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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
The 25 Best Hotel Brands of 2025
At Travel + Leisure , we have high standards for our hotel stays, and so do our readers. Individual properties are often travelers' most immediate touchpoints, but hotel brands play an integral role in shaping both the on-site experience and the hospitality industry at large. The luxury hotel titans appearing on this year's list of readers' favorite hotel brands have earned the admiration and loyalty of T+L readers by surpassing expectations at every turn, from top-tier accommodations to personalized service that makes every guest feel at home. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, hotel brands, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities. Hotel brands were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. Throughout Asia, the culture of hospitality goes far beyond politeness and respect. Guests are treated like revered family members, with warm, anticipatory service that feels attentive, but never overbearing. Combine that with a growing luxury market—which is opening new skyscrapers at rapid clip while also reinvigorating historic buildings—and it tracks that roughly half of readers' favorite hotel brands (including eight of the top 10) are headquartered in the region. Take Oberoi Hotels & Resorts (No. 2) for example. The India-based brand, which celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2024, was praised as much for its luxurious accommodations as its lavish service. 'While in India, we stayed at two Oberoi locations: the Rajvilas in New Delhi and the Amarvilas in Agra,' shared one WBA voter. 'Both exceeded our expectations. The villas were exceptional in their furnishings, amenities and service. We were pampered beyond belief.' And it shows no signs of slowing down, with plans to debut two dahabeya ( Melouk and Malekat ) for Nile River cruises this fall and its first U.K. hotel scheduled to open in London's Mayfair District in 2027. Taiwan's Regent (No. 3) also continues to build on its long legacy of infusing properties with a sense of timeless elegance. Since its 2018 acquisition by IHG Hotels & Resorts, the 55-year-old brand has been able to restore grand dames in both the French Riviera (Carlton Cannes) and Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor (Regent Hong Kong), return to the Americas with 2025 It List honoree Regent Santa Monica, and debut the brand-new beachfront Regent Bali Canggu. American brands had a solid showing, too. Coming in at No. 7, Auberge Resorts Collection emerged as the top U.S.-based option, though its reach is increasingly global. In the past year alone, it's added properties in South Carolina (The Dunlin); Florence, Italy (Collegio alla Querce); and Geneva, Switzerland (The Woodward) to its expanding portfolio. As T+L readers attest, one of the brand's strongest assets is its ability to fully embody a destination in its design, culinary offerings, and experiences for guests of all ages. 'I've consistently been impressed by how Auberge hotels deliver a true sense of place,' shared one person. 'The decor always features thoughtful touches from local designers or artisans, and the restaurants do a fantastic job of highlighting regional ingredients and recipes, even on the kids' menus. I had the best time learning to make tortillas and salsa during my stay at Etéreo!' But don't count readers' favorite European brands out, especially given that they represent some of the most well-rounded hospitality experiences around. London-based Belmond (No. 9) has steadily broadened its offerings to include trains, river cruises, and safaris, giving its loyalists new ways to explore the world while keeping hotels firmly at its core. 'Incomparable experiences at Belmond hotels,' enthused a T+L reader. 'Every hotel has amazing food and drinks, stunning locations, and magical vibes.' Still, an Asian brand was the category's standard bearer in T+L readers' eyes. Below, find out how Singapore's Capella Hotels & Resorts claimed the top spot for a third year in a row. Capella Hotels & Resorts The two-bedroom Lodge at Capella Ubud, Bali. Capella embraces the culture, art, and cuisine of the destination — T + L Reader When T+L readers plan their trips to Asia, they're relying on trusted hotel companies with deep roots in the region to maximize their experience. In the 2025 survey, five Capella properties made this year's list of the readers' favorite hotels in the world, and its Sydney stunner claimed the No. 1 spot on the best city hotels in Australia and New Zealand. Among its hallmarks, according to readers, are its hotels' prime locations, the staffs' next-level hospitality, and the brand's knack for celebrating local heritage. 