Best luxury hotels in New York: Top 12 hideaways with exclusive accommodations

Dreams and visions of unbridled luxury become a reality at the best luxury hotels in New York. The city that never sleeps will provide the most coveted holidays for any traveller who is willing to not limit their accommodation budget. But even if you are not a visitor but a New Yorker who craves such a holiday, the most renowned luxury hotels will gladly provide you with suitable deals to escape for a day or two into a world of glamour, sophistication and luxury.

Huge suites with panoramic windows and the best cityscapes, world-class spas, gourmet restaurants, high-density linens, custom-designed beds, state-of-the-art technology and amenities and exclusive services (from bed preparation and pillow selection to personal butlers and autos for private travel), these luxury hotels in New York City have everything their guests could want. From cosy boutiques to historic mansions, these top 12 luxury hotels in New York City definitely have all the qualities you need for chic accommodation.

1. Lotte New York Palace

One of New York City's top classic luxury hotels in the popular Midtown neighbourhood has turned a new page after its 2015 renovation, becoming even more perfect. This perfection is evident in all its spaces: from the chic lobby to the magnificent views of St Patrick's Cathedral from the rooms.

This is one of the most famous luxury hotels in New York, USA, housed in a historic building formerly known as the Willard Mansion. Even as you approach its front entrance, you can feel the atmosphere of the early 1900s. The picturesque courtyard, elegant décor, gold filigree jewellery and lush carpets that conceal the sound of footsteps on the marble lobby are a testament to New York's long-standing high society. The six private brownstone townhouses on Madison Avenue were commissioned by renowned financier Henry Willard and went through several restorations, refurbishments and changes of ownership (including the Sultan of Brunei) until they were purchased by the current owner and operator of luxury hotels in South Korea's capital, Lotte Hotels & Resort. Today it is an address for business, a glamorous venue for social weddings and an unrivalled location for family holidays.

The hotel offers guests a sophisticated experience within the Palace and Tower. The former's rooms and suites are stylish urban oases where elegance meets modern luxury. Rooms are equipped with high-speed Internet, 42-inch televisions, a range of premium Molton Brown bath products and more. The Towers collection of rooms and suites are located on the 41st to 55th floors and offer enhanced amenities such as a private lobby and reception, butler and concierge services, evening bed-making, Maybach car service and more. The Royal Suite at Lotte New York Palace is the most luxurious accommodation option and is among the top unique hideaways in NYC hotels with panoramic views of Manhattan.

On-site restaurants offer a wide variety of food and beverage options, from farm-to-table breakfasts to original cocktails and sweet pastries. Hotel amenities include the ila Only Spa with seven treatment rooms and a private yoga studio, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a beauty salon.

2. Conrad New York

If you're looking for a peaceful and quiet place to stay in Manhattan, this hotel is the right choice. Step into its lobby, leaving all the chaos of New York City outside your front door, and stay in one of the rooms and suites overlooking the Hudson River.

The Conrad in Battery Park boasts an impressive fine art collection (over two thousand pieces). It is also less than a 10-minute walk to the city's key attractions: Greenwich Village, Wall Street, Soho, etc.

The hotel has 463 two-room suites with living rooms and spacious showers that will seem bigger than hotel lifts. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi, a water filtration system, a coffee machine, etc. Many suites offer beautiful views of the Hudson River, but the most eye-catching panorama can be found at the impressive Loopy Doopy rooftop bar. In addition to light snacks and exquisite handcrafted cocktails, visitors can even expect selfie sticks to capture the calming view of the New York skyline.

Don't limit yourself to just one bar (although its bourbon-based drinks are quirky and the views of the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River are totally worth the price). Discover the luxurious restaurants at the Conrad for the best cuisine Manhattan has to offer. Atrio Wine Bar and Restaurant will surprise you with unique flavours. You can also enjoy a gourmet menu of seasonal specialities by ordering to your room, or plan to dine at one of the interesting restaurants nearby.

The Conrad is a great example of sustainability among luxury hotels in New York City. To do away with single-use plastic water bottles, each room has been outfitted with Rocean filters. Rooms have water reduction and smart lighting systems to save energy. Technology has been introduced to reduce plastic waste: Nespresso capsules are recycled, takeaway containers from restaurants are compostable, and plastic drink tubes have been phased out in favour of paper ones. This approach is also one of the significant things that make up the hotel's appeal to modern travellers. The hotel doesn't have a swimming pool, but it does have other amenities worth noting: a gym, a gift shop and a locally popular hairdressing salon.

