They say money can’t buy happiness, but it sure can buy you some of the happiest had most memorable moments of your life at the world’s most expensive hotels. Whether you’re saving up for a splurge-worthy dream trip or are a jet-setter looking for your next extravagant adventure, you have many choices for the world’s most expensive hotel. From the best cuisine that you’d ever taste and panoramic sea views to embellished jacuzzis, you can experience it all at the likes of these over-the-top hotels. Forget your typical 200–500 USD a night weekend getaways – these begin at 28,000 USD a night! So, what are you waiting for? Pack your best clothes, stay at these pricy pads, and enjoy memories of a lifetime. To that end, here are the 11 world’s most expensive hotels.
Table of contents
- Royal Mansour, Marrakech, Morocco
- Laucala Island Hilltop Estate, Fiji
- Burj Al-Arab, Dubai, UAE
- Amangiri, Utah, USA
- Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles
- Hotel Martinez, Cannes, France
- Soneva Jani, Maldives
- One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti, Tanzania
- Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE
- Hotel President Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland
- The Mark Hotel
Royal Mansour, Marrakech, Morocco
11
The Royal Mansour in Marrakech could easily be the world’s most exotic expensive hotel. The hotel, specially commissioned by King Mohammed VI, is built in the style of a medina (Moroccan-style homes) spread over acres of exotic gardens. Imagine intricate woodwork, handmade mosaic tiles, antique furnishings, brocade, and silk. What’s more, each medina has just 53 riads, each of which comes with its own staff and pool! Furthermore, each riad also has a private garden, a fitness room, a home cinema, a billiards room, and even a huge roof terrace on two levels. There are even butlers on hand to pander to your every whim. The most expensive room is the Grand Riad, which costs 41,000 USD a night – phew!
The rest of the hotel is no less, with meandering alleyways leading to a serene spa, tranquil Andalusian courtyards, and two gastronomic restaurants. The palace itself enjoys sweeping views of the distant Atlas Mountains.
Laucala Island Hilltop Estate, Fiji
10
Laucala Island Hilltop Estate is not just the most exclusive resort in Fiji, but probably the entire South Pacific. The hotel is owned by Red Bull CEO Dietrich Mateschitz and sits on a private island in the Fijian Pacific archipelago. Imagine 25 exclusive villas dotted amongst lush mountains and coconut plantations and surrounded by blue lagoons and sandy beaches. The Hilltop Estate, which reportedly costs 61,000 USD per night, is the most expensive suite. Perched atop the island, the mini-village of an estate has 360-degree views of the island with private staff, a thatch-roofed library, lush tropical gardens, and not one but two swimming pools.
The island resort has an iridescent kaleidoscope of activities, right from watersports such as sailing, scuba diving, and fishing to culture nights, yoga, golf, cycling, and more. Five restaurants and bars offer every cuisine under the sun. Now, Fiji might be a day-plus slog around the world for many, but many folks here arrive by their private plane on Laucala’s very own airstrip. Yeah!
Burj Al-Arab, Dubai, UAE
9
Burj Al-Arab is not just amongst the world’s most expensive hotel options, but it’s also amongst the most luxurious hotels in the world. And, it’s not difficult to see why. This hotel is home to cutting-edge engineering, from the infinity pool terrace to the unique manmade beach – the only one of its kind in the world. It sits on an artificial island, is the world’s first seven-star hotel, and is only accessible via a private curving bridge. Moreover, the design, which resembles a ship’s sail, holds within its folds the Royal Suite, which reportedly costs 28,000 USD per night to rent! It’s not surprising, given the suite’s 22-carat-gold-themed decor, as well as the lounge, spa, butler, and private dining area that come along with it.
Just like other hotels, Burj Al-Arab comes with all sorts of lavish bells and whistles that you’d expect from a seven-star hotel. These include a private helipad near the roof and an underwater restaurant that can only be reached by submarine.
