France has expanded its list of officially recognized palace hotels after awarding the country’s highest hospitality distinction to six additional luxury properties, reflecting growing competition at the very top end of global tourism.

The new additions increase the total number of palace-designated hotels across France to 33, reinforcing the country’s position as one of the world’s leading luxury hospitality markets.

The designation remains one of the most exclusive awards within global tourism, reserved only for exceptional five-star properties.

Six Hotels Receive France’s Highest Hospitality Recognition

The latest expansion adds six new properties to the prestigious list, with half of the newly recognized hotels located in Paris.

The newly awarded properties include Bulgari Hotel, Cheval Blanc and Fouquet’s in the French capital.

Outside Paris, Four Seasons Hotel Megève, Hotel Martinez in Cannes and Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa also secured the designation.

The latest additions follow a broader review of existing palace properties across the country.

What Makes A Palace Hotel Different

France created the palace label in 2010 to distinguish properties operating beyond traditional five-star standards.

The classification is reserved for hotels considered exceptional based on a range of criteria including service standards, location, international reputation and historical significance.

Authorities also evaluate whether a property has developed legendary status through architecture, heritage or notable guests.

Only a small percentage of luxury hotels ever receive the distinction.

Paris Continues Dominating Luxury Hospitality

With the latest additions, Paris now accounts for 13 palace hotels.

The concentration further strengthens the city’s position as one of the world’s most competitive luxury accommodation markets.

Luxury tourism remains a major economic driver for the French capital, particularly among international travelers seeking high-end experiences.

The growing number of palace properties also reflects increasing investment in ultra-luxury hospitality.

Not Every Hotel Kept Its Status

While new properties joined the list, several previously recognized hotels lost their designation.

Four hotels, including the iconic Byblos in Saint-Tropez, no longer hold palace status following the latest review process.

The removals highlight how competitive maintaining the distinction has become.

Luxury Competition Continues Intensifying

The palace designation was originally created partly as a response to growing competition from luxury destinations outside France.

Today, that competition has only intensified as luxury travelers increasingly compare experiences across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

For France, expanding the list sends a clear signal.

Maintaining leadership in luxury tourism increasingly requires not only history and reputation – but constant reinvention.