These Hotels Deliver Outstanding Stays, According to American Express® Cardmembers
Each year, Amex Travel designates a top tier of Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection properties as Cardmember Favourites, based on factors like post-stay feedback and booking demand. Discover which hotels made the cut—and find a little luxury travel inspiration along the way.
Link copied!
June 09, 2026
Link copied!
You know it when you experience it—a hotel so special that it’s worth planning a trip around. That’s the stuff of our annual list of Cardmember Favourites, which represents a top fraction (less than 15%) of our hotels across Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection programs. In post-stay surveys, American Express Cardmembers raved about the level of exceptional service, amenities, and luxury travel experiences that made their stays so memorable.
From all-inclusive retreats to historic boutique hotels, these properties wowed in-the-know travellers in 2025 and may inspire your 2026 plans. Read on for a sampling of recommendations in New York City, Kyoto, Bodrum, and beyond—all with the added bonus of Amex Travel hotel benefits.
Platinum Cardmembers enjoy access to exceptional benefits at over 3,000 hotels worldwide across Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection. Representative 685.3% APR variable. Annual fee and terms apply.
American Express® Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Cardmembers can access elevated benefits at more than 1,300 hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection. Representative 85.8% APR variable. Annual fee applies after the first year and terms apply.
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
Daily breakfast for two
US$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Guaranteed 4pm check-out
Complimentary Wi-Fi
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
*,3
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
US$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Late check-out, when available
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
3The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stay.
Wynn and Encore Las Vegas
Easily recognised by its unique curved façade and marked by touches like a moving floral sculpture in the grand lobby, this extraordinary Vegas resort overlooks South Las Vegas Boulevard and offers an elegant enclave for relaxing and recharging after a day or night on the Strip.
- The vibe: Opulent and sophisticated, with high-end furnishings and whimsical aesthetic details.
- Standout amenities: Capacious suites starting at 640 square-feet; luxe amenities like 507 thread-count sheets and custom Wynn Dream Beds; bedside iPads to customise the room to your comfort.
- Can't-miss experience: Catch a Lake of Dreams performance, a free, multi-sensory extravaganza featuring music, lights, holograms, and puppetry backdropped by the hotel’s 45-foot waterfall. Performed nightly.
- Food & drink: Choose from more than 20 restaurants, from traditional Italian fare and coastal Mexican to fresh sushi or high-end steakhouse. Visit Delilah for a craft cocktail paired with live entertainment.
- Perfect for: Nightlife Enthusiasts, Couples, Luxury Travellers
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
An iconic Manhattan hotel since 1930, The Carlyle occupies an Art Deco building on the Upper East Side, a short stroll from Central Park and New York’s Museum Mile. Cardmembers love this property for its location and pre-war era aesthetic.
- The vibe: Historic and opulent, with distinctive touches like hand-illustrated wallpaper with vignettes of the city and a curated collection of art, books, and more.
- Standout amenities: The full-service salon offers services including haircuts, colour, makeup, nail treatments, and even event styling.
- Can’t-miss experience: Visit Café Carlyle for dinner followed by a cabaret performance by up-and-coming talent or legendary acts.
- Food & drink: After dinner and a show at Café Carlyle, keep the evening going with a well-crafted cocktail at Bemelmans Bar, which features hand painted murals by its namesake author and illustrator.
- Perfect for: Culture Aficionados, History Buffs
Grace Hotel, Auberge Collection
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Caldera islands and cerulean sea that surrounds, this stunning Greek property features white-washed adobe structures and easy access to Santorini’s pristine beaches. The hotel’s newly renovated Villa offers 3 bedrooms, expansive indoor/outdoor living space, and a private pool—perfect for groups or families seeking a more spacious, secluded escape.
- The vibe: Serene and scenic, with sweeping ocean views.
- Standout amenities: Suites feature private terraces; select suites boast private heated outdoor pools. The spa offers unique treatments incorporating local ingredients, like an olive oil massage or wine elixir facial.
- Can’t-miss experience: The concierge can arrange a private boat transfer to some of Santorini’s most secluded, beautiful beaches.
- Food & drink: Varoulko Santorini serves elegant takes on fresh, seafood-forward Mediterranean cuisine. Drink in Santorini sunsets with a glass of bubbly in hand at 363 Bar.
