Best Nordic Wellness Retreat (2025)
Arctic Bath is a floating, circular wellness retreat on a frozen river, where guests plunge into icy waters before warming up in a traditional Swedish sauna. It’s the ultimate Nordic wellness experience, complete with the Northern Lights. Try the cold plunge—it’s an exhilarating reset for your body.
54. Fogo Island Inn – Newfoundland, Canada
Location: Fogo Island, Newfoundland
What It’s Known For: An architectural wonder at the edge of the world
Awards: Best Remote Luxury Hotel (2025)
Fogo Island Inn sits on a windswept coastline, surrounded by dramatic ocean views. It’s a social enterprise dedicated to preserving local culture, offering art-filled interiors and some of the freshest seafood in the world. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime escape to one of the most unique landscapes on Earth. Join a local guide for a “Cod Sounds” tour to learn about Newfoundland’s fishing heritage.
55. Alila Jabal Akhdar – Oman
Location: Al Hajar Mountains, Oman
What It’s Known For: A luxury retreat set high in the mountains of Oman
Awards: Best Mountain Retreat (2025)
Perched over 2,000 meters above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar is an oasis of peace, with dramatic canyon views, infinity pools, and outdoor yoga decks. It’s the most breathtaking way to experience Oman’s rugged beauty. Take the hotel’s sunset trek through the mountains for the most spectacular golden-hour views.
56. Amanpulo – Palawan, Philippines
Location: Pamalican Island, Palawan, Philippines
What It’s Known For: A private island paradise with powder-white sand beaches
Awards: Best Island Resort in Asia (2025)
Amanpulo is the Philippines’ most exclusive private island resort, accessible only by private plane. The resort’s casitas and villas blend seamlessly into the untouched tropical surroundings, with butler service, private pools, and direct beach access. It’s one of the most secluded, beautiful, and peaceful island escapes in the world. Take a sunset cruise on a traditional paraw sailboat—the views over the Sulu Sea are magical.
57. Explora Patagonia – Torres del Paine, Chile
Location: Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
What It’s Known For: An eco-luxury lodge in one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth
Awards: Best Adventure Lodge in South America (2025)
Set in Chile’s dramatic Torres del Paine National Park, Explora Patagonia is a remote yet luxurious basecamp for travelers exploring glaciers, mountains, and wild landscapes. With guided treks, horseback riding, and boat excursions, it’s the ultimate stay for nature lovers. You’ll enjoy views of jagged peaks, glacial lakes, and wild guanacos roaming freely. Book the Grey Glacier hike—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see towering ice formations up close.
58. The Datai Langkawi – Langkawi, Malaysia
Location: Langkawi Island, Malaysia
What It’s Known For: A rainforest retreat with untouched beaches and wildlife
Awards: Best Jungle Beach Resort (2025)
Nestled in a 10-million-year-old rainforest, The Datai Langkawi is where luxury meets nature. With treehouse-style villas, a private bay, and guided nature walks, guests can spot exotic wildlife while enjoying five-star comfort. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the jungle, followed by a morning swim in a private, untouched beach. Join the resort’s marine biologists on a guided snorkeling trip—Langkawi’s coral reefs are thriving with marine life.
59. The Silo Hotel – Cape Town, South Africa
Location: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
What It’s Known For: An art-filled architectural wonder in Cape Town’s waterfront
Awards: Best Luxury Hotel for Art Lovers (2025)
Housed in a repurposed grain silo, this unique hotel features massive geometric windows overlooking Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s also home to Zeitz MOCAA, Africa’s leading contemporary art museum. It’s an art lover’s dream, blending modern design, history, and some of the best views in South Africa. Book a rooftop sundowner at The Silo Bar—the views at sunset are unreal.
60. Laucala Island – Fiji
Location: Laucala Island, Fiji
What It’s Known For: A private island escape where each villa has its own infinity pool
Awards: Best Ultra-Luxury Private Island Resort (2025)
Owned by Red Bull billionaire Dietrich Mateschitz, Laucala Island is one of the most exclusive and expensive private island resorts in the world. With thatched-roof villas spread across a lush, coconut tree-lined landscape, private chefs, and a fully staffed luxury yacht at your disposal, it’s the ultimate in barefoot luxury. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime, no-expenses-spared tropical paradise. Try the world’s only golf course with a view over an active volcano—because why not?
Final Thoughts
Booking a luxury hotel isn’t just about finding a place to sleep. It’s about the experience—the feeling of stepping into a world where every detail is designed to make you feel like you belong there.
These 60 hotels weren’t just picked because they look good in photos. They were voted the best in the world by travelers who’ve stayed in them, lived the experience, and walked away knowing it was worth every cent. This is a travel bucket list of places that redefine what luxury should feel like.
Which one are you booking first? Drop a comment or tag us TravelReveal—we want to hear which hotel is at the top of your dream stay list. Because in 2025, you deserve more than just a good hotel. You deserve the best. For more travel tips and hacks, visit our website and explore our resources to enhance your next adventure.