The 10 Countries With the Most Affordable Five-Star Hotels

A new study from Onebed has ranked countries around the world that feature what it calls the “best hotel offerings” – and within it, a list of the ten countries with the most affordable five-star hotels.

What does “best” really mean though? It seems the ranking is based on an analysis of the star ratings of hotels in a particular country, along with luxury hotel density by area in said ountry and the average nightly rates for hotels in that same country. 

These metrics were rescaled and combined into a final Composite Score that’s designed to highlight countries offering the best overall balance of quality hotels (Think: five-star properties) that also offer accessible price points (in some cases.)

The winner of this ranking? The Maldives.

Not an entirely surprising result, when you consider the size of the country and the type of properties it’s known for. Some of the other countries that landed among the top 10 are a little more unexpected.

Read on to learn more about 10 countries globally where travelers can find the best mix of luxury hotels and affordability.

Affordable Five-Star Hotels: 10 Countries Featuring Luxury and Affordability

1.The Maldives

The Maldives sits at the top of the ranking of affordable five-star hotels. This placement, says the study’s authors, is driven by its 141 five-star hotels and an average nightly room price of $922.27 for high-end stays.

With a luxury hotel density score of 0.87 (out of a possible 100) and an affordability score of 33.66, the Maldives achieves a unique balance of accessibility and premium service, making it a leading destination for quality hospitality.

2.Qatar

Qatar earned second place in the ranking with an overall score of 50.52 out of a possible 100.

The Middle Eastern country was found to have a high density of luxury hotel offerings across its total 280 properties.

“The country appeals to both luxury and budget travelers, with rates from $43.92 per night for two-star hotels to $237.67 for five-star options,” says the study. “This range makes Qatar a standout destination for varied budget preferences in the luxury market.”

3.Japan

The darling of 2024 travel, Japan ranks third when it comes to offering the best mix luxury and budget accessibility.

Japan offers two-star accommodations averaging $28.42 per night, with abundant options across star levels. Its affordability score of 100 reinforces Japan’s accessibility for travelers seeking quality at a reasonable cost.

4.Switzerland

Landing in fourth place on the global ranking, with a luxury-focused hotel market and a composite score of 42.12 out of 100, Switzerland is known for its stunning alpine scenery.

The country also offers five-star accommodations at an average of $617.43 per night, appealing to those seeking a bit of luxury for perhaps slightly less then other top destinations.

5.Iceland

A popular cool-cation country, Iceland’s composite score was 41.49 out of 100. The country was found to have 93 five-star properties. The price-point average across these upscale getaways? A steep $1,165.10 per night.

However the report says: “Iceland leverages its geographical allure to attract high-end travelers while maintaining an affordability score of 81.26, making it an attractive option for those seeking exclusive experiences.”

6.The UAE 

The UAE’s composite score of 40.86, reflects its robust hotel sector, which spans 83,600 square kilometers.

This well-distributed hospitality market includes 87 two-star, 303 three-star, 442 four-star, and 331 five-star properties – all of which the study’s authors say showcases a balanced approach to market segmentation.

7.Austria

The unexpected sleeper in the five-star race, in Austria travelers can find top-scale luxury properties for an average of $511.51 per night. The country also features an extensive 3-star hotel inventory of 2,168 properties at $113.67 per night, ensuring broad accessibility.

8.Seychelles

For those who love crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, here’s your sweet spot. The Seychelles, which landed in eighth place with a composite score of 35.53 out of 100 was found to have “a notable luxury hotel density among smaller island nations.”

What’s more, tts five-star accommodations average a mere $488.26 per night, adding to its reputation as a high-quality destination with 188 properties across all categories.

9.Luxembourg

One of the smallest countries in the world, ranks ninth, achieving a composite score of 34.79 out of 100.

The study found that Luxembourg’s hotel market offers “high market efficiency within its 2,586-square-kilometer area.” Translation: Five-star rates average a mere $248.00, while budget stays start at just $85.25, making it a good choice for those seeking luxury on a budget.

10.Denmark 

Rounding out the top 10 countries with a composite score of 33.61 out of 100, Denmark was found to have a “well-balanced hospitality market.” That means the country features five-star hotels averaging just $387.51 per night.  In other words – it’s a country that combines affordability with high-quality mid-range and luxury options.

But you better visit soon. According to the study “Denmark is gaining popularity as a travel destination in Europe.”

This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.