- Perfect for: Couples, Sun Seekers, Groups & Families
Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel
Experience Paris at its most iconic. Set within an 18th century palace on Place de la Concorde, Hôtel de Crillon offers an unrivalled location just moments from the Louvre and the Champs-Elysées.
- The vibe: Opulent and regal, with stunning architectural details and bespoke furnishings. Step into a world of refined elegance, where historic grandeur meets contemporary comfort in beautifully appointed rooms, suites and signature suites.
- Standout amenities: Enjoy fireplaces, bespoke furnishings, and private terraces or balconies with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.
- Can’t-miss experience: Indulge in the Chef’s Table at La Cave for a private, immersive dining journey paired with a selection of wines curated by our Sommelier.
- Food & drink: Enjoy French classics at Nonos by Paul Pairet. For lighter fare, visit Jardin d’Hiver, and unwind with expertly crafted cocktails at Bar Les Ambassadeurs.
- Perfect for: Discerning travellers, lovers of French culture, and culinary enthusiasts.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hotel Okura Amsterdam
Set in the vibrant De Pijp neighbourhood—bustling with charming pubs, cafes, craft breweries, and street markets—this Leading Hotels of the World property is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Schiphol International Airport and offers quick access to public transportation to explore the city with ease.
- The vibe: Luxurious and elegant, with Eastern and Western influences and a calming vibe based on the ethos of Japanese hospitality.
- Standout amenities: A 24-hour gym offering personal training sessions; a luxe spa boasting a pool, whirlpool, and sauna.
- Can’t-miss experience: Discover the beauty of Amsterdam’s historic canals with a private or group boat tour directly from the hotel.
- Food & drink: Indulge in the culinary world by having dinner at one of the Michelin awarded restaurants.
- Perfect for: Urban Explorers, Foodies, Wellness Seekers
Rosewood Villa Magna
Once the residence of Spanish counts and countesses, Villa Magna sits in the heart of Madrid, set amid lush gardens steps from a lively shopping district. Suites mix contemporary and classic décor, nodding to its regal roots while offering decidedly modern amenities.
- The vibe: Cosmopolitan and sleek, capturing the warmth and vivacity of the city.
- Standout amenities: Select suites come with dedicated butler service. Explore the city from the comfort of a luxury house car.
- Can’t-miss experience: Tour the nearby Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums, known as the Golden Triangle of Art.
- Food & drink: Enjoy dinner and a view of the culinary action through the open show kitchen at The Dining Room. The Bar & Courtyard pours a well-curated menu of cocktails and Spanish wines. Sate a sweet tooth at The Patisserie, serving a selection of cakes, pastries, and teas.
- Perfect for: Urban Explorers, Art Lovers, Luxury Travellers
Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum
A historic city overlooking the Aegean Sea on Turkey’s southwest coast, Bodrum has become popular with in-the-know travellers. Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum is a luxurious home base for exploring all the seaside activities and landmarks.
- The vibe: Stylish and indulgent, with two private beaches and suites and villas providing views of the sea or manicured gardens, some with their own infinity pools.
- Standout amenities: Relax and recharge in the spa’s hammams with private scrub rooms. Take part in Pilates and yoga classes led by personal trainers. The resort’s aquatic centre offers a variety of water sports, from scuba diving to sailing, and there’s even a Kids’ Club. Guests can also enjoy tennis and padel courts for an active stay.
- Can’t-miss experience: The Guest Experience Ambassador service allows you to curate an itinerary that includes visiting an ultra-secluded private beach.
- Food & drink: Enjoy the vibrant summer energy of Gigi Beach, savour the fresh, authentic tastes of Aegean cuisine at Ferdi Baba, discover Maison Revka Bodrum, a refined seaside restaurant, or indulge in Hakkasan’s modern Chinese dishes paired with world-class mixology and Japanese Robatayaki cuisine by ROKA, all set against a backdrop of exceptional design and coastal beauty.
- Perfect for: Adventurous Travellers, Couples, Luxury Lovers
Cannes, France
Mondrian Cannes
A Cardmember Favourite for its location on Boulevard de la Croisette, the refurbished Mondrian Cannes counts 75 guest rooms and easy access to the city’s cultural sites, as well as a private beach.
