Do you ever wonder where the cool people hang out? Around the world, hidden in bustling cities, lie exclusive private clubs where you’ll find the A-listers and elites unwinding. These aren’t your average clubs but are sanctums that provide unparalleled luxury, privacy, and connections to the rich and famous.
The Core Club, New York City (USA)
Core is a prestigious private club in New York City known for attracting wealthy and influential clientele that focuses on creativity and innovation. Founded in 2005 by Jennie Enterprise, the club has a variety of amenities like a gym, spa, restaurant, and curated cultural events. The initiation fee was about $50,000, which is likely to have increased now.
Annabel’s, London (England)
This club in Mayfair has hosted celebrities and socialites for decades. Past guests have likely included icons like Prince, Diana Ross, and Frank Sinatra. Renowned for its exclusivity, potential members typically require a sponsor who is already a part of the club. After a formal application and interview process, lucky applicants might get to join.
The Yellowstone Club, Montana (USA)
Amid the Rocky Mountains, it provides a lavish ski resort experience, complete with a golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf. Surrounded by stunning 10,000-foot peaks and offering world-class skiing and fishing, the club provides a perfect escape. Membership is limited and necessitates owning property in the area, with costs ranging from millions for a condo to even more for a large ranch.
Soho House Network (Global)
With locations in many major cities globally, including Los Angeles, London, Berlin, and Istanbul, Soho House is loved for its trendy vibe and creative crowd. Founded in 1995, it is new on the block and still has a waiting list, making membership a hot commodity. The membership fee varies depending on your age and the type of access you want, and it could be as high as $5000.
Capital Club, Dubai (UAE)
Dreaming of an office with all the comfort and service of a luxury hotel? Your answer is the Capital Club in Dubai! They offer sleek meeting rooms, stunning views, and top-notch service. Interestingly, membership at Capital Club Dubai is by invitation only, reflecting its exclusive status. Getting in requires approval and might come with a hefty joining fee.
Aberdeen Marina Club, Aberdeen (Honk Kong)
Managed by the Shangri-La hotel group, the Aberdeen Marina Club (AMC) offers the same high-end service you’d expect at their hotels. You’ll also find fancy restaurants, swimming pools, a bowling alley, and an ice rink! There’s an impressive display of motor yachts for those arriving in style. Additionally, it provides a family-friendly environment with dedicated kids’ play zones.
The 1930 Club, Milan (Italy)
Milan’s secret gem, The 1930 Club, is a speakeasy experience. There’s no website, phone number, or flashy entrance—just a hidden door behind a regular bar. Membership cards are like secret agent gadgets, only visible under special light. If you’re lucky enough to get an invite and know the password, you’ll enter a cozy, candlelit bar with top-notch bartenders mixing up delicious seasonal cocktails.
Hurlingham Club, London (England)
Forget waiting in line—at LLondon’s ultra-exclusive Hurlingham Club, membership is practically an inheritance! Established in the 1860s, it has beautiful grounds, fancy sports facilities like squash courts and a pool, and even a royal member (the Princess of Wales was once on the list). New applications aren’t accepted, so the only way to get in is to be born into a member’s family.
The Carnegie Club, Dornach (Scotland)
Ever dream of living like a Scottish lord or lady? That fantasy can become a reality at Carnegie Club, located at Skibo Castle in Scotland! The club’s menu features traditional Scottish dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. To add to the Scottish ambiance, they wake you up with bagpipe music and offer breakfast with a live organist. Activities like golf, fishing, and hiking allow guests to experience the Scottish outdoors firsthand.
The Palazzo Tornabuoni, Florence (Italy)
It is a unique private club that is unlike any other. This club is a non-profit where membership fees help maintain a stunning 15th-century palace and art collection. The world’s first opera was performed here in 1598. Membership includes a luxurious apartment (managed by the Four Seasons), with prices starting at €490,000 for a one-bedroom.
Zero Bond, New York (USA)
Zero Bond, located in the heart of New York City and spread across a 14,000-square-foot space, is designed by Studio Sofield. The club’s design harmoniously incorporates the building’s original features with contemporary elements. Exposed brick walls and high ceilings coexist effortlessly with sleek furniture and modern art.
Yacht Club De Monaco, Quai Louis (Monaco)
Upholding its maritime heritage, the Yacht Club de Monaco offers members a luxurious lifestyle centered around yachting. Established in 1953 by Prince Rainier III, the club is now presided over by Prince Albert II. Membership is highly selective and requires sponsorship from two existing members. Potential members must submit a formal application, which is reviewed twice annually by the club president.
Silencio, Paris (France)
Often described as Europe’s most exclusive private members club, it is the brainchild of American filmmaker David Lynch. It is a haven for creatives, with membership primarily reserved for individuals with established careers in cinema, music, visual arts, architecture, design, and literature. While members have exclusive access to the club from 6 pm, the venue opens its doors to the public after midnight.
5 Hertford Street, Mayfair (London)
The club’s membership fees are not disclosed, but it is considered one of London’s most expensive private clubs. 5 Hertford Street has hosted several celebrities and royals, and some reports also suggest that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have visited the place several times. Unfortunately, getting a membership here isn’t easy due to the long waiting list.
Casa Cipriani, New York (USA)
Opening its doors in Lower Manhattan, New York City, in August 2021, Casa Cipriani is in a historic building and has luxurious accommodations, a wellness center, and a members-only jazz cafe. Interior designer Thierry Despont has been praised for its Beaux-Arts style. The club has a strict dress code and prohibits photography and videography.
