These Luxury Hotels Do Turndown Service Right

Chocolate on your pillow is a nice touch, but today, luxury hotels have made turndown service into its own travel-worthy experience. What was once a comforting courtesy has evolved into an elaborate art form that packs mind-to-body wellness. Around the globe, these spots are serious about soothing before-bed rituals.

Portrait Milano, Milan

Originally built in the 16th century as a seminary, Portrait Milano has become one of Milan’s most luxurious hospitality land- marks. Over the last decade, the building was transformed by the Ferragamo family into an opulent estate with baroque- inspired rooms that recall historic Milanese mansions. Turndown service starts with a cup of warming herbal tea and often reflects the many events held in the design capital. During Beauty Week, guests may find face masks and skin- care products laid out for them to try. In the midst of the Grand Prix, thoughtful treats like racetrack-shaped chocolates are a nod to the city’s automotive extravaganza. Aside from themed trinkets, guests can look forward to receiving stylish souvenirs—from Ferragamo fragrances to Italian-crafted accessories—that celebrate the city’s incomparable shopping scene.

Hotel Belmar, Monteverde, Costa Rica

Nestled in Monteverde’s Cloud Forest, Hotel Belmar is one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking retreats. Floor-to-ceiling windows cocoon guests in lush green foliage, while the soft chirps of surrounding birds provide a sleep-inducing soundtrack. Naturally, the turndown practices here are rooted in the region’s healing botanical traditions. Called the “Deep Sleep Ritual,” this sensory experience invites relaxation through meditative breathing and loose-leaf-tea blends. Guests will discover a “good night guide” outlining tips for a deep sleep inspired by circadian rhythms along with a QR code linking to a meditation session. They’ll also find a sachet of tea prepared with calming herbs like lemon grass, chamomile and mint. Harvested from the hotel’s gardens, the blends change seasonally to reflect Monteverde’s slow-paced, sustainable ethos.

Aman, New York

Named after the Sanskrit-derived word for “peace,” Aman destinations are well loved by luxury-travel aficionados. This location further elevates the hotel’s relaxing reputation—offering a spalike sanctuary in a city that never sleeps. Situated in the reimagined Crown Building, Aman blends New York City’s timeless grandeur with holistic wellness. Each evening, the exquisitely minimalist rooms are refreshed with a gift tailored to the length of stay, ensuring that no guest receives the same item twice. Eye masks, crystals and gua shas are among the items offered—and they are always accompanied by a story card explaining their purpose and history. Beyond standard turndown practices, Aman has “Magic Service”: thoughtful touch-ups intended to make guests feel truly cared for, from adding a bookmark to a book to placing a sleep spray on the bedside table.

Ananda in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand, India

A sprawling palace at the foothills of the Indian Himalayas, the picturesque Ananda hotel and spa offers a blend of healing wellness and otherworldly indulgence. Drawing from the area’s roots of yoga and Ayurvedic medicine, turndown service here is highly personalized and leaves a lasting impression. To start, guests are given a Dinacharya kit, with tools to follow ancient wellness practices like oil pulling (an oral hygiene routine using warm oil), nasal drops and foot relief remedies. While tasting bedtime treats sweetened with local dates and honey, guests can browse a menu with bespoke adjustment options. After selecting their preferred pillow fill and aromatic bath blend, slipping into sleep comes easily.

Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located on a stretch of the Yucatán Peninsula known as the Riviera Maya, the Fairmont Mayakoba is surrounded by soft-sand beaches, dense jungle and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling. It’s also near the world-renowned Mayan ruins—ancient towering pyramids that showcase the country’s vibrant history. Fittingly, at this award-winning hotel, turndown service incorporates the traditions of the local culture. Aside from regular gentle gestures—like dimming the lights and placing slippers by the bed—the housekeeping team leaves behind a small worry doll. Known as “Muñeca Quitapenas,” this Mayan doll is believed to take away worries during the night. Guests simply share their concerns with the doll before dozing off to sleep and then place it under their pillow to absorb anxiety during the night. It’s a custom that’s been around for centuries, intended to clear the mind for a restorative rest.

The Dylan, Amsterdam

On the international stage, Amsterdam stands out as a hub of cultural coolness. It is not only rich in history and famously forward-thinking but also brimming with old-world charm and fine-dining gems. This boutique hotel—which boasts 17th-century architecture and a Michelin-starred restaurant—is no different. Turndown service offers an immersive introduction to Amsterdam over the course of seven days, with a special offering assigned for every night of the week. From Tuesday’s Dutch “Klompje” miniature clog shoe to Friday’s handmade stroopwafel, guests are gifted personalized confections and keepsakes that pay homage to the European city. To set the tone on the first evening visit, a curated playlist is prepared, Aesop fragrance samples are provided and a handwritten card welcomes guests to unwind.