The Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts portfolio sets the bar for travel, and was the leader in establishing a new standard for luxury travel. The chances are good, that when you stay at a Four Seasons hotel, it will be a home run experience. But to choose the best Four Seasons in the world, well, that’s like picking favorites amongst your children. That’s where Galavante Founder Christine comes in though, as she has stayed in more than 80 Four Seasons Hotels around the world. This is the list of Four Seasons hotels that are a destination unto themselves. After all, the Four Seasons has made many unfamiliar destinations – such as Beirut and Saudi Arabia – more accessible to the travelers of today.
A Few Notes
A note on the selection process as we do hope that this sparks spirited debate. Our list is about the hotel itself, and of course the food and service that go along with it. It’s not necessarily about the destination, though as you can see, a few of these are in locales that are on the legends list.
Best Four Seasons in the World
Four Seasons Georges V Paris
This is one of the most iconic, classic, Four Seasons hotels (or indeed any hotel) in the world. No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the art deco landmark that is the Georges V Paris.
Why We Like It
This is one of the most iconic, classic, hotels in the world. Yes, when we’re in Paris, one of the most iconic, classic cities in the world, we occasionally step out on the Four Seasons to check the hottest new hotel opening. But we always come back to the Georges V, because no trip to Paris is complete until we breeze through the lavish flower filled lobby, and grab a bite in the parlor before returning again for a drink at the V Bar. The rooms are pretty special here, where they are so French it hurts, especially when you score a suite overlooking the Eiffel Tower. This property will be around until the end of time. #Respect.
The Amenities
There is a five star spa with six treatment rooms and a stunning pool that looks like it belongs in a movie set. Plus there is a sauna and a fitness suite with private fitness instructors.
Nearby
The hotel is steps away from the shops and boutiques of the famous Champs Elysee. Walk to the Arc de Triomphe or enjoy the panoramic view from the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Four Seasons Hotel Florence
There is officially not enough space to write about the many reasons we love the historic Four Seasons Firenze. The exquisite spaces of this former palace and convent are set within the largest private park in Florence. Think ornate fountains, tasteful sculptures and intricate frescos.
Why We Like It
There is an indescribable warmth here aided by Chef Vito’s Molllica’s mind-blowing Michelin starred cuisine and the Brunello by the glass. We attribute this unique quality to the original General Manager, Patrizio Cipollini, whose mark remains at the hotel, even after his passing in 2019. He was an exceptional human being with a true kindness that pervades the culture of the property. This place is just something special. Forget being on a list just for the Four Seasons; this is a hotel you should put on your bucket list of lifetime world travels.
The Amenities
There are five star spa treatments in the on site spa’s 10 treatment rooms, gorgeous 15th century landscaped gardens as well as an outdoor pool and whirlpool.
Nearby
The hotel is a short easy walk from Florence’s top attractions such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Piazza Duomo. It is a great base from which to explore this magical city.
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
We know this may sound random but if there’s one reason to visit Bahrain when you’re in the neighborhood (like Dubai, Saudi and Kuwait), it’s this property. The hotel is unusually designed in an H formation and is one of those luxury hotel projects where they spared no expense.
Why We Like It
It is tough to find a hotel in any portfolio, not just the Four Seasons, with higher end appointments than here. Every single finish – from the elegant lobby to the gorgeous bedrooms – is luxurious. Rumor has it that on average, they spent about $1 million a room. Yes, so that bed chamber you sleep in is worth more than the average house in the United States. No expense was spared on the Four Seasons Bahrain.
The service here is some of the best we’ve experienced. The tone is set from the time they to pick you up from the airport in one of the house Bentleys. Yes, we said Bentley.
The Amenities
The resort offers four swimming pools and two fitness centers including a ladies only gym. The on site spa spans 4 buildings and is an oasis of calm and chill. Families must visit the Dhow Waterpark with its state of the art seven waterslides. Kids (and big kids!) will love it.
Nearby
The hotel sits on its own island surrounded by a gorgeous sandy beach. It has fabulous views of Bahrain across the bay which is just a few kilometers away by car.
Four Seasons Istanbul at Sultanahmet
The Four Seasons at Sultanahmet was once a Turkish prison but a massive construction project transformed it into one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.
Why We Like It
From the moment you leave the bustling streets in this historic part of Istanbul, you will discover an indelible exoticism inside this richly decorated hotel. Lavish rooms include both formal areas and inviting nooks. The landscaped inner courtyards inspire hours of catching up over baklavas and strong, Turkish coffee. Plus, there are unrivalled views of Istanbul from the neo-Ottoman rooftop lounge. This is a hotel you will be reluctant to leave for sightseeing.
The Amenities
The spa here offers one of the best hammam experiences I’ve ever had. It is a cultural experience and not just a spa treatment. I highly recommend it.
Nearby
There is no better spot to base yourself especially if you’re a first time visitor to Istanbul. You can walk to the nearby Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque and the Turkish Bazaar.
Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur
If you could start from scratch and build the most luxurious urban hotel possible, it may just look like the Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur. This has to be one of the largest Four Seasons in the world. The enormous hotel has over 65 floors, 209 guest rooms and private residences, plus a shopping mall. You could be in the complex for days without leaving.
Why We Like It
Our expectations were surpassed in every way from the food venues, bars and service. The rooms are well designed and tastefully furnished with modern, elegant lines. Each room, even the standard ones, are like a deeply comfortable home that you won’t want to leave.
The Amenities
There is a luxury spa, state of the art fitness room and an outdoor pool with an amazing view of the city.
Nearby
The hotel is adjacent to the famous Petronas Twin Towers which are in the heart of the city’s shopping and entertainment district.
The Four Seasons Maldives
What makes this Four Seasons property so special? Well, this is actually a trio of Four Seasons properties. One of these is a yacht known as the Four Seasons Explorer with 11 cabins for you and your nearest and dearest.
Why We Like It
The Four Seasons Maldives doesn’t make you choose between an island beach, an over-the-Indian Ocean hut on an Atoll or a private yacht. That’s because you can have it all here. The Kuda Huraa property is the traditional Robinson Crusoe lost on a deserted island experience, but with all the creature comforts of a luxury hotel. The Landaa Giravaaru, is all about the classic over-the-water-hut so that you’ll have your, “I’m floating in the middle of the Indian Ocean” moment.
The Amenities
Kuda Huraa has an outdoor pool and highly rated restaurant with ocean views plus an on site Marine Discovery Centre. Lanaa Giravaaru has a Michelin starred restaurant and a luxury spa. You can also experience swimming with manta rays here.
Nearby
Explore the 44 acre Baa Atoll UNESCO biosphere in which the hotel is located.