3. W New York - Times Square

The sultry hideaway, overlooking a glittering stretch of Broadway, is well positioned close to endless Big Apple attractions such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Theatre District and Radio City Music Hall. Hiding in the lobby of the W New York, you'll swap the noise of the city for glass and the soothing sounds of water, and while taking the lift up to the reception area, you'll find a bar with a massive pop art mural and a space for live music and dancing.

The hotel has 509 exquisite and original rooms, including 43 suites. Your stay at one of New York's premium hotels will be as comfortable as possible with a signature W bed with 350-thread-count sheets and orthopaedic mattresses, a bathroom with luxury toiletries, a minibar and signature Whatever/Whenever® service. With just the touch of a button on your phone, everything you could possibly need is at your fingertips - from room service and food ordering even at night to organising a sunset helicopter flight. For an even more unforgettable experience, book W's Extreme Wow Suite, with a superb view of Times Square (there's no better location to admire the cityscape during New Year's Eve).

The room features a round bed with a beautiful panorama of the city, two large bathrooms with a deep bathtub and rain shower, a lounge, and state-of-the-art electronics to control lighting, curtains and TVs.

You definitely won't miss the lounge's innovative cocktail bar with handcrafted drinks (check out the AZ Cocktail, made up of 26 ingredients - each for a different letter of the alphabet), but linger in the evening to listen to sets by the city's hottest DJs. W New York also presents two top restaurants: DOS CAMINOS, with Mexican cuisine and a 40-seat mescal and margarita bar, and the two-floor BLUE FIN, with a superb seafood menu, street-level sushi bar, two private dining tables and a cocktail bar on the upper level.

4. The Iroquois New York

Although this hotel is right in the centre of bustling West Midtown, behind its doors you'll feel away from the excitement of the outside world. New York's best luxury hotels provide guests with a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, so this is a good choice for travellers who want to be in the centre of everything, yet easily isolated from the hustle and bustle.

The Iroquois is a stylish and elegant boutique hotel with luxury in every corner of it to be proud of. The marble lobby transports guests back to the 1930s, with antique floor clocks, massive dark wood observatories and rows of leather-bound classics. It's a great place to drop in after an eventful day and sit back with a book and a cup of hot cider from the lobby bar.

Rooms are spacious and sophisticated, matching the hospitality of New York's swankiest hotels, and the location just steps from Times Square, the Theatre District and Bryant Park sets the tone for an unforgettable experience. All rooms are renovated and equipped with modern amenities while maintaining the classic elegance that has attracted celebrities, stage and film stars since 1902. The hotel offers its guests accommodation in different comfort classes.

The 200-square-foot Superior Rooms are decorated with historic photographs and feature queen-size beds, luxurious linens, thick curtains and marble bathrooms with mosaic floors. Deluxe suites are larger (240-250 square feet), with sophisticated décor with wood accents, king- or queen-size beds and chic toiletries. A typical city getaway is provided by premium rooms with decadent furnishings and Italian marble bathtubs, while the most luxurious arrangement is available in the Executive and Iroquois Suites. Each is equipped with underfloor heating and an oversized sofa bed for an additional guest.

The jewel of the stay is definitely the Lantern's Keep cocktail bar at the back of the lobby. It's often full just after 5 p.m., so it's best to stop by here after the theatres start performances. The bar menu includes light snacks and cocktails, both classic and original drinks. The staff is friendly and the flavours are worthy of becoming a regular.

5. Mandarin Oriental New York

Few hotels in New York City, including the most luxurious, can rival the Mandarin Oriental in the beauty of the view. From its finest rooms, you can admire central city landmarks from Central Park to Columbus Square to the waters of the Hudson River.

The hotel's interior is a delightful blend of modern design and stylish oriental flair. The city centre location is ideal for tourists, family holidays and romantic weekends away, as well as for business travellers. The hotel features luxurious five-star rooms and suites, which take maximum advantage of the cityscape views thanks to large floor-to-ceiling windows. Rooms are decorated in a contemporary style and feature a marble and granite bathroom with a glass shower and a deep soaking tub, living room and work area. Suites are complemented by a dining area, an exclusive artwork as décor, some also have walk-in wardrobes, large kitchens with dining areas and a media room.