'Capella embraces the culture, art, and cuisine of the destination,' wrote one voter. They added that 'their service engaged at the emotional level.' And as with several of the other reader-loved brands, Capella has big plans for the future. Its eight existing hotels in mainland China, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, Australia, and its home country of Singapore will be joined by new additions in Macau, Japan, and Saudi Arabia—and that's just what's slated within the next year. 1. Capella Hotels & Resorts Reader Score: 98.89 2. Oberoi Hotels & Resorts WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 97.38 3. Regent Reader Score: 97.20 4. Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts Reader Score: 96.73 5. The Peninsula Hotels Reader Score: 96.43 6. Taj Reader Score: 96.26 7. Auberge Resorts Collection WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 96.08 8. Anantara Hotels & Resorts Reader Score: 95.82 9. Belmond Reader Score: 95.68 10. Banyan Group Reader Score: 95.61 11. Raffles Hotels and Resorts Reader Score: 95.56 12. Six Senses Reader Score: 95.31 13. Nayara Resorts Reader Score: 95.00 14. (tie) Mandarin Oriental Reader Score: 94.60 14. (tie) Noble House Hotels & Resorts Reader Score: 94.60 16. St. Regis Hotels & Resorts Reader Score: 94.42 17. One&Only Resorts WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 94.13 18. Montage Hotels and Resorts Reader Score: 94.07 19. Rosewood Hotels & Resorts WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 94.00 20. Opal Collection Reader Score: 93.67 21. Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts Reader Score: 92.93 22. Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts Reader Score: 92.76 23. Ritz-Carlton Reserve Reader Score: 92.44 24. Aman Reader Score: 91.95 25. Thompson Hotels Reader Score: 91.25
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Is the No. 1 Hotel in Tokyo—and It Has 'Tremendous Hospitality,' Imperial Palace Views, and 11 Restaurants
Tokyo is one of those cities that never seems to sleep. The bustling metropolis has served as the capital of the country for over 150 years, and while it's often thought of as a futuristic cityscape, you can still catch glimpses of old Japan in its streets. Expansive museums, peaceful parks, a robust subway system, and a world-famous culinary scene: Tokyo truly has it all. But although there's much to see and do during the day, one of the most essential elements of any Tokyo getaway is having a cozy place to sleep at night—and it doesn't hurt if that place just happens to be very luxurious and well-appointed. When it comes to Tokyo hotels, Travel + Leisure readers seem to love the classics, but one unique property rose above the rest. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. The main lobby at the Palace Hotel Tokyo. Readers seemed to favor older hotels in this year's rankings. The Hilton Tokyo (No. 5) opened in the 1960s, while the runner-up, Park Hyatt Tokyo, which famously served as the main setting for the 2003 Sofia Coppola film 'Lost in Translation,' debuted in the '90s. Park Hyatt Tokyo (No. 2) is in the midst of a 17-month renovation, coinciding with the hotel's 30th anniversary. The refresh will touch all parts of the property, including the guest accommodations. Additionally, the New York Grill & Bar (where Bill Murray meets Scarlett Johansson in the movie) will be restored to its original design. If all goes well, the hotel is set to reopen in October 2025. But there was one hotel on the list that opened more recently: The Four Seasons Otemachi (No. 3) debuted in 2020. One reader described it as 'the perfect hotel,' while another said it was an 'amazing, welcoming place' with 'gorgeous rooms' and 'impeccable service.' Palace Hotel Tokyo Panoramic city views from inside the Premier Suite at the Palace Hotel Tokyo. This year's winner is just mere steps from Tokyo's Imperial Palace, and is conveniently tucked away in the heart of the city. 'I've stayed at the Palace Hotel several times and am always amazed by their genuine Japanese service,' one reader wrote. 'The location is, of course, great, with views of the Imperial Palace. But I think the staff always made a big difference.' The hotel's superlative service came up again and again with readers, who often noted the staff's 'tremendous hospitality.' Another major draw here is the food and beverage offerings: there are 11 restaurants and bars at this 284-room property, including everything from French fine dining at the Michelin-starred Esterre to the six-seat tempura bar, Tatsumi. And if you're in the mood for Shanghainese and Cantonese cuisine, you can head to Amber Palace (which also has a Michelin star).'You cannot get much better in Tokyo than this classic property,' one reader wrote. You cannot get much better in Tokyo than this classic property. — T+L Reader 1. Palace Hotel Tokyo Reader Score: 97.66 2. Park Hyatt Tokyo Reader Score: 95.73 3. Four Seasons Otemachi Reader Score: 95.25 4. Conrad Tokyo Reader Score: 92.25 5. Hilton Tokyo Reader Score: 88.24
