In hotel design, staircases often rise above their basic function to become central features that define a property's identity. From timeless colonial landmarks to staircases that guide you to extraordinary encounters — whether it's spotting elephants or swimming with manta rays — these architectural masterpieces offer designers a rare chance to craft visually stunning forms and make sophisticated statements. Here are seven MICHELIN Guide hotels where stairs do more than connect floors — they elevate the entire experience.
Umaid Bhawan Palace, India
Regarded as Jodhpur’s last great royal palace, the Umaid Bhawan Palace shines in golden sandstone and is surrounded by 26 acres of meticulously manicured gardens. Exuding regal opulence, this historic palace offers unparalleled luxury in its most indulgent form. True to its grandeur, the palace features a show-stopping staircase crafted from Makrana Marble, the same material used for the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. As you descend these elegant steps, hand on the rail, make sure to wear something that trails behind for a truly head-turning moment. (Photo: Header Image)
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Designed by Peter Remedios, the staircase at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (One MICHELIN Key), links the lobby and basement floors, which appears as if it’s floating.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Opened in 2014, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is perched along the banks of the Kamogawa River, with stunning views of the Higashiyama mountains. The interiors are a tribute to traditional Japanese aesthetics, featuring patterned motifs by local artisans, Zen rock gardens, and an abundance of water elements, including a breathtaking four-story waterfall. A standout feature designed by Peter Remedios is the staircase that links the lobby and basement floors, which appears as if it’s floating. This architectural marvel draws inspiration from the traditional Kyoto Machiya house — long wooden homes with narrow facades that stretch deep into the block, ultimately revealing a serene courtyard garden.
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The centrepiece of Raffles Hotel, Singapore, is its majestic, perfectly symmetrical wooden staircase that gracefully ascends from the lobby.
Raffles Hotel, Singapore
Since its grand opening in 1887, Raffles Hotel, Singapore has established itself as one of Asia’s most iconic and enduring properties. Starting with just 10 rooms, this legendary hotel has preserved its colonial charm for over 130 years, undergoing only two restorations. As a historical landmark, Raffles Hotel, Singapore is steeped in stories and exudes an old-world glamour that continues to captivate even the most seasoned travellers. The centrepiece of this grand dame is her majestic Grand Stairs, a perfectly symmetrical wooden marvel that gracefully ascends from the lobby. This staircase offers more than just a path upward — it invites guests on a mesmerising journey through time.
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The outdoor staircase at Anantara Golden Triangle allows you to encounter majestic elephants up close.
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Chiang Rai
Nestled at the confluence of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Chiang Rai offers a truly unique experience, blending outdoor adventures with breathtaking natural beauty. But the real magic happens when you descend the wooden steps to your dining area, where you might encounter majestic elephants up close. Here, it's not just about the journey — it's about the extraordinary destination that awaits you, and that could very well involve those majestic creatures at the finish line.
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The suites at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah come with a grand staircase adorned with a regal royal blue theme and intricate railing designs.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai
Often regarded as the most extravagant hotel in the world, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai sets the bar high as the world's first and only seven-star hotel. Located just a 25-minute drive from the Dubai International Airport, this architectural marvel captivates from every angle — whether you’re admiring its sail-shaped silhouette from the outside or marvelling at the exquisitely designed interiors. Staying in one of its luxurious suites offers a special treat: a grand staircase that spans two meticulously detailed floors, adorned with a regal royal blue theme and intricate railing designs fit for royalty.
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The villas at Ozen Reserve Bolifushi feature gracefully designed staircases that lead you from your room to the serene waters below.
Ozen Reserve Bolifushi, Maldives
Beach lovers will be excited by the allure of the Maldives, celebrated for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. At Ozen Reserve Bolifushi, located on a private island within the South Malé Atoll, you’ll find overwater villas that offer a unique thrill: exhilarating waterslides that whisk you directly into the crystal-clear Indian Ocean. For those who enjoy a more traditional approach, the villas also feature gracefully designed staircases that lead you gently from your room to the serene waters below. Whether you choose a heart-pounding slide or a serene staircase descent, every moment at Ozen Reserve Bolifushi promises an unforgettable experience in paradise.
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All images are from the respective hotels. Header image by Umaid Bhawan Palace.
