Exclusive hotels offer more than accommodation. They are steeped in history, charm, and a sense of presence that has seen the world’s elite enter through their doors. From Heads of State to politicians and Hollywood stars, these prestigious establishments are adored by those who understand what luxury really means.

Grand Hotel Quisisana, Capri, Italy

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Located in the heart of jewel-like Capri, the iconic Grand Hotel Quisisana is synonymous with the glamour of the island. It has attracted an exclusive crowd since opening in 1860, hosting the brightest stars of the time, from Ernest Hemingway to Tom Cruise. The hotel is also a draw for yacht-loving European aristocrats.

Located in the heart of Anacapri, towards the west of the island, the hotel overlooks the glittering Gulf of Naples. Here you can sit back with a cocktail and soak up dramatic views of Mount Vesuvius and Sorrento. One of Italy’s most exclusive hotels, the interiors exude old-world charm with marble floors, ornate chandeliers and richly colored walls. Elegant and spacious rooms, fine dining and a sumptuous spa complete the celebrity lifestyle.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Related content: 5 of the best Passport Moments you’ll enjoy with Luxury Gold

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec, Canada

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Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec is an iconic landmark that has been standing for over a century. Renowned as one of the best luxury hotels in the world, guests can enjoy stunning architecture, impeccable service and unparalleled views of the city.

A symbol of opulence and sophistication, the hotel has been visited by many prominent figures over the years. Hollywood stars and Heads of state have graced the hotel’s rooms, including Franklin Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth II and Alfred Hitchcock.

Dining at Le Chateau Frontenac is to experience a masterpiece of French-inspired cuisine. Local ingredients elevate dishes and experts pair each with an extensive wine list. The opulent ambiance of the restaurant, with its grand chandeliers and rich decor, is matched only by the flawless service. It makes for a truly indulgent dining experience.

Discover this on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada

 Read more: The revered Quebec City hotel with an iconic movie star reputation

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, Iguazzu Falls, Brazil

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Stretching across the border of Brazil and Argentina, the mighty falls of the Iguazzu River make up the largest waterfall system in the world. And guests of the 5-star Belmond Hotel Las Cateras, can enjoy sublime views of the mighty cascades.

A pastel-pink jungle hideaway, the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas has played host to countless notable figures. Princess Diana, Prince Albert of Monaco, David Rockefeller, Eleonor Roosevelt, Tony Blair, Bill Clinton, Anthony Hopkins, Jackie Chan and Paul Simon are among the famous faces that have stayed there.

Relax in the pool and soak up the sounds of the jungle, stroll orchid gardens and sip caipirinhas as the sun goes down. And, as one of the best spa hotels you will find in Brazil, local, responsibly harvested ingredients form the base for sumptuous treatments, delivering the finest in Amazonian healing.

Discover this on: Classic South America

 Related content: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, Japan

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From Charlie Chaplin to Marilyn Monroe to Keanu Reeves, the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo is the A-listers hotel of choice in the city. A luxurious five-star hotel establishment, this legendary Tokyo landmark it is one of the city’s oldest hotels and has welcomed royalty, heads of state, celebrities and international business leaders for over 115 years.

Opened in 1890 at the request of the Japanese aristocracy, the Imperial Hotel has been rebuilt several times over the decades. The Imperial, one of Tokyo’s most exclusive hotels, is renowned for providing discreet and exceptional service to discerning guests. Located in the heart of the city its, 13 selected gourmet restaurants offer delicious national and international cuisine. This highly sought after establishment combines all its amenities with impeccable Japanese hospitality, for a truly luxurious stay.

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

 Related content: A journey of a lifetime: Unearthing Majestic Japan with Luxury Gold

Hotel Schweizerhof, Luzern, Switzerland

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The moment you step inside the Hotel Schweizerhof in Luzern you’ll be struck by the hotel’s impressive grandeur. A true gem of Swiss hospitality, its crafted floors and marble columns exude elegance from every angle. Offering the highest standards of luxury accommodation, the rooms and suites are impressive. Enjoy plush furnishings, sumptuous bedding and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Luzern.

Spend a night at the Hotel Schweizerhof and  follow in the footsteps of kings, emperors, writers, politicians, musicians and actors. Each of its 101 rooms and suites tell a story about former guests. These include Leo Tolstoy, Karl Frey, Richard Wagner and Queen Elizabeth II.

