Top 50 luxury hotel brands
This is it – the holy grail of hotels, and the ultimate bucket list for luxury travelers.
October 2021
Before you continue: bookmark this page because you’ll want to come back here! In this article, you will find the most comprehensive list of luxury hotel brands/groups anywhere on the internet. The list will be updated every 6 months (based on input, feedback, and personal experiences) and will continue to be cornerstone content on our website going forward.
We’ve done our best to rank them, but it’s an almost impossible task. You can find hotels at number +30 on this list that can match hotels in the top 5 . We are really splitting hairs here. And after all, what is luxury? For some it’s an exotic paradise destination. For others, it’s the unique and personal service you get at a small luxury boutique hotel – or the thought of occupying the entire penthouse floor on the top of a skyscraper.
Go through the list, look at the photos, and choose your own dream destination. Put at least 3 on your bucket list and promise yourself, that before you get too old to travel, you will have granted yourself and/or your family experiences that will last a lifetime.
The photos in this article are from the websites of the hotels (click them to see captions, and click left or right for more photos). Sadly we could only select a few from each brand, but if you like what you see, there are plenty of more hotels to explore on their websites (click on the brand names). Enjoy!
1. The Leading Hotels of the World
INFO: The first on this list requires a bit of explaining since it’s technically not a hotel chain, but a marketing organization. Some of the participating properties, hotels, and resorts are independently owned – others are part of hotel brands you will find further down this list. That means a Baglioni or Capella hotel can also be a part of The Leading Hotels of the World. In the LHW group, you will find some of the most iconic and legendary hotels. Enjoy the photos below and start dreaming – or start packing!
PROPERTIES: +400 hotels and resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Leaders Club
Remember you can click the photos to see the captions, and left/right to cycle through them.
2. Aman
INFO: Ultra exclusive, tranquil, and serene experiences await those who visit any Aman property. Perfect for romantic getaways or if you wish to completely disconnect and find your inner peace. Aman has almost a mythical status within the luxury travel community.
PROPERTIES: +30 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: None (currently)
3. Dorchester Collection
INFO: A collection of legendary properties, Dorchester Collection provides world-class service and an abundance of luxury experiences to the people who are fortunate enough to visit.
PROPERTIES: 9 hotels
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: London, Paris, Rome, Milan, Los Angeles
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Diamond Club (only for agencies)
4. The Ritz-Carlton
INFO: An absolute superstar in the luxury hotel industry! Famous for their service & hospitality, Club Lounge, and overall extremely high standards. The Ritz-Carlton is a part of Marriott’s luxury brands.
PROPERTIES: +100 hotels and resorts (and a yacht collection launching soon!)
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Marriott Bonvoy
Read the blog article about The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park HERE
5. Mandarin Oriental
INFO: Extremely high standards when it comes to service, location of the hotels, design, and dining options. Mandarin Oriental is one of the most consistent ultra-luxury brands in the hospitality industry, and they offer a large selection of luxury suites.
PROPERTIES: +30 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Fans of M.O.
Remember you can click the photos to see the captions, and left/right to cycle through them.
6. Six Senses
INFO: World famous for their wellness and spa experiences, Six Senses consistently ranks at the top of hotel lists, and wins multiple awards pretty much every year. A legendary brand with some of the most unique locations.
PROPERTIES: +20 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Mostly exotic destinations in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: IHG Rewards
7. Peninsula
INFO: Ultra-luxury hotel brand achieving countless awards across their entire portfolio. Always centrally located in major cities, Peninsula has been spoiling their guests since 1928.
PROPERTIES: 10 hotels
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Asia, USA, Europe
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: By invitation only
8. Four Seasons
INFO: One of the most famous luxury hotel brands – and also one of the best. Their purpose is to create impressions that will stay with you for a lifetime. Needless to say, service is at the very core of their business.
PROPERTIES: +100 hotels, resorts, and residences (and a private jet)
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: By invitation only
9. Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts
INFO: A result of a collaboration between Bvlgari and Marriott (through The Ritz-Carlton) with the aim of being the leading luxury hospitality collection in the world. The first hotel opened in Milan in 2004 and was an instant success.
PROPERTIES: 6 hotels and resorts (at least a handful new properties under development)
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Milan, London, Dubai, Bali, Beijing, Shanghai (current properties)
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: None currently (not part of Marriott Bonvoy)
Remember you can click the photos to see the captions, and left/right to cycle through them.
10. St. Regis
INFO: A part of Marriot’s luxury brands, St. Regis always have a great selection of suites and excellent locations. Great options for upgrades if you’re a Bonvoy member, and they have some incredible properties in their portfolio.
