If you’re looking for fresh travel inspiration, I humbly recommend The World’s 50 Best. The publication puts out annual lists of the best beaches, hotels, and a myriad of other travel-related topics, which are ranked based on hundreds of expert opinions.
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Is it the end-all of great travel? No.
Does it often tilt toward luxury experiences? Absolutely.
But I think The World’s 50 Best is an excellent way to gauge travel interests and trends on a global scale.
One of my favorite annual reports from the publication is its list of 50 Best Hotels. While you’ll see a few repeat names on the who’s-who list of refined hospitality, it’s also a great way to learn about new, upscale projects. Some are more innovative than they are opulent.
And there are always a few surprises in store.
Now, close your eyes and pick out a few cities that you imagine are home to hotels that represent the highest echelon of hotel dreams. Where are they? And which well-known hotel brands do you think have taken the top spot?
It’s time to count down the top ten hotels from The World’s 50 Best Hotels in 2025.
World’s 50 Best Hotels in 2025: the list is in
First place: Rosewood Hong Kong
Opened in 2019, Rosewood Hong Kong has since become a global standard for Asian minimalism. What makes it stand out amongst other high-end hotels located in Hong Kong’s impressive skyscrapers? It’s scale. The hotel has a whopping 400 rooms available—and the smallest starts at 53 square meters. That’s no small feat considering Hong Kong is one of the world’s most densely populated areas.
Second place: Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
Looking for solace in a busy, massive city like Bangkok? Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River took the second-place spot this year thanks to its expansive, resort-like setting. The goal is to rely on high design and spacious rooms to transport guests into a calm world that feels miles away from the bustling city outside.
Third place: Capella Bangkok
Located right on the River of Kings with sweeping views, Capella Bangkok also successfully shelters its guests from the busy city outside its grounds. Along with its well-thought-out décor and excellent views, Capella Bangkok stands out thanks to its cultural programming. Its ‘Capella Culturists’ are available to help you plan the trip of a lifetime, which is an amazing coup in a city as culturally distinct and busy as Bangkok.
Fourth place: Passalacqua
Located on the lush shores of Lake Como, this classic pick is set inside an 18th-century villa that once housed a pope. (Catholics, take note!) Though it’s much smaller than most other hotels on the list, that’s the point. Passalacqua’s 24 rentals are distinct, letting you experience another facet of the villa’s long, acclaimed history. With two other major awards under its belt, Passalacqua is a recurring name on the list of the World’s 50 Best Hotels.
Fifth place: Raffles Singapore
Don’t let the name fool you—Raffles is one of the world’s most high-end, luxury hotel brands. (It has nothing to do with the chips, in other words.) Its flagship Ruffles Singapore location has been around since 1899, housed on the same grounds that are painstakingly cared for and adored by returning guests. If you’ve seen the flick Crazy, Rich Asians, you know the type of over-the-top service that you can expect here.