- The vibe: Boutique hotel chic with modern natural décor and a private beach.
- Standout amenities: Soak up the sun from a seaside lounge chair on the hotel’s private beach or a private rooftop jacuzzi (available when you book one of the top-floor Panoramic Rooms).
- Can’t-miss experience: Yoga class in the resort’s garden. Book outings further afield with the concierge – say, a private boat tour of the nearby Lérins Islands or an immersive cocktail workshop.
- Food & drink: Mr. Nakamoto serves an eclectic menu of Asian fusion, incorporating Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, and Japanese influences into its artful dishes. The bar takes guests on a journey with every sip.
- Perfect for: Beach Lovers, Francophiles, Film Buffs
Queenstown, New Zealand
Rosewood Matakauri
Immerse yourself in nature at this alpine property just minutes from Queenstown. Set along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Rosewood Matakauri offers sweeping vistas of the dramatic Remarkables mountain range.
- The vibe: Elegantly rustic, with striking panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains, and easy access to the city.
- Standout amenities: Select villas afford guests plenty of room to spread out with a main lounge, study, kitchen, dining room, and private balcony.
- Can’t-miss experience: Tour the rugged glacial landscape by sky on a helicopter flight to Milford Sound.
- Food & drink: Enjoy an à la carte menu that changes daily, showcasing seasonal local produce and surprising flavours, at Matakauri Lodge.
- Perfect for: Bucket List Travel, Nature Lovers, Group Travel
Melbourne, Australia
W Melbourne
Make the most of your stay in Melbourne at this lively property set in the heart of the city’s Central Business District, within walking distance of some of the area’s best restaurants, shopping, cultural attractions, and nightlife.
- The vibe: Modern and cosmopolitan, with bold colours and artistic accents that echo the vibrant street art in the surrounding neighbourhood.
- Standout amenities: A heated indoor pool with city views, a poolside bar, and a 24-hour FIT gym with top-of-the-line equipment.
- Can’t-miss experience: Spend an afternoon browsing the wares at open-air emporium Queen Victoria Market.
- Food & drink: Relax over coffee or cocktails, along with a menu of shareable small plates at Curious. Explore Melbourne’s culinary heritage with locally-sourced ingredients at Lollo. Warabi offers a chef-curated Omakase tasting with beverage pairings.
- Perfect for: Bucket List Travel, Urban Explorers
Sydney, Australia
InterContinental Sydney
An upscale Down Under retreat, the InterContinental Sydney occupies the former Treasury Building of 1851. It overlooks Sydney Harbour and is a short stroll from attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Royal Botanic Gardens.
- The vibe: Stylish and contemporary. Suites feature expansive windows that afford sweeping views of the harbour, with blue accents that mirror the sea beyond.
- Standout amenities: Aster, the hotel’s award-winning rooftop bar, features an outdoor terrace with quintessential Sydney Harbour views, where guests can indulge in creative cocktails and curated small plates. Club InterContinental provides exclusive privileges, magnificent views, elegant interiors, and ultra-personalised service.
- Can’t-miss experience: The concierge can arrange everything from private seaplane rides and cooking classes to wildlife-spotting and foraging excursions.
- Food & drink: Breakfast is a gourmet buffet experience at Conservatory Restaurant, while The Treasury prepares international fare with Australian flavours for lunch and dinner.
- Perfect for: Urban Explorers, Milestone Trips
Tokyo, Japan
Aman Tokyo
Enjoy panoramic views of the Imperial Gardens, the Tokyo Skytree, and Mount Fuji – and respite from the hustle and bustle of the city below – from this towering luxury hotel in Tokyo’s Financial District.
- The vibe: A sky-high haven with suites that infuse traditional elements of wood, washi paper, and stone with smart technological touches and modern materials.
- Standout amenities: A serene meditation garden. A full-service spa with Japanese-style steam rooms, hot baths, and pool with 360-degree city views.
- Can’t-miss experience: Take a private iaido lesson, a traditional Japanese martial art, to learn sword manoeuvres and samurai etiquette.
- Food & drink: Experience Italian cuisine infused with local flavours at Arva. Whimsically-designed The Lounge serves an eclectic international menu while The Café offers casual French fare. Enjoy sushi and sake pairings at the traditional wooden counter at Musashi by Aman.