PROPERTIES: +40 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Marriott Bonvoy
Read the blog article about The St. Regis New York HERE
11. Oetker Collection
INFO: A unique collection of masterpiece hotels, villas, and estates. Officially launched in 2008, their history in the hospitality industry goes back to 1872.
PROPERTIES: +10 hotels and +150 villas/estates
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: By invitation only
12. The Luxury Collection
INFO: Another of the top-tier Marriot brands, The Luxury Collection is a group of hotels around the globe, which are both unique and luxurious. Among them are truly legendary properties.
PROPERTIES: +100 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Marriott Bonvoy
13. Belmond
INFO: There is something truly magical about Belmond – a vibe that’s hard to describe. Several of their properties (especially the trains) are on our bucket list. Bonus tip: you should follow them on social media just for their superb marketing videos. Bought by LVMH in 2018, we can expect even more great things in the future.
PROPERTIES: +40 hotels, luxury trains, and riverboats
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Bellini Club (only for agencies)
14. One & Only
INFO: Launched in 2002, One & Only has grown steadily to become one of the leaders of luxury hospitality – aiming to deliver tailored and unforgettable experiences.
PROPERTIES: +10 resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global but mainly warm and exotic destinations
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Collaboration with Emirates Skywards
15. Rosewood
INFO: Luxury hotel brand founded in 1979 in Texas. Sold in 2011 to the Hong Kong-based Rosewood Hotel Group, which is investing heavily in new luxury properties. This is a brand to look out for.
PROPERTIES: +25 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: None (currently)
16. Park Hyatt
INFO: Park Hyatt is the crown jewel of the Hyatt Hotels Corporation. With a focus on service, food & wine, art & design, Park Hyatt always delivers top-tier experiences.
PROPERTIES: +30 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: World of Hyatt
Read the blog article about Park Hyatt New York HERE
17. Kempinski
INFO: Kempinski has been one of the leaders of the luxury hospitality industry since it was founded in Geneva in 1897. A collection of outstanding properties delivering world-class service to their guests.
PROPERTIES: +75 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global (except North and South America)
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: KEMPINSKI DISCOVERY
18. Raffles
INFO: A part of Accor, Raffles is a luxury hotel brand that started back in 1887 with the world-famous Raffles Singapore.
PROPERTIES: +15 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: ALL (Accor Live Limitless)
19. Shangri-La
INFO: Shangri-La define themselves as pioneers of Asian hospitality. They have many impressive hotels and resorts in the portfolio and a good reward program with great benefits.
PROPERTIES: +75 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global with the majority of hotels in Asia – especially China
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Golden Circle
20. Small Luxury Hotels of the World
INFO: More than 500 boutique hotels and resorts are members of this diverse community. Small Luxury Hotels of the World has so many gems and treasures in their portfolio, so have them in mind next time you travel.
PROPERTIES: +500 hotels
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: INVITED
Remember you can click the photos to see the captions, and left/right to cycle through them.
Read the blog article about TwentySeven HERE
21. Capella Hotels & Resorts
INFO: Having won multiple awards and always scoring great reviews, Capella aims to be the best in class when it comes to luxury hospitality. Furthermore, their properties are beautifully designed and placed in even more beautiful surroundings.
PROPERTIES: 9 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Asia and Australia
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Capella DISCOVERY
22. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts
INFO: With one of the most famous hotels in the world in their portfolio, the Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts is obviously on the list. Focusing on world-class service, design, and exceptional dining options, a stay at one of their properties is guaranteed to impress.
PROPERTIES: +20 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Middle East, Europe, and Asia
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Jumeirah One
23. Red Carnation Hotels
INFO: An extraordinary collection of ultra-luxury properties – each with its unique story. The history of this family-run business goes back more than 100 years in the hospitality industry.
PROPERTIES: 20 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: UK, Ireland, South Africa, Botswana, Switzerland, Florida
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: TTC
24. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and resorts
INFO: Founded +30 years ago by late Capt. CP Krishnan Nair (who was 65 at the time!), this brand has grown to become one of the leading companies within the luxury hospitality industry with their incredibly impressive landmark hotels.
PROPERTIES: 9 palaces, hotels, and resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: India
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Leela DISCOVERY
25. Fairmont
INFO: Since 1885 Fairmont has serviced a long list of legendary people. Check out their impressive history HERE. There are several iconic properties in their portfolio and the loyalty program gives you access to more than 5.000 properties worldwide.
