Top 10 Best InterContinental Hotels In The World
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InterContinental is one of the world’s best hotel brands with a global portfolio of hotels and resorts. Pioneering Travel in over 180 locations around the world for more than 70 years. InterContinental hotels offer luxurious rooms & suites in iconic locations. Brands within the InterContinental hotel group beyond the InterContinental 5-star luxury brand are Kimpton, Regent, Hotel Indigo, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Voco.

Book a room at any InterContinental (or any other luxury hotel in the world) via our luxury travel concierge and you get brilliant extra benefits at no extra cost, plus you still get your loyalty points, just give our agent your IHG® Rewards Club number when you book.

Below we list some of the best InterContinental hotels in the world:

1. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

French Polynesia is known for its richness and diversity, and it is here that you will find the shimmering pearl of the Pacific, The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa (pictured above), which truly takes luxury resort living to another breath-taking level.

Adorned by white sands, swaying palms and turquoise waters, the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is located on Motu Piti A’au which is easily accessible with an 8-hour flight from LAX or SFO to the main island of Tahiti, followed by a quick island-hopping flight of 50-minutes from Tahiti to Bora Bora.

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa offers overwater bungalows which sit on stilts over a shimmering greeny-blue lagoon. The 84 spacious overwater bungalows are decorated in chic, contemporary island style, with touches of traditional Polynesian design creating an elegant sense of place. Outside they all feature a shaded area, outdoor freshwater shower, and large sundeck with direct lagoon access. Inside you’ll find a beautiful living room with glass-bottomed coffee table that showcases the turquoise lagoon and coral fish below which is illuminated at night; a plush bedroom; and beautiful bathroom with double vanity, shower and separate bathtub facing a large picture window that frames wide lagoon views. All villas are cooled with an eco-friendly, state-of-the-art, deep-sea water air-conditioning system, with ceiling fans to enhance the circulation of fresh lagoon breezes and also offer complimentary wifi Internet access.

There are seven categories of overwater villas and suites to choose from, the first four categories enjoy 1,022 sqft. of space, the next level with private pool on your deck increase to 1,507 sqft., while the Teremoana Pool Villa offers an impressive 3,465 sqft. of relaxation area to enjoy. As a starting point, you can choose your views between modern, yet sumptuous Overwater Villas with Beach Views, Lagoon Views, Bora Bora Island views, or Otemanu Views which showcase wondrous vistas across the lagoon and right out to the dramatic Mount Otemanu. The next level up includes your very own 172 sqft. private pool right on your sun deck, here you can choose between: Overwater Pool Villa Beach View, and the Overwater Pool Villa Lagoon View. Finally, there is the stunningly grand Teremoana Pool Villa which is by far the largest with two master bedrooms and larger 205 sqft. private pool, offering the most privacy and exclusivity of all, ideal for up to 4 adults and 4 children.

This InterContinental has also nailed becoming green and is both a sustainable luxury resort, but also cares for both Bora Bora and its people.

In addition to the exceptional Polynesian hospitality and outstanding destination dining, wellness is important here. Electric seascapes frame holistic wellness experiences at French Polynesia’s singular Thalasso Spa. The 4,000 m² Deep Ocean Spa is situated at the very heart of the resort, offering areas for hydrotherapy, skin therapies, state-of-the-art treatments, and gentle energy. The glass-floored overwater bungalows will allow you to admire the marine life during your relaxing treatments, either alone or with your partner. The spa also enjoys a comprehensive fitness center and bliss-inducing relaxation lounge.

There are a vast range of land, ocean, or sky adventures at your fingertips when you stay at this InterContinental resort, including the onsite Lagoonarium, a protected habitat and coral nursery that is home to a thrilling array of marine creatures, rainforest tours, diving expeditions, mountain tours and shopping trips into town, as well as a wide range of aquatic activities, helicopter tours, parasailing, and skydiving.

Our advice is to stay ideally between May-October when you are almost guaranteed sunshine. In the off-season, this part of the world can be rainy.

2. InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu, France

Lyon may not be the first city you think of when visiting France. Paris will undoubtedly be one of your top choices, but Lyon really should be too!

Lyon is the third-largest city and second-largest urban area in France. Lyon’s quaint Unesco-listed Old Town is crowned by an elevated basilica, and from the top of this hill, you can see how the Rhône and Saône Rivers meander through the city. The city’s quays offer a picturesque place for a bite and a relax, surrounded by peaceful water gardens and floating bars. The gastronomy is among France’s finest.

InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu is one of the city’s most emblematic historical landmark buildings and it sits on the banks of the River Rhône. One hundred and forty-four rooms run across three floors and enjoy road-and-river or peaceful courtyard views. The room design is swish with gold and slate color schemes. Duplex suites have double-height arched windows and mosaic-tiled bathrooms with amenities by European luxury brand Byredo.

Following a four-year restoration and new interiors by Jean-Philippe Nuel, the hotel is now stunning. The bar is built in the former chapel and is topped by Le Grand Dome, which soars 105 feet in height. The Grand Dome can be seen from all over Lyon. Epona restaurant offers excellent cuisine in a modern dining room that has views over the river. At the back, there’s a courtyard and garden where you can dine alfresco on warm nights.

A well-equipped fitness room is open 24 hours a day, and guests can indulge in a sauna and steam room. The Cinq Mondes Spa is where you book massages or treatments. The enormous landmark building that houses the hotel is also home to offices, shops, restaurants, and bars, which means that the hotel offers a great base and is surrounded by lively local businesses.

3. Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.

Since 1818, the Willard InterContinental Washington, DC, has played host to the world’s social and political elite. This iconic hotel often referred to as the ‘Residence of Presidents’, has welcomed U.S. presidents, foreign dignitaries and celebrities, as well as hosted many historic moments in U.S. history for the past 200 years.

The historic Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C., lies two blocks from The White House and offers 335 spacious and elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites that exude a unique blend of contemporary luxury and historic charm. The hotel also features a business center, children’s concierge, spa & fitness center, and it is the premier meeting space for social and corporate events in Washington, D.C., with over 22,000 sq. ft. of event space and 19 meeting rooms, including three elegant ballrooms.

Highlights of this beautiful and centrally located hotel include a focus on wellness in the revitalizing oasis at The Willard Spa, where you can soothe your restless spirit with a custom massage or restorative skin treatment. Don’t miss an afternoon in Peacock Alley, where a harp is played, and you can enjoy a selection of teas by J’enwey Tea Company along with savory finger sandwiches, decadent pastries, and Willard’s famous freshly baked scones.

For a light bite, the quintessential French brasserie will come to your rescue with classic French dishes with a contemporary twist for breakfast, lunch, Sunday brunch, and dinner. Offering ample outdoor seating, Café du Parc’s outside terrace is regarded as one of the best al fresco spots in Washington, D.C., and an incredibly popular spot for visitors and locals alike.

Willard InterContinental is also one of Washington, D.C.s most sought-after wedding venues. From intimate ceremonies to ballroom weddings and receptions, you can plan an unforgettable celebration in a legendary setting.

4. Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa

The InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort & Spa hotel lies on a palm-fringed Caribbean island amid one of the world’s largest coral reef systems: the “Arrecifes de Cozumel” marine park. Guests can relax on the white sands, gaze out into the azure blue, swim in the beachside infinity pool, or unwind at Ikal spa.

If you are looking for a beautiful InterContinental Resort near America with a dreamy beach, the Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa is probably your best choice. The hotel offers 218 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, all thoughtfully designed to blend modern elements with classic Mexican accents, as well as lush tropical gardens, a half-mile of private, white sandy beach, and stunning Caribbean Sea views.

Hotel facilities include a 24-hour business center, fitness center, and the acclaimed Scuba Du dive center, offering reef diving and snorkeling trips with expert instructors. For pampering, Ikal Spa experiences are entwined with Traditional Mayan Rituals and advanced therapeutic modalities, immediately leading guests into a world of ceremony for the soul and indulgence for the senses. You can also make use of a Jacuzzi, Polar Pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Beauty Salon, and Temazcal.

