The Europe vs America Five Star Hotel Differences

5-Star Hotels: A Transatlantic Comparison of Luxury

When you book a 5-star hotel, you're expecting the pinnacle of luxury—impeccable service, top-notch amenities, and a touch of indulgence. But what qualifies as 5-star opulence can vary dramatically depending on whether you're staying in the United States or Europe. From the way ratings are assigned to the nitty-gritty details like room size and staff interactions, these differences reflect broader cultural, historical, and regulatory contrasts. In this post, we'll break down how 5-star hotels earn their stripes (or stars) on both sides of the Atlantic and compare key aspects like amenities, staff, room sizes, and more. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just daydreaming about your next getaway, understanding these nuances can help set realistic expectations and enhance your experience.

The first time I stayed in a 5-star European hotel was my first trip to London in 1992. It was an award trip with Xerox Corporation and we were all booked into Grosvenor House. We were told it was such a luxury hotel that the Sultan of Brunei stayed there despite owning his own hotel down the street. I wish I had taken photos of that room. It was legit rundown and horrible. In fact, it put me off London for a while. The room was dark and dingy. The carpet was thread-bare in places. The room was chopped up with a little cubicle of an entrance and a tiny bedroom. The bathroom fixtures were ancient. The free-standing tub had one of those shower curtain rings around it. I STILL sometimes have to ask my husband if what we experienced was real and I'm not now just mis-remembering it. He always confirms that it was a bad as I remember.

A Grosvenor House room today. Much better, but still rather "classic" looking.

The public spaces of the hotel were elegant and boutique. The Ballroom was amazing. We attended an awards banquet there. We had Sarah Brightman singing Andrew Lloyd Webber songs to us one night during dinner. But, the memories of the room are very puzzling. Grosvenor House is now part of Marriott and has been renovated. I had clients stay there a few years ago and confirmed that it is all beautiful and newer, now. But, I'm not sure that Americans who are used to American-level 5-Star hotels would call the room above a 5-star room by American luxury hotel standards.

How 5-Star Ratings Are Awarded: Systems Across the Pond

The path to a 5-star rating isn't universal; it's shaped by who does the evaluating and what criteria they prioritize. This is often a surprise to discerning American travelers who may not feel that the 5-star hotel in Europe lives up to their 5-star ideals. They actually ARE in a 5-star hotel, it's just designated a 5-star hotel under different criteria.

European 5-Star hotels are often historic or boutique properties with more compact rooms.

In the United States, hotel ratings are primarily handled by private organizations rather than government bodies. Two major players are Forbes Travel Guide, which awards stars based on rigorous inspections focusing on service, facilities, and guest experience, and AAA, which uses a diamond system (where five diamonds equate to ultimate luxury). These evaluations involve anonymous inspectors assessing hundreds of standards, from cleanliness to personalized touches. Hotels must apply and often pay fees for consideration, and the emphasis is heavily on the overall guest journey, including "choreographed spontaneity" in service. This privatized approach allows for flexibility but can lead to inconsistencies across states.

In contrast, Europe's system is more standardized and often government-backed or coordinated through organizations like the Hotelstars Union, which spans 21 countries and uses a harmonized set of 247 criteria. Inspectors from tourism boards or independent agencies visit properties to score them on objective factors like room size, amenities, and safety features. This creates transparency and comparability across borders, with stars awarded based on a point system—hotels need to meet minimum thresholds for each level. While private ratings exist, the official stars carry significant weight, and the process is less about flashy guest experiences and more about consistent quality standards.

These differing approaches mean a 5-star hotel in the US might prioritize wow-factor service innovations, while its European counterpart focuses on reliable, regulated excellence.

Room Size: Space vs. Charm

One of the most noticeable differences hits you the moment you step inside: room dimensions.

American 5-star hotels typically offer generous space, with average room sizes often exceeding 300-400 square feet, reflecting a cultural preference for bigger-is-better. This allows for king-sized beds, separate sitting areas, and even small workspaces or balconies without feeling cramped. In urban hubs like New York or Las Vegas, you might find suites pushing 500+ square feet, designed for comfort and functionality.