PROPERTIES: +75 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global with a strong presence in Canada and North America
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: ALL (Accor Live Limitless)
26. La Réserve
INFO: A small collection of ultra-luxurious properties. They have won many prestigious awards and will for sure continue to do so. One of their unique properties is The Chartreuse, located at Cos d’Estournel – of course on our bucket list!
PROPERTIES: +5 hotels (including many villas) and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: France, Switzerland
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: None (currently)
27. Waldorf Astoria
INFO: One of the most famous hotel brands and part of the luxury range within the Hilton universe. With several landmarks like the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York (which is currently being renovated), this brand is as unique as it is luxurious.
PROPERTIES: +30 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Hilton Honors
28. Auberge Resorts Collection
INFO: A collection of one-of-a-kind properties, of which many have won multiple prestigious awards. Located in beautiful idyllic surroundings, the Auberge Resorts will inspire you to explore and experience new adventures.
PROPERTIES: +20 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Mainland United States, Anguilla, Hawaii, Fiji, Mexico, Costa Rica, Greece
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: None (currently)
29. Rocco Forte Hotels
INFO: You can expect true luxury and genuine hospitality at this family-run business. The Rocco Forte Hotels are unique landmark properties that have won countless awards through the years.
PROPERTIES: +15 hotels and resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Mainly in Europe, but also present in Russia and China.
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Rocco Forte Friends
30. Taj Hotels
INFO: From marvelous palaces to exotic resorts and national park safaris, Taj Hotels offer jaw-dropping experiences and world-class service at their unique properties.
PROPERTIES: +100 palaces, hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: The vast majority is located in India, but they are also present in the UK, UAE, North America, Africa, and other parts of Asia as well.
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Taj InnerCircle
Remember you can click the photos to see the captions, and left/right to cycle through them.
31. The Langham Hotels and Resorts
INFO: It all started with the iconic and legendary property, The Langham London, which opened in 1865 and has serviced countless royalty, celebrities, artists, and luxury travelers throughout the last +150 years. High levels of luxury, service and design attract customers from all over the world.
PROPERTIES: +20 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: 1865
32. Anantara
INFO: Founded in 2001, Anantara has expanded rapidly with luxury hotels and resorts in many different countries. A great example that it’s possible to have both quantity and quality – considering the extremely high level of their properties.
PROPERTIES: +50 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Asia, Europe, Middle East, Africa
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Anantara DISCOVERY
33. Soneva
INFO: One of the smallest brands on the list, but one of the most impactful – with 3 incredibly luxurious destinations. Their “no news, no shoes” philosophy encourages their guests to disconnect from all the daily stress, kick off the shoes, and enjoy the paradisiac surroundings.
PROPERTIES: 3 resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Maldives, Thailand
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: None (currently)
34. Baglioni Hotels
INFO: Since 1974 guests have experienced “The unforgettable Italian touch” – the slogan of the super-luxurious Baglioni Hotels. A collection of unique properties with award-winning gourmet restaurants and lavish suites.
PROPERTIES: 10 hotels and resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Europe, Maldives
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: My Baglioni
35. Wynn Resorts
INFO: Known for their casinos, the Wynn resorts are some of the most luxurious (and huge) properties in the world. With Michelin-starred restaurants in both the American and Chinese properties, and shops like Chanel, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Rolex, and many more – it’s safe to say that you can find pretty much everything your luxury heart desires here.
PROPERTIES: 6 resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Las Vegas, Macau, Boston
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Wynn Rewards (American properties) & Red Card Club (Chinese properties)
36. W Hotels
INFO: Catering towards a younger luxury audience, W Hotels provides a cool atmosphere where beautiful design, lifestyle, and music play a key role in standing out in the luxury hospitality industry. A unique brand in the Marriott portfolio.
PROPERTIES: +50 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Marriott Bonvoy
Read the blog article about W Amsterdam HERE
37. Oberoi Hotels & Resorts
INFO: One of the absolute top luxury hotel brands in India, some of their properties are unbelievably beautiful. Joining the loyalty program also gives you exclusive benefits when staying with their alliance partner Mandarin Oriental.
PROPERTIES: +20 palaces, hotels, resorts, and riverboats
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: India (majority), Asia, Middle East, and Africa
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Oberoi One
38. Constance Hotels and Resorts
INFO: If you’re looking for luxurious exotic destinations, you’ve come to the right place. 3 of their properties are members of The Leading Hotels of the World. These are the types of places most of us go to in our dreams.
