Some places leave a lasting impression the moment you step inside. Before the first sip of champagne or the turn-down service, the lobby sets the tone—whispering elegance, history, and sheer indulgence. So, if luxurious hotels are your thing, here are 20 with extravagant lobbies.
Claridge’s, London
Stepping into Claridge’s lobby is like entering a living masterpiece, as Art Deco elegance dominates, from the sweeping staircase to the Lalique glass panels. Frequented by royalty and Hollywood elites, this legendary space has Damien Hirst and Annie Morris installations.
Waldorf Astoria, New York
As you enter the Waldorf Astoria, crystal chandeliers glow over the historic space, highlighting intricate murals and a legendary bronze clock. This hotel’s architectural details are inspired by European palaces, making every arrival feel more like an entrance into history.
Lotte New York Palace Hotel
At Lotte New York Palace, grandeur isn’t just a detail; it’s the main event. With soaring marble columns and jaw-dropping chandeliers, this lobby feels straight out of a royal palace. Initially built for 19th-century aristocrats, it now hosts power players and celebrities.
Mandarin Oriental, New York
Have you ever checked into a hotel and felt like you were floating above the city? At the Mandarin Oriental, New York, that’s precisely the vibe. Perched on the 35th floor, its lobby delivers jaw-dropping views of Central Park and the skyline. Also, floor-to-ceiling windows make luxury here feel effortless.
Shangri-La, Paris
Did you know that this hotel was once home to Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew? At the Shangri-La Paris, history and luxury intertwine in a gold-leafed lobby fit for royalty. Crystal chandeliers hang from hand-painted ceilings, and Neoclassical pillars frame the space. Every detail whispers Parisian aristocracy.
Burj Al Arab, Dubai
When it comes to jaw-dropping hotel lobbies, few can compete with the sheer opulence of the Burj Al Arab. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by soaring gold pillars and an atrium so massive that it stretches 590 feet high. It feels like stepping into a palace in the sky.
Villa d’Este, Lake Como
History and refinement collide at Villa d’Este, a 16th-century palace turned five-star retreat. Hand-painted frescoes grace its lavish lobby, where marble statues and Venetian chandeliers cast an ethereal glow. Overlooking Lake Como, this Italian masterpiece offers an entrance as breathtaking as its scenic surroundings.
The Torridon, Scotland
The Torridon, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, offers a lobby that blends rustic charm with aristocratic elegance. A roaring fireplace and antique wood paneling create a warm yet regal atmosphere. Originally built as a hunting lodge, this retreat now depicts Highland hospitality at its finest.
Harbourmaster, Wales
Maritime history comes to life in the Harbourmaster’s lobby, where coastal charm meets boutique elegance. Once a Victorian warehouse, this Welsh retreat honors its seafaring roots with driftwood sculptures and harbor views that stretch for miles. Every detail invites you to sail through Wales’ storied past in style.
Hotel Imperial, Vienna
Originally built as a royal palace in 1863, this magnificent hotel still exudes the elegance and majesty of its imperial past. From the first moment, you’re surrounded by towering marble columns, intricate frescoed ceilings, and dazzling crystal chandeliers that bathe the lobby in a warm, golden glow.
The Cavendish Hotel, Derbyshire
Once part of the Chatsworth House estate, The Cavendish Hotel preserves its aristocratic charm in every detail. Classic English elegance takes center stage, consisting of floral wallpaper and gilded mirrors, creating a refined country estate ambiance. When you step inside, you’d wish time would slow down.
Palace Hotel, Madrid
Did you know this hotel was opened by King Alfonso XIII in 1912? History lives in the Palace Hotel, Madrid, where Spanish grandeur unfolds beneath an opulent Art Nouveau dome. As sunlight streams through the stained-glass ceiling, golden light dances across plush velvet seating and marble floors.
The Peninsula, New York
The Peninsula New York knows how to make an entrance unforgettable. During the holidays, its lobby shimmers under 38,000 baubles and thousands of glowing lights, turning the space into a festive dream. Beyond the season, a sweeping staircase and Art Nouveau details ensure every arrival feels effortlessly grand.
Park Terrace Hotel, New York
Each holiday season, its lobby shines with a breathtaking 12-foot Christmas tree adorned in handcrafted 24-karat gold ornaments. Its sleek, minimalist design and warm, inviting atmosphere throughout the year offer a refined escape from Midtown’s nonstop energy. Here, contemporary elegance and seasonal magic blend effortlessly.
Baccarat Hotel, New York
Have you ever entered a hotel whose lobby feels like a breathing work of art? Upon entering the Baccarat Hotel, a soft glow from a towering 16-foot Baccarat Le Roi Soleil chandelier washes over red velvet walls and gleaming glass details.
The Carlyle, New York
Elegance lingers at The Carlyle, where classic decor seamlessly blends with contemporary grandeur. Every detail exudes sophistication, from gold-accented moldings that shimmer under soft lighting to grand floral arrangements. Because of its timeless black-and-white marble floor grounding the space, this lobby radiates old-money charm.
The Willard, Washington D.C.
The Willard, famously known as the “Residence of Presidents,” lives up to its name—and it’s no surprise why. Lined with historical portraits and Corinthian columns, this iconic hotel, steps from the White House, has hosted dignitaries for over two centuries.
The Dorchester, London
The grand doors of The Dorchester open, unveiling a world where elegance is second nature. Above, ornate ceilings glisten under the glow of shimmering chandeliers, while Philip Hammond’s seasonal floral displays add bursts of color. Besides, plush sofas invite guests to sink in, wrapped in the warmth of soft lighting.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como
Golden sunlight pours into Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s gilded lobby, casting a warm glow over intricate stucco details and silk-covered walls. Beyond the grand entrance, a floating pool shimmers beside lush Italian gardens, which sets the tone for timeless indulgence.
The Mark Hotel, New York
The moment you enter The Mark Hotel, its grandeur is impossible to miss. Jacques Grange’s bold black-and-white marble floors and mirrored columns make the space feel like a modern art exhibit. No wonder it’s a magnet for celebrities and trendsetters alike.
