Top 10 Hotels in the World

If you’re reading this, the chances are good that vacation or travel plans are heavy on your mind. And, now more than ever, we need to escape to a retreat, kick back, and relax away from our everyday hustles and bustles.

Despite all the events of the past two years, the choice of hotels across the globe is still impressively mind-boggling. They range from budget boutique options where the standard room goes for a dime on the dollar to oases of luxury and opulence where an average traveler can expect to drop half their life savings on a night stay.

We’d love to highlight every hotel option and category here, but that would take us a whole year to compile and sift through.

Instead, we’ll focus on the crème de la crème of the global hotel industry. We’ll set the limelight on top-notch hotels that have earned their place and are poised to stand out from a sea of choice in more than one way, be it in amenities, exquisite dining, exclusivity, design, personality, style, or location.

From Montage Los Cabos to the Emirati’s crown jewel Burj Al Arab, welcome to our guide of the 10 best hotels in the world right now. If their awe-inspiring lush locations, high-tech immaculately appointed guest rooms, world-class amenities, and impeccable service don’t give you wanderlust, nothing ever will.

1- Burj Al Arab Hotel


Where: Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE

With a unique design shaped like a gliding sail, the iconic Burj Al Arab is not just the crown jewel of the United Arab Emirates; it’s also one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The highly photogenic luxury hotel regularly attracts billionaires, royalty, pop stars, and merely the well-heeled. And with good reason — its unique architecture is simply breathtaking and the exclusive location off the coast of Dubai makes it an eye-candy from every direction imaginable.

Right from the lobby, the hotel’s décor is opulent and lavish with beautiful waterfalls welcoming arriving guests to their elaborately decorated and luxurious rooms.

All guest rooms at the hotel are spacious two-story suites, starting at 170 square feet and packed to the brim with gold-cladded features.

All of the hotel’s suites feature lush décor and come with personal butlers. They’re furnished with equally decadent amenities and features, including mirrored ceilings, moiré silk walls, large bathrooms with inlaid tiles depicting Venice scenes, 24-karat gold iPads, and curlicue velvet chairs. Beyond the rooms, the landmark boasts extravagant amenities, such as hovering tennis courts, an on-site helipad, and a wide choice of futuristic nightlife and restaurant options.

Other high-end extras include a chauffeur-driven fleet of Rolls Royce vehicles, private check-ins, and in-room tea service. The North Deck of the property brings two massive outdoor pools with over 400 lounger chairs. Expect your stay to be uber-pricey, but hey, these rooms are designed for seriously moneyed folks.

2- Atlantis Bahamas


Where: Paradise Island, Bahamas

Spanning much of Paradise Island, Atlantis Bahamas (also known as Atlantis Paradise Island) is undoubtedly one of the best ocean-themed resort hotels in the world. It wows guests with an array of perks, including a multitude of award-winning restaurants, a massive golf course, a sprawling casino, and a diverse range of rooms, ranging from chic boutique-style rooms to lavish private residences for VIP guests.

However, the resort’s most prized and sought-after feature is the 141-acre waterscape, where you’ll find 8 waterslides, a Mayan-inspired water playground, and a lazy river.

In addition to the enormous water park, it also boasts five miles of pristine sand beaches and 11 outstanding pools. That makes it one of the best family-friendly resort properties.

Atlantis Bahamas is also home to multiple saltwater and freshwater lagoon aquariums and the largest open-air marine habitat in the world, featuring eels, piranhas, rays, sharks, and much more. The massive resort is nestled just two miles northeast of Nassau, which makes it easy to access from the US mainland.

3- Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa


Where: 5921 Valencia Cir, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067, United States

If you’re a gearhead or have a thing for speed, then Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa is the best place to stay for you. It’s the only Relais & Chateaux hotel property in this part of the Bear State. The luxury hotel sits on a 40-acre lush ground in Rancho Santa Fe, an upscale suburb community tucked in Southern California hills.

All 49 rooms are Spanish-style suites nestled in 26 casitas strewn all over the sprawling resort, offering an unmatched sense of privacy and seclusion for guests.

They can choose from a two-bedroom or one-bedroom suite, all featuring private patios or balconies, fireplaces, tiled floors, and vaulted-wood beam ceilings. The exquisite bathrooms have a separate shower and a deep soaking tub.

Breakfast juice, parking, minibar items, and Wi-Fi come complimentary with the hotel stay. There’s a fabulous on-site restaurant with both indoor & outdoor seating and a high-end fitness center offering free fitness classes.

Of course, the biggest perk of the property is the recently opened full-service spa with multiple treatment rooms that offer indulgences like waxings, facials, massage therapies, and herb-based body wraps. Automobile fans can get their longing for speed in the latest Porsche models.

4- Montage Los Cabos


Where: Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico

Nestled on a 39-acre white sand beach on the coast 8 miles from Cabo San Lucas, Montage Los Cabos is one of the best hotels in Mexico and the world. It wows guests and visitors alike with a sleek design, awesome service, myriad on-site activities, as well as an array of modern amenities.

The property houses 174 rooms and suites appointed in a neutral color palette of mocha, blue, white, and tan.

They’re equipped with Nespresso coffee makers, separate sitting areas, marble bathrooms, and a private terrace overlooking the beach or desert.

Outside their rooms, guests have a wide choice of things to do and see. They can kick back on the sun-soaked public beach, go for a dip in the outdoor pool, and opt for a day of pampering at the spa. It also provides a huge list of recreational opportunities, including swimming with dolphins, tennis, horseback riding, jet skiing, and snorkeling. When it comes to dining, the hotel impresses with three restaurants: Talay, a Thai restaurant, Mezcal, and Marea.