The hotel’s gourmet restaurants, Gallerie and Pavillion, offer authentic Lucerne specialties  alongside exotic dishes from the rest of the world. Savor dishes such as Lobster Bisque with vanilla, kaffir lime and mango, Scottish smoked salmon, and honey parfait with black walnuts and pear.

Hotel Bristol, Warsaw, Poland

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The Hotel Bristol in Warsaw is a true masterpiece of luxury and elegance, in the heart of Poland’s capital city. A landmark on the city skyline, its majestic neo-renaissance façade is surrounded by the UNESCO listed Old Town and the Royal Castle. Elegant Art Nouveau interiors house 206 rooms, described as the most luxurious in Poland.

The hotel has long played an integral role in Warsaw life, welcoming guests since 1901 and hosting leading figures from the worlds of politics, music and royalty. John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Queen Elizabeth II, the Emperor of Japan, Sofia Loren, Ray Charles, Tina Turner, Woody Allen and Placido Domingo have all stayed here.

 Following an extensive renovation, the hotel offers Warsaw’s ‘Belle Époque’ charm combined with contemporary 5-star comforts and service. If you are a lover of exclusive hotels, then the Hotel Bristol will not disappoint. The perfect location from which to explore the city, or relax and enjoy the amenities, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable stay.

Discover this on: Harmony of Central Europe

Hotel Metropole, Venice, Italy

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Superbly located just a few steps from St. Mark’s square, Venice’s Hotel Metropole sits on the edge of the lagoon, with superb views out over the water. One of the city’s most exclusive hotels, this stunning showcase of Italian luxury and history dates back to the 16th century.

Once an orphanage and church, the hotel now has an acclaimed restaurant AND a series of art collections. It also features a historic chapel-turned-Oriental-tearoom. Here Antonio Vivaldi once gave music lessons to orphans in the 1700s.

The hotel offers an ‘intense and theatrical atmosphere’, packed with intricate tapestries, frescoes and Murano glass chandeliers. Music is the heart and soul of this hotel, with Lou Reed, Patty Smith Lenny Kravitz and Grace Jones all staying here over the years. Other amenities at the Hotel Metropole include a luxurious spa and private water taxi service, allowing you to explore Venice’s canals in style.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy           

 Related content: This little gelateria in San Gimignano may just serve the best gelato in all of Italy

Magnificent stays are at the heart of every Luxury Gold journey. To enjoy these exclusive hotels, and more as you travel, take a look at our exclusive collection of limited-edition luxury guided tours.

Sumptuous rooms, decadent dining and panoramic lake and mountain views – welcome to the Leela Palace Hotel in Udaipur, India. This five-star establishment offers everything you could wish for in a romantic luxury hotel and so much more.

The unparalleled grandeur of the Leela Palace is an ode to the Land of the Mewars, the region of Rajasthan where the hotel is located. Traditional artisanal crafts and exquisite embellishments inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the area adorn the rooms. Scenic views of the city, tranquil Lake Pichola and the Aravalli mountains make for amazing vistas. It is truly one unforgettable romantic stay.

For travel inspiration: India destination guide

The art of the hotel

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Every inch of the Leela Palace hotel is a masterpiece. Inspired by the royal grandeur of India, the hotel is steeped in culture and history. As you stroll amongst hand-carved marble lotuses and silver elephants, the contemporary decor blends seamlessly with traditional architecture. Thekri, a Mewari art form that uses intricately chiseled mirrors on plaster, is the main theme of the palace interiors.

Embroidered fabrics mix throughout with dark wood furniture. Here you can see the Tarkashi work – the art of setting brass wires, strips and motifs in wood to make handcrafted furniture. You can also book (at extra cost) an Art Walk of the Palace, where an expert will reveal the treasures to you and provide fascinating insights into culture and history.

Discover this on: Imperial Rajasthan

The Maharaja Suite

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If you are going all out to rekindle the romance, then why not take the best room at this most romantic luxury hotel? Although it comes with an eye-watering price tag, the Maharaja Suite is worth dreaming of. This royal choice features plush interiors adorned with fine art and artifacts. During your stay you will be waited on hand and foot by your personal butler. Built into the suite, for the discreet comfort of its distinguished guests, is a massage parlor, a spacious plunge pool and sprawling courtyards.

