Founder / Original Inspiration: César Ritz, Swiss hotelier
First U.S. Ritz-Carlton: Boston, Massachusetts (1927)
Geographic Presence: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania
Price Tier: Luxury / Ultra-Luxury
Loyalty Program: Marriott Bonvoy
Related Brands and Collections: Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

A Legacy of Luxury

The Ritz-Carlton is an international luxury hotel and resort brand owned by Marriott International, operating more than 100 properties across major cities and exclusive vacation destinations worldwide. Its heritage is closely associated with legendary Swiss hotelier César Ritz, whose influence on European luxury hospitality helped establish the standards of personal service, elegant accommodations, and fine dining that continue to define the brand.

The modern Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company was established in 1983, beginning a period of rapid expansion throughout the United States and eventually overseas. Marriott International acquired a major interest in the company in 1995, becoming its controlling owner in 1998. Today, the collection encompasses historic landmark hotels, contemporary urban properties, beachfront resorts, and exclusive retreats.

Montréal – Where the Ritz-Carlton Story Began

_{The Ritz Carlton, Rue Sherbrooke, Montréal, QC}

The Ritz-Carlton Montréal opened on December 31, 1912, becoming the first hotel in North America to carry the Ritz-Carlton name. Located on Sherbrooke Street in the city’s prestigious Golden Square Mile, the hotel quickly became a gathering place for Montréal’s wealthy families, prominent visitors, and international celebrities. Its European-inspired architecture, formal dining rooms, and elaborate social events helped establish its reputation as the Grande Dame of Sherbrooke Street. Following a major renovation costing approximately CAD $200 million, the property reopened in 2012 with restored historic interiors and modern luxury accommodations.

The Palm Court remains one of the hotel’s most celebrated public spaces, retaining decorative details dating to its 1912 opening. The elegant lounge is particularly famous for its traditional afternoon tea, a custom that has continued for more than a century.

Guests are served a selection of fine teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries in an ornate setting beneath its distinctive chandeliers. The Palm Court also hosts a Dom Pérignon Champagne Bar, bringing a contemporary addition to one of Montréal’s longest-standing hospitality traditions.

Personalized Hospitality at Every Level

Personalized service has long been central to the Ritz-Carlton experience, guided by the company’s philosophy of Ladies and Gentlemen Serving Ladies and Gentlemen. Staff members are trained to recognize individual preferences, anticipate guest needs, and provide attentive hospitality throughout a stay. The brand’s emphasis on service extends from housekeeping and concierge assistance to customized experiences and special occasions, earning the company two Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Awards.

Across the collection, accommodations range from elegant urban guest rooms to expansive suites and private villas. Many properties feature signature restaurants, sophisticated cocktail lounges, destination spas, and swimming pools, with some offering exclusive Club Level accommodations and dedicated concierge services.

Landmark Hotels and Extraordinary Destinations

_{The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands}

The Ritz-Carlton portfolio includes some of the world’s most recognizable luxury hotel addresses. In New York City, The Ritz-Carlton overlooking Central Park represents classic Manhattan sophistication, while the Hong Kong property occupies the upper floors of the International Commerce Centre, offering spectacular views across Victoria Harbour. The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto takes a distinctly Japanese approach, with understated interiors and a riverside setting that reflects the city’s cultural heritage.

The company’s resort collection is equally varied, ranging from the dramatic Pacific Ocean cliffs of The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay in California to the white-sand beaches and overwater villas of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Other prominent destinations include Naples, Florida; Bali, Indonesia; and the historic Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in Southern California. These properties illustrate the geographic reach of the brand and the different environments in which it operates.

A Legacy of Luxury

Montréal – Where the Ritz-Carlton Story Began

Personalized Hospitality at Every Level

Landmark Hotels and Extraordinary Destinations

Featured Ritz Carlton Destinations