5- Amansara


Where: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Built in the early 1960s as a summer retreat for King Sihanouk’s VIP guests, Asmara still bears its initial French contemporary villa appeal. The hotel villa was transformed into a fully-fledged hotel in the early 2000s, adding its signature lap swimming pool, a spa, and a dozen of modern suites, some featuring private pools and dining room areas.

The accommodations are suite-style rooms that feature sandstone reliefs, hardwood furnishings, terrazzo floors, and private plunge pools on private courtyards.

This updated architectural marvel now offers an ideal escape from the bustling streets of Cambodia’s downtown Siem Reap.

The hotel property is actually set adjacent to the jungle ruins of the Khmer Empire and Angkor Wat, both part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Aside from the resort’s minimalist appeal, guests can explore this rich heritage with their own auto rickshaw. Recent guests praised the hotel staff’s cheeriness and commitment to customer service.

6- Singita Sweni Lodge


Where: Sweni River, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa

If you’re looking to stay at an exquisite safari lodge with impressive service and amenities to match, look no further than Singita Sweni Lodge. This hotel property is nestled inside 33,000 acres of breathtaking wilderness famous for hosting Africa’s Big Five, namely buffalos, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and lions.

The accommodation comprises private canopy rooms that overlook the renowned Kruger National Park, offering a best-in-class luxury experience in a setting like no other. The Sweni Lodge boasts 7 private rooms with an intimate atmosphere, while Lebombo Lodge has 13 spacious suites.

7- The Plaza – A Fairmont Managed Hotel


Where: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019, United States

Although New York City is home to many different swanky and iconic hotels, The Plaza is usually the go-to for VIP guests visiting the Big Apple. The Royal Three Bedroom Suite is dressed in old-world décor and sports a gym, a library, a grand piano, and a modern dining space that can seat up to 12 people. It’s served by a private elevator, includes a personal butler, and features a full kitchen.

Other rooms are also decadent, appointed in elaborate floral motifs, Beaux-Arts décor, and large marble-floored bathrooms with a signature set of toiletries.

The beautiful Plaza Food Hall, Champagne Bar, and Palm Court also garner raving approvals from recent guests for their delicious dishes and romantic atmosphere.

Plaza originally opened in 1907 and has been a National Historic Landmark since 1969. Additionally, the hotel has earned icon status in popular media, partly thanks to its appearance in blockbuster films like Home Alone 2 and Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

8- Bellagio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas


Where: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

The Bellagio Hotel and Casino is one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, and a favorite choice for high rollers. Perched in the center of the Las Vegas Strip, the luxury property is home to a high-end casino much akin to those found in Monte Carlo. The lobby of this modern hotel decorated with ornate glass is a sight to behold in itself. Guests and visitors have well over 20 restaurants to choose from.

The property offers 3,933 rooms, villas, and suites that vary greatly in terms of décor and have floor-to-ceiling windows. However, all accommodations at Bellagio Las Vegas are fairly spacious, starting at 510 square feet, with a contemporary yet sophisticated design.

They are known for their modern amenities that include well-stocked minibars, large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and ample Italian marble bathrooms with separate showers and soaking tubs.

Bellagio houses a total of 6 pools, including a seasonal private plunge pool and a handful of temperature-regulated outdoor pools found in Mediterranean-themed courtyards. There’s also a huge fitness center and a full-service spa, offering a full menu of body treatments, facials, massages, and salon services.

9- Rosewood Hotel Georgia


Where: 801 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7, Canada

The Rosewood Hotel Georgia is a top choice for guests who are willing to splurge on the ultimate luxury stay. Recent guests rave about the hotel staff’s top-shelf service and attention to detail, saying they made them feel like royalty. The property’s 156 suites and rooms are equally outstanding, featuring Nespresso machines, large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and stunning views of the Vancouver cityscape or hotel’s lush courtyard.

The bathrooms aren’t too shabby, either; they’re huge with marble heated floors, large cotton bath linens, a deep-soaking hot tub, and an ample walk-in shower. When it comes to dinner time, be sure to visit Hawksworth Restaurant, a lovely spot with a formal vibe and an impressive menu of locally-inspired dishes.

Other notable amenities include a rooftop alfresco lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a funky indoor swimming pool, and 24-hour room service. This pet-friendly hotel has private decks and its central locale means you’re always steps away from the best attractions in Vancouver.

10- Charles Bridge Palace Prague


Where: Anenské námestí 203/1, Prague, Czech Republic

If you’re looking for the best hotel with old-world charm, you won’t be disappointed by Charles Bridge Palace Prague. It’s nestled smack dab in the middle of the Old Town Prague and an 8-minute walk from the City Square. This centrally-located hotel boasts 77 rooms with old-world décor and period-style.

The rooms come with well-stocked minibars, kettles, and flat-screen TVs. The gilded appeal and antique furniture add to the property’s history and heritage. The views are primarily of the Charles Bridge or Prague Castle. Although there’s no on-site bar or dining spot, there are many restaurants and drinks options right next door.

The property is part of Bella hotels and offers an intimate retreat in the middle of a bustling city.

Top Hotels in the World FAQs


Which is the best hotel in the world?

It’s hard to say, but many candidates fit the profile, including Atlantis Bahamas, Bellagio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, Burj al Arab, Rosewood Hotel Georgia, and the Plaza.

Which is the top hotel in the US?

The Plaza in New York City is widely considered the best hotel in America. However, there’s a long list of contenders right behind it in Vegas and across the states, including the Bellagio, The Peninsula Chicago, Montage Kapalua Bay, and Acqualina Resort & Residences on the private beach, just to name a few. In some of the best hotels, the suite accommodation has its own private pool.

What attributes make the best hotels in the world?

Top hotels across the globe share a few features, including prime location, outstanding service, extraordinary amenities, well-appointed rooms, and an attractive soul.

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