Top hotels of 2025: Which places made Golden List
Which hotels became the best in 2025 (collage: RBC-Ukraine)
The choice of hotel matters greatly, as comfort and convenience affect a traveler’s mood, well-being, and overall satisfaction. That is why the annual “Gold List” ranks the world’s best and most exceptional hotels.
Conde Nast Traveller shares which hotels were named the top by experts in 2025.
European classics: Spain, Switzerland, and Italy
Akelarre (San Sebastián, Spain)
Perched on the slopes of Monte Igueldo, this hotel grew around the legendary three-Michelin-star restaurant of chef Pedro Subijana. Its 22 minimalist rooms are literally carved into the cliff, offering guests panoramic terraces with views of the Bay of Biscay.
Badrutt's Palace (St. Moritz, Switzerland)
A legendary Alpine hotel welcoming guests for 130 years. Recently renovated with the modern Serlas wing, it is famous for the most attentive service in the world and views of the frozen lake visible directly from the luxurious lobby.
In summer, guests can enjoy tennis, walk along scenic paths, or sunbathe.
Akelarre (San Sebastián, Spain)
Castelfalfi (Tuscany, Italy)
An ideal base for exploring Florence, Pisa, and Siena. Located on a vast 2,700-acre organic estate, it combines medieval architecture with ultra-modern amenities.
British elegance: top three hotels in the UK
Claridge's (London)
An iconic Art Deco hotel in Mayfair. Actor Spencer Tracy once said that after death, he wanted to go not to heaven, but to Claridge's. Today, the hotel remains a benchmark for afternoon tea and a meeting place for the global elite. Royalty and celebrities have stayed in its rooms.
Claridge's (London)
Beaverbrook (Surrey)
A 470-acre estate where history meets contemporary elegance, originally built in 1866. Known for its Japanese restaurant and summer dinners beneath hot air balloons, a true Instagram sensation. The property also features a spa with a ceiling fully adorned with stained glass.
Coworth Park (Berkshire)
An 18th-century countryside hotel near Windsor, just 20 minutes from Heathrow Airport. Georgian charm meets culinary masterpieces by Michelin-starred Adam Smith, making it perfect for a quiet luxury getaway. The five-star hotel is also renowned for its spa.
Badrutt's Palace (Санкт-Моріц, Швейцарія)
Exotic escapes: Bali, Hawaii, and Mexico
Buahan, Banyan Tree Escape (Bali, Indonesia)
An adults-only resort embracing the concept of "no walls, no doors." Open-air villas allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the jungle, enjoying private pools and the sounds of sacred waterfalls.
Kona Village, Rosewood Resort (Hawaii, USA)
A revitalized resort on the Kona coast, blending Polynesian design with eco-friendliness. Thatched-roof bungalows are solar-powered, and the architecture harmonizes with the volcanic landscape.
Castelfalfi (Tuscany, Italy)
An ideal base camp for exploring Florence, Pisa, and Siena. Set within a vast 2,700-acre organic estate, it combines medieval architecture with ultra-modern amenities.
Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort (Punta Mita, Mexico)
Only 15 tented bungalows set in pristine nature. The resort follows a barefoot luxury concept, with highly personalized service – chefs will prepare any dish to your request, even if it’s not on the menu.
Forestis Dolomites (South Tyrol, Italy)
Built on the site of a former sanatorium, the hotel offers forest-inspired cuisine and Celtic wellness rituals. The design allows each guest to enjoy sunsets over the UNESCO-listed peaks.
Forestis Dolomites (South Tyrol, Italy)
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria (Sorrento, Italy)
A five-star hotel perched on a cliff above the Bay of Naples. Managed by the same family since 1834, it embodies classic Italian elegance with lush gardens and views of Mount Vesuvius.
