In a recent survey conducted by consumer advocacy group Which?, Spanish hotel brands Iberostar, Paradores, and Riu were ranked as the top international hotel chains, outperforming well-known names such as Hilton and Campanile. The list, which includes 37 hotel brands, was compiled based on feedback from over 2,000 travelers who evaluated their hotel experiences across ten key criteria, including cleanliness, service quality, and value for money.
The findings reveal that even major hotel brands don’t always guarantee the best travel experience. Notably, four Hilton brands and other big names like Wyndham, Holiday Inn, and Ibis Budget received low ratings, with the French chain Campanile placing last in guest satisfaction with a score of 57%.
“Hampton by Hilton received low marks for value for money, food and beverage quality, bathroom condition, public spaces, decor, and accuracy in property descriptions,” explained the survey experts.
Wyndham scored only 60%, with the lowest score — two points — in the food and drink category, and just three or four points in other areas.
Topping the rankings with an impressive 85% were three Spanish brands — Iberostar, Paradores Hotels, and Riu. Iberostar won over respondents with “top-notch service and beautiful properties,” while Riu guests praised the buffet and specialty restaurants offering diverse options from steak to sushi. Survey participants frequently described their Riu experience as “amazing,” “outstanding,” and “superb.”
Paradores was highlighted as an ideal choice for cultural travel in Spain, thanks to its hotels housed in the country’s historic buildings.
Other high-rated brands included Relais & Chateaux (84%), Pestana and Leading Hotels of the World (83%), and Melia Hotels (80%). Additionally, Logis Hotels (81%) earned a “Great Value” badge for its average night rate of just £108.
