
The UNESCO-backed Prix Versailles (an architectural award series) released its list of the World's Most Beautiful Hotels 2025 last month. The 16 properties featured are located across five continents, reflecting a diverse combination of architectural brilliance and regional identity. All hotels on the list were either newly opened or significantly renovated in the past year. They stand out not only for their visual appeal but also for their thoughtful incorporation of local traditions, craftsmanship, and environmental sensitivity. One of the hotels on the list is Indian: Ran Baas, The Palace. Located within the Qila Mubarak complex in Patiala, this is a restored Sikh fort that has been converted into a luxury heritage hotel.
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Jerome Gouadain, Secretary General of the Prix Versailles, noted the defining theme of this year's selection: deep collaboration between designers and regions. These awards aim to "promote intelligent sustainability, in which culture serves and transcends the notion of the environment." The Prix Versailles will also announce three World Title winners later this year. Find out more about the world's 16 most beautiful hotels for 2025 below (this is not a ranked list).
Here Are The World's Most Beautiful Hotels For 2025, As Per Prix Versailles
1. Ran Baas The Palace in Patiala, India

Ran Baas The Palace in Patiala, India
After 80 years of abandonment, Ran Baas has been transformed into Punjab's first palace hotel. Located in the historic Qila Mubarak, its restoration was led by Abha Narain Lambah and supported by Park Hotels' Priya Paul. Mughal and Sikh architectural elements have been kept intact. They are enhanced by modern amenities like a spa in the old royal kitchens and dining rooms in the former throne hall.
2. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
This property is a striking architectural finale to Dubai's ocean-inspired trilogy of hotels. The Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab evokes the structure of a luxurious cruise ship. Designed by Killa Design, the hotel mirrors Dubai's maritime legacy. The building has tiered storeys that mimic cruise decks. Located between two iconic neighbours - the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and the wave-like Jumeirah Beach Hotel - it offers a self-contained Dubai experience. With curved lines and advanced engineering, it feels as futuristic as it is grand.
3. Mandarin Oriental Qianmen in Beijing, China

Mandarin Oriental Qianmen in Beijing, China
Set in a traditional hutong district near the Forbidden City, this hotel brings together history and modernity. Forty-two restored courtyard houses create a network of private sanctuaries at Mandarin Oriental Qianmen. Interiors by Cheng Chung Design exude contemporary comfort with eastern elegance. It's a one-of-a-kind example of immersive heritage hospitality in the heart of Beijing.
4. Rosewood Munich in Munich, Germany

Rosewood Munich in Munich, Germany
Occupying two restored historic buildings in central Munich, Rosewood Munich is infused with Baroque and Rococo charm. Formerly a state bank and aristocratic residence, this luxurious hotel now offers serene interiors by Tara Bernerd & Partners. A tranquil spa, an indoor pool, and muted design tones make it feel more like a well-guarded secret than a hotel in the city's old town.
5. Al Moudira in Luxor, Egypt

Al Moudira in Luxor, Egypt
Al Moudira, conceived in 2002 and expanded in 2024, is a desert retreat facing the Valley of the Kings. Surrounded by palm groves, the hotel is built around ten courtyards. It features hand-painted frescoes, traditional latticework, and architectural motifs inspired by cities like Beirut and Alexandria. The result is a unique celebration of Arab heritage and artistic grandeur.
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6. Hotel du Couvent in Nice, France

Hotel du Couvent in Nice, France
This incredible hotel is housed in a 17th-century convent overlooking Nice's Old Town. Valery Grego, with the support of Festen Architecture, carefully restored this property to maintain its monastic essence. Natural materials and original features define the aesthetic. Former religious spaces now house a bakery, herbal pharmacy, and restaurant, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
7. Hotel Hana in Paris, France

