American Express has 2 complimentary programs for booking hotels: Fine Hotels + Resorts and the Hotel Collection. The distinctions between the 2 are plentiful, but generally, the nicest and most opulent hotels will fall within the Fine Hotels + Resorts.
In this guide, we’ll be looking at the properties that Amex has picked to be a part of the Fine Hotels + Resorts program, available only to cardholders of The Platinum Card® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, or Centurion® Card from American Express. Excitingly, Those who hold the Amex Platinum Card also receive a $200 credit each year when booking with Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection.
As you’ll find out, Amex regularly provides tremendous value when booking these properties, including benefits like the third night free, daily breakfast for 2, and much more.
Benefits of Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts
When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts, you’ll receive all of these amazing benefits:
- Room upgrade upon arrival, when available
- Daily breakfast for 2 people
- Guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout
- Noon check-in, when available
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Unique property amenity, such as a spa or food and beverage credit valued at a minimum of $100.
These benefits are fantastic and can go a long way in lessening the bill at the end of your hotel stay. Also, you can often stack existing hotel elite status with Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits, which is a surefire way to truly maximize your benefits at Fine Hotels + Resorts.
You’ll get the entire suite of benefits even if you stay only 1 night at the property!
Hot Tip: Our guide comparing American Express Hotel Collection vs. Fine Hotels + Resorts reviews each program and how they both could save you money.
Fine Hotels + Resorts Special Offers
American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts provides Special Offers, which add even more value to your trip. Typically, you’ll get complimentary nights after a minimum stay, from as little as a complimentary third night to a complimentary fifth night.
This literally adds another 20-33% savings on top of everything else you’re getting, which is seriously jaw-dropping. Other offers include receiving additional property credits ranging from $100 all the way up to $1,200!
The terms of Special Offers are limited by:
- Booking date ranges
- Stay date ranges
- Minimum night stays
- Specific properties
In other words, you must book within a certain timeframe for travel within a certain timeframe for a minimum stay at specific properties to qualify. Nonetheless, there are so many of these Special Offers that you’ll most definitely find even more value.
If you can do so, the best way to truly maximize the Fine Hotels + Resorts Program is to book a Fine Hotels + Resorts with a Special Offer and double-dipping your hotel elite status to elevate your hotel experiences to a level above everyone else.
In the best-case scenario, you could get double or triple upgraded from stacking hotel elite statuses, free food for your stay, and even get a third night free! The possibilities are endless.
Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)
Let’s jump into our top picks of the best properties you can book using AmexTravel.com.
The 26 Best Fine Hotels + Resorts You Can Book for Max Value
When it comes to Fine Hotels + Resorts, there are a ton of options out there. We did all the homework and identified the top properties with excellent reviews, top-notch locations, fantastic service, and provide first-rate value for your money.
1. Conrad Maldives
The Conrad Maldives is one of the top hotels in the Maldives. Additionally, it’s certainly one of the top points hotels in the Maldives. Arguably, if you use the Fine Hotels + Resorts, the Conrad Maldives is the best value hotel in the country.
This is considering the fact that you’ll get a complimentary lunch or dinner for 2 people per room, excluding alcoholic beverages, taxes, and gratuities, once during your stay. When you think about how expensive food is in the Maldives, this benefit could be worth $300+ alone.
Also, villas start at 925 square feet, amenities are abundant, and service is top-notch. With such an amazing set of perks, you’ll also be astonished to find that the Conrad Maldives is 50-75% cheaper than other luxury resorts in the Maldives.
2. Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah (U.A.E.)
The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is a waterfront hotel in Dubai, and it is arguably the best value hotel in the United Arab Emirates. This resort is fully loaded with water sports, varied dining options, excellent service, and a 5.0 traveler rating on TripAdvisor.
There are tons of reviews on TripAdvisor that corroborate the excellent value and near-flawless nature of the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah.
You’ll enjoy a $100 property credit which can be used for anything at the hotel, whether it’s food or spa services. Cash rates are very reasonable and hover significantly lower than competitors, even during high season.
3. Baglioni Hotel Regina (Rome, Italy)
The Baglioni Hotel Regina is one of the best value luxury hotels in a mindbogglingly expensive city: Rome. With other competitors at or more than $1,000 per night, the hotel is priced around 50% less.
You’ll receive a $100 food and beverage credit on top of the ordinary Fine Hotels + Resorts perks. Furthermore, you’ll be smack-dab in the middle of the action with an impeccable Ludovisi location. There’s turndown service in this luxury hotel as well.
