Most of the big, upscale hotels in Las Vegas can be found on the Strip. In addition, hotels can also be found downtown in the “old Las Vegas”, mostly adjacent to Freemont street, and west of the Las Vegas Freeway where Palms and Rio are situated. A few more resorts are also scattered around the city.

Most of the resort hotels charge a “resort fee“. This is an extra fee, often not included in the nightly rates, and can for instance provide wifi, access to pool areas and fitness centers etc.

Many hotels offer “Poker rates”, which mean that you commit to play at least a set number of hours per day. It’s usually in the range of 4-5 hours total per room and will give around 15-20% discount on the room rate. High rollers gambling for large amounts will also often be provided with suites for their stays, but less extravagant gamblers can also get comps and special deals by using players cards that track their total gaming.

Top Hotels

The top hotels provides an exceptional location, design, service and amenities. Value is important but overall experience is the most important criteria.

Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental provides a very sophisticated, modern, urban style accomodation in Las Vegas’ CityCenter where no expense has been spared. Smaller in scale than the casino resorts it provides a stark contrast and a refuge from the city outside. The hotel also has residences in the building. On the 23rd floor you will find the excellent Mandarin Bar and Twist by Pierre Gagnaire. 3752 Las Vegas Boulevard South, CityCenter. http://www.mandarinoriental.com/lasvegas. Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental on Booking.com

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

The Cosmopolitan is squeezed in between CityCenter and Bellagio in what was previously a parking lot. Although it has close to 3,000 rooms in two towers it feels like a much smaller hotel. It has a hip, glitzy, party vibe and is home to the top grossing night club in USA (Marquee) in addition to numerous other bars and restaurants. Our favorite drink in Las Vegas is served at the Vesper Bar and they have multiple restaurants on our list as well. 3708 Las Vegas Boulevard South. http://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/. Book your stay at The Cosmopolitan on Booking.com

Vdara Hotel & Spa

Vdara was originally planned as a luxury residence building, but after the financial crisis in 2008-2009 it was re-imagined as a hotel instead. As a result even the standard hotel rooms have small kitchens and are very nicely finished and designed. Being a smaller hotel means that it’s quite calm and a much more personal service than the bigger resorts although it’s right next doors to the pulse at Aria and Bellagio. 2600 West Harmon Avenue, CityCenter. http://www.vdara.com. Book your stay at Vdara on Booking.com

Aria Resort & Casino

The crown jewel of the CityCenter development and one of the largest hotels in the world, Aria Resort & Casino is truly impressive. Built in an ultra-modern style and blending sleek design and modern artwork, it’s a must see whether you live there or not. Aria also hosts several great restaurants, such as Sage. Review of Aria Resort & Casino. 3730 Las Vegas Boulevard, CityCenter. http://www.aria.com. Book your stay at Aria on Booking.com

Wynn Las Vegas & Encore Resorts

Las Vegas’ own mogul Steve Wynns ultimate expression is an opulence in everything that’s “luxury Vegas”, from the food at the restaurants, to the Jeff Koons art showcased to the world famous resident DJ’s at the clubs and pool parties. 3131 Las Vegas Boulevard South. http://www.wynnlasvegas.com. Book your stay at Wynn on Booking.com

Value Hotels

A value hotel is typically a hotel that is not too expensive but still provides value, perhaps by its specific location or other extraordinary benefits.

Monte Carlo Las Vegas Resort and Casino

Monte Carlo is situated right south of CityCenter in the middle of the strip, with a tram that goes directly to Crystals and Bellagio. The hotel and the rooms reminds of the 90’s and classic fake luxury, but with rates starting at $49 there’s good value for the money and easy access to many highlights. Monte Carlo also hosts one of the best coffee shops in Las Vegas, Sambalatte, the only place to get a proper cappuccino on the Strip. 3770 Las Vegas Blvd. http://www.montecarlo.com. Book your stay at Monte Carlo Las Vegas on Booking.com