New York is a magical city. Everything is bigger, better and brighter in New York, so its luxury hotels aren’t just fancy – they’re legendary. These five star establishments are an integral part of the city’s character and history, each making its own contribution to New York’s undeniable allure. I’d go as far to say that they’re destinations in their own right. If you’ve never stayed at a luxury hotel in New York City before then I urge you to move it to the top of your bucket list. Let’s explore the best of the bunch. 

The Plaza 

Surely you knew this one was coming? Luxury hotels in New York don’t get much better than the Plaza. It’s the Grand Dame of New York City and an enduring symbol of its romance and glamor. The gorgeous white facade is one of New York’s most iconic sites and its gilded interior transports guests to a fairytale land. It was a favorite haunt of robber barons during the Gilded Age and over the years the hotel has hosted many super-famous guests, from F. Scott Fitzgerald to the Beatles. A stay at this sumptuous property is a quintessential New York experience that never disappoints. 

Oh, and make sure that you take afternoon tea in the Palm Court – check out this article for my full review.

The Baccarat 

Sleek, sumptuous and bedecked with crystals, a stay at the Baccarat is every inch a luxury experience. The decor is mostly neutral, injected with crimson accent pieces here and there. During your stay, you’ll enjoy first-rate facilities such as a La Mer spa, a fitness center and an art deco indoor pool. The Baccarat is also in an excellent midtown location, opposite the Museum of Modern Art and close to many of New York’s best luxury fashion houses. Times Square and Central Park are just minutes away – that is, if you can bring yourself to leave…

The St. Regis 

I loved my stay at the St. Regis Bal Harbour in Miami and in New York you can find the maiden property. This hotel was built in 1904 by legendary hotelier John Jacbon Astor IV, who died on the Titanic eight years later. The Bloody Mary is said to have been invented in the hotel’s King Cole bar, so even if you don’t stay here you should definitely swing by for a cocktail or two. 

The hotel itself is a beautiful Beaux-Arts building with gilded mouldings and sparkling chandeliers everywhere you look. It’s also known for its exemplary service; all guests enjoy 24-hour butler service and if you’re headed somewhere within a 10-block radius, you’ll be dropped off in a chauffeur driven Bentley. 

Lotte New York Palace 

Often simply referred to as “The Palace,” this Madison Avenue icon really is fit for royalty. It’s one of the most-filmed luxury hotels in New York, appearing in Gossip Girl, Homeland and The Politician to name but a few.

The hotel is famed for its timeless, opulent decor and second-to-none service. As soon as you step through the doors, you’ll feel like old world European aristocracy. The in-house Villard restaurant offers a fantastic weekend brunch and you can’t beat a cocktail at the Renaissance-style Gold Room bar. 

The Sherry-Netherland

Located on the Upper East Side, the Sherry-Netherland occupies one of New York’s most coveted addresses. What I love about this hotel is that it’s brimming with character. Each room is individually decorated and the staff are so friendly and thoughtful. Be sure to stop and marvel at the restored ceiling murals in the lobby, too. The Sherry-Netherland hotel is also home to Harry Cipriani, one of New York City’s best and most entertaining restaurants where everyone who’s anyone goes to dine. 

The Carlyle 

The Carlyle has provided the backdrop for many New York City legends. Its discreet service has attracted many celebrity guests over the years, including Michael Jackson, Princess Diana and Steve Jobs who famously shared an elevator ride together. Rumor has it that JFK and Marilyn Monroe conducted their notorious affair at the Carlyle, too. If these walls could talk…

History aside, the Carlyle offers its guests a tranquil stay in a seductive art deco setting. In terms of facilities, it boasts a Sisley-Paris spa, the stellar Yves Durif Salon and a luxury fitness centre. I recommend taking afternoon tea at The Gallery, where you can enjoy exquisite French and English cuisine in a luxurious Turkish dining room – talk about a cultural medley. In the evening, you should definitely head to the legendary Cafe Carlyle for cabaret from some of the city’s best talent. 

Gramercy Park Hotel 

This historic New York hotel has played host to a star-studded range of guests from Bob Dylan to Babe Ruth. As its name indicates, it overlooks Gramercy Park, the city’s sole private, key-only park. The vintage decor feels sumptuous and inviting, whilst the exquisite Italian bed linens guarantee you a blissful night’s sleep. What’s most impressive about Gramercy, though, is its extensive art collection. The hotel displays over $50 million worth of art at a time, mainly from contemporary American artists such as Andy Warhol. 

These are the best luxury hotels in New York City – have you stayed at any? How did you find it? Leave me a comment below.

For more on US travel, make sure to check out my list of the best American cities for a staycation. If you’d like to check out more luxury hotel recommendations, take a look at my list of the best resorts in Phuket and Singapore.