The 50 Most Iconic Hotels in the World

Some hotels transcend the ordinary, redefining what it means to combine luxury, comfort, and a sense of place. While many rely on sleek interiors and understated exteriors to charm their guests, a rare and exceptional few go further, crafting experiences so unforgettable that the hotel itself becomes the destination. These are the places where architecture, design, and history converge, creating spaces that capture the imagination and linger in memory long after checkout.

But what makes a hotel truly iconic? It’s not just grandeur or impeccable service but a blend of elements that capture the imagination:

• Thoughtful, striking, and unique design
• Cultural or historical significance that resonates across generations
• Making a lasting impact on both social and traditional media
• Endorsements from celebrities and royalty

These hotels are more than places to rest they’re symbols of aspiration, glamour, and, in some cases, cultural milestones. With that in mind, we unveil our ranking of the 50 most iconic hotels in the world, each a testament to the art of hospitality at its finest.

50. Huka Lodge – Taupō, New Zealand

Huka Lodge is the perfect luxury retreat located on the North Island of New Zealand. It was once and continues to be a favourite among international royalty and several high-profile celebrities. Originally a prime fishing spot and camp around a century ago, Huka Lodge has since expanded and opened its doors to the masses to allow them to experience luxury away from the busy city life. Arguably one of the most recognisable and renowned hotels in New Zealand, Huka Lodge deserves to be labelled as iconic. 

49. Sheraton Huzhou Resort – Zhejiang, China

Notable for its distinctive horseshoe shape, Sheraton Huzhou is iconic in design as well as premium service. Located in the Zhejiang region of Eastern China, this hotel seeks to offer its guests nothing short of luxury. Featuring private beaches, a pool, spa and high-quality gastronomy accompanied by the best cocktails, there’s every reason to visit this lakefront paradise. If you’re looking for somewhere a little different to your usual hotel pick, this may be just the place.

48. Palace of Lost City – Rustenburg, South Africa

Live out your royal dreams at this award-winning grand palace hotel in South Africa, with a unique design and celebrated reputation that makes it a favourite among many prestigious and notable people from around the world. Its mountainous location makes it perfect for getting away from the busy city, and its premium service, modern and clean interior and opulent design make it the perfect luxury escape.

47. Imperial Hotel – Gold Coast, Australia

Fans of the UK/Australia reality show I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here will likely recognise this hotel, as for a long time it hosted contestants post-show. Aside from its associations and claim to fame, the rooms and modern design of this hotel are a far cry from the jungle setting, with opulent decor, luxury resort-style amenities and a prime location. Also, the food here is to die for, and the service is to an exceedingly high standard.

46. Hotel Marques de Riscal – Álava, Spain 

Like something straight out of Alice in Wonderland, this whimsical and unique architectural masterpiece effortlessly combines luxury with comfort and convenience. Designed by master architect Frank Gehry, the hotel is situated in the heart of a renowned vineyard and wine region in Spain, making it the perfect place to savour a sip of your favourite grape-based tipple. The hotel also features luxurious rooms with stunning views, a Michelin-star restaurant, vineyard tours, spa and bespoke event spaces, plus more. If you don’t have a strict budget and are looking for a more unique and unquestionably luxurious place to stay upon a trip to Spain, look no further. 

45. Rambagh Palace Jaipur – Rajasthan, India

This hotel captures and showcases the true essence of Indian opulence, representing the finest in Mughal architecture. The hotel is now a premium accommodation and wedding venue, having once been occupied by royalty. As for luxury, this hotel comes out on top, with several swimming pools, a spa, a yoga/fitness room and even a butler service.

44. Badrutt’s Palace – St Moritz, Switzerland

Located in the heart of what is cited by many as the origin of winter sports, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St Moritz, Switzerland offers luxury accommodation all year round. If you’re an avid skier and frequent the likes of St Moritz or Zermatt, this may be the ideal place to rest up after a busy Alpine experience. Featuring the best luxury amenities like pools, spas and wellness centres, what could be a better way to round off your Switzerland trip? 

