In the age of anything-goes, unverified reviews, it can be hard to trust hotel rankings. But if you’re looking for a hotel that offers more than just a place to sleep, the best hotels offer awe-inspiring experiences, from glamping in the Caribbean to witnessing wildlife in the Serengeti.
To help you make an informed choice, here’s a look at the top hotel rankings—from a group that uses professional inspectors to a website that distills consumer reviews.
Best for: Luxury Travel
The world’s best hotel is a 18th century villa on the shores of Lake Como in Italy, according to a new list announced by 50 Best, an organization that awards standout restaurants and bars. A panel of hoteliers, journalists and other hospitality experts nominated properties for the list—which was based on personal experiences and opinions of anonymous voters—and the winners were ranked based on service, ambience and facilities.
A former home of composer Vincenzo Bellini, Passalacqua’s interiors are filled with works by local artists and the resort also has its own spa. Rates start at $1,300 per night. The other top hotel, the Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat in France, is an ultra-luxe beach resort with a Michelin-starred restaurant and private villas with sea views.
Best for: Luxury Travel
The five-star luxury hotels on this list have a common thread: they all offer awe-inspiring surroundings, from a cliff-top location overlooking the Adriatic to a rooftop pool with panoramic city views in New York. At The Fifth Avenue, for instance, guests enjoy a dining menu crafted by the hotel’s eponymous chef, Andrew Carmellini. After dinner, they can linger over cocktails at the wood-paneled Portrait Bar or take in the stunning views from the hotel’s palatial penthouse suite.
