Top 10 most iconic hotels in the world

The Fairmont Frontenac is one of Quebec City's main attractions. The hotel can be seen from almost anywhere in the city, thanks to its imposing size and as it is located on Quebec Hill, overlooking the St. Lawrence River and the Dufferin Terrace. This is probably why it is known as the most photographed hotel in the world.

First opened in 1893, the hotel has seen many historic events over the decades. Many celebrities have stayed at this iconic venue, including actors such as Charlin Chaplin and Leonardo Dicaprio, as well as singers like Céline Dion and even royalty such as Queen Elizabeth II, in 1939. Its history doesn't end there, as it has also been a source of inspiration, becoming the location for Alfred Hitchcock's film I Confess in the 1950s.

With a total of 610 rooms and suites spread over 18 floors, the hotel has a rather unusual shape. Built in a castle style, it has five wings and a central tower. Thus,If you're not familiar with the castle, you could easily get lost in one of its wings. There are a total of 12 km of corridors inside. As for the rooms, they offer incredible river views most of the time.

If you'd like to visit this hotel but find it out of your budget, you can do so on your own or as part of a guided tour. Much of the hotel is open to the public, so you can easily visit the 4 restaurants and bars, the luxurious lobby and the two boutiques. Don't forget to discover the history within the hotel's walls by exploring the historical objects on display in the corridors.

Located in the Big Apple, this legendary hotel is not only world-renowned, it's also one of New York City's leading National Historic Landmarks. For over a decade, the building has captured our hearts and is now known as the greatest hotel in the City of Dreams. Its reputation has not wavered over the years, as the establishment was named "Best Hotel in New York by the Readers' Choice Awards" in 2023.

Nestled on the corner of Fifth Avenue and opposite Central Park, the Plaza opened its doors to the public in 1907 and has since welcomed many famous guests. Indeed, Hollywood loved to invite itself into the hotel, with such talented actors as Barbara Streisand, Anne Hathaway and Audrey Hepburn, and numerous hit films such as Funny Girl (1968), Home Alone 2 (1992), Sleepless in Seattle (1993), and The Great Gatsby (2013).

This luxury establishment offers 282 rooms, including 102 suites, spread over 18 floors and many interesting spaces. In fact, the Palm Court is the one to try, as it's ideal for all occasions such as breakfast, afternoon tea or even an evening snack accompanied by a glass of champagne. However, if you need more than a fizzy drink to relax, you can also visit the Guerlain spa, open to all, and discover its various treatments.

It's worth noting that some visitors have given the establishment a new reputation and a unique look. We are talking about the fictional 6-year-old girl named Eloïse, she is the main character in "Eloïse at the Plaza" written by Kay Thompson, and has introduced many children to the establishment through the famous books. Children will be delighted to learn that they can live the Eloïse experience in the iconic hotel, visiting the Eloïse boutique, enjoying a character-themed tea and staying in the heroine's suite.

But that's not all, thanks to some of its guests, the hotel has also earned a reputation for being pet-friendly. This is thanks to Princess Vilma Lwoff-Parlaghyof of Russia, who decided to bring her cats and dogs, as well as unusual visitors such as an owl, a pig, alligators and a bear. Imagine cleaning after that!

Have you ever dreamed of seeing "la vie en rose"? The facade of the Ritz may not be pink, but it's renowned for offering a first-class French experience allowing you to see life through rose coloured glasses and thus see the fancier side of Paris. This 5-star hotel is perfectly located in Paris, on Place Vendôme, near the Opéra Garnier. With its 142 rooms, this establishment promises French elegance.

Founded in 1898 by Cesar Ritz, with a building facade dating back to 1705, the hotel was the first of its kind, meaning it was the first in the world to have telephone and electricity in all its rooms, as well as individual en suite bathrooms. The hallway has seen many faces since then, including Princess Diana in 1979 and fashion designer Coco Chanel, who lived there for many years.

Don't hesitate to check out the many amenities it has to offer, such as a Chanel spa for rejuvenating treatments and a chic Hemingway bar for evening cocktails.

As you see the establishment from afar, you realise that this floating building is the perfect place to escape from all your problems. Head to the Taj Lake Palace, where you're sure to be treated like royalty, with staff offering exceptional service and unique experiences.