The breathtaking panorama and first-class service are complemented by another hotel attraction, the 14,500-square-foot spa. Available treatments include facials, massages, Thai foot therapy and signature rituals. In addition, the spa has a fitness centre with strength and cardio equipment and a 75-foot swimming pool. Both of these venues have beautiful views of the city skyline.

Even if you are not in New York for a casual holiday but have a busy schedule, luxury hotels will provide you with the best gastronomic experience with their chic restaurants and bars. The MO Lounge at Mandarin Oriental will also treat you to panoramic views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. But its main appeal lies in its all-day menu of contemporary American cuisine and great cocktails. It's also a great place for afternoon tea with savoury snacks and a collection of sweets after a busy day of shopping and world-class entertainment nearby, including Lincoln Center, Broadway theatres and Columbus Circle shops.

6. Baccarat Hotel and Residences New York

Many popular luxury hotels in New York exude both a vintage and modern atmosphere. Baccarat spices up this combination with a Parisian influence. Luxury reigns supreme: as soon as you enter the lobby, you'll be struck by the Baccarat's crystal décor, amazing art collections and walls draped in pleated silk. This atmosphere of glamour and elegance will take you further into the luxurious suites, where you can make yourself comfortable in the huge four-poster bed and, with the touch of a tablet, order champagne in your room and enjoy it from Baccarat crystal glasses.

The hotel has 114 rooms ranging from 400 to 1,780 square feet with wide windows, glass-walled showers and a minibar featuring full-size bottles of premium beverages and tasty snacks from French bakery Laudurée. In addition to ordering in-room food and beverages, guests can also control lighting, curtains and room temperature on the tablet, and book services at the spa and 24-hour gym. Each room and suite at the hotel is a celebration of contemporary design with references to French tradition.

A stay at the hotel is aimed at a refined and relaxing holiday for guests, but there is a place that buzzes with life all day until the evening. This is the Great Hall, a magnificent setting of cascading chandeliers and luxurious armchairs upholstered in velvet and silk. It is the bustling heart of the hotel, where you can enjoy inspiring dinners by Chef Gabriel Kreuther, owner of two Michelin stars, and spend time socialising with signature cocktails in crystal glasses. A varied lunch menu and afternoon tea are available throughout the day. Next to the Great Hall is the provocative and mysterious The Bar, which strikes the imagination both with its chic interior with leather seats, works of art and red Baccarat chandeliers, and its cocktail list with unique drinks. If you want to dine al fresco without leaving the hotel, stop by the rooftop restaurant Le Jardin to enjoy cuisine and drinks in an inspiring setting of trees, topiaries, flowers and an ivy-covered wall.

The Baccarat offers amenities befitting its status as one of the most luxurious hotels in New York City, including a heated pool with changing cabanas and loungers, a fitness centre, a branded boutique and La Mer Spa (the first in the US).

7. Lowell Hotel

Tucked away on a cosy street on the chic Upper East Side under the shade of trees, it is one of New York's most comfortable luxury hotels for a relaxing stay. It is located in a residential neighbourhood surrounded by Madison Avenue's finest fashion boutiques. Its 17 floors feature 74 rooms filled with luxurious amenities, chic furnishings and artwork.

The Lowell Hotel was founded in 1927 and is one of the few family-owned luxury hotels in New York City that has survived since then. For nearly a hundred years it has been the hotel of choice for distinguished guests: famous plays and novels have been written here, film stars have studied screenplays over coffee, musicians have gathered here, and politicians and celebrities have relaxed in seclusion.

The Italian marble lobby testifies to the extravagant approach of the owners to a cause for which they spared no expense. The interior design of the boutique hotel was designed by renowned artist Michael Smith, who also decorated Obama's private residences at the White House. As you check in, you'll be offered complimentary hot chocolate and biscuits (a nice bonus, especially when you're travelling in cold weather) and then handed a real wrought iron key to your room (forget flimsy key cards here). Rooms are available in regular Lowell Rooms, junior suites and suites with one or two bedrooms, and penthouses. Lowell Rooms for two guests feature king-size beds with custom-made headboards and cashmere bedspreads, en-suite bathrooms (many with underfloor heating and separate bath and shower). Suites also feature granite kitchens, fireplaces, and some have private terraces overlooking the Upper East Side. The penthouses are located on the top 17th floor and are decorated with custom furniture, antiques and artwork. They feature gourmet kitchens, bright dining conservatories, marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, and terraces with fireplaces.

The splendid atmosphere will also haunt you in the hotel's exquisite restaurants and bars: waiters in white gloves, the finest china and silver on the table, superb menus and magnificent interiors.