Overall, it’s an excellent way to avoid breaking the bank when touring Rome.
4. Gran Melia Fenix (Madrid, Spain)
The Gran Melia Fenix located in Madrid is the best value property in Fine Hotels and Resorts portfolio for Madrid tourists. It’s complete with posh furnishings, a famous bar, and an awesome Salamanca location.
Furthermore, you’ll enjoy turndown service and a complimentary lunch or dinner for 2 people per room, excluding alcoholic beverages, taxes, and gratuities, once per stay.
This hotel runs considerably cheaper than the competitors in Madrid, so you’ll get tons of value.
5. Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel (Cape Town, South Africa)
Visiting Cape Town? The 5-star luxury Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is centrally located and offers excellent value for its rates.
Once per stay, you’ll also enjoy a complimentary dinner for 2 people per room, excluding alcoholic beverages, taxes, and gratuities.
At the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, you’ll experience excellent service, a night club, tennis courts, and other free amenities like a shuttle service.
6. Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari (Kenya)
The Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari is a top-tier option for cost-conscious travelers looking to have a great safari experience at a reasonable price.
The spacious rooms start at 409 square feet. Breakfast is included as a Fine Hotels + Resorts benefit, and you’ll enjoy a $100 property credit, too.
Also, suites are very reasonably priced, so you can pay a bit more to elevate your accommodations significantly. Overall, the hotel offers one of the most underrated experiences out there.
7. The Reverie Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
The Reverie Saigon is the gold standard for hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. The hotel enjoys an unbeatable Times Square location in the middle of District 1.
This hotel is adorned with palatial opulence and great amenities to match. Some of these amenities include a spa, outdoor pool, and 5 dining and drinking choices within the hotel.
It’s an ultra-luxurious experience, which hovers around $300 per night during high season. Be sure to take advantage of the $100 food and beverage credit at any of the hotel’s eateries or bars.
8. Pudong Shangri-La East Shanghai (China)
The Pudong Shangri-La East Shanghai is an affordable luxury hotel in the business district of Shanghai. The rooms are among the largest in Shanghai, prices are great, and the hotel is situated along the riverfront of the Huangpu River.
The hotel is a great stepping stone for tourist attractions, though there are lots of amenities and dining options if you wanted to stay and enjoy the hotel or spa.
The $100 food and beverage credit comes in handy for the property’s numerous restaurants, bars, and lounges. Lastly, VIP lounge access is available for upgraded rooms, which comes at an as-available basis to Fine Hotels + Resorts travelers.
Rates are very reasonable, and they hover around $200 at most.
9. The St. Regis Beijing (China)
The opulence of the St. Regis Beijing is nothing to be taken for granted. You’ll be able to enjoy this, along with a slew of benefits, by booking with Fine Hotels + Resorts.
The value you’ll get is astounding when you consider the $100 property credit, the amazing signature butler service, great amenities, unbelievable location, and a prestige exclusive to the St. Regis brand.
Furthermore, your chances of getting upgraded are much higher than in other hotels. Upgraded rooms and suites are not much more expensive than base hotel rates, which hover around $200-$300 per night.
10. The Langham Melbourne (Australia)
When you book The Langham Melbourne with Fine Hotels + Resorts, you’ll receive 5-star accommodations at a 4-star price. Awesome food, a central and waterfront location, club lounge, and great service mark the highlights of this property.
With a $100 food and beverage credit, you’ll enjoy a fantastic stay at The Langham Melbourne, where value is the name of the game.
Paid rates run at around $150-$200 per night, which is a small price to pay for everything you’ll get as a Fine Hotels + Resorts traveler.
11. Park Hyatt Sydney (Australia)
The Park Hyatt Sydney is unequivocally the most unbelievable hotel in Australia. With an unparalleled location to the Sydney Opera House, views to die for, and understated minimalist luxury, you can begin to understand why people pay upwards of $1,000 per night to stay here.
Pairing the Park Hyatt Sydney with Fine Hotels + Resorts is the perfect way to experience World of Hyatt Globalist-like benefits without having the elite status.
All of the Fine Hotels + Resorts perks shine here, from the free breakfast to the $100 property credit. The only catch is that paid rates here are extremely pricey, upwards of $800-$1,000 per night.
12. Hotel Lancaster Paris Champs-Elysees (France)
The Hotel Lancaster Paris Champs-Elysee is the only Parisian luxury hotel bookable in the Fine Hotels + Resorts program that goes for under $700 per night during high season. Paris earns and wholeheartedly deserves its reputation for being an excessively expensive place to visit.
