Australia's Top 5 Hotels for 2026: Tripadvisor's Best of the Best Reveals the Nation's Finest Stays

Emporium Hotel South Bank

Australia is home to some of the world's most exceptional hotels, offering everything from sophisticated city escapes and luxury beachfront retreats to stylish regional accommodation and welcoming country hospitality. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a business trip, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference.

The Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Best of the Best Hotels Awards recognise the highest-rated accommodation based on millions of genuine guest reviews collected over a 12-month period. Out of more than eight million listings worldwide, fewer than one per cent receive the prestigious Best of the Best distinction, making these properties the very best Australia has to offer.

Here are the five Australian hotels that impressed travellers the most this year.

1. Emporium Hotel South Bank, Brisbane – Australia's Finest Luxury City Hotel

Claiming the number one position is Brisbane's outstanding Emporium Hotel South Bank, a five-star property that combines contemporary luxury with exceptional personalised service.

Located in the heart of Brisbane's vibrant South Bank precinct, the hotel places guests within walking distance of riverside parklands, world-class restaurants, museums, galleries and entertainment venues.

Elegantly designed guest rooms feature luxurious furnishings, premium amenities and thoughtfully selected extras that consistently impress visitors.

One of the hotel's biggest highlights is its spectacular rooftop infinity pool, offering sweeping views across Brisbane's skyline. Guests can also unwind in the spa, sauna and steam room before enjoying cocktails at the rooftop bar as the city lights begin to sparkle.

Exceptional room service, attentive staff and an unbeatable location continue to earn glowing reviews from travellers around the world.

2. The Reef House Adults Retreat, Palm Cove – Tropical Luxury by the Sea

The Reef House Adults Retreat

For travellers seeking peace, romance and coastal relaxation, The Reef House Adults Retreat at Palm Cove delivers one of Australia's most memorable boutique hotel experiences.

Situated beside the palm-lined beach north of Cairns, this adults-only retreat specialises in personalised luxury within an intimate tropical setting.

Guests enjoy beautifully appointed accommodation, direct beach access and two crystal-clear swimming pools surrounded by lush gardens.

The attentive team enhances every stay with thoughtful touches including complimentary sorbet, afternoon cocktails and personalised guest experiences.

Visitors can also indulge in spa treatments, fitness activities, beach walks and nearby reef adventures before returning to the tranquillity of this elegant coastal sanctuary.

Its relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for honeymooners, couples and anyone looking to escape everyday life.

3. Quest Orange – Stylish Comfort in New South Wales Wine Country

Quest Orange

Located in the thriving regional city of Orange, Quest Orange has earned national recognition for offering spacious, modern accommodation combined with genuine country hospitality.

Perfectly positioned close to the town centre, the hotel provides an excellent base for exploring one of Australia's leading cool-climate wine regions.

Contemporary apartments feature generous living areas, quality furnishings, comfortable bedding and practical facilities including washing machines and dryers, making longer stays especially convenient.

Guests appreciate the rooftop terrace, fitness centre and impressive views across the surrounding landscape.

Pet-friendly accommodation and exceptional customer service further enhance the experience, making Quest Orange popular with business travellers, holidaymakers and families alike.

4. Black Gold Motel, Wallerawang – Country Hospitality at Its Best

Black Gold Motel 

The Black Gold Motel in Wallerawang proves that outstanding accommodation is not limited to major cities.

Located near the spectacular Blue Mountains in regional New South Wales, this family-owned property has built an outstanding reputation for warm hospitality, comfortable accommodation and excellent value.

The motel combines modern conveniences with a welcoming atmosphere, providing spacious rooms, quality facilities and thoughtful service that consistently exceed guest expectations.

Its lounge and restaurant are well regarded for delicious meals prepared using quality ingredients, while the friendly staff create a genuine country welcome that encourages visitors to return.

Its convenient location also makes it an excellent stop for travellers exploring the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Central Tablelands region.

5. Quest Robina – Modern Gold Coast Living

Quest Robina

Completing Australia's top five is Quest Robina on the Gold Coast, offering contemporary apartment-style accommodation in one of Queensland's fastest-growing precincts.

Designed for comfort and flexibility, the spacious apartments cater equally well to business travellers, families and extended holidaymakers.

Guests can enjoy both heated and saltwater swimming pools, a modern fitness centre, barbecue facilities and excellent on-site amenities.

Nearby shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment options are all within easy walking distance, while the famous beaches of the Gold Coast are just a short drive away.

The hotel's pet-friendly policy also makes it an attractive choice for travellers who enjoy holidaying with their furry companions.

Why These Hotels Stand Above the Rest

The Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Best of the Best Awards are based entirely on authentic guest experiences.

Unlike traditional judging panels, these awards reflect the opinions of millions of travellers who have personally experienced each property.

Winning hotels consistently demonstrate excellence across every aspect of hospitality, including customer service, cleanliness, comfort, facilities, value and overall guest satisfaction.

Receiving a Best of the Best award confirms that these hotels deliver experiences that visitors remember long after their holiday has ended.

Experience Australia's Award-Winning Hospitality

From Brisbane's luxury skyline and the tropical beauty of Palm Cove to the vineyards of Orange, the Blue Mountains gateway of Wallerawang and the relaxed lifestyle of the Gold Coast, Australia's highest-ranked hotels showcase the country's remarkable diversity.

Each property offers its own distinctive character while sharing one important quality — an unwavering commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences.

Whether you're planning your next weekend escape, interstate holiday or business trip, these award-winning hotels represent some of the finest accommodation Australia has to offer.

Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Awards

Website: https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice

Emporium Hotel South Bank Website: https://www.emporiumhotels.com.au/
The Reef House Adults Retreat Palm Cove Website: https://www.reefhouse.com.au/
Quest Orange Website: https://www.questapartments.com.au/properties/nsw/orange/quest-orange
Black Gold Motel Wallerawang Website: https://blackgoldmotel.com.au/
Quest Robina Website: https://www.questapartments.com.au/properties/qld/robina/quest-robina

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