8. The Plaza

One of New York City's most iconic luxury hotels, The Plaza sits at the foot of Central Park. It has been offering travellers first-class accommodation since 1907, becoming one of the city's recognisable symbols. Over the years, it has added a host of celebrities to its guest list, from Christian Dior to the Beatles, and has served as a memorable backdrop for works of art such as Eloise in the Plaza or The Great Gatsby.

Contrary to the famous saying, everything that glitters at the Plaza is gold, and literally: chair legs, mirror frames, and bathroom details in every room and suite are plated in real 24-carat gold. From the main lobby to the moody Rose Club lounge with its skilful cocktails and adjacent champagne bar, everything in this hotel immerses guests in a regal atmosphere. The baton of refined luxury continues in the restaurants: the Todd English Food Hall on the basement floor offers a taste of world cuisine, while the Palm Court, renowned for its afternoon snacks, offers an equally delicious dinner menu and extensive drinks list. The flavours may make you roll your eyes, but upstairs, you'll be treated to another delightful sight - the vast dome of the stained glass ceiling, which is hard to tear yourself away from.

Impeccable luxury applies not only to the lobby or restaurants but to every room in the hotel. Stepping into the lift with mirrored walls and golden columns and ascending to your floor, you will find a beautiful corridor with velvet benches, antique disc telephones and illuminated cornices. Accommodation at the Plaza Hotel is as elegant and ultra-luxurious as the rest of the hotel. It offers guest rooms and suites. All rooms are spacious and have a classic feel with chic furnishings, luxurious linen, large bathrooms and exquisite decor. Some suites have outdoor terraces overlooking Central Park and have two or three bedrooms. For guests' convenience, there are tablets in the rooms to control the temperature, turn on music or connect your phone to iHome.

If you were going shopping in New York City, you don't have to leave the hotel. The Plaza has a branded boutique on the lobby level featuring the highest quality clothing, accessories and gifts. When staying at New York's luxury hotels, take advantage of their wellness and relaxation options. For example, at the Plaze, guests and day visitors have access to the Guerlain Spa and Fitness Centre.

9. The Pierre

Another luxury hideaway near Central Park on its eastern border and one of New York's most popular hotels, it opened its doors to the public back in 1930. Despite significant renovations, which have seen the addition of Turkish marble in the bathrooms and South Asian art in the lobby, it remains a mainstay of the city's hotel scene, as elegant and classic as the day it opened.

Guests will be treated to chocolates during check-in, and white-gloved attendants will ride up with you in the lift so you don't have to bother pressing a button. The interior of the hotel doesn't look super new and modern, but that's the charm of classic five-star New York hotels. Elegant corridors are decorated in cream and gold and lead to 180 rooms and suites with great views of Central Park. Each is steeped in history and designed to showcase this beautiful heritage, blended with modern amenities and sophistication. The spacious rooms are equipped with comfortable single or king-size beds, luxury toiletries, and a minibar. Suites additionally have a living room, some also feature decorative fireplaces, marble foyers and dining rooms.

The hotel's casual lounge and lobby are transformed into the art deco Two E Bar & Lounge in the evenings. During the day you can join guests for a legendary tea service, and at the end of the day drop in for a pleasant evening of gourmet snacks and modern cocktails. Full meals are provided by two lively restaurants with a varied exotic menu. Rotunda on the ground floor has recently been refurbished by renowned architect Daniel Romualdes, so as well as delicious food and classic cocktails, the curved walls and Edward Melquart's grandiose murals create a fabulous rococo ambience. The real gem of the hotel is the French-American restaurant Perrine, with tables inside and on the outdoor terrace overlooking Central Park.

10. 1 Hotel Central Park

This hotel stands out from many other popular luxury hotels in Manhattan, New York City with its lush, vibrant green facade: the beautifully manicured ivy on the building highlights the hotel group's philosophy of honouring the beauty of nature within urban oases.

This eco-friendly retreat is located near Central Park, just steps away from the centre of Manhattan. Natural elegance radiates throughout the hotel's 229 guest rooms, with rustic décor with recycled wood ceilings, wooden chairs and wrought iron pieces, leather headboards and potted plants. Room amenities include glass showers, large beds with eco-friendly linens, water filters, non-presso machines, deluxe bath products and soft cotton bathrobes and slippers, yoga mats and more. Some rooms have access to the terrace, kitchenettes and separate living rooms.