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Hotel Was Just Named No. 1 in Paris by Travelers
Many visitors to Paris check into the grand dames clustered around the Golden Triangle, an iconic luxury nabe known for haute couture shopping and five-star hotels. But with 20 arrondissements to explore—each with its own charms and sights—more and more visitors are seeking out stays in hip neighborhoods that are further from the city's center. So, which hotels came out on top in this year's survey … the storied icons or the hidden gems? Read on to find out. Fauchon L'Hôtel, on Paris' Place de la Madeleine. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. There are few cities that are better associated with glitzy five-star hotels than Paris. So, it makes sense that travelers who are looking to live out their City of Light fantasies are willing to splurge on stays at the city's most gilded addresses, from Le Bristol (No. 3) and the Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris (No. 6) to the legendary Ritz Paris (No. 8). The blend of rich heritage and white-glove service won over guests of the storied Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel, which jumped from No. 5 in the 2024 rankings to the runner-up spot on 2025's list. 'The service is unparalleled,' one reader wrote, while another praised the hotel's 'exceptional décor' and its 'beautiful historical bones.' But there were plenty of surprises on this year's list, too—including Le Royal Monceau—Raffles Paris (No. 5), which has been notably absent from previous years' lists. The art-filled icon has come roaring back, and readers are gushing about its sumptuous spa and sleek contemporary design. 'Perfect as always,' said one reader, who then went on to describe it as their 'Parisian palace.' But the biggest surprise addition is our winner, which, by the city's standards, is a relative 'newcomer' on the luxury hotel circuit. Fauchon L'Hôtel Paris A duplex suite bedroom at the Fauchon L'Hôtel, in Paris. This 54-room jewelbox of a hotel opened in 2018 in the heart of the 8th arrondissement, and quickly earned a reputation as one of the city's finest stays. The property is a hospitality debut from luxury food emporium Fauchon, traditionally known for its chocolates, foie gras, and other gourmet goodies. Its ascent to the No.1 spot on this list reflects the tastes of travelers to the French capital, where gastronomy is often the focal point of visits. Sweet treats are layered throughout the stay, from the complimentary macarons scattered throughout public spaces to customized gourmet bars in the guestrooms, and the pops of hot pink décor that decorate the property serve as a nod to the brand's signature packaging. But the things that charmed guests the most were the hotel's unbeatable location and attentive service. 'It has been our privilege to discover this hotel several years ago,' one traveler said. 'The staff has become like our French family, going above and beyond to assist us from [the] beginning to the end of our stay.' 1. Fauchon L'Hôtel Paris Reader Score: 99.53 2. Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel Reader Score: 98.44 3. Le Bristol Reader Score: 97.87 4. Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal Reader Score: 97.30 5. Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris Reader Score: 96.23 6. Four Seasons Hotel George V Reader Score: 94.56 7. Bulgari Hotel Paris Reader Score: 94.44 8. The Ritz Paris WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 94.00 9. InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel Reader Score: 91.70 10. Cheval Blanc Paris Reader Score: 90.74
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The 5 Best Hotels in Istanbul of 2025
Travel + Leisure readers once again showed their loyalty to trusted hotel brands—from Raffles to The Ritz-Carlton. In this year's World's Best Awards survey, the top five city hotels in Istanbul were all from luxury chains, a trend we saw in the category last year, too. That might have been motivation to book, but post-stay, T+L readers remembered the water views, excellent service, and luxurious facilities. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. Panoramic views from the Bosphorus Lounge, Raffles Istanbul. Sensational views of the Bosphorus are a commonality between this year's winning hotels in Istanbul. One T+L reader described the views from the Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul (No. 2) as 'breathtaking,' while another wrote the water views from The Peninsula Istanbul (No. 5) were 'perfect.' Beyond scenery, guests commented on service and comfort—one highlighting The Peninsula Istanbul's spa and hammam, indoor pool, and even their 'heated Toto toilet seats.' Raffles Istanbul A large sculpture in the Lavinia Lounge, Raffles Istanbul. 