That being said, booking with Fine Hotels + Resorts will go a long way in saving you hundreds of dollars on your stay in the City of Lights.
This particular hotel really personifies the boutique luxury feel, with less than 100 rooms in the entire property, warm service, and a great location.
The $100 food and beverage credit can go a long way, which just adds to the unbelievable value this property provides for Paris lovers. Paid rates are usually around $400-$500 per night during high season.
Hot Tip: Interested in just hotels in Paris? Dig into our guide on the best hotels in Paris for more options.
13. Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes (France)
If going to Cannes is on your wish list, the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes is a great choice. This hotel boasts a phenomenal waterfront location with astonishing city views of Cannes.
In addition to the views, the service is highly refined. The hotel features the best spa in Cannes, fantastic dining options, and a private beach. Be sure to use the $100 food and beverage credit when spotting media moguls and movie stars.
14. Jumeirah at Etihad Towers (Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.)
Objectively speaking, the Jumeirah brand of hotels is known for its over-the-top opulence, architectural marvels, and an ostentatiousness that no other brand can emulate.
The Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is one of the best hotels in the UAE for a staycation. Located in Abu Dhabi, the entire area within the hotel vicinity is dedicated to Etihad operations, and it resembles a city within a city.
The views are amazing, the food is ultra-complex and unique, the accommodations are modern, and there’s loads of shopping to be done.
Also, there’s an entire boulevard dedicated to restaurants, a private beach, huge rooms, and more amenities. Room rates are great, hovering around $200 per night. The only drawback is that it’s not close to tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi.
15. JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa (Italy)
The JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa is one of the top Marriott properties in the world (and one of the best JW Marriott hotels for point redemptions). Located on its own private island within Venice, the Italian hotel promises amazing prices for top-dollar luxury and value.
With a $100 food and beverage credit, you’ll save a fortune in a ridiculously expensive city like Venice. Also, you can enjoy loads of amenities like a free boat shuttle to/from the property, pet-friendly accommodations, and more.
If you go during high season, paid rates are only around $400-$500 per night, compared to $1,000-$1,200 per night with similar properties.
16. Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona (Spain)
One of the best value luxury hotels in Barcelona, the Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona offers an incredible value proposition for sub-$300 hotel rooms in the hot tourist destination.
With an incredible rooftop bar and a $100 spa services credit, you’ll save quite a bit of money if staying here. This is, of course, when you compare it to similar hotels charging $500 per night.
The rooms are on the smaller side, but the value proposition is strong, especially with Fine Hotels + Resorts perks.
17. Shangri-La Hotel Singapore
When in Singapore, you will do best to stay at Fine Hotels + Resorts. Arguably the best value property is the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore. The maiden Shangri-La property offers large rooms starting at 409 square feet.
You’ll have amazing food options and a number of different amenities. Some of these amenities include tennis courts with gear on loan, an amazing spa, infallible service, and a $100 property credit.
When you consider the fact that the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore charges around $200 per night, you’ll see just how good of a deal this can be, especially in an expensive place like Singapore.
18. Conrad Tokyo (Japan)
A flagship Conrad property, the Conrad Tokyo is strategically situated in central Minato as a quiet, luxurious location for Tokyo travelers.
The oversized rooms start at 517 square feet, which is double the footprint of some 4-star hotels in the same city! In addition to the indoor pool, spa, and extraordinary service, you’ll enjoy an elevated $125 property credit.
Often, the Conrad Tokyo is significantly less expensive than similar properties such as the Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons and can go for half the price.
19. The Langham, Hong Kong
One of the best value properties in Hong Kong is The Langham, Hong Kong. In a city where people are forking over small fortunes for hotel accommodations, The Langham, Hong Kong has emerged as the clear winner for value seekers.
The 5-star value and service can be had for a 4-star price. The hotel’s rooms are large, starting at 344 square feet and upgraded rooms get lounge access. With a $100 food and beverage credit, you can also enjoy the property’s Michelin-starred dining options.
The remarkable Kowloon location enables you to experience life as a true Hong Konger with easy access to shopping. Paid rates usually hover around the low $200s per night.
20. Four Seasons Resort Lanai (Hawaii, U.S.)
Without a doubt, the Four Seasons Resort Lanai offers the most complimentary perks and amenities of all resorts in Hawaii.
Although it is an extremely pricey hotel, it recently underwent a huge, multi-million dollar renovation that truly rejuvenated the property.
Also, you’ll avoid resort fees, and almost everything is free, ranging from snorkeling gear to poolside treats to sunglasses cleaning to lei making, hula lessons, and much more.