Hotel Hana in Paris, France
Architect Laura Gonzalez fuses Japanese minimalism with Belle Epoque maximalism in this unique Parisian hotel. It is situated in a neighbourhood known as Little Tokyo. The custom-made furnishings, serene interiors, and panoramic terraces offer travellers a refreshing contrast to the city's bustle.
8. Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in London, United Kingdom

Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in London, United Kingdom
Located on Hanover Square in London, this hotel connects the worlds of art, fashion, and heritage. Designed by RSHP and styled by Studio Indigo and Curiosity, the interiors reflect a soft yet luxurious Asian influence. The dramatic green marble in the lobby, a spa, and restaurants led by chef Akira Back add sensory richness to the contemporary setting.
9. Palazzo Talia in Rome, Italy

Palazzo Talia in Rome, Italy
This early 16th-century residence, once home to a humanist scholar and a cardinal, has been meticulously restored by Studio Luca Guadagnino. The hotel features 26 opulent rooms, ornate facades, and a showpiece swimming pool. Bar Musa - with its 17th-century frescoed ceilings, chandeliers and sculptures - complements the property's scholarly and artistic richness.
10. Romeo Roma in Rome, Italy

Romeo Roma in Rome, Italy
Zaha Hadid Architects bring modern fluidity to a 16th-century Roman palazzo in this bold renovation. Contemporary curves and futuristic design meet restored historic interiors at this stunning hotel. A highlight is the transparent pool that allows guests to view archaeological remains beneath. Even a centuries-old olive tree finds its place on a quiet terrace.
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11. MGallery Sosei Sapporo in Sapporo, Japan

MGallery Sosei Sapporo in Sapporo, Japan
This hotel is a nod to the Meiji-era collision of Eastern and Western design. Located on the site of the historic Kaitakushi Brewery, its industrial facade hides refined interiors by Studio Crowe. Warm minimalism, curated art, and Japanese-Western fusion define this boutique property that honours Hokkaido's modernisation journey.
12. Todos Santos Boutique Hotel in Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos Boutique Hotel in Todos Santos, Mexico
Once a schoolhouse, this boutique hotel in Baja California Sur is now a cultural gem. Preserved frescoes, some still bearing bullet marks, and hand-painted murals in each room pay homage to local history. Architect Alejandra Sarmiento Legorreta combines authenticity and elegance. This result is a hotel that's both artistic and atmospheric.
13. Shebara in Sheybarah Island, Saudi Arabia

Shebara in Sheybarah Island, Saudi Arabia
An off-grid luxury escape, Shebara is an eco-resort designed by Killa Design with solar energy and desalination systems. Floating steel villas mimic pearls on the water and dissolve into the horizon. Set among mangroves and coral reefs, the resort merges futuristic aesthetics with deep ecological integration.
14. Raffles Sentosa Singapore in Singapore

Raffles Sentosa Singapore in Singapore
Raffles returns to its roots with a villa-only property spread across lush Sentosa Island. Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the resort integrates tropical foliage, tranquil footpaths, and heritage-inspired elements like century-old ficus trees and floral chandeliers. It's a serene contrast to Singapore's urban skyline - just 15 minutes from downtown.
15. The Manner in New York, United States

The Manner in New York, United States
Located in SoHo, The Manner channels the spirit of the neighbourhood's artistic past. Designed by Hannes Peer, each room features handmade furniture, bold colours, and murals by Elvira Solana. It's a tribute to Milanese flair and New York nostalgia, mixing contemporary style with curated art.
16. Namia River Retreat in Hoi An, Vietnam

Namia River Retreat in Hoi An, Vietnam
A haven for regenerative travel, this riverside retreat embraces wellness through herbal therapy, traditional crafts, and eco-sensitive design by T3 Architects. Timber stilt villas preserve local ecology, while immersive experiences like boat rides and cooking classes root guests in Vietnamese culture and rhythm.
The 2025 Prix Versailles list of the World's Most Beautiful Hotels offers a unique global perspective on hospitality where design, heritage, and sustainability converge.
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