Staying in New York's luxury hotels means having exciting programmes and activities for guests. From yoga classes to recommendations for places to visit in the city, 1 Central Park is ready to cater for your leisure time. For example, in your free time it's worth checking out The Field House, a state-of-the-art gym with private workouts with instructors or group classes free for hotel guests. A working environment or meeting space can be found in the Hive Business Centre on the first floor. Various social spaces are available on the same level - a communal table and two lounge areas with thoughtful details and state-of-the-art technology. If you're looking to explore the city or go on adventures in the coastal towns of Greenport and Beacon, take advantage of the Audi Experience: home-built Audi e-tron electric cars are available at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.

But what is imperatively not to be missed at upscale hotels in New York City are their premium restaurants. At 1 Central Park, the kitchen is led by Chef Jonathan Waxman, who was named the best in New York by the James Beard Foundation. Jams Restaurant welcomes you with delicious farm-to-table cuisine and a cosy space with an open kitchen, brickwork and green patio.

11. The Langham New York

This luxuriously charming retreat is so close to Times Square to keep in touch with the action, yet far enough away to create the calm and collected atmosphere with which The Langham's name is associated.

The hotel's huge canopy, with its rows of glittering lights and two majestic flags, brings an elegant touch to the concrete facades of busy Midtown. Behind the huge front doors near the front desk, you'll immediately see several paintings by Alex Katz (the hotel has an entire collection of his original works). Behind the counter is a lounge area with a spiral staircase leading up to the first floor to the Fiori Bar, decorated with beautiful floral arrangements. Langham has a number of award-winning restaurants. At Ai Fiori, you can indulge in cuisine inspired by the flavours of the Italian and French Riviera. The eponymous bar serves signature cocktails or a glass of wine from the award-winning wine list, as well as light snacks or dishes from the restaurant's full menu. For an unforgettable New York luxury hotel experience like the Langham, dine at The Gallery, a private event space with huge panoramic windows overlooking Fifth Avenue.

The hotel has a collection of elegant rooms and suites with first-class amenities to make your stay special, including soft beds with exclusive DUXIANA mattresses, marble bathrooms with rain showers or deep soaking tubs. Deluxe rooms and suites have equipped kitchens, work areas, walk-in wardrobes, and some also have private terraces. Hotel amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness centre where you can work out on your own or take a virtual class with an instructor at your convenience.

The Langham is popular with affluent travellers looking for an elegant and relaxed location for iconic sightseeing: Grand Central Station, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park are all within walking distance. But it's also a location that connoisseurs of high-end shopping will appreciate: the hotel is located in the mecca of Fifth Avenue shopping, which means Henri Bendel, Tiffany, Saks and more will be close by.

12. Le Méridien New York

The Viceroy Hotel in the heart of Midtown has a new look and a new name in 2019, becoming Le Méridien New York. Today, the venue reflects the spirit of the city - bold, authentic, vibrant and sexy - and immerses its guests in the inimitable energetic atmosphere of downtown Manhattan. This hideaway from New York's top luxury hotels would make a good destination for a romantic weekend getaway as well as a fun stag party or business trip.

Its location provides step-by-step access to Central Park, MoMA, Carnegie Hall, Columbus Square and Rockefeller Centre, which also creates tempting prospects for panoramic views from windows and terraces. In the mid-century-inspired lobby, it's immediately apparent that the journey ahead will be a luxurious one: elegant marble is complemented by sleek, camel-coloured leather armchairs and cocktail tables with brass tops. The décor references the glamour of the 1960s French Riviera, and this touch of glamour and luxury is picked up by the interiors of all 240 rooms.

The hotel features exquisitely decorated rooms and suites with modern amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi, minibars, luxurious linens, gleaming marble bathrooms, premium Malin + Goetz toiletries and ceiling-to-floor windows, so every guest can enjoy amazing views.

It's not just from your room that you can admire the cityscape. Head up to the rooftop bar to enjoy handcrafted signature cocktails by famousmixologists and a menu of delicious snacks. Meals throughout the day are provided by Kingside Restaurant, offering a signature drinks menu and a variety of specialities.

Travelling is no excuse to forget about sport, but the best premium hotels in New York City have no problem with this as active leisure activities are usually part of their experience. Le Méridien has an excellent fitness centre with all the necessary equipment for cardio, strength training, kinesis and yoga. But outdoor activities are just as beneficial: the hotel staff will kindly advise you on nearby shops and attractions to visit.