A recent study revealed countries with the best hotels worldwide, measuring everything from star ratings, and luxury hotel density to affordability.
The study by Onebed ranked countries with the best hotel offerings by analyzing star ratings, pricing, and hotel density using data from Google Hotels.
Scores for each country were calculated by weighting hotels according to star rating, evaluating luxury hotel density by area, and assessing affordability through average nightly rates. These metrics were rescaled and combined into a Composite Score, highlighting countries with the most balanced quality and accessibility in accommodations.
Key findings summed up:
| Countries | Composite Score | Rank |
| Maldives | 59.66 | 1 |
| Qatar | 50.52 | 2 |
| Japan | 49.46 | 3 |
| Switzerland | 42.12 | 4 |
| Iceland | 41.49 | 5 |
| United Arab Emirates | 40.86 | 6 |
| Austria | 37.91 | 7 |
| Seychelles | 35.53 | 8 |
| Luxembourg | 34.79 | 9 |
*See full research here.
The Maldives ranks at the top with an impressive composite score of 59.66, driven by its 141 five-star hotels and an average price of $922.27 per night for high-end stays. With a luxury hotel density score of 0.87 and an affordability score of 33.66, the Maldives achieves a unique balance of accessibility and premium service, making it a leading destination for quality hospitality.
Qatar takes the second position with a composite score of 50.52, boasting a high density of luxury hotels across a total of 280 properties. The country appeals to both luxury and budget travelers, with rates from $43.92 per night for two-star hotels to $237.67 for five-star options. This range makes Qatar a standout destination for varied budget preferences in the luxury market.
Japan ranks third with a composite score of 49.46, demonstrating its strong appeal for budget-conscious travelers. Japan offers two-star accommodations averaging $28.42 per night, with abundant options across star levels. Its affordability score of 100 reinforces Japan’s accessibility for travelers seeking quality at a reasonable cost.
Switzerland comes fourth, with a luxury-focused hotel market and a composite score of 42.12. Known for its stunning alpine scenery, Switzerland offers five-star accommodations at an average of $617.43 per night, appealing to those seeking a blend of luxury and adventure.
Iceland ranks fifth with a composite score of 41.49. Its 93 five-star properties offer unique hospitality experiences, averaging $1,165.10 per night. Iceland leverages its geographical allure to attract high-end travelers while maintaining an affordability score of 81.26, making it an attractive option for those seeking exclusive experiences.
The UAE stands sixth with a composite score of 40.86, reflecting its robust hotel sector spanning 83,600 square kilometers. Its well-distributed hospitality market includes 87 two-star, 303 three-star, 442 four-star, and 331 five-star properties, showcasing a balanced approach to market segmentation.
Austria ranks seventh, achieving a composite score of 37.91 by offering both luxury and mid-range accommodations. Five-star hotels average $511.51 per night, with an extensive 3-star hotel inventory of 2,168 properties at $113.67 per night, ensuring broad accessibility.
Seychelles takes the eighth spot, with a composite score of 35.53 and a notable luxury hotel density among smaller island nations. Its five-star accommodations average $488.26 per night, adding to its reputation as a high-quality destination with 188 properties across all categories.
Luxembourg ranks ninth, achieving a composite score of 34.79 and showing high market efficiency within its 2,586-square-kilometer area. Five-star rates average $248.00, while budget stays start at $85.25, creating accessible segmentation across all categories.
Denmark rounds out the top ten countries with a composite score of 33.61. Its well-balanced hospitality market includes five-star hotels averaging $387.51 per night. Denmark is gaining popularity as a travel destination in Europe, combining affordability with high-quality mid-range and luxury options.
Dylan Tollemache Co-Founder & CEO at Onebed commented on the study: “When evaluating the best hotel destinations, it’s important to consider not just the luxury options but the overall balance of accessibility and affordability. We see the diversity within the luxury hotel market worldwide, from regions where travelers can enjoy upscale accommodations at a surprisingly affordable price to destinations that offer exclusive, one-of-a-kind luxury experiences that cater to discerning guests. Traveling isn’t a monolithic experience; it varies widely, with something unique for every budget and preference, whether someone seeks a high-value, budget-friendly stay or an unforgettable, premium experience.”
Methodology: The study identified the top countries for exceptional hotel offerings by analyzing star ratings, pricing, and hotel density. Drawing on data from Google Hotels, the study reviewed the number of 2-star through 5-star hotels and their average nightly rates in each country to determine the leaders in quality and accessibility. To highlight overall hotel quality, a Star Rating Score was calculated by weighting each hotel category according to its rating, placing greater emphasis on higher-rated accommodations. This score was combined with a Luxury Hotel Density score, which shows the concentration of luxury hotels by dividing the total number of 4-star and 5-star hotels by the country’s area. Affordability was measured by averaging nightly costs across all hotel star levels, with lower costs signaling greater accessibility. Each of these scores was rescaled to a 1-100 range, and the resulting Composite Score ranks countries with the most balanced and exceptional hotel offerings globally.