43. Brando Resort – Tahiti, French Polynesia 

If you were looking for one of the most peaceful trips away from civilisation, then look no further than The Brando in French Polynesia, a true tropical island paradise that has ties to some of the most recognised and celebrated figures in the world and throughout history. The resort gets its name from famed actor Marlon Brando, who founded the island. Trails, beaches, pools, native wildlife and signature palm trees decorate the atoll, creating a private paradise nestled in the most unsuspecting of places.

42. Villa Casa Casuarina – Florida, USA

Villa Casa Casuarina is probably one of the most infamous buildings in the world, being the home and later the location of the murder of famed fashion designer Gianni Versace. It has since been transformed into an opulent hotel, with a modern art-deco theme and unique colour schemes and patterns throughout the hotel to add to its boutique feel. Its location on Ocean Drive in Miami Beach makes the hotel well-known among celebrities and media personalities, as well as luxury-loving guests. 

41. Hotel de Paris – Monte Carlo, Monaco

With many a claim to fame, most notably its celebrity and notable guests, its feature in a number of high profile films (two James Bond films, to be precise!) and its Michelin-starred restaurants, Hotel de Paris in Monte Carlo is truly the definition of iconic. Located on Casino Square, which is popular with celebrities, high-profile guests and high rollers, you can expect premium entertainment and luxury around every corner. 

40. Sacher Hotel – Vienna, Austria

Most notable for their signature Sacher Torte and for hosting the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and other celebrities, Sacher Hotel in the Austrian capital epitomises the true meaning of luxury. Its grand exterior mirrors that of an opulent townhouse, and its interior is modern and tastefully decorated with strategic colours and furniture. If you stay at this hotel, you’ll surely know how it feels to live the VIP life from the moment you arrive. 

39. Principe di Savoia – Milan, Italy 

Frequenters of the famous Milan Fashion Week will likely know a thing or two about this notable Milanese landmark. Known for being a favourite of celebrities and fashion icons all year round, the hotel has made a name for itself among the most prestigious in society– after all, it didn’t earn its 5-star luxury rating for nothing. Its opulent exterior and stylish interior effortlessly combine to offer a taste of the high life not found anywhere else in Italy.

38. Hawthorne Hotel – Massachusetts, USA 

This upscale hotel in Salem, Massachusetts has made quite a name for itself throughout the years. You’re probably wondering where you’ve heard the name ‘Salem’ before– could it be the location of the infamous Salem Witch Trials that occurred in the 17th century, giving the city its spooky and brutal reputation and making it a prime location throughout history? Although this hotel was only built around a century ago, its location makes it well-known among history lovers and curious guests. The hotel was named after Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of the renowned novel ‘The Scarlet Letter,’ and has also been featured in several television shows and films. 

37. La Mamounia Hotel – Marrakesh, Morocco

Arguably best known for its notable clientele – the likes of Alfred Hitchcock, Winston Churchill and Yves Saint Laurent have all stayed in this globally-recognised hotel– La Mamounia is among the most iconic and renowned hotels in the world. Its top-class hospitality, opulent decor, luxury amenities and gastronomy make it a favourite of society’s most elite, and its aesthetic decor makes it perfect for pictures and adding to your Instagram page.

36. Nine Hours Hotel – Tokyo, Japan

Among the more unique and intriguing hotel designs and concepts, the Nine Hours capsule hotel collection in Japan is certainly different to what you’re likely familiar with. Featuring small pod-style rooms with essentials, if space is what you’re looking for then this isn’t the place for you. Onsite amenities include showers and cafes, plus this hotel chain also offers female-only hotels and accommodation. 

35. Taj Lake Palace – Rajasthan, India

We return to Rajasthan for this next hotel, which is just as majestic and worthy of its ranking as the previous one. Taj Lake Palace, another property from Taj Hotels, proudly showcases its Mughal architecture to its luxury-seeking occupants and awestruck passersby. The hotel appears to be floating atop the surface of Lake Pichola, adding to its uniqueness and iconic status. Taj Hotels truly offers an unmissable and memorable experience at every one of their hotels.

34. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Finnish Lapland

Best characterised by its signature igloo-style accommodation, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is one of the most unique places to stay in the world. The glass walls and roofs offer undisturbed views of the sky that, if you’re lucky, becomes alight with a green glow courtesy of the Aurora Borealis. Complete with essentials and a private bathroom and bed, you can view the natural phenomenon in perfect peace and comfort. 

33. Azulik Resort – Tulum, Mexico

This wellness resort in the Mexican jungle focuses highly on a blend of fashion, hospitality, wellness and sustainability to provide an unusual but highly regarded hotel experience like no other! This resort is a favourite among several high-profile names and celebrities, and features heavily on Instagram too.

32. MGM Grand – Las Vegas, USA

Las Vegas is known for its high-profile hotel collection, and the MGM Grand is one of the most celebrated on the Vegas Strip. A gastronomy, nightlife and celebrity staple, MGM Grand provides the perfect blend of comfort and entertainment all in one space. Featuring widely in popular culture and several films, MGM is also the host of several regular live shows and events. 

31. Ushuaïa Hotel – Ibiza, Spain

Everyone knows Ibiza as the party capital of Spain, featuring world-famous nightclubs and live music venues. The 5-star Ushuaia Hotel is one of the most popular hotels in Ibiza, with its own offerings of party destinations, clubs and poolside hangouts that make it the place to be when looking for the best accommodation in Ibiza. 

30. St Regis – New York, USA

The St Regis is among the most iconic hotels in both New York and the world. It has hosted some of the world’s most notable guests, the likes of which include Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland and John Lennon. Its King Cole cocktail bar has been and is frequented by prestigious visitors, and it is located on one of the world’s most famous streets—Fifth Avenue. It doesn’t get more iconic than that! 

29. The Muraka Conrad – Rangali Island, Maldives

Pioneers of the underwater hotel concept, The Muraka Conrad offers aquarium-like lodging several feet below the surface of the Indian Ocean. This unique concept makes this hotel one of the most intriguing and interesting in the world. With overwater and underwater accommodation available, there are options for those who feel the underwater concept is a little too out there for them. The Conrad has hosted many a celebrity guest in its time too— The Kardashians, to name a few!  

28. The Venetian – Macau, China

The Venetian is famous purely for its size and likeness to Las Vegas, its arguable American counterpart. It features the largest casino on Earth! Macau/Macao, an autonomous province of China, is a casino and entertainment-lover’s paradise, with the Venetian Hotel being the gem of the region and a stand-out across the world. Macau is practically the Las Vegas of Eastern Asia and certainly rivals the American city with its entertainment, collection of casinos and cultural appeal. 

27. Fairmont Le Château – Quebec City, Canada

If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a fairytale-like castle, now’s your chance. One of Canada’s, if not the world’s most recognisable hotels, it’s fair to say that Fairmont Le Chateau is iconic, and somewhere you should definitely consider staying if you can afford it. With a history dating back to the 19th century, this hotel has seen the likes of Queen Elizabeth, Ronald Reagan and Angelina Jolie, among many others, walk its majestic halls. 

26. Biltmore Hotel – Los Angeles, USA

The Biltmore Hotel is iconic among the Hollywood movie scene, having been featured in many movies and television shows across several decades. Additionally, the hotel is also known for once being the home of the prestigious Academy Awards ceremony. Natives of LA may frequent this hotel and know a little more about its associations than first-time guests or visitors, but it’s still worthy of its ranking nonetheless!

25. Watergate Hotel – Washington D.C., USA

Perhaps best known for its notorious 1972 Watergate Scandal which led to President Nixon resigning from office, this hotel’s notoriety is what has led it to become one of America’s and the world’s most iconic hotels. Aside from its infamy, the hotel has hosted several famous figures and continues to be a popular hotel thanks to its 5-star rating and luxury amenities.

24. Beverly Wilshire Hotel – Los Angeles, USA

Mere steps away from one of the world’s most famous shopping streets, Rodeo Drive, the Beverly Wilshire Hotel gets its claim to fame from its long history, luxury suites, its involvement in pop culture and its famous clientele. The hotel was heavily featured in hit film Pretty Woman and a whole host of other blockbusters, and has hosted the likes of Elvis Presley and John Lennon, among others. 

