These European hotels have just been named Five-Star in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2026 awards

Luxury properties in France, Montenegro, Spain and Switzerland are among the latest European winners in the 2026 Star Awards, which also marked the first-ever Five-Star cruise ship

Several European hotels have been elevated to Five-Star status in the 2026 Star Awards released by Forbes Travel Guide, with new top ratings awarded in France, Montenegro, Spain and Switzerland.

The Maybourne Riviera on the Côte d’Azur was named a new Five-Star property, alongside One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro. In Spain, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona secured Five-Star recognition, while Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich joined the top tier in Switzerland.

The awards, now in their 68th year, span more than 100 countries. Across all categories, 343 hotels worldwide hold Five-Star status for 2026.

Elsewhere in Europe, Edinburgh’s 100 Princes Street and The Charleston Place in Charleston were awarded Four-Star status, reflecting growth in recognition for properties outside traditional capital-city luxury markets.

Beyond Europe, the guide named Ilma, operated by The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, as the first cruise ship ever to receive a Five-Star rating. Le Voyage aboard Celebrity Xcel, overseen by chef Daniel Boulud, became the first cruise ship restaurant to earn Five-Star status.

Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, said: “Forbes Travel Guide’s newest Star Award winners showcase an exciting evolution in luxury. As guests navigate the increasingly complex travel landscape for the best places to stay, sail, dine and spa, we are proud to provide them with the trusted, integrity-based guidance they need. The 2026 list showcases properties deeply committed to delivering consistent and reliable world-class experiences.”

Forbes Travel Guide said its ratings are determined by anonymous inspections, with service accounting for 70 per cent of a property’s overall score.

READ MORE: ‘Marriott strengthens South African portfolio with new Autograph Collection hotel in Cape Town’. Marriott’s Autograph Collection has entered the Cape Town market with a new 90-room hotel in Camps Bay, signalling continued confidence in the city’s hospitality and real estate sectors.

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_{Main image: The Maybourne Riviera on the Côte d’Azur, among Europe’s latest Five-Star winners in the 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards. Credit: Forbes Travel Guide}