"The World's 50 Best Hotels"
THE LIST
Aman Venice. Photography © Aman Canal Grande Hotel, Venice, Amanresorts.
The list features hotels from 35 different destinations across six continents. Europe dominates with 21 of the top 50, while Asia follows with 18. London, Paris, and Bangkok each have four properties on the list, while New York and Marrakesh have two.
Although large hotel groups and luxury brands predominate, some independent venues have earned recognition. Notably, the family-owned Passalacqua hotel in Italy was awarded the top spot, despite opening only a year ago. This boutique hotel on Lake Como impresses with its historic charm, meticulously restored interiors, and beautiful gardens, making it feel more like a private home than a hotel.
Other hotels on the list share this blend of historic ambiance, idyllic settings, and intimate hospitality. Examples include Le Sirenuse, an 18th-century villa in Positano, Italy; Aman Venice, housed in a 16th-century Venetian palace; and historic establishments like Badrutt's Palace in St. Moritz, Raffles Singapore, and Claridge’s in London, which have retained their legendary status through a balance of old-school splendor and contemporary luxury.
NIHI Sumba. Photography by Read McKendree.
In contrast, Dubai's Atlantis The Royal offers opulent excess, featuring 800 rooms, numerous restaurants, and an abundance of swimming pools. Tropical resorts like One&Only Mandarina in Mexico and Hotel Esencia in Tulum offer low-key luxury amid lush surroundings. NIHI Sumba in Indonesia provides beach-chic luxury with bamboo-and-teak villas and stunning ocean views.
For urban escapes, hotels like Four Seasons Astir Palace in Athens, The Siam in Bangkok, and The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra provide havens of luxury amidst the city bustle. The Upper House in Hong Kong, situated high above the city, offers minimalist luxury and breathtaking views.
The Siam. Photography © The Siam
In summary, The World's 50 Best Hotels list stands out for its unique methodology, featuring a diverse array of exceptional hotels from around the world that excel in offering guests remarkable experiences, whether through historic charm, idyllic settings, or urban luxury.