In terms of dining, guests can savor gourmet Mexican, International, authentic Italian, or contemporary Mediterranean cuisine in one of the hotel’s four restaurants.

5. InterContinental Cascais, Estoril, Portugal

Located on the famous Portuguese Riviera, the InterContinental Cascais-Estoril offers all guests a unique experience. At this hotel, where all the senses are heightened, the sea seems to enter the room, and the warmth and friendly staff combined with the sophistication of the modern and luxurious interiors guarantee an absolutely unique experience.

The rooms are spacious and bright. The view of Cascais bay is stunning, and guests also have views over the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool and the beautiful hotel garden.

Outside, the hotel’s pool, which combines the tones of fresh water and ocean, offers trendy sun beds and a relaxing setting. The InterContinental Cascais-Estoril also has a brilliant Ocean Spot Pool Bar with newly renovated decoration and a new, refreshing menu.

The Spa InterContinental here is by L’Occitane. Inspired by the nature of Provence, the spa offers an authentic luxury experience, using products rich in natural ingredients. In the summer, there’s a private space where you can enjoy outdoor massages. The hotel’s indoor pool is the perfect refuge for those who want to relax. If you prefer to relieve tension, stimulate blood circulation, or help rejuvenate the skin, sauna and steam baths are always available.

Gastronomy is a special highlight. The seasonally updated menu of restaurant Bago du Vin Gourmet Bar & Terrace is fantastic. Besides fish and seafood from the Atlantic coast, there are influences from traditional Portuguese gastronomy with a focus on the use of local, regional, and national products.

In addition to all these services, the InterContinental Cascais-Estoril has meeting rooms with natural light, offering a versatile venue for all kinds of events, such as weddings, christenings, birthdays, photo productions, meetings, and product launches.

6. InterContinental Madrid, Spain

Set in the prestigious capital of Spain, the InterContinental Madrid offers authentic Spanish hospitality and exceptional services.

The hotel features 302 guest rooms across seven floors, 16 function halls, the exclusive InterContinental Club lounge, a 24-hour fitness center equipped with state-of-art fitness equipment, weights, and two saunas, a Wellness Center offering health and beauty treatments, a 24-hour business center, and the exquisite El Jardín Restaurant.

This family-friendly hotel offers numerous benefits for families that visit Madrid, including Kids & Teens Rooms, the sweetest welcome amenities, a dedicated breakfast buffet corner with children’s favorites, a “Kids eat free” program at El Jardín Restaurant, and Concierge Kids Guide with the best plans for the family.

Regarding dining, restaurant El Jardín, with Chef Miguel de la Fuente at the helm, offers fine cuisine based on a respect for only the highest quality ingredients. Bar 49 enjoys an elegant atmosphere, serving cocktails and national wines alongside specially designed tapas. And on Sundays, guests can enjoy a sumptuous Sunday Brunch that combines the best national and international cuisine with delights including seafood, sushi prepared live, cooking show stations, Iberian, salads, cheese platters, delicious fish, tasty meats, and a special oven to design your own pizzas and delicious handmade pastries!

7. InterContinental Lisbon, Portugal

InterContinental Lisbon is located in the city center and in front of the gorgeous Eduardo VII park. The hotel is a short walk to the landmark Marquês de Pombal roundabout, where there is a metro station and many buses to whisk you to any part of the city.

From the outside, the InterContinental Lisbon building is a distinctive cascading glass skyscraper. As the hotel is located near the top of one of Lisbon’s seven hills, the building’s outline can be seen easily from multiple lookout points of the city. Stepping inside the hotel, there’s a bright lobby with two interesting chandeliers.

On the left side of the entrance is Uptown Bar, the hotel’s cocktail bar, and AKLA, the hotel’s restaurant, while the main lobby area has plenty of lounge seats and just beyond this is the entrance to the InterContinental Club lounge, which I reviewed previously. On the right side of the entrance is the long golden check-in counter with a blue backdrop. The colors are certainly striking!