23. The Ritz – London, UK

London has its fair share of luxury and renowned hotels, but The Ritz is one of the best-known and recognised for its extremely high-quality food, furniture and service. The interior is opulent and sophisticated, the food is of an impeccable standard and the rooms take comfort to the highest level– so of course, it makes sense that The Ritz features in the list of iconic hotels. 

22. Peninsula Hotel – Hong Kong

Often thought to be the best hotel in Hong Kong, and certainly one of the best in the world, the Peninsula Hotel gets its reputation from its plethora of film and television appearances and features, its long and important history and involvement in key events, and its royal and famous clientele. It’s no surprise that some of the world’s most recognisable and prestigious hotels reside in China and Hong Kong itself. 

21. Icehotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

This first-of-its-kind hotel in Sweden is made entirely of ice and snow— yes, you read that right. Every year in Swedish winter when the temperature plummets, a new ice hotel is built to replace the one that meets its inevitable demise each spring and summer. If you do plan to visit, make sure you wrap up warm! 

20. Four Seasons Resort – Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Whenever you see aesthetic Instagram pictures of crystal clear waters and those little instantly recognisable floating huts, chances are it’s probably Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora. This tropical paradise is famous for its ‘floating’ cabana-style rooms that many celebrities like to visit and that are scattered across every travel-related social media page. 

19. Atlantis Hotel – Bahamas

With a design based on the original legend of the Lost City of Atlantis, the Atlantis Hotel in the Bahamas takes tropical island paradise to the next level. This hotel has hosted many famous visitors and is well known for its large size and record-breaking features. Not to mention, if you intend to stay or eat here you’ll experience Michelin-star level food, ocean-view rooms and more. 

18. The Shelbourne Hotel – Dublin, Ireland

The Shelbourne is so much more than a 5-star hotel—it is an extremely historically significant Irish landmark that serves as the birthplace of the Irish Constitution. For locals, the hotel is a cultural and historic symbol, and for visitors and tourists, it serves as a vital piece of Irish history while also providing the best luxury and comfort. The hotel has also seen a wide range of some of the world’s most recognisable faces and figures. 

17. Raffles Hotel – Singapore

Labelled by many as a national monument of Singapore, the Raffles Hotel is famous for many reasons. Not only is it extremely historically significant, but it is also responsible for the creation of the classic Singapore Sling cocktail and its stunning architecture makes it one of the most visually appealing hotels in the world. 

16. Caesars Palace – Las Vegas, USA

Most of Las Vegas’ hotels are renowned across the world for their magnificent size, splendour and world-class services and entertainment. Caesars Palace in Las Vegas is known for its regular hosting of world-famous events, its collection of celebrity chef restaurants including Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, and its shopping district. Many high-profile events and guests have been hosted at Caesars Palace since its opening in 1966. 

15. The Willard InterContinental – Washington D.C., USA

Known as the ‘Presidents’ hotel’, Willard Intercontinental is perhaps best known for hosting many US presidents and Martin Luther King during the writing of his famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. Famed author Charles Dickens is also thought to have stayed there, and the hotel is considered to be one of the most important and historic hotels in the world. 

14. Copacabana Palace – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The Copacabana Palace Hotel in Brazil’s lively Rio de Janeiro is famed for its location, celebrity clientele and appearances in several movies and television shows. Its oceanfront location on Copacabana Beach, one of the world’s most famous beaches, also makes the hotel famous by association. When in Rio, you’ll likely hear about this hotel across every corner of the city.

13. The Carlyle – New York, USA

Like London, New York is well known for its collection of luxury and stand-out hotels, with The Carlyle being one of the top choices for many celebrities and big industry names. The hotel has hosted many US presidents, and its grand size and 5-star rating make it one of the most celebrated and renowned hotels in the US if not the world. 

12. Bellagio Hotel – Las Vegas, USA

The Bellagio is one of, if not the most popular hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, known for its signature Bellagio Fountain attraction that appeals to thousands of tourists and celebrities each year. Bellagio Hotel features a whole host of gourmet restaurants, casinos and 5-star attractions, and the hotel and its casino have been featured in many blockbuster films. With a portfolio like this, it’s safe to say that the Bellagio Hotel deserves the accolade of being one of the world’s most iconic hotels.