Amangiri, Utah, USA
8
The visually striking Amangiri is one of the most unusual hotels in the world. The earthy color palette, low-slung silhouette, and remote Utah desert setting are as unique as eye-popping. Nature takes center stage here in both design and architecture; driving up to the hotel itself feels like the climax of a James Bond movie. What’s more, water features throughout feel like you’re in an oasis of relaxation. The lagoon-like pool, which sits pretty around a rock formation, is decadent, as is the 25,000 square-foot spa.
Even the rooms and suites frame the landscape views in huge picture windows. Next to the window is a lovely seating area with chaise lounges and a built-in fireplace to watch the sunset. Plus, the patio is perfect for watching a starry sky. Food is delectable, with the in-room minibar completing the trifecta of hedonism. Did we mention that prices for a mid-tier suite begin from 4,100 USD per night? Yep.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles
7
The Six Senses Zil Pasyon in Seychelles is one of the world’s most expensive hotels. However, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill Indian Ocean overwater villa resort. For one, the hotel is built entirely into huge granite boulders on a hilly private Seychelles island called Félicité. Secondly, the hotel has just 30 one/two-bedroom villas, radiating a tropical-modern vibe. However, the three enormous residences are reminiscent of a sexy yet sleek James Bond lair. And no matter what room you choose, all have indulgent touches such as ocean/jungle views, outdoor showers, and private infinity pools. The residences even have gourmet kitchens, wine cellars, contemporary art collections. It’s no wonder that a mid-tier villa starts at 3,200 USD/night and residences start only from 12,000 USD.
The property’s signature spa, two international restaurants, and outdoor movie theater justify the high price of this resort. And if that wasn’t enough, almost two-thirds of the 652-acre island is undeveloped. So, those who stay here have access to tons of untouched hiking trails.
Hotel Martinez, Cannes, France
6
A gleaming white Art-Deco icon sits right on La Croisette in Cannes, the fabulous Hotel Martinez. Cannes is famous for the Cannes Film Festival and for being a playground for the rich and famous during summer. So, it’s no surprise if a major chunk of Hollywood royalty has stayed at the Hotel Martinez. With a two-Michelin-star restaurant and 400 rooms, it’s played host to many a celebrity-filled shindig. In fact, Elton John is rumored to have stayed here for the Rocketman preview. Views of the French Riviera don’t get any better than staying at this hotel. But, the most splurge indulgence of them all is the Penthouse Suite, which reportedly costs 53,000 USD per night.
Not only does it have a terrace with breathtaking views of La Croisette and the Cannes bay, but it has two ambiances to choose from – Producer Suite or Actress Suite. What’s more, you’ll find butler service, of course, and even a Turkish bath and a private jacuzzi. And works by Picasso and Matisse adorn the walls, making one feel like they’re in their very own private Louvre.
Soneva Jani, Maldives
5
The Maldives is full of exclusive and super expensive resorts, but few are as extravagant as Soneva Jani. Getting away from it all at this super-exclusive resort will set you back by around 6,000-7,000 USD per night. Plus, there’s even an all-inclusive option if you feel like splurging further. Of course, peeps who stay at this resort don’t have to worry about the hefty price tag, and not for nothing is it amongst the most expensive hotels in the world.
For one, staying here is a Robinson Crusoe–type barefoot luxury experience, but there’s nothing ramshackle about the place. Choose from seven room categories, including a four-bedroom overwater villa with a waterslide and a wine cellar. There’s even a two-bedroom retreat that’s practically hidden nestled in a mangrove forest. Even the entry-level two-storeyed overwater bungalows are jaw-droppingly spectacular and are more than 4,000 square feet in size.
Clearly, it’s easy to spend your entire stay in the villa, but we’d recommend that you do venture out. There are multiple indulgent dining options, including the most decadent and hedonistic chocolate room. A yoga pavilion and a wellness center with an Ayurvedic spa round up the place. And, of course, the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean practically beckon you from every nook and cranny.