When we stayed, we had a Classic River View room which measured a generous 34 square meters and had a large king bed in the middle. There was a lounging chair in the corner and a work desk near the window. We had a beautiful view of the Tagus river and part of the city.

There was also a Nespresso coffee machine on a rack near the entrance. The bathroom was next to the entrance and featured a double sink, a combined bathtub and shower with a glass panel, a toilet, and a bidet. The toiletries were from a Portuguese company called Castelbel, and they felt luxurious and smelt great!

As the hotel is located in the business district of the city, it has multiple meeting spaces located on both the first floor and the basement floor. The meeting spaces range from a large ballroom that can hold up to 450 people to smaller rooms for more intimate events. The hotel also has a small gym with modern equipment and weights in the basement. If there is a need for more facilities, the hotel has a partnership with a full-fledged gym and spa operator located just across the street in Eduardo VII park.

AKLA restaurant is open for dinner and features a cosmopolitan touch to traditional Portuguese gastronomy. The restaurant space itself represents their vision well, with the modern furniture contrasting the traditional painted tiles on the wall. The hotel’s cocktail bar, the Uptown bar, is located next to AKLA restaurant and is open at night. The bar features many comfortable lounging chairs and seats, but the highlight of the space is definitely its funky-colored long bar with pink neon lights. The lights gave this superb bar a surreal touch.

8. InterContinental Muscat

InterContinental Muscat is located on a palm-fringed beachfront, with a view of the Hajjar Mountains. This five-star resort is found in the heart of the city’s residential, government, and diplomatic quarter. The hotel itself is full of character. The soaring, seven-level, open atrium in the lobby area is incredibly impressive.

InterContinental Muscat boasts lush green gardens, a 25-meter Olympic-size pool, a free-form leisure pool, and a 900m² Palm Beach Club with floodlit tennis courts, and a fully-equipped fitness center, sauna, Jacuzzis, and plunge pool, as well as a world-class service, all just steps from the beach.

Guests can choose between seven bars and restaurants, including, Mynah’s Edge, the newest social and dining outdoor lounge which serves Traditional Arabic Cuisine along with the best Shisha in town, or why not try Hawaiian, Tahitian and Polynesian dishes in tropical surroundings at Trader Vic’s. Other options include an old-fashioned pub, and Tomato, which has a gorgeous outdoor terrace that overlooks the hotel’s beautiful grounds and pool.

9. InterContinental Bahrain

InterContinental Regency Bahrain is a modern luxury hotel. This iconic destination in Manama is 15-minutes away from Bahrain Airport.

Bahrain, officially the Kingdom of Bahrain, is an island country in the Persian Gulf. The Kingdom comprises a small archipelago centered around Bahrain Island, situated between the Qatar peninsula and the northeastern coast of Saudi Arabia, which is connected by the 25-kilometer King Fahd Causeway. Rich in culture and history, Bahrain is worth a tour to the marvelous old sites, colorful traditional souks dotted between skyscrapers and contemporary urban living.

Wake up in a spacious room to views across Bahrain Financial Harbour. Buy spices at Manama Souq or shop at Bahrain City Centre, a 10-minute drive away. Indulge in a Spa InterContinental or soak up the sun by the outdoor pools. If you book a club room, you will get access to the Club InterContinental executive lounge, which is very good. This is a great hotel to spend or earn ihg loyalty points.

10. InterContinental Hotel in Al Ahsa

InterContinental Hotel in Al Ahsa is a 5-star hotel located near the Hofuf airport and railway station, steps away from tourist sites like Al Qarah cave.

Al Ahsa InterContinental hotel is ideal for leisure and business alike. Decorated with contemporary art featuring rooms and suites offering a view of the city skyline and the vast oasis. The huge ballroom and meeting spaces are ideal for business and weddings. The restaurant serves a range of international cuisines, and the wellness center and spa uplift guests’ experiences.

Don’t miss Pharaonic Night every Tuesday when you can celebrate Egypt’s finest food with a buffet with a variety of dishes prepared by expert Egyptian chefs in an ancient pharaonic atmosphere.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.