At 3,585-sq.-ft. the vast suite comes with a living room, study, dining area and master bedroom with a separate walk-in wardrobe. The king-size bathtub and jacuzzi as well as the separate shower stall and water closet only add to the feel of luxury.

Related content: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

The Grand Heritage Lake View Room

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Maybe a more realistic option for most luxury travelers, the other rooms and suites at the Leela Palace hotel, while smaller, are no less impressive. Wake up to tranquility in one of this romantic luxury hotel’s Grand Heritage Lake View rooms. Elegant, contemporary interiors are adorned with traditional Rajasthani art and craftwork by local artisans, and exquisitely embroidered fabrics lure you to relax.

Superbly comfortable beds and all the expected amenities of a five-star hotel combine for a romantic luxury getaway. Rooms with a balcony offer panoramic romantic views of the lake and mountains. This is the perfect spot to sip champagne and relive years, stories and moments gone by.

Related content: The personal touch: our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

Exquisite dining

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Offering the best in Indian fine dining, the hotel’s Sheesh Mahal restaurant showcases the most exotic and exquisite flavors. The perfect luxury hotel for Valentine’s Day, dine in the warm open-air, overlooking the lake and under a glittering night sky. Using recipes mastered in royal kitchens, Sheesh Mahal mirrors the traditional essence of the kitchens of India. Along with contemporary nuances, the local flavors are elevated to their authentic best. Under the glow of candles, the restaurant invites you to enjoy the nostalgia and romance of a bygone era.

The Library Bar

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The perfect date venue, drop into the Library Bar to sip a romantic cocktail or fine champagne. Choose from time-refined cognacs, single malts and vintage wines. Choose the bar to spend one-on-one time together whilst enjoying the wood paneling, fireplaces, fine art, books and collectible artifacts that adorn the walls. Sink into one of the comfortable couches and pick from the finest selections of whiskies and liquors from around the world. Or step out into the courtyard to enjoy Rajasthani folk music and dance performances every evening.

A sublime location

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The Leela Palace hotel makes the most of its lakeside location, with sublime views across the waters of Lake Pichola and panoramic views of the rolling Aravalli Mountain ranges. Despite this tranquil locale, the hotel is in the city center so the sights of Udaipur are within close reach, making this a perfect destination and hotel for your honeymoon. The spectacular City Palace, the floating Lake Palace and the Indo-Aryan Jagdish Temple are all romantic spots to visit.

Related content: From off-grid trips to nostalgic getaways: the top luxury holiday destinations for 2023

The Spa

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A serene getaway to wellness and relaxation, the Leela Palace Hotel spa is worthy as a destination in itself. This tented spa complex features eight luxury tents, with a yoga and meditation tent, as well as therapy suites with private pools. Here clients are offered a holistic experience to recharge the body, mind and soul.

Guests of the spa can also enjoy a Temple ritual. This takes place daily at Lord Shiva’s 16th-century Omkareshwar temple in the Palace Garden. If you are looking for the best luxury hotel for couples then, with this amazing spa, the Leela Palace is the perfect location to relax together.

Related content: Expert selected: the 4 best hotel spas you can visit with Luxury Gold

If you are looking for an extra special travel experience, whether to rekindle the romance or just treat yourselves then India is a fantastic destination. Stay in this romantic luxury hotel and many more worldwide on our limited-edition guided journeys.

New year, new travel dreams. We asked our Luxury Gold travel experiences team for their recommendations for luxury hotel stays in 2025. This is what they had to say.  

Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland 

This 800-year-old castle sits on a 350-acre estate of landscaped gardens, ancient woodland and an emerald lake. This grand estate is the former home of the Guinness family. It has hosted esteemed guests including The Prince of Wales and President Ronald Reagan. On your tour of Ireland, you’ll feel like royalty yourself, relaxing in the decadent suites boasting antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features. You’ll dine like royalty in Ashford Castle hotel’s George V Dining Room, built especially for King George V in 1905. And yet, the restored castle maintains a modern feel without losing its historic charm. The exceptional hospitality and vast grounds make Ashford a place that is difficult to leave.  

Learn more about the castle, what it’s like at Christmastime and meet the castle’s resident beekeeper. 

