Michelin Key - The key to the world's best hotels
From 2024, “Michelin Key” will officially launch in France, marking the first stop in the journey of evaluating and selecting nearly 600 hotels nominated by the Michelin Guide.
The Michelin Guide has long been considered one of the most prestigious evaluation standards in the world, becoming the leading reference for travel enthusiasts. In addition to introducing dishes worth experiencing, Michelin also expanded its influence to the accommodation sector. In April 2024, the Michelin Guide officially launched the “Michelin Key”, marking a new step in recognizing excellent accommodation destinations. This is not only a symbol of quality, but also a measure of prestige and professionalism in the tourism industry. Hotels honored with “Michelin Key” are symbols of luxury and class, similar to the way restaurants are awarded Michelin stars.
Founding purpose
Founded in 1900 by the Michelin tire company, the “Michelin Guide” originally provided information for automobile travel routes. By 1926, Michelin began selecting and awarding stars to outstanding restaurants around the world. By 2024, “Michelin Key” will continue that tradition in the hospitality industry, recognizing hotels that stand out for their design, architecture, service, and uniqueness. This article will help you discover the 9 key elements of “Michelin Key”, from its history to its evaluation method, to help you better understand the new standard for the world's leading hotels.
The birth process
Michelin has been a pioneer in hotel guides since the 1920s, marking its early presence in the travel and hospitality industry in Europe and Asia. In response to the growing demand for a diverse range of experiences from travelers, Michelin has been updating its list of the world’s top hotels for the past four years. With meticulous reviews from its team of experts, Michelin has created an impressive new list, providing clear analysis and recommendations. On Michelin’s official website and app, you can explore more than 5,000 recommended hotels, offering high-quality and diverse accommodation options for every traveler.
Which hotel deserves a Michelin Key?
Over the past four years, the team of experts surveyed more than 1,200 locations around the world and shortlisted more than 5,000 hotels. The list ranges from modern architectural marvels, hidden castles in the mountains, to unique cave tents. Each hotel selected must meet strict criteria to have the chance to receive a “Michelin Key”, the new symbol of excellence in the hospitality industry.
Are expensive hotels more likely to get Michelin Key?
A common misconception is that Michelin-recognized properties are often lavish and expensive. In fact, Michelin Key isn’t just for luxury hotels. With over 5,000 properties worldwide, Michelin caters to every style and budget. Whether you’re looking for urban excitement or suburban tranquility, options ranging from casual to grand can all earn this prestigious title.
5 Globally Consistent Evaluation Standards
As mentioned, price is not the only factor that determines a hotel’s recognition. Similar to Michelin-starred restaurants, hotels must meet strict criteria to receive a “Michelin Key”. This set of criteria has been developed globally and consistently, and includes:
- Excellent architecture and interior design.
- Comfort, quality of service and consistent maintenance.
- The balance between price and quality of experience.
- Unique style, expressing the hotel's own personality.
- Ability to contribute to local tourism experiences.
How are the Michelin Key levels divided?
Like Michelin stars for restaurants, Michelin Key is divided into three levels, each level representing different meanings:
- One Michelin star: A great stay experience, worth trying, offering more services than hotels in the same segment.
- Two Michelin stars: Experience unique, individual and charming accommodation, a hotel worth a detour to experience.
- Three Michelin stars: A special, unexpected and unforgettable stay, worth a trip just to experience this hotel.
Does Michelin Key equal the restaurant's Michelin star?
Just as a Michelin star represents culinary excellence, a Michelin Key represents a high-end accommodation experience. To achieve this title, a hotel must not only meet one criterion but also combine the best elements to deliver a comprehensive experience.
Are there Michelin-starred restaurants in Michelin Key hotels?
A common question is: “Does a Michelin Key hotel need to have a Michelin-starred restaurant?” The answer is no. Michelin has stated that the hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant listings are not directly related. Having a Michelin-starred restaurant in the same hotel does not mean that the hotel will be recognized as Michelin Key. However, in some cases, both designations can coexist.
From 2024, “Michelin Key” will officially launch in France, marking the first stop in the journey of evaluating and selecting nearly 600 hotels nominated by the Michelin Guide. The program will then expand to prestigious destinations such as the United States, Spain, Italy and Tokyo. The list of hotels from these regions will contribute to affirming their classy position, helping excellent accommodation locations continue to shine on the global tourism map.
Photo: Getty Images
