The Most Anticipated Hotels of 2026, According to the Forbes Travel Guide

A new era of luxury hospitality blends heritage, architecture and immersive experiences across the globe

The Forbes Travel Guide has unveiled its list of the most anticipated hotel openings of 2026, spotlighting a new wave of luxury properties set to redefine global hospitality. From historic European landmarks to remote island escapes, the selection reflects a broader movement in travel: a return to classic glamour, elevated through contemporary design, world-class service and a renewed focus on cultural authenticity.

Across Europe, the revival of architectural icons takes centre stage. Venice’s legendary Hotel Danieli is undergoing a meticulous restoration before reopening under the Four Seasons brand, honouring its rich heritage while enhancing its elegance for a new generation of travellers. In London, the transformation of Admiralty Arch, soon to debut as a Waldorf Astoria, brings renewed life to one of the city’s most recognisable monuments. These reopenings signal a growing appetite for luxury that respects history while embracing modern sophistication.

Beyond Europe, the 2026 list highlights exceptional properties in some of the world’s most compelling destinations. In Mexico, Amanvari promises a serene blend of desert landscapes and seaside tranquillity, staying true to Aman’s philosophy of understated ultra-luxury. Rome will welcome the Baccarat Hotel, where the renowned French crystal house extends its refined aesthetic into hospitality, taking over a grand 1889 building in the heart of the Eternal City.

In Asia, Capella Kyoto prepares to make its debut as the brand’s first Japanese outpost. The hotel aims to harmonise contemporary architecture with deep cultural respect, offering guests a highly curated immersion into Kyoto’s traditions. Meanwhile, the Bulgari Resort Ranfushi in the Maldives is set to captivate visitors with beach and overwater villas that merge Italian flair with one of the world’s most stunning island settings.

In total, the Forbes Travel Guide highlights 23 hotels, each selected for its architectural vision, extraordinary dining programmes, exceptional wellness experiences and integration with nature or heritage. The list makes clear that the future of luxury hospitality lies not only in new builds, but also in the thoughtful reinvention of classic properties and the rise of emerging destinations.

As 2026 approaches, these openings are poised to set new benchmarks in design, service and storytelling. They reflect a global landscape where travel is no longer about simply visiting a place, but about experiencing it through beauty, culture and impeccable craftsmanship.