PROPERTIES: 7 hotels and resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Indian Ocean (Mauritius, Maldives, Seychelles, Madagascar)
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Collaboration with Singapore Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines
39. Alila
INFO: A part of Hyatt’s luxury hotel brands, Alila properties are typically located on “the road less traveled”, focusing on providing unique, rare, and intimate experiences for their guests.
PROPERTIES: +15 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Asia, Middle East, North America
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: World of Hyatt
40. EDITION
INFO: A unique hotel concept and part of Marriott’s luxury brands, EDITION provides a warm, stylish, and intimate atmosphere. Visiting one of their properties, you are sure to experience something new, something different, and something you will likely never forget.
PROPERTIES: +10 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: North America, Europe, Asia, Middle East
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Marriott Bonvoy
Read the blog article about The Barcelona EDITION HERE
41. Regent Hotels
INFO: A part of IHG’s luxury brands, Regent Hotels has serviced guests for more than 50 years. Extraordinary properties with more on the way.
PROPERTIES: 8 hotels and resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Asia, Germany, Montenegro
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: IHG Rewards
42. Conrad Hotels & Resorts
INFO: One of Hilton’s luxury brands, named after the founder of the Hiltoom empire – Conrad Hilton. Luxurious properties in both city centers and exotic beach destinations.
PROPERTIES: +40 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: North America, Europe, Middle East, Asia, Pacific, Mexico
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Hilton Honors
43. Intercontinental
INFO: A behemoth within the luxury hospitality industry, Intercontinental has been a world-famous brand since 1946 – with many grand and beautiful landmark properties in the portfolio. The Ambassador program is an extra paid loyalty program, which is easily worth the investment if you travel frequently.
PROPERTIES: +200 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: IHG Rewards & Intercontinental Ambassador
44. Banyan Tree
INFO: Banyan Tree is a part of Accor’s luxury brands. Mostly high-end exotic destinations focusing on sustainability, service, and wellness.
PROPERTIES: +25 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: The majority of the properties are located in Asia, but they are also present in UAE, Africa, and Mexico.
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: ALL (Accor Live Limitless)
45. JW Marriott
INFO: Another luxury brand within the Marriott universe. Named after the founder, JW Marriott properties are always placed in great locations. There are several gems in their portfolio, which are absolutely astonishing.
PROPERTIES: +100 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Marriott Bonvoy
46. Como Hotels and Resorts
INFO: Founded in 1991, Como Hotels and Resorts have hosted countless celebrities and luxury travelers at their award-winning properties. The photos speak for themselves.
PROPERTIES: 15 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Club 21
47. Autograph Collection
INFO: Though this brand is placed in Marriotts’s premium category, you will find many luxury hotels in the Autograph Collection, that can easily compete with many hotels higher on this list. Many of the properties are unique landmarks and it is quite often possible to find great deals here – one of our favorite brands!
PROPERTIES: +200 hotels, resorts, and residences
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Global (majority in North America and Europe)
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Marriott Bonvoy
48. LXR Hotels & Resorts
INFO: Launched in 2019, the Hilton luxury brand LXR has grown steadily and now features 9 properties around the world. LXR aims to connect legendary properties, while still retaining their unique character and individuality. This is a brand to keep an eye on.
PROPERTIES: 9 hotels and resorts
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: North America, UK, UAE, Turkey, Japan, Seychelles
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: Hilton Honors
49. Sofitel Legend
INFO: A small collection of historic landmark properties, these are some of the best hotels from the Sofitel brand. A part of Accor’s luxury brands.
PROPERTIES: 5 hotels
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: Netherlands, Vietnam, Egypt, Colombia, China
MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM: ALL (Accor Live Limitless)
50. 1 Hotels
INFO: A new type of luxury brand for the modern traveler. Focusing on sustainability and environmental impact, they describe the concept as “more than just hotels – it’s a philosophy and a platform for change.”
PROPERTIES: 9 hotels (+ a handful on the way)
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS: North America, China, Europe (soon)
EMBERSHIP PROGRAM: MISSION by SH
Congratulations – you made it through the list! Hopefully, this has been as inspiring to read (or view), as it has been to create. Have you put some of the hotels on your bucket list?
A final but important note: you might have noticed there are no ads, affiliate links, or any form of paid promotions in this article. We have not received anything from any of the brands. We have created this list for all the luxury travelers around the world, and because we would like to share our passion for the hospitality industry, which has provided us with countless unforgettable experiences through the years.
If you have been inspired to visit some of the hotels in the article, we hope you will reach out to us and share your experiences.
Take care and stay safe!
/Elo & Per
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