One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti, Tanzania
4
One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti, Tanzania, is the epitome of opulent luxury in an exotic destination. The luxury lodge in the heart of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania has just 14 tents – and lavish ones at that. European oak floors aside, they feature copper soaking tubs, king-size canopy beds, and private bars. What’s more, their highlight is the wide terraces from which the Serengeti’s expanse stretches out to as far as your eye can see. It’s also where you can get an in-room and personalized spa treatment. Nyaruswiga is so exclusive because it’s environmentally conscious, which appeals immensely to jet-setters. So, you’ll find solar-powered 24-hour water, wood-burning fire stoves, and bamboo toilet accessories.
If the tents impressed you, wait till you get around the other areas of the safari camp. For instance, there’s an astronomy deck for stargazing and an infinity pool with sweeping Serengeti views. A bar, lounge, dining room, and a boutique wrap up the amenities. It’s no surprise that starting prices of the tents are from 3,300 USD currently.
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE
3
Dubai’s desert landscape is mystic and mesmerizing and reminds you of everything Arabian Nights; think desert moons and Scheherazade. The Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa is what a super luxurious and indulgent desert oasis would look like. Not only is it amongst the world’s most expensive hotel options, but it’s also amongst Dubai’s best hotels with a private pool. This romantic desert resort is a contemporary Bedouin village, complete with lavish tented villas with private infinity pools. Moreover, there are just 42 villas, each of which has eye-popping views of the Arabian desert. Arabian antiques, lighting fixtures, desks, and wooden chests take you back in time. Meanwhile, the plush beds and marble bathrooms with huge soaking tubs add a modern effect. Do you feel like painting the landscape? Suites even come with easels and art materials.
Meals here are designed as they’d be for royalty, such as cocktails and afternoon tea at the Hajar Terrace Bar and actual meals at the Al Diwaan restaurant. But, the prime experience here is enjoying room service with desert views, or even better – enjoying a private dinner out in the sand dunes, under a starry sky. The price tag? Expect to pay more than 5,000 USD per night.
Hotel President Wilson, Geneva, Switzerland
2
If you’re in Switzerland and have 80,000 USD to spend on a night’s stay, then Hotel President Wilson is the place for you. The hotel is set against Mont-Blanc’s breathtaking backdrop and boasts 226 seriously elegant rooms and suites. Imagine stepping into your room and soaking in views of the city or Lake Geneva from the massive floor-to-ceiling windows. What’s more, the rooms have all the works; think Hermès bathroom products, Bang & Olufsen TVs, and bubbling jacuzzis next to huge picture windows.
The most expensive of them all is the Royal Penthouse Suite, which occupies the entire eighth floor and costs 80,000 USD per night. It also holds the title of being the largest suite in Europe. Not only does the suite have a wraparound terrace, but it even has a telescope for stargazing, a Steinway grand piano, and a 103-inch TV screen – the world’s biggest. 24-hour security, a panic button, and bulletproof windows add layers of security, but it’s the number of bedrooms that’s staggering – there are 12 of them!
The Mark Hotel
1
It’s understandable if you have to fork out tens of thousands of dollars for hotels in remote and exclusive locations. But, what if you wanted to splurge smack dab in the middle of the world’s most dynamic and pulsating city? Welcome to the Mark Hotel, the world’s most expensive hotel that lies in the heart of Manhattan in New York City. It’s home to the Mark Penthouse, which costs a whopping 75,000 USD per night! The 10,000-square-foot-huge suite is the largest suite in the country and covers the hotel’s top two floors. Moreover, it has five bedrooms, six bathrooms, two bars, a library, a conservatory, a rooftop terrace, and a living room of gigantic proportions.
The rest of the hotel is no less than a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Think scrumptious sweet treats by Ladurée, chauffeured McLaren rides around Manhattan, and stepping into famous hairstylist Frédéric Fekkai’s salon. You’re even treated to Jean-Georges in-room snacks, dedicated butler service, and sailboat cruises around the New York Harbour – sigh.