European 5-star rooms, however, are generally more compact, averaging around 160-215 square feet, due to historic buildings and denser city layouts. Regulations under systems like Hotelstars require minimums (e.g., 172 square feet for singles, 344 for doubles in some classifications), but in practice, many luxury properties in cities like Paris or Rome feature cozy, character-filled spaces with high ceilings or ornate details to compensate. If you're used to US sprawl, this might feel snug, but it often enhances the intimate, boutique vibe.

Beds follow suit: US hotels favor larger queen or king options, while European ones might use twins pushed together or smaller doubles, topped with duvets instead of heavy blankets.

American 5-Star hotels often have bigger rooms with more in-room amenities

Amenities: Modern Convenience vs. Timeless Elegance

Amenities in 5-star hotels are where cultural priorities shine through, blending practicality with luxury.

US properties often lean into high-tech and convenience-driven features. Expect in-room coffee makers, irons, smart TVs with streaming, and robust fitness centers or pools. Many include ice machines on every floor, complimentary bottled water, and expansive spas with cutting-edge treatments. Dining tends toward diverse, all-day options, sometimes with a focus on American-style buffets or room service menus heavy on comfort food.

European 5-stars, by comparison, emphasize heritage and subtlety. Bidets are often standard in bathrooms (which are often smaller but elegantly tiled), and amenities might include high-thread-count linens, fresh flowers, and locally sourced toiletries. While tech is present, it's less flashy—think reliable Wi-Fi over voice-activated everything. On-site facilities shine in areas like gourmet restaurants showcasing regional cuisine, historic bars, or serene gardens. There may be a Michelin Starred restaurant on site. Breakfasts are a highlight of European 5-star hotels, often featuring artisanal breads, cheeses, and charcuterie far superior to US continental spreads.

Both offer concierge services, valet parking, and 24/7 room service, but Europe's might include more personalized touches like turndown with chocolates or essential oils.

A European Hotel Breakfast at a 5-star hotel

Staff and Service: Efficiency Meets Formality

Service is the heart of any 5-star stay, but the style differs notably.

In American hotels, staff are often warm, approachable, and proactive—think friendly chit-chat at check-in or quick resolutions with a smile. The Forbes system rewards "pampering" and personalized attention, so expect anticipatory service like remembering your coffee order. However, in larger properties, it can feel efficient but impersonal at times.

European service tends to be more formal, polished, and discreet, especially in boutique or historic hotels. Staff exude professionalism, with a focus on quiet luxury—recognizing guests without overt familiarity. In smaller venues, this translates to highly individualized care, like curating local experiences. Cultural norms play a role; Europeans might prioritize discretion over constant interaction, which some US travelers interpret as aloofness. In addition to providing excellent and formal service, the Hotelstars Union guidelines state that for a 5-star rating, hotels must offer "multilingual staff" at the reception and in other guest-facing roles to ensure accessibility for international visitors. Usually one of the languages will be English, the local language plus German and French.

Other Key Differences: Architecture and Vibe

Beyond the basics, broader contrasts emerge. US 5-stars are frequently part of chains in modern high-rises, offering uniformity and accessibility features like ADA-compliant rooms. European ones often occupy centuries-old buildings, blending history with luxury—think frescoed ceilings in Italy or chateau vibes in France, but potentially with quirks like no elevators in older structures. Americans would never consider a hotel a 5-star property without an elevator or air-conditioning, but it would not be unusual to encounter a luxury hotel in Europe without either of these.

The Old War Office in London was turned into a Raffles 5-Star hotel. This is the main staircase in the lobby

Final Thoughts: Booking a 5-Star Hotel here and abroad

Ultimately, neither American nor European 5-star hotels are "better" but knowing how they are designated as such can help you have a better experience when you travel because you are prepared for the potential differences. As a travel advisor affiliated with Virtuoso - a luxury travel consortium, I am able to book many 5-star properties throughout the world and provide my guests with additional perks at these properties.

These perks are exclusive to travel advisor bookings and may include:

• Upgraded rooms

• Hotel credit per stay

• Included breakfast

• Included Wi-Fi

• Early check-in and late check-out

I have clients who have used these amenities around the world and I have used them myself. They can really enhance your stay. Reach out if you are looking for a luxury hotel for your next vacation. We can explore your options and find you a beautiful property!