Lions Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa  

If your travels in South Africa take you on a safari, what better bonus than the chance to see the Big 5 from the private plunge pool in your room? Lions Sands Tinga Lodge in South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park sits on the banks of the Sabi River. Surrounded by nature in your treehouse-style room or grand suite with private deck and plunge pool, you’ll experience the height of luxury hotel stays. Watch elephants walk through the distant mist at sunrise as you sip your coffee. When you return from your safari, relax in the hotel’s Africology Spa before dining on South African cuisine on the candle-lit terrace. After the sun has left behind its orange glow, drift to sleep listening to the sounds of wild animals in the evening air. 

The Leela Palace, Udaipur, India 

We journey to India for decadence in the grand style of a Maharaja’s palace at The Leela Palace. Arriving by boat, you’ll be welcomed with music, a shower of rose petals falling and a refreshing drink. In your lake-facing room, take in the beauty of a bygone era from the regal service to the décor celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. After a day cruising Lake Pichol or exploring Udaipur’s colorful bazaar, dine overlooking the lake and the Palace’s elegant courtyard.  

Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel, Zimbabwe  

Should you extend your South Africa travels with a visit to Victoria Falls, the Stanley & Livingstone hotel is the ideal jumping off point for exploration. Tucked within the serenity of Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, you’re just 15 minutes from the Falls. This hotel truly offers the best of both worlds; from its blend of colonial and contemporary design to the quiet feel of this retreat just minutes from the popular falls.  

@stanleyandlivingstone

Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef, New Zealand 

For another nature-embracing accommodation, head to New Zealand’s Te Waonui Forest Retreat. After exploring the nearby Franz Josef Glacier on a valley walk, return to this quiet haven that brings together a luxury escape with environmental awareness. This 5-star retreat lets you unwind in its luxurious rooms featuring plush bed linens and a private balcony or courtyard.  

Visit New Zealand on our 19-, 12- or 8-day tours. 

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The Langham Sydney, Sydney, Australia 

From a natural retreat to a striking urban setting, jet off to Australia for our next top accommodation. Take in Sydney’s history and modern style at this boutique hotel in the heart of The Rocks district. Just outside the Langham, stroll along cobbled streets lined with historic buildings and take in dazzling views of the skyline and iconic Sydney Harbour. Back in your urban oasis’ Observatory Bar, sip on a creative cocktail from the Zodiac Gin Collection – a gin concoction infused with aromatics and garnishes and inspired by your star sign.   

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The Belmond Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 

On your luxury tour of South America, lovers of sand and sun should look no further than The Belmond Copacabana Palace on Rio’s iconic Copacabana beach for one of the finest luxury hotel stays. This gorgeous stretch of sand framed by green forested hills invites you to cool off within its waves or with a cool drink in hand. Or, get in on the action by joining one of the many beach parties, somewhat legendary at this hotel that celebrates its 100 anniversary in 2025. Having hosted guests including Bridget Bardot and Stevie Wonder, The Belmond Copacabana Palace is the place to be. 

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The Peabody Hotel, Memphis, The United States 

Take in a different slice of history on your tour of the American South at the “South’s Grand Hotel,” The Peabody Memphis. Known for its charm, elegance and rich history, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Peabody has hosted many esteemed guests since it opened in 1869. The most notable are perhaps its five resident Mallard ducks who march daily through the lobby at 11am and 5pm. Watch this charming parade before heading out to take in the culture and bustling music scene of nearby Beale Street. 

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 Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City, Canada  

Enjoy another historic stay in Canada at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Perched at the edge of Upper Old Quebec, this grand estate is in the style of a Renaissance French château. It has even hosted Grace Kelly and Sir Winton Churchill. You’ll feel like royalty yourself as you drink views of the St. Lawrence River and the Old fortified City. Explore the hotel’s paneled lobby of vaulted ceilings, oil portraits, baronial chandeliers and gold statues. It was even recognized as the 2022 Global Hotel of the Year. 

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Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Canada  

We head to western Canada for our final of our favorite luxury hotel stays at Canada’s ” Castle in the Rockies.” In Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a landmark and majestic natural setting. After exploring the Rocky Mountains by day, you’ll be treated to a progressive dinner feasting on a variety of courses, each served in different restaurants of this towering hotel.