If you’re someone who loves the charm of luxury, the scent of fresh linen in a sea-facing suite, and the delight of five-star service, then your wallet deserves a credit card that speaks the same language. For Indians who enjoy staying at plush hotels—whether on business, leisure, or pure indulgence—certain credit cards open doors to a world of upgrades, free nights, and elite memberships. Let’s walk through some of the best credit cards tailor-made for five-star hotel lovers.
1. HDFC Infinia Credit Card (Metal Edition)
Designed for the elite, HDFC Infinia comes with unlimited complimentary lounge access and top-tier hotel privileges. You can enjoy membership with Club Marriott, offering up to 20% off dining and stays. It also unlocks the LUXE gift card, valid across top hotel chains like Taj, Oberoi, and Hyatt. With 10X reward points on travel platforms and concierge service, it blends luxury with utility. The catch? It’s invite-only.
2. American Express Platinum Card
If global luxury is your vibe, this metal card is your passport. The Amex Platinum offers complimentary membership to Marriott Bonvoy Gold, Hilton Honors Gold, and Radisson Rewards Premium. Enjoy room upgrades, late check-outs, and VIP treatment globally. Every year, you get Taj Epicure membership and a dining voucher worth ₹18,000. Their concierge service can even book hard-to-get suites for you.
3. Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
Axis Magnus is for the frequent traveler who enjoys premium stays but also expects value. It provides complimentary domestic and international lounge access, along with hotel privileges via Agoda, Booking.com, and the Visa Infinite Hotel Collection. You earn 12 EDGE Reward points per ₹200 spent and get monthly vouchers of Taj, Yatra, or Amazon worth ₹10,000 (on ₹1L spends).
Also read: Best 5 Credit Cards Every Indian Student Needs in 2025!
4. SBI Card ELITE
SBI ELITE may not offer the metal feel, but it punches above its weight with value. You get complimentary Trident Privilege Red Tier membership, access to elite hotels via the Visa Signature network, and concierge booking support. While the card leans more toward movie and lifestyle benefits, its international hotel tie-ups and reward points still offer decent 5-star leverage.
5. ICICI Emeralde Credit Card
With 24×7 concierge service and complimentary Taj Epicure Plus membership, ICICI’s Emeralde card is subtle luxury redefined. It provides complimentary access to domestic/international lounges and even airport spas. It’s suited for those who prefer handpicked luxury over generic reward programs and like flexibility across top hotel chains.
Comparison Table
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Hotel Benefits | Lounge Access | Other Key Benefits | Who Should Get It |
| HDFC Infinia | ₹12,500 (waived on spend) | Club Marriott Membership, 20% off dining/stays, LUXE gift vouchers | Unlimited (Domestic + Intl) | Concierge, 10X rewards on travel, Golf privileges | Ultra-premium user who travels frequently |
| Amex Platinum | ₹70,000 + GST | Hilton/Marriott/Radisson Gold status, Taj vouchers, luxury hotel booking support | Unlimited (Priority Pass Global) | Concierge, travel insurance, global privileges | Global traveler focused on luxury brands |
| Axis Bank Magnus | ₹12,500 + GST | Taj/Amazon/Yatra vouchers, Agoda/Booking.com hotel deals | Unlimited (Domestic + Intl) | 12X reward points, travel concierge, milestone rewards | Value-seeking frequent flyers |
| SBI Card ELITE | ₹4,999 + GST | Trident Red Tier, Visa Signature hotel network | 6 Intl & 2 Domestic/year | Movie tickets, Club Vistara points, milestone spends | Beginners stepping into luxury travel |
| ICICI Emeralde | ₹12,000 + GST (waived on spend) | Taj Epicure Plus Membership, luxury concierge | Unlimited + Airport Spa Access | Health & wellness benefits, low forex markup | Luxury lifestyle user with diverse needs |
Final Words
For the discerning traveler who checks in and chills out in five-star comfort, these credit cards offer much more than just reward points. If you’re looking for a global experience with a touch of royalty, Amex Platinum is your card. If you value flexibility across brands and want a home-grown hero, HDFC Infinia or Axis Magnus would be perfect. And for those dipping their toes into luxury, SBI ELITE offers a good starting point.
Written by Roshni Mohinani
