The 5 Most Expensive Hotels in Europe for a Weekend of Pure Luxury

We all dream of that perfect weekend away where money is no object and the only thing on the agenda is pure indulgence. Whether you are celebrating a lottery win or just want to see how the other half lives, Europe is home to some of the most extravagant hotels on the planet.

I spent some time browsing the Expedia website to find the hotels that come with the highest price tags for a weekend stay. These properties are not just places to sleep. They are palaces of fine dining, art and history that offer service you likely won't find anywhere else. If you are ready to blow the budget, here are 5 of the most expensive hotels in Europe for an unforgettable weekend.

The Gritti Palace glowing over the Grand Canal by night, where 15th-century elegance meets pure Venetian magic.

1. Hotel President Wilson, Geneva (Book here)

Price indication: Starting from approx. €600 per night for a standard room, with suites reaching significantly higher.

If you are looking for the ultimate in high-cost luxury, the Hotel President Wilson in Geneva frequently tops the list. It is famous for its Royal Penthouse Suite which is often cited as the most expensive hotel suite in the world. Even if you don't book the penthouse, a weekend here will still cost a small fortune.

What makes it special is the sheer scale of luxury and security. Located on the lakeshore, it offers panoramic views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc that are simply unmatched. The hotel is known for hosting heads of state and celebrities who require the utmost discretion.

Even the standard rooms command a premium because of the Hermès amenities, high-tech entertainment systems and the fact that you are steps away from the most exclusive boutiques in the city.

2. Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris (Book here)

Price indication: Starting from approx. €1,800 per night.

Paris is the capital of romance and fashion so it is no surprise that it is home to one of the priciest hotels in Europe. The Four Seasons Hotel George V is an Art Deco landmark just off the Champs-Élysées. Room rates here are consistently among the highest in the city.

The hotel is special because it feels more like a private residence than a hotel. It is famous for its floral arrangements which are designed by a celebrity florist and change every week. It is also the only hotel in Europe to house three Michelin-starred restaurants within its walls. You can spend your entire weekend dining on world-class cuisine without ever leaving the building. The spa is another highlight and offers treatments that use champagne and gold.

• Discover the best of the French capital in our Paris city guide.

  
  

3. The Lanesborough, London (Book here)

Price indication: Starting from approx. €1,100 per night.

London has no shortage of five-star hotels but The Lanesborough stands out as arguably the most expensive for a standard weekend break. Located on Hyde Park Corner, this hotel is a masterpiece of Regency style.

The high price tag is justified by the service. It is one of the only hotels in London that offers 24-hour butler service for every single room, not just the suites. Your butler is on hand to unpack your luggage, shine your shoes and even draw your bath. The interiors are incredibly grand and feature hand-painted ceilings and 23-carat gold leaf detailing. It also houses one of the most exclusive club-style gyms and spas in London which is perfect for a weekend of wellness and pampering.

• Read more about where to stay and what to do in our London city guide.

  
  

4. The Gritti Palace, Venice (Book here)

Price indication: Starting from approx. €1,000 per night.

Venice is a city of magic and The Gritti Palace is its crown jewel. Overlooking the Grand Canal, this hotel is steep in history and has been a favorite of writers, artists and royalty for generations.

The prices reflect its status as a living museum. The hotel was built in 1475 and retains much of its original grandeur. What makes it worth the cost is the experience of living in a Venetian palazzo. The rooms are furnished with precious antiques, Murano glass chandeliers and Rubelli fabrics. Breakfast on the terrace overlooking the Santa Maria della Salute basilica is a bucket-list experience that justifies the expense for many travelers. It is intimate, romantic and incredibly exclusive.

5. Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Monaco (Book here)

Price indication: Starting from approx. €800 per night.

You cannot talk about expensive weekends without mentioning Monaco. The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo sits right on the famous Casino Square and is the heartbeat of luxury in the principality.

This hotel is legendary. It has appeared in James Bond films and is the place to be seen in Monte Carlo. It boasts direct access to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo spa and its iconic Louis XV-Alain Ducasse restaurant which holds three Michelin stars. The wine cellar is one of the largest and most valuable in the world. If you want to spend your weekend gambling in style or watching supercars roll by from your balcony, this is the place to do it.

Final Thoughts

A weekend at any of these hotels is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most of us. They offer a level of service and history that goes far beyond a comfortable bed. While the prices might make your eyes water, the memories of sipping champagne on a private terrace in Venice or having a butler organize your day in London are priceless.

If you are planning a special city break, be sure to browse our full selection of guides to find the perfect destination for your next adventure.