11. Waldorf Astoria – New York, USA

Waldorf Astoria is probably best known for not only its long list of celebrity guests and high-profile clientele but also for its invention of the classic Waldorf Salad. Aside from its associations, the Waldorf is, at its core, a luxury hotel that every New Yorker surely celebrates and recommends.

10. Marina Bay Sands – Singapore

One of the most uniquely designed and visually striking hotels in the world, the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is a hub of luxury and high quality. With a collection of designer boutique stores, a rooftop infinity pool, top-class restaurants and exquisite rooms and suites, it’s no wonder that thousands of locals, tourists and even celebrities flock to this resort on the regular. 

9. The Savoy – London, UK

The first-ever luxury hotel in London, The Savoy has been providing luxury accommodation and service to London’s streets for over a century. When searching for luxury hotels in London, The Savoy comes out on top, with a host of famous faces having visited throughout the years, and three Gordon Ramsay-owned restaurants within the hotel, one of which has a Michelin-star. 

8. Beverly Hills Hotel – Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles itself is known for its large celebrity population, being the home of Hollywood and its collection of renowned restaurants, and Beverly Hills Hotel combines all three. The hotel was a favourite of many high-profile Hollywood movie stars, including Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. The hotel has also been featured in a number of films and television shows, cementing its status and reputation among actors in particular. You can also find some extremely high-quality restaurants within the hotel. 

7. Claridge’s Hotel – London, UK

Probably the most renowned hotel in London, Claridges has made quite a name for itself over the years since it opened in 1856, from its celebrity guests to its once Gordon Ramsay-owned restaurant. Claridge’s has seen the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Winston Churchill and even Queen Victoria visit, and it continues to carry its historic and cultural legacy to this day. 

6. The Atlantis Palm – Dubai, UAE

The sheer size of this resort makes the amount of attractions located within it make sense– you can find adventure theme parks, an aquarium, dolphin and shark experiences and more here. The Atlantis Palm features heavily across Instagram posts and many tourists’ camera rolls, and is the perfect holiday destination for locals, tourists and even celebrities– Robert De Niro, the Kardashians and dozens more A-Listers frequent this hotel!

5. The Stanley Hotel – Colorado, USA

This hotel is really more infamous than famous, due to its apparent haunted halls and famed author Stephen King basing his hit novel The Shining on it. The hotel is a popular ghost hunting spot, and has gained a considerable following from fans of the horror genre. The hotel’s exterior is also uniquely decorated, making it easily recognisable.  

4. Taj Mahal Palace Hotel – Mumbai, India

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is named after one of the world’s most famous landmarks, and the hotel itself is pretty famous not just in India, but across the world too. Its visually striking appearance and Saracenic architecture style symbolise an actual palace, and its 5-star luxury reputation of course helps it stand out among notable guests, some of which include Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama.

3. The Ritz – Paris, France

The Ritz’s claim to fame is that it was the first hotel to introduce and implement electricity throughout the hotel when it opened in 1898. Since then, it has been a symbol of luxury, opulence and sophistication in the heart of Paris. Several famous faces have called The Ritz home over the years, with the likes of Coco Chanel and renowned author Ernest Hemingway frequently staying there.

2. The Plaza Hotel – New York, USA

At number two is of course the Plaza Hotel in New York City. A premium and highly sought-after wedding and event venue and hotel, it is well known across the world for its luxury, opulence and world-class service. It has also been featured in countless books, films and television shows, making it popular all over the world. Not only this, but The Plaza has also hosted some of the most recognisable personalities and celebrities, most of whom frequent the hotel.

1. Burj Al Arab – Dubai, UAE

 Arguably the most iconic hotel in the world by design, the Burj Al Arab’s signature design makes it a landmark of Dubai and the UAE as a whole. The Burj Al Arab is the only hotel in the world to have been awarded a 7-star rating, giving an idea of its luxury and world-class service. The interior is opulent and features unique patterns and colours, as well as four- poster beds, giving you the royal and VIP treatment. It’s safe to say the Burj Al Arab deserves to be ranked as the most iconic hotel in the world!