The Michelin Guide to unveil most outstanding hotels across the globe
The Michelin Guide will introduce four new awards, spotlighting excellence in specific areas of hospitality
The Michelin Guide has launched its first global Michelin Key Selection, set to be revealed from the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, on October 8. Following the successful rollout of Michelin Key distinctions in 15 top travel destinations throughout 2024 and early 2025, this milestone marks the debut of a worldwide selection celebrating the most outstanding hotels across the globe.
In addition to Michelin Keys, The Michelin Guide will introduce four new awards, spotlighting excellence in specific areas of hospitality.
The announcement will be made both online – via the Guide’s social media and editorial platforms – and in person during an exclusive ceremony in Paris.
For the first time, travellers will benefit from a seamless experience that combines trusted Michelin distinctions with integrated booking services, making it easier than ever to discover and reserve the world’s finest hotels.
The Michelin Guide Hotel Selection and the Michelin Keys
Internationally renowned for its restaurant selections and Star ratings, The Michelin Guide has in recent years built an independent global hotel selection featuring over 7,000 properties located across 125+ countries.
Just as the iconic stars indicate the best culinary experiences, the Michelin Keys highlight the most outstanding stays within the Guide’s hotel selection. Carefully evaluated by The Michelin Guide Inspectors following five universal criteria, the Michelin Keys qualify each hotel experience in broader terms than simple amenities, to establish a new international and reliable benchmark for exceptional hospitality:
One Michelin Key: a very special stay
This is a true gem with its own character and personality. It may break the mould, offer something different, or simply be one of the best of its type. Service always goes the extra mile and provides significantly more than similarly priced establishments.
Two Michelin Keys: an exceptional stay
Somewhere truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm that’s operated with obvious pride and considerable care. Eye-catching design or architecture, and a real sense of the locale make this an exceptional place to stay.
Three Michelin Keys: an extraordinary stay
It’s all about astonishment and indulgence here – this is the ultimate in comfort and service, style and elegance. It is one of the world’s most remarkable and extraordinary hotels and a destination for that trip of a lifetime. All the elements of truly great hospitality are here to ensure any stay will live long in the memory and hearts of travellers.
After celebrating over 1,500 outstanding hotels through its initial Key selections, The Michelin Guide now goes a step further in showcasing the very best of global hospitality, with Inspectors currently finalising this first worldwide selection.
Introducing Four New Special Awards
In addition to the Michelin Keys, The Michelin Guide will introduce four special awards, recognising properties for achievements that transcend classic categories, and celebrating excellence and uniqueness in specific hospitality fields:
- Michelin Architecture & Design Award: Celebrates hotels whose architecture and design inspire unforgettable journeys, and elevate the guest experience through a distinctive aesthetic identity.
- Michelin Wellness Award: Recognises properties with pioneering and holistic wellness programs nurturing body, mind, and spirit.
- Michelin Local Gateway Award: Honours hotels that offer guests immersive connections to their surroundings, evoking the character and spirit of their region.
- Michelin Opening of the Year Award: Rewards newly opened hotels that have made an exceptional impact on the hospitality landscape within their first year.
Each Special Award will be attributed to one winning property. The winner will be revealed during the ceremony on 8 October, 2025. Ahead of this, nomination lists (five nominees per award) will be unveiled on the Michelin Guide social media and editorial platforms according to the following schedule:
- Architecture & Design Award Nominees: 13 August
- Wellness Award Nominees: 27 August
- Local Gateway Award Nominees: 10 September
- Opening of the Year Award Nominees: 24 September