Harrods’ The Residence Club, Shanghai (China)
This luxury department store, based in London, has opened its first private members club in Shanghai, China. The exclusive club, The Residence, is located within the historic Cha House building. Interestingly, membership is limited to 250 individuals and comes with an annual fee of $21,000. Members can access a Gordon Ramsay restaurant, the chef’s first venture in Shanghai.
39 Monte Carlo, Monte Carlo (Monaco)
39 Monte Carlo is a wellness-focused private club owned by former rugby player Ross Beattie. It delivers fitness and wellness amenities, including state-of-the-art equipment and personal training. Drawing from his professional sports background, Beattie designed the club to offer more than just a gym experience. The annual fee is €450 per month, paid via direct debit.
Knickerbocker Club, New York (USA)
Established in 1871, it has intrigued many despite its lack of a website or social media presence. Little is known about its inner workings, except its address at 2 East 62nd Street and its origins from former Union Club members. As one of the city’s oldest gentlemen’s clubs, it has attracted notable figures like President Franklin D. Roosevelt and financier J.P. Morgan.
Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, Kellett Island (Hong Kong)
A cornerstone of Hong Kong’s maritime heritage, the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club gives members unparalleled access to the stunning Victoria Harbour. Beyond its sporting focus, the club is renowned for its social events. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, the place remains a premier destination for water sports enthusiasts and socialites.
The Cercle de Lorraine, Brussels (Belgium)
Also known as Club van Lotharingen, it is a prominent business club composed of influential Belgian business leaders and professionals. It occupies a beautiful building with multiple event spaces suitable for meetings, seminars, symposiums, and private events such as weddings and reunions. Membership costs about $1500 annually, and there is an initiation fee of $2000.
Club Matador, Madrid (Spain)
Among the unique members-only clubs in Madrid, Spain, Matador Club draws inspiration from the Matador magazine. Matador is a vibrant hub for creatives, intellectuals, and those passionate about culture. In the stylish Salamanca neighborhood, the club’s restaurant serves traditional Spanish cuisine, while the bar features an ambitious craft cocktail menu with mixologists and guest bartenders from across Europe.
Raspoutine, Paris (France)
Conceived initially as a lounge, the club has hosted a clientele of celebrities and high-profile individuals since its opening. Famous for its opulent Byzantine-inspired decor and sophisticated ambiance, Raspoutine is in Paris’ Golden Triangle area. Today, Raspoutine remains a popular destination for exclusive parties and events, attracting a discerning crowd.
Groucho Club, London (England)
Groucho Clubs serves as a sanctuary for individuals in the arts, literature, and entertainment sectors. In 1985, a group of women publishers founded this place, a radical departure from the traditional, male-dominated gentlemen’s clubs. A go-to spot for creative professionals featuring bars, restaurants, private event spaces, and 20 suites, lifetime membership costs up to $20,000.
The Ned NoMad, New York (USA)
Since its opening, Ned NoMad has gained popularity as a members-only club. The club has a luxurious ambiance, an extensive art collection, and a prime location in the iconic Johnston Building overlooking the Empire State Building. The accommodation includes 167 guest rooms, ranging from smaller “crash pads” to more extensive suites and studio apartments.
KEE Club, Shanghai (China)
Housed in historic twin villas from the 1920s, its members have a refined and private environment. Michelin-starred Executive Chef Bjoern Alexander creates dishes that fuse German and Japanese culinary traditions. The club’s interiors include wooden floors, high ceilings, and French windows leading to a secret garden, making it ideal for formal or romantic dinners.
Roppongi Hill Club, Tokyo (Japan)
The Roppongi Hill Club is located on the 51st floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. Prospective members must request an application, which goes through a screening process. An initiation fee of approximately $12,000 is to be paid if selected. Once a part of the club, members can choose private dining spaces at The Sushi Bar, La Cucina, Star Anise, and the French Private Dining.
Tanglin Club, Singapore
With 4,000 members from over 70 countries, The Tanglin Club has gained international recognition for its prestige. The 156-year-old establishment has seven restaurants. Additionally, members have access to over 130 reciprocal clubs worldwide. However, gaining membership is a lengthy process, requiring a recommendation from an existing member with at least three years of membership.
Apollo’s Muse, London (UK)
Stepping into London’s Apollo’s Muse feels like traveling back to Ancient Rome or Greece. This exclusive Mayfair club features marble walls and ceilings adorned with sculptures and statues resembling an art gallery or museum. As one of the most private private clubs, Apollo’s Muse limits its membership to only 500 people.
Carlyle & Co., Tsim Sha Tsui (Hong Kong)
Carlyle & Co. brings a modern twist to the charm of The Carlyle, capturing the essence of New York City. Maintaining the original’s spirit of connection and community, this club blends New York’s rich cultural art scene. French painter Jean-Philippe Delhomme’s murals enhance the ambiance, while top-tier vocalists deliver captivating live performances.
The Australian Club, Sydney (Australia)
This club is located in Central Sydney and showcases stunning views of the North Shore and the lush Royal Botanic Garden. Men must wear long-sleeved jackets and ties, while women can choose from dresses, skirts, or evening pants. Integrating traditional and modern amenities, it has a private dining area, a library, ensuite bedrooms, apartments, and a Clubhouse.
