Who doesn’t love a luxury hotel? Even if you find yourself priced out of regular five-star stays, the grandeur of a well-appointed, beautifully designed accommodation deserves appreciation. Those privileged enough to stay in such hotels often experience a singular joy—feeling like royalty for just a night or two.
If you share our obsession with extraordinary accommodations, delve into the recently announced World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024. Last year’s top property, the stunning Passalacqua in Lake Como, Italy, has been dethroned by the Capella in Bangkok, Thailand. Overlooking the Chao Phraya River, Capella features 101 luxurious rooms, suites, and villas, complemented by a Michelin-starred chef, a stunning spa, and personalized concierge services to craft the perfect itinerary.
The assessment of the best hotels comes from a panel of 580 international travel experts, part of the World’s Best 50 Hotels Academy, who vote anonymously to recognize excellence in the hospitality landscape.
The winning continent is Asia, with 14 impressive entries, including three hotels from Bangkok: the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, and the Siam. Europe follows with 12 properties, showcasing gems like the newly recognized Borgo Santandrea in Amalfi, Italy.
Mexico, representing North America, features three notable hotels: Chablé Yucatán, Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa in Riviera Maya, and One&Only Mandarina. The United States, adding four exquisite entries, includes the Carlyle and Aman New York in New York City, Four Seasons at the Surf Club in Florida, and Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, California.
Grand Hotels in Asia
Bulgari Hotel Tokyo
Debuting on the list, the magnificent Bulgari Hotel occupies the top floors of the Tokyo Midtown Yaesu skyscraper. Centrally located and within walking distance of the city’s top sites, this ultra-luxurious property features 98 rooms and suites, the Michelin-starred Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, alongside a bar, lounge, and spa.
Desa Potato Head, Bali
This carbon-neutral luxury destination is styled as a “creative village” where music, art, design, food, and wellness come together under a zero-waste philosophy.
The Upper House, Hong Kong
Featuring minimalist design and stunning artwork, The Upper House in Hong Kong’s Admiralty District is an architectural masterpiece by renowned designer André Fu.
Top Spots in Europe
Raffles London at the OWO
Recipient of the Lavazza Highest New Entry Award 2024, Raffles London offers a unique blend of history and modernity within the renovated Old War Office. With remarkable views of Whitehall and Horse Guards, this hotel has quickly become a favorite destination for both locals and tourists, boasting nine dining venues and a Guerlain spa.
Four Seasons Firenze, Italy
Set in a converted Renaissance-era palazzo, this luxurious accommodation allows guests to explore Florence while enjoying access to an exquisite outdoor pool.
Gleneagles, Scotland
This unique Scottish getaway offers endless country pursuits, including archery, fishing, and falconry amidst the stunning Perthshire scenery.
The Best of the Americas
Four Seasons at the Surf Club
Located on the beachfront, this hotel offers a tranquil escape from the busy Miami scene, featuring architecture that reflects the area’s storied past and one of the best restaurants in town, the Surf Club Restaurant.
Hotel Esencia, Mexico
Once a private estate owned by an Italian duchess, this stunning 50-acre property features the striking natural beauty of white peacocks roaming the grounds.
Rosewood Sao Paulo, Brazil
Set within an Italianate villa that previously served as the city’s maternity ward, this glamorous hotel in São Paulo showcases contemporary works from 57 Brazilian artists.
Spectacular Stays in Africa and Oceania
The Brando
Located in the Tetiaroa atoll in Tahiti, this all-inclusive tropical paradise was once owned by actor Marlon Brando, offering a luxurious escape that is completely off the grid.
The Calile
Experience laid-back Australian vibes at The Calile in Brisbane, featuring naturally adorned rooms and suites that promote relaxation.
Singita Lodges, South Africa
Located in Kruger National Park, this exclusive 18-room property boasts exceptional dining experiences under the African night sky.
The World’s 50 Best Hotels in 2024
1. Capella Bangkok
2. Passalacqua (Moltrasio, Italy)
3. Rosewood Hong Kong
4. Cheval Blanc Paris
5. The Upper House (Hong Kong, China)
6. Raffles Singapore
7. Aman Tokyo
8. Soneva Fushi (Maldives)
9. Atlantis The Royal (Dubai)
10. Nihi Sumba (Wanokaka, Indonesia)
11. Claridge’s (London)
12. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
13. Raffles London at the OWO
14. Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
15. Hôtel de Crillon (Paris)
16. Chablé Yucatán (Chocholá, Mexico)
17. Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc (Antibes, France)
18. Belmond Maroma (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
19. Four Seasons Firenze (Florence, Italy)
20. Borgo Santandrea (Amalfi, Italy)
21. Desa Potato Head (Seminyak, Bali)
22. Bulgari Tokyo
23. The Lana (Dubai)
24. Rosewood São Paulo
25. The Calile (Brisbane, Australia)
26. The Siam (Bangkok)
27. Park Hyatt Kyoto
28. Belmond Mount Nelson (Cape Town, South Africa)
29. One&Only Mandarina (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico)
30. The Carlyle (New York City)
31. La Mamounia (Marrakech, Morocco)
32. Four Seasons Madrid
33. Capella Singapore
34. Four Seasons at the Surf Club (Surfside, Florida)
35. Hotel Bel-Air (Los Angeles, California)
36. Eden Rock (St Barts)
37. Aman New York
38. Royal Mansour (Marrakesh)
39. Amangalla (Galle, Sri Lanka)
40. Le Bristol Paris
41. Gleneagles (Auchterarder, Scotland)
42. Castello di Reschio (Lisciano Niccone, Italy)
43. Suján Jawai (Rajasthan, India)
44. Singita – Kruger National Park (South Africa)
45. Six Senses Zighy Bay (Oman)
46. The Connaught (London)
47. The Brando (Tahiti)
48. Hotel Esencia (Quintana Roo, Mexico)
49. The Tasman (Hobart, Australia)
50. Kokomo Private Island (Fiji)
This article was first published on Sep 22, 2023, and updated on Sep 22, 2024.