'The best city hotel in the world,' wrote one T+L reader about this year's winner, Raffles Istanbul. On the European side of the Bosphorus, the hotel has panoramic views of Istanbul, the water, and both the Black Sea and Marmara Sea—and this expansive outlook was one hotel aspect noted by T+L readers. It's located in the Zorlu Center, home to luxury stores, restaurants, and the Zorlu Performing Arts Center. The property also has one of the largest spas in the city—with three hammams—and two restaurants, lounges, and bars, including the Japanese-fusion restaurant İsokyo. 1. Raffles Istanbul Reader Score: 99.91 2. Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul Reader Score: 99.04 3. The St. Regis Istanbul Reader Score: 98.25 4. The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul Reader Score: 95.37 5. The Peninsula Istanbul Reader Score: 94.35
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The 15 Best City Hotels in Asia of 2025
From Hong Kong's glittering skyline to the frenetic street markets of Bangkok, Asia's top cities have captivated T+L readers with their blend of deep history and modern edge. In New Delhi, travelers are presented with a cultural feast of ancient forts, bazaars, and dynamic cuisine, while Kuala Lumpur dazzles with its sky-high towers and rich multicultural heritage. The immersive experiences in these cities also extend to their hotels, which are some of the world's most luxurious and design-forward properties—and which stay in the imagination long after a journey ends. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. City views from a lounge area at the Regent Hong Kong. Thailand, our 2025 Destination of the Year, remains ever-popular with readers, and this year is no exception. The Southeast Asian nation had four hotels on the list, including Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok (No. 7), a longtime favorite for 'service that's best in class,' according to a reader. Another superfan noted that 'my wife and I have stayed here over 250 nights over the last 23 years. They always welcome us back like it's home.' Rising up the list this year is the runner-up, EQ Kuala Lumpur, which improved from its No. 5 spot in 2023 (and was absent from last year's awards). Located in the city center, the 440-room luxury hotel stood out for its 'amazing food and accommodations,' and the 'stunning view from Sky51,' referring to the property's rooftop bar, which hosts live bands and DJs. The highest ranked hotel from India is the recently renovated Taj Mahal in New Delhi (No. 4), and was joined by Taj Lands End in Mumbai (No. 10), which has sweeping views over the Arabian Sea. China, meanwhile, had five properties on the list, including the 213-room The Middle House (No. 10) in Shanghai's Dazhongli neighborhood, known for its extensive art collection and sleek, contemporary interiors by Italian architect and designer Piero Lissoni. Read on to learn this year's winner, which earned a near-perfect score. My wife and I have stayed here over 250 nights over the last 23 years. They always welcome us back like it's home. — T+L Reader Regent Hong Kong Details in a Regent Hong Kong guest room. Not only did Regent Hong Kong take top honors in this category (improving on its runner-up status last year), but it was also the winner in our Hong Kong city hotels category. And it's no wonder: This 497-room Kowloon property underwent a complete makeover in 2023, overseen by Hong Kong-born, Milan-based designer Chi Wing Lo, and is known for delivering on all fronts. As one reader put it, the Regent has an 'incredible location, views, very sophisticated design, and attentive service.' Another reader concurred that 'the view is just too beautiful. No one can compete with that,' referring to the hotel's position overlooking Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island. Other first-rate amenities here include the rooftop terrace with three infinity pools; the Regent Club, a separate and exclusive lounge where guests can stop in for breakfast and refreshments throughout the day; and the Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, Lai Ching Heen, popular for its dim sum lunch. 1. Regent Hong Kong Reader score: 99.10 2. EQ Kuala Lumpur Reader score: 98.73 3. The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi Reader score: 98.64 4. Taj Mahal, New Delhi Reader score: 98.59 5. Rosewood Bangkok Reader score: 98.43 6. Regent Beijing Reader score: 98.40 7. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader score: 98.32 8. (tie) Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai Reader score: 98.00 8. (tie) The Middle House Reader score: 98.00 10. Taj Lands End, Mumbai Reader score: 97.93 11. Rosewood Phnom Penh Reader score: 97.92 12. Capella Hanoi Reader score: 97.87 13. Palace Hotel Tokyo Reader score: 97.66 14. Lebua at State Tower Reader score: 97.58 15. Capella Bangkok Reader score: 97.43
