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. That's why we put together this list of 13 of the world's most luxurious hotels.
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.
Discover 13 of the world’s most luxurious hotels:
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.
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 centre, 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.
3. 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, specialised 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.
4. 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.
5. The Plaza, New York City
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.
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.
6. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa, California
Set among the rolling hills of Southern California, Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa offers an exclusive escape in a lush atmosphere. With its world-renowned tennis programme, innovative cuisine, and rejuvenating spa, as well as the year-round idyllic climate, Rancho Valencia is the perfect place to discover the Southern California region.
The property completed a $30 million renovation in 2013, including remodeled guest casitas with hand-painted tiles and custom furnishings, a brand new restaurant and bar, and major enhancements to the spa and fitness centre. Guests love the picturesque setting among the groves and feel that they’ve escaped to a Mediterranean villa only a short drive from San Diego.
7. 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 travellers alike.
8. 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.”
If your taste for luxury includes expensive cars, look no further than the Acqualina Resort in Miami. The property is home to the world’s largest collection of independently owned Rolls Royces found at a single hotel. And if you book three or more nights in their Grand Deluxe Three-Bedroom Oceanfront Suite, you’ll have your own Rolls Royce Ghost to use for the duration of your stay.
Besides its high-speed amenities, the hotel also offers three oceanside pools, outdoor living room-style seating areas, and world-class dining. Plus, each of the 54 rooms and 44 suites have oversized floor plans and outdoor terraces designed by Miami designer Isabel Tragash to give guests an unforgettably luxurious experience.
10. 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.
Marquis Los Cabos is a private oasis perfectly in tune with its surroundings. The architecture, art showpieces from local artists, and decor all serve to blend the resort in with its surroundings and make guests feel like they’ve stepped into a second home.
This all-inclusive, adults-only property has everything you need for a quiet escape in Mexico. The world-class spa, tranquil infinity pools, elevated restaurants, and attentive guest services work together to create an experience that is sure to create lasting memories.
In addition to luxury suites, Marquis Los Cabos offers private Casitas. These "small houses" have amenities galore, including plunge pools, gardens, rooftop terraces, and much more. Plus, they're located right by the ocean and give guests an unforgettable view of Cabo's breathtaking sunsets.
12. 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.
Named the No. 1 hotel in Europe by U.S. News and World Report, La Réserve Paris is an elegant and luxurious hotel that mixes antique decor with a modern flair. The property offers luxury amenities and perks in a cozy setting, including two restaurants, a pool, spa, library, and even a hidden smoking room. The rooms include TVs hidden behind antique mirrors to maintain the elegant atmosphere, antique writing desks, and linens monogrammed with guests’ initials. True to its heritage, the property also includes a curated collection of over 1,500 wines in its well-appointed wine cellar.
