From New York to Milan and Chiang Mai to Sydney, these glamorous penthouses have enviable amenities and breathtaking views.

Today, it’s no secret that a hotel’s best views are from the top. But before the elevator was invented in 1852, the top floors of many iconic hotel buildings were used as staff quarters. That changed when industrialist Elisha Otis unveiled the lift, and luxury hoteliers recognised that the most opulent accommodations deserve to be housed high in the sky.

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts Penthouse Suites are the ultimate showpieces of a property, packed with bespoke amenities, luxury furnishings, personalised service and, of course, show-stopping views. Whether it’s a 24-hour personal butler or a private fitness centre, Four Seasons has a Penthouse Suite in every corner of the globe to fit every need.

360-degree views of Manhattan in New York, New York

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The highest hotel suite in a city known for its legendary skyscrapers, the opulent, one-of-a-kind Ty Warner Penthouse suite in New York soars 800 feet (244 metres) above the street. Created by visionary architects I. M. Pei and Peter Marino, the suite was seven years and USD 50 million in the making and offers incredible 360-degree views.

The amenities are as impressive as the accommodations. Residents can enjoy all-inclusive services at the Hotel’s L.RAPHAEL Beauty Spa (including the whirlpool, sauna, and anti-ageing and holistic treatments) as well as all-inclusive dining at the Hotel’s The Garden restaurant and TY Bar. A Rolls-Royce chauffeur, 24-hour butler and personal fitness trainer provide customised service.

Penthouse life at new heights in New York, New York

duplex-living-room-nyResidents will enjoy round-the-clock penthouse living at 30 Park Place, Four Seasons Private Residences New York Downtown. Created jointly by Silverstein Properties and designer Robert A.M. Stern, 30 Park Place penthouses will be located in one of the most coveted spots in the city, at the corner of Church Street and Park Place in Tribeca.

Enjoy a private entrance and lobby of sleek black and white marble floors, large walk-in closets, and a polished onyx fireplace. Coffee on the terrace will taste even better with its amazing view of the New York City skyline and waterfronts.

Master bathrooms adorned with Bianco Dolomiti and Chinchilla Mink marble are accessorised with custom-designed vanities. Colorado White marble countertops and backsplash, Gaggenau appliances and solid white oak cabinets by Bilotta make up the state-of-the-art kitchen.

A peaceful retreat in Chiang Mai, Thailand

chang-mai-thailandLocated on the top two levels, these residences offer a luxurious sense of space along with spectacular views. Choose your preferred vantage point from the various sitting rooms, private pavilions, and penthouse terrace – each with its own vista of the Resort’s tropical gardens, the lush countryside or the mist-clad hills in the distance.

The penthouse bedroom enjoys complete privacy, while all three sumptuous master bedrooms come with their very own Jacuzzis. The central dining and living areas offer the perfect space to enjoy collective feasts and merrymaking, with plenty of natural light. The interiors are fitted with all modern amenities and decorated with thoughtfully chosen pieces of Thai craftsmanship – a fine balance of comfort and culture.

Each residence comes with its own kitchen and housekeeper.

The celebrity treatment in Los Angeles, California

la-californiaFor those who demand the very best, the Penthouse Suite at Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel) is the most impressive hotel suite in Los Angeles. Located on the private, key-accessed 14th floor of the Beverly Wing, this three-bedroom suite offers 5,000 sq. ft. (465 m2) with panoramic views from the spacious terrace. Ideal for entertaining, there’s a media room, plus a dining table for 10 with an adjoining show kitchen. The master bedroom includes an expansive walk-in closet and an ensuite bathroom with sleek glass tiles, exotic stones and marble, an oversized shower and a deep-soaking tub. This is truly the ultimate Beverly Hills luxury hotel accommodation.

A fashionable escape in Milan, Italy

milanSituated in the centre of Milan’s shopping district is Four Seasons Hotel Milano, including its desirable Penthouse Suite. A carefully restored 15th-century convent, this fifth-floor European hideaway blends rich Renaissance details with contemporary Italian design.

Recently refreshed furnishings with Fortuny fabrics and Frette linens add modern elements to classic elegance. The 420-square-foot (40-square-metre) Mediterranean-style rooftop terrace offers unmatched views of the classic red-tile roofs of central Milan and the marble spires of the Duomo.

An elegant choice for relaxation or business, the Penthouse Suite offers private access and views of central Milan and the Duomo. Combine it with a Premium Room and an Executive Suite and all three will be connected by an internal, private staircase.

Hidden romance in Paris, France

parisElegant, welcoming and completely memorable, The Penthouse imparts the sense of staying in a private Parisian residence. The Penthouse features luxurious finishes and furnishings, sumptuous amenities, and breathtaking views of the City of Light, including the Eiffel Tower from your own private terraces.

The master bedroom’s pastel blinds, lush white orchids, gold tones and ample natural light compose an irresistible sanctuary. The accompanying master bathroom has an infinity bathtub with jets and a chromotherapy system, so guests can choose just the right lighting for a relaxing soak after exploring the City of Light.

An Arabian oasis in Dubai

In a city known for over-the-top opulence, the Penthouse Suite at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach won’t disappoint upon its debut. Feel like royalty at this one-of-a-kind, 5,000-square-foot (465-square-metre) top-floor Penthouse.

Sit on the large wraparound terrace to survey the magic of the city and the majestic views of the Arabian Gulf, palm-lined pools and white-sand beaches.

Train in the private fitness centre, which will feature a crosstrainer, treadmill, stationary bike, weights set and other select equipment. Then relax in the private steam room and oversized tub, or hire a therapist for a rejuvenating massage in the private massage room.

The suite life near Circular Quay in Sydney, Australia

sydneyThe luxury Presidential Suite in Four Seasons Hotel Sydney features two spacious bedrooms and stunning views of Sydney Harbour from the Hotel’s top floor. Modern art is displayed in the lounge room, which occupies the entire northeast corner of the suite.

Guests in this suite enjoy Executive Club access for two adults, including hot buffet breakfast daily, complimentary Internet, all-day refreshments, garment pressing, business services and much more.

The “Palace in the Sky” in Beijing, China

beijingKnown as the “Palace in the Sky,” the luxurious 730-square-metre (7,857-square-foot) Imperial Suite, one of the largest in the city, takes up our entire 27th floor of our luxury hotel in Beijing. Styled to give the impression of a chic art gallery, the suite delights the senses with high-quality furnishings, finishes and technology.