We have no hesitation in naming this the best resort in Hawaii, especially since the completion of their renovation. Paid rates hover around $800-$1,000 per night, but this is offset by the Fine Hotels + Resorts perks you can access.
21. SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills (California, U.S.)
If you’re visiting the City of Angels, it would behoove you to choose a hotel that’s centrally located. If you’re a tourist in LA, you don’t want to stay in Downtown LA, as the main attractions tend to be around the Westside.
That being said, the SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills enjoys a great central location in West LA, a $100 food and beverage credit, and reasonable prices for a 5-star hotel in Los Angeles.
Also, the food at the SLS Hotel is excellent, featuring celebrity chefs and dining options. Paid rates go for around $200-$400 per night, and you’ll want to stack Marriott elite status with Fine Hotels + Resorts, too.
22. Fairmont San Francisco (California, U.S.)
One of the best hotels in San Francisco, the Fairmont San Francisco is situated centrally in the historic Nob Hill and offers great value.
With a $100 food and beverage credit, you’ll be able to enjoy the hotel’s 5-star service at a 4-star price. Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings at this hotel cost around $300 per night, which is a steal considering how expensive other luxury hotels in San Francisco are.
23. The St. Regis New York (U.S.)
Ever thought about true opulence and luxury? Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to be in an environment that just radiates money and magnificence?
If this fits you, you’ll definitely want to stay in the St. Regis New York the next time you’re in Manhattan. The unbeatable location just off of 5th Avenue puts you right in the middle of the action.
Yet, you’ll find that the flagship St. Regis property is amazingly quiet. This hotel showcases some of the biggest hotel rooms in New York City, flawless butler service, and a $100 food and beverage credit when booking via Fine Hotels + Resorts.
Also, the general observation at this property is that you’ll have a great chance of getting upgraded to nicer rooms, sometimes significantly nicer ones. The only downside is that the rates here are crazy-expensive, upwards of $1,000 per night.
Be sure to enter your Marriott Bonvoy number when making a reservation to double-dip in elite benefits.
24. The Ritz-Carlton, Boston (Massachusetts, U.S.)
The Ritz-Carlton Boston has an amazing location, huge rooms, and features the classic Ritz-Carlton luxury vibe.
With a $100 food and beverage credit and amazing breakfast, you’ll find yourself saving a ton of money by staying at one of the best luxury hotels, if not the best luxury hotel, in Boston.
The rates can hover anywhere around $200 to $500 per night depending on the season.
25. Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole (Wyoming, U.S.)
The Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole is arguably the best property in all of Wyoming.
Offering unbelievable convenience with ski-in/ski-out privileges, ultra-comfortable beds, tons of facilities and amenities like a casino and spas, you’ll be sure to have a blast here.
Just don’t forget about your Fine Hotels + Resorts privileges, including the $100 food and beverage credit you can use to savor great food after a full day of skiing.
With rates at around $300-$500 per night, you’ll enjoy the best that Jackson Hole has to offer with Fine Hotels + Resorts perks.
Hot Tip: Flying with your gear can cost a bit extra. Find out how much in our piece outlining 70+ airline ski/snowboard baggage policies.
26. Conrad Fort Lauderdale (Florida, U.S.)
The last Fine Hotels + Resorts property we’ll be presenting is the Conrad Fort Lauderdale. Florida is chock full of resort properties. While each of these properties has its own individual merits, we find that this property checks off all the boxes.
This all-suite hotel is a 1-minute walk from the beach. The property has great views and abundant amenities and offers top-notch value overall.
There is a $100 property credit that somewhat offsets the resort fees here. All in all, this property goes for around 20-40% less than other comparable properties in Florida.
Final Thoughts
There are tons of unique properties that are affiliated with Fine Hotels + Resorts from AmexTravel.com. Hopefully, we’ve given you some inspiration as to the top picks.
While the general rule of thumb is that you’ll get a lot of value from Fine Hotels + Resorts, make sure to compare and contrast the rates from different websites such as Expedia.
There are many Fine Hotels + Resorts across the world, so you should be able to find a property in most major cities, especially cities like Hong Kong, Tokyo, Paris, and Rome.
Overall, there’s a ton of added value to be had when booking with AmexTravel.com’s Fine Hotels + Resorts. Just remember, you’ll need to either be a cardholder of the Amex Platinum card, Amex Business Platinum card or Centurion card to get access to these properties.
The information regarding the Centurion® Card from American Express was independently collected by Upgraded Points and was not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.