Located in the heart of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, northern India, this palace, built in 1746, offers a mysterious setting as it is only accessible by boat, at least when the lake has not dried up, which has happened on a few occasions. Adding to its mystical atmosphere, the palace played host to British spy James Bond in the 1983 film "Octopussy".

With 65 rooms and 18 suites styled in a blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and Oriental architectural styles, the Taj Lake Palace has been ranked among the “World’s Best hotels category in 2019” by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards.

Have you ever heard of la dolce vita (sweet life)? Whether you have or not, be sure to book a stay at Grotta Palazzese, located in Polignano a Mare, in the Puglia region of southern Italy. This establishment is nestled above a cliff and offers a breathtaking view of the sea for the comfort of its guests.

Since 1700, people have been coming here to discover the most magical part of the hotel: the restaurant! Set inside a natural grotto, you can enjoy the most romantic dinner of your life here, as its location is full of charm and offers a breathtaking view of the sea.

What's more, the building is just a few steps from the beach, which is ideal for anyone looking for a summer vacation. Follow the call of the sea, as the sound of the waves is heard inside and out, with a decor that recalls the beauty and exceptionality of this place.

Atlantis is not only a mythical land under the sea, it's also an iconic hotel on Dubai's Palm Jumeirah Island, overlooking the Persian Gulf. They do, however, have one thing in common: they're both a little under the sea. This establishment immerses you in the sea thanks to its unique underwater suites, offering a haven with fish and all manner of sea mammals to keep you company. You'll be amazed to feel like a mermaid at this hotel, as these aren't the only rooms where you can encounter marine life thanks to the hotel's aquarium and on-site underwater diving options.

This family-friendly establishment offers incredible experiences with all kinds of entertainment. For example, it is home to the world's largest water park, Atlantis Aquaventure. Thus, be ready to discover the best of Dubai with this stay, and admire the Dubai skyline from the building's highest floors.

If you're interested in being close to animals during your stay, we've got just the thing for you. As you might gather from the name of this hotel, Giraffe Manor has long-time residents who happen to be giraffes. You're bound to meet them, as they often come to greet you by sticking their necks out of the manor's large window. Technically, they don't live in the manor (that would be a bit complicated logistically) but in their own forest sanctuary, located on the manor's territory.

The Manoir not only provides a home for Rothschild giraffes, but also aims to protect this once endangered species through a successful breeding program and the reintroduction of giraffes into the wild.

Although this historic mansion is located in Kenya's capital, you'll feel in touch with nature thanks to the sanctuary and verdant gardens.

Monaco is famous for its Formula 1 circuit, its casino, its yachts and, above all, its world-class hotels like the Hôtel de Paris. Located in Monte-Carlo, right next to the city's eponymous Casino, the hotel is a true celebration of luxury. Here, hospitality is more than a job, it's almost an art, and it aims to offer the crème de la crème. You'll find a host of amenities, including “Louis XV restaurant” a 3-Michelin-starred restaurant to tempt your taste buds.

What's more, if you fancy a stroll, the establishment is perfectly located in the neighbourhood, so take the opportunity to shop in the luxury boutiques or gamble in the emblematic casino

Situated on its own man-made island, this architectural gem is accessible by car or private helicopter if you fancy flying over the Persian Gulf. This hotel’s unique boat-like shape has been carefully thought out to provide guests with everything they need to relax and unwind.

This emblematic 321-metre-high building is also considered "the only 7-star hotel in the world". Perhaps because it boasts the world's first beach terrace, or since its 200 rooms are all Baroque-style suites, or as the ceiling of one of its restaurants is adorned with 29,000 Swarovski crystals. The list goes on, as the hotel also boasts three aquariums, an underwater restaurant, one 24-carat gold iPad per room and a ratio of six employees to one guest.

Almost anything can be found in this majestic destination. It's even possible to find a 17kg tin of Empress caviar on special days, as happened in 2016.

This 5-star hotel is steeped in history and reflects the richness of its city. Nestled in Marrakech's old town, this hotel was originally a wedding gift to Prince Mamoun, in the 18th century, from his father, Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah. In 1925, it became a hotel and today belongs to the city of Marrakech.

With a total of 209 rooms this establishment, opposite the Kutubiyya Mosque, has known many renovations but is recognised for its stunning Arabo-Andalusian architecture, as it combines Moroccan prestige and contemporary luxury.

What really sets it apart is the attention to detail that all its employees put into making this destination unique, so that you feel right at home, while preserving its tradition of refinement.