- Perfect for: Urban Explorers, Bucket List Travel
Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
A stunning Bangkok property with more than 150 years of legendary service, Mandarin Oriental sits along the Chao Phraya River, with panoramic views of city.
- The vibe: Elegant and inviting, marrying traditional Thai aesthetics with modern sensibilities. Suites feature handcrafted details and luxurious Thai silks, many with balconies.
- Standout amenities: Every suite comes with dedicated butler service. Choose between a peaceful wading pool surrounded by cabanas or a lap pool for exercise. The fully equipped Fitness & Wellness Centre offers daily complimentary classes, including the traditional Thai boxing art of Muay Thai.
- Can’t-miss experience: Take a day trip to visit one of Bangkok’s famed floating markets to sample local street food and shop artisan wares – all proffered from the vendors’ wooden boats.
- Food & drink: Take your pick from 14 dynamic restaurants and bars, from award-winning French fare and traditional Thai cuisine to cocktails complemented by live jazz.
- Perfect for: Bucket List Travel, Foodies
Kyoto, Japan
Ace Hotel Kyoto
Travellers flock to Kyoto for its traditional charms, Buddhist temples, and imperial palaces. And Cardmembers flock to the Ace Hotel for its East-meets-West design with an unfussy attitude and affordable rates.
- The vibe: Elegantly edgy, with an art gallery and creative touches throughout.
- Standout amenities: In-room turntables to soundtrack your stay, suites featuring luxurious Japanese soaking tubs, and complimentary bike rentals.
- Can’t-miss experience: The boutique hotel’s creative sensibility extends to experiences like pop-up DJ sets and artists-in-residence you can enjoy throughout your stay.
- Food & drink: Kosa serves farm-to-table Japanese cuisine incorporating fresh, local ingredients, along with afternoon tea and pastries. Visit Piopiko for casual tacos and cocktails or the rooftop Mister Maurice's Italian and Rooftop Bar for hearty Italian fare.
- Perfect for: Urban Explorers, Art Lovers, Gen Z
Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
This stylish Cape Town escape offers metropolitan entertainment and abundant natural beauty from its setting along the lively V&A waterfront.
- The vibe: Refined and peaceful. Contemporary décor takes cues from the natural landscape, elegantly framed by picturesque French windows in every room and suite. Stunning views of Table Mountain.
- Standout amenities: The serene Fairmont Spa with its signature Himalayan salt room, look out for the bath concierge and don’t forget the house car that takes guests within a 10km radius, complimentary.
- Can’t-miss experience: Take in panoramic city views from atop Table Mountain, accessible by scenic hike or cable car. Whiskey tasting in Bascule and for families…the Signature Safari suite!
- Food & drink: Heirloom Restaurant curates a thoughtful, seasonally driven menu celebrating locally sourced ingredients and South African flavours. Guests can also enjoy an elegant afternoon tea accompanied by a pianist in the background. The iconic Bascule Bar, home to one of the largest whisky collections in the Southern Hemisphere, completes the experience.
- Perfect for: Bucket-List Travel, Nature Lovers, Luxury Stays
International Airline Program
As a Platinum Cardmember, the world is your oyster with the International Airline Program. Book through American Express Travel and enjoy access to savings on select first class, business, and premium economy tickets with participating airlines on designated international flights. Terms apply. Representative 685.3% APR variable applies to The Platinum Card®. Annual fees & terms apply.
Membership Rewards® Programme
Cardmembers enrolled in the American Express Membership Rewards® programme will earn one additional bonus Membership Rewards point in addition to their standard earn rate (for a total of 2 points) for every full £1 spent on flights, prepaid hotels, car hire and experiences booked through the American Express Travel website americanexpress.com/en-gb/travel/. Specific Card products or limited time promotions may offer additional Membership Rewards points, please see individual Card or promotion Terms and Conditions for more information. Additional Membership Rewards points cannot be earned on products which are not prepaid but are paid directly to the supplier, including cruise bookings and select hotel bookings. These bookings will not earn two Membership Rewards points for every £1 spent but will be earned at the normal rate of one point for every £1 spent. Full Terms and Conditions apply, please visit americanexpress.com/uk/travel/terms-and-conditions/.
