What are the Best Luxurious and Chic Hotels?

A chic hotel distinguishes itself through an impeccable sense of design, where every detail — from the lobby's art curation to the thread count of the linens — reflects a deliberate aesthetic vision. These establishments transcend mere accommodation; they are expressions of contemporary elegance, often helmed by renowned architects or interior designers who imprint each space with a distinctive personality. Whether nestled in a Parisian side street or perched above a Mediterranean bay, the chic hotel offers an atmosphere of refined sophistication that resonates long after checkout.

Our editorial approach evaluates chic hotels on the coherence of their design language, the quality of service, and the subtlety with which opulence is delivered. We look beyond surface-level décor to assess how spaces function — whether the lighting flatters, whether acoustics preserve intimacy, whether the overall experience feels curated rather than contrived. Florence Consul's reviews pay particular attention to the sensory journey from arrival to departure, noting how the best properties orchestrate mood through scent, sound, and spatial flow.

Within this selection, readers will discover properties that define contemporary hospitality at its most polished. From boutique hideaways with fewer than twenty rooms to grand addresses reimagined for the modern traveller, each recommendation has earned its place through an unwavering commitment to aesthetic excellence and guest experience.