Private butlers? Michelin-starred restaurants? Bespoke vacation activities? These amenities are just par for the course when it comes to the most luxurious hotels in the world. If you’ve got money to burn and are in search of a world-class hotel, these 15 stunning properties will deliver.
As if French Polynesia wasn’t gorgeous enough, this hotel makes the collection of islands in the South Pacific shine even brighter. Wake up in an overwater bungalow suite and start your day with a swim in the azure lagoon. Don’t want to plan activities? You can book your own private retreat and let the staff arrange everything to maximize your relaxation. The hotel prides itself on its focus on French Polynesian culture, and offers activities that introduce you to local traditions and customs.
Twenty-five luxurious suites sit atop the limestone cliffs of Kangaroo Island, each immersing guests in the spectacular landscape. Dining at the lodge provides the opportunity to explore the local cuisine of southern Australia, with a menu that changes with the seasons. The hotel offers exclusive packages that include activities such as a photo safari, wine tasting, and wildlife viewing.
While it’s a far cry from the palatial elegance of Paris, Hotel Jerome offers its own version of luxury, and has attracted the rich and famous since the late 1800s. Stars of the silver screen like John Wayne and Lana Turner often frequented the hotel in the ‘50s. You’ll love the top-notch service, which starts the moment you check in and are offered a custom welcome drink. Whether you want help planning a backcountry Jeep tour or just need an extra pillow, the staff at Hotel Jerome goes above and beyond.
With the Eiffel Tower right outside your balcony, you’ll feel like you found the real Shangri-La. The Shangri-La Paris offers spaces to host the most decadent of weddings and celebrations. Add to that two restaurants (one with a Michelin star) and a to-die-for spa, and the happy couple may extend their honeymoon indefinitely.
Stunning views of Hong Kong’s skyline and Victoria Harbor are just the tip of the iceberg at this luxury hotel. It also has nine stellar restaurants (two with Michelin stars) and a slew of wellness facilities that make it hard to ever leave the property. If you do choose to venture out, the hotel can set you up with bespoke experiences like a champagne masterclass, a helicopter tour, or a class where you can paint your own Mahjong tiles.
The recipient of many luxury hotel awards, The Peninsula in Chicago is part of a family of hotels run by the oldest hotel brand in Asia. Its attention to detail is what keeps guests coming back, as well as its many perks for children. Kids get their own amenities, including a bathrobe and slippers, and can participate in age-appropriate activities like scavenger hunts and in-room camping.
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Like the idea of relaxing on your own private island? Cayo Espanto has you covered. There are just seven oceanfront villas on the entire island, providing a sense of privacy and rejuvenation. Each villa has a private plunge pool, dock, alfresco shower, meals prepared by award-winning chefs, premium Egyptian cotton sheets, and more.
If you’re searching for both city and sun on your vacation, look no further than this luxury hotel in Dubai. The hotel sits on the Arabian Sea, but to be honest, it’s the world’s highest infinity pool that draws a crowd. The hotel is steps away from luxury boutiques, restaurants, and bars, too.
La Mamounia has been pampering guests since 1923. Its Guest Experience Manager (GEM) provides a customized stay based on your interests, and there are both indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, and an exclusive spa to enjoy during your stay. Spend an afternoon wandering around the breathtaking gardens, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants before exploring Marrakech.
Located in the northern town of Oia, this hotel is carved into the cliffs of Santorini. The gleaming white villas overlook the caldera, where a fantastic sunset can be seen every night. Enjoy your private pool or book an excursion to explore Santorini by sea or by land.
This luxury hotel balances tradition and modernity. Its sky-high views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji counter the very traditional Japanese decorative accents like washi paper doors and engawa platforms. The hotel’s resident curators can create a bespoke tour of the city for guests that might include a sumo wrestling match, pottery class, or flower arranging lesson.
Situated on the edge of the Ranthambore National Park, this oasis balances wilderness and decadence. Accommodations include luxury tents of more than 1,000 square feet that come with a private butler. Head out on your own private safari to spot crocodiles, leopards, jackals, and the Bengal tiger, then return for relaxing spa treatments.
Anyone can book a hotel in Bangkok or Phuket, but if you want a more remote experience in Thailand, book a villa on the private island where Cape Fahn is located. With just 24 villas, you won’t find the place overrun by tourists. The island offers unparalleled dining options, breathtaking views, and plenty of amenities for relaxing.
Located on the Kohala Coast, this luxury hotel offers guest rooms, suites, residences, and estates with personalized service. Relax at the beach or participate in the hotel’s many activities, which include snorkeling, tennis, historic walking tours, and live entertainment.
Situated among glaciers and mountains, this hotel offers unparalleled access to Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park. After a private excursion in Patagonia, whether that’s on a bicycle or 4X4 or by foot, relish the fine dining of Relais & Chateaux, the hotel’s in-house restaurant that’s for guests only. After dinner, relax in the rustic outdoor hot tub with a glass of wine and take in the stars above.
Step back into Budapest’s Golden Era when you visit this Art Nouveau hotel . With wrought-iron peacock gates, a mosaic-adorned lobby, and spectacular views of the Danube River, you’ll step back 100 years in time. The hotel offers guest rooms, suites, and specialty suites, all with diverse views of the cities of Buda and Pest.
