Introduction
For some travellers, a memorable holiday means exploring a new city. For others, the hotel itself is a major part of the experience. From private-island retreats to elegant city properties, the best luxury hotels in the world combine distinctive settings, thoughtful service, exceptional dining and carefully designed spaces.
Luxury means different things to different travellers. Some prefer peaceful beaches, while others want fine dining, wellness experiences, cultural attractions or spectacular architecture.
Here are ten internationally recognised luxury properties worth exploring when planning a special holiday. This is a curated selection, not a definitive ranking, and it does not imply that every hotel is the best choice for every budget or travel style.
1. La Mamounia – Marrakech, Morocco
La Mamounia is known for its grand Moroccan character, gardens and elegant interiors. Its atmosphere makes it appealing to travellers who want to combine a luxury stay with the architecture, markets and cultural experiences of Marrakech.
Best for: Couples, design lovers and cultural travellers.
What to experience: Explore the city's historic streets, discover Moroccan cuisine and make time to enjoy the hotel's garden setting.
2. Amanzoe – Porto Heli, Greece
Amanzoe offers a secluded luxury experience in Greece, with an emphasis on privacy, relaxation and refined design. Its location makes it an appealing option for travellers seeking a quieter Mediterranean escape.
Best for: Couples and travellers who value privacy.
What to experience: Combine a relaxing stay with coastal excursions and visits to nearby Greek destinations, depending on the season.
3. Shebara Resort – Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Shebara Resort stands out for its futuristic design and coastal setting in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea region. It is an option for travellers interested in contemporary architecture and resort experiences away from conventional city hotels.
Best for: Design enthusiasts and travellers looking for a distinctive resort.
What to experience: Explore the resort's setting and check which marine activities and experiences are available during your dates.
4. Rosewood Hong Kong – Hong Kong
Rosewood Hong Kong combines an urban luxury experience with views of Victoria Harbour. Its location is appealing to visitors who want access to restaurants, shopping, city attractions and sophisticated accommodation.
Best for: Business travellers, couples and city explorers.
What to experience: Discover Hong Kong's food scene, harbourfront areas and neighbourhoods while using the hotel as a comfortable base.
5. Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino – Greece
Located in the Costa Navarino area of Greece, this property is suited to travellers who want a premium coastal holiday with opportunities to explore the wider region.
Best for: Families, couples and leisure travellers.
What to experience: Plan beach time, local food experiences and excursions that suit the season and your interests.
6. NIHI Sumba – Sumba, Indonesia
NIHI Sumba is known for its island setting and nature-focused luxury experience. It can appeal to travellers who want a more remote destination rather than a busy urban hotel.
Best for: Adventure-minded luxury travellers and couples.
What to experience: Ask about the available outdoor activities, local cultural experiences and conservation-related initiatives before booking.
7. Janu Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan
Janu Tokyo offers a contemporary luxury experience in one of the world's most exciting cities. Tokyo's combination of modern design, traditional culture, shopping and food makes it a rewarding destination for travellers with varied interests.
Best for: Food lovers, design enthusiasts and city travellers.
What to experience: Explore Japanese restaurants, museums, shopping districts and cultural attractions while planning time to relax at the hotel.
8. Cheval Blanc St-Tropez – France
Cheval Blanc St-Tropez is associated with the French Riviera's coastal glamour. The destination is attractive to travellers who enjoy stylish surroundings, Mediterranean dining and time by the sea.
Best for: Couples and travellers planning a premium summer escape.
What to experience: Explore the waterfront, local restaurants and nearby coastal destinations. Check seasonal operating dates before booking.
9. Aman New York – New York City, USA
Aman New York brings a refined luxury experience to Manhattan. It is an option for travellers who want an upscale city stay with easy access to cultural attractions, dining and shopping.
Best for: Luxury city breaks, special occasions and business trips.
What to experience: Build an itinerary around museums, performances, neighbourhood restaurants and New York's famous landmarks.
10. Atlantis The Royal – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Atlantis The Royal is a striking resort known for its dramatic architecture, upscale accommodation and wide range of dining and leisure experiences. It can be a strong choice for travellers seeking an energetic luxury holiday in Dubai.
Best for: Families, couples and travellers who enjoy large resort experiences.
What to experience: Explore the resort's restaurants and facilities, then add Dubai's shopping, entertainment and waterfront attractions to your itinerary.
How to Choose the Right Luxury Hotel
Before booking a high-end stay, consider more than the room photographs.
Choose the Right Location
A remote resort may be perfect for relaxation but less convenient if you want museums, restaurants and nightlife. City hotels often work better for sightseeing and short business trips.
Compare What's Included
Check whether breakfast, transfers, activities, taxes and resort fees are included in the quoted price. An attractive starting rate may not represent the final cost.
Read Recent Guest Reviews
Look for recurring comments about service, cleanliness, noise, food and maintenance. Pay attention to reviews from travellers with needs similar to yours.
Check the Cancellation Policy
Weather, flights and personal circumstances can affect travel plans. Flexible booking conditions may be valuable, especially for expensive international stays.
Consider the Season
Peak-season dates can affect both price and availability. Research local weather and seasonal operating schedules before confirming your reservation.
For broader hotel inspiration, explore Best Travel Advisory. You can also compare the properties with the published World's 100 Best Hotels list while remembering that hotel rankings use specific judging criteria and may change each year.
Are Luxury Hotels Worth the Price?
That depends on your priorities. A luxury property may be worthwhile if you value attentive service, a distinctive location, exceptional facilities or a special occasion. If your main goal is sightseeing, a well-located mid-range hotel may leave more money for activities and dining.
The best choice is the one that fits your travel style, budget and expectations.
Final Thoughts
These ten properties show how varied luxury travel can be, from secluded island retreats to landmark city hotels. Before booking, compare recent reviews, inclusions, location and seasonal prices rather than choosing on reputation alone.
For more destination ideas and practical travel inspiration, visit Best Travel Advisory.
Rates, facilities and operating arrangements can change. Confirm all details directly with the hotel before making a reservation.
