Best Premium Credit Cards of August 2024
Updated August 27, 2024 at 11:06 am
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
All information about the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by Newsweek Vault. The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is no longer available through Newsweek Vault.
Premium credit cards cater to discerning consumers seeking more than just financial convenience—they facilitate a luxurious travel experience with unparalleled privileges and perks. Often outfitted in sleek metal, these exclusive cards tend to carry high annual fees. In turn, they go beyond conventional credit cards by offering large annual travel credits, elite status upgrades, airport lounge access and comprehensive travel protections.
The allure of luxury credit cards goes beyond the travel experience. These premium credit cards earn elevated rewards on travel expenses and popular spending categories, helping cardholders maximize every dollar spent. They offer unparalleled value to savvy consumers who can maximize their perks, which often includes access to top-tier rewards programs where cardholders can transfer their rewards for first-class flights and luxury hotels.
If you’re in the market for a premium credit card, you might be overwhelmed by the many options available today. Our following list of the best luxury credit cards narrows it down to the top 13 options for various needs and cardholder preferences. All of these cards waive foreign transaction fees and offer up to $100 toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits. Beyond that, each card is unique in offering lucrative rewards and opulent perks for a better travel experience. Whether you’re a frequent or occasional traveler, you’re bound to find value in our top picks.
Our Methodology The Newsweek Vault credit cards team determined its list of best premium credit cards using a handful of variables. Factors that were assessed include standard rewards and bonus rates, annual fees and other fees, ease of use, rewards redemption options, unique benefits, introductory APRs and welcome bonus promotions.
Our Picks - Best Overall: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Best for Travel Perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Best Value: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- Best for Dining and Grocery Spending: American Express® Gold Card
- Best for Hilton Loyalists: Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
- Best for Marriott Loyalists: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
- Best for American Flyers: Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
- Best for Delta Flyers: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Best for United Flyers: United Club℠ Infinite Card
- Best for Business Travelers: Capital One Venture X Business
- Best for Modest Annual Fee: U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Credit Card
- Best for Automatic Credits: Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card
- Best for Lounge Perks: City National Bank Crystal® Visa Infinite® Credit Card
13 Best Premium Credit Cards of 2024
Best Overall
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
As one of the best luxury credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Reserve checks all the boxes for a premium card, including a flexible annual travel credit that can be applied to any travel booking and valuable travel protections. The card also earns generous rewards on a wide range of spending categories, and provides recurring benefits that both offset the annual fee and provide a more pleasant travel experience. This card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards, which are some of the most valuable points you can earn with flexible redemption options.
Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve review.
Pros and Cons
- Robust rewards program with flexible redemption options and 14 transfer partners
- A $300 annual travel credit to partially offset the $550 annual fee, plus access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- Premium travel protections, including primary rental car coverage, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, travel accident insurance and more
- Some travel benefits might be similar to your other cards
- High $550 annual fee, plus $75 per authorized user
- Approval is subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule
Best for Travel Perks
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
The Platinum Card® from American Express is packed with generous travel benefits, including over $1,500 in value from annual credits and merchant offers. As one of the most prestigious credit cards listed, it provides a generous welcome bonus, elite status with two hotel loyalty programs and valuable travel protections*.
Pros and Cons
- Membership Rewards are some of the most valuable points you can earn
- Annual travel and entertainment credits can offset the steep annual fee
- Extensive travel benefits include elite status, comprehensive lounge benefits and access to hotel perks through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts
- The welcome bonus is subject to Amex’s once-per-lifetime rule
- Earning points on everyday spending is not as lucrative, with limited category bonuses
- The annual fee is one of the highest of any premium credit card at $695 per year and $195 for authorized users (see rates and fees)
Best Value
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has one of the lowest annual fees compared to other premium credit cards. In addition to recurring perks, the card offers elevated rewards on everyday spending and flexible ways to redeem them. Plus, cardholders and their guests can enjoy complimentary access to Capital One’s all-inclusive lounges.
Read our Capital One Venture X Credit Card review.
Pros and Cons
- Generous welcome bonus and at least 2X miles on all purchases
- Miles can be redeemed for cash back at a flat rate or transferred to more than 15 airline and hotel partners
- Annual $300 travel credit and 10,000 anniversary bonus miles can offset the $395 annual fee
- Limited travel protections compared to other premium credit cards
- Transfer partners consist of mostly foreign airline loyalty programs, which many consumers may not be familiar with
- The $300 travel credit is only valid on Capital One travel portal bookings
Best for Dining and Grocery Spending
American Express® Gold Card
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
While most prestigious credit cards focus on rewarding travel, the American Express® Gold Card earns generous points on everyday spending categories like at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide. Cardholders also earn accelerated points on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com as well as on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com, creating a great balance between rewarding daily spending and travel expenses. The $325 annual fee is also reasonable for a premium credit card.
Read our American Express Gold Card review.
Pros and Cons
- Earn 4X points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X) and 4X points pr dollar spent at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X)
- Monthly up to $10 per in Uber Cash benefit and up to $10 in dining statement credits with select retailers can help offset the $325 annual fee (for the Uber Cash benefit, this can be used on Uber Eats and Uber rides in the U.S. once you add your eligible Gold as method of payment on your Uber account in the latest version of the downloaded Uber App. )
- Top travel benefits, including elite-style perks through The Hotel Collection, baggage insurance plan* and car rental loss and damage insurance*
- The welcome bonus is subject to the Amex once-per-lifetime rule
- The monthly dining credit is limited to just a handful of select partners
- Car rental loss and damage insurance* is secondary to your own insurance policy
Best for Hilton Loyalists
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Why We Chose It
The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is ideal for Hilton loyalists because it offers top-tier Diamond status and generous rewards at Hilton hotels. Cardmembers also enjoy up to $400 in Hilton resort credits annually, along with an annual Free Night Reward and up to $200 toward airline incidental fees.
Pros and Cons
- Cardholders receive automatic top-tier Hilton Honors™ Diamond status, which normally requires completing 60 nights or 30 stays
- Earns generous rewards on dining, travel and everyday spending
- A combined $789 in annual travel credits can help make the $550 annual fee worthwhile
- $550 annual fee
- Hilton points aren’t as valuable as points earned from other premium credit cards
- The annual travel credits are restricted to Hilton hotels, specific airlines and CLEAR® Plus membership
Best for Marriott Loyalists
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant provides benefits every Marriott loyalist wants from a credit card. Benefits include high rewards on vast spending categories, automatic Platinum Elite status, annual Free Night Awards, statement credits and valuable travel protections*.
Read our Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card review.
Pros and Cons
- Cardholders get an annual Free Night Award award upon account renewal, plus a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit after spending $60,000 annually on the card
- Priority Pass Select membership with enrollment and up to $25 in monthly dining statement credits at restaurants worldwide can help justify the annual fee
- Includes automatic Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, plus 25 Elite Night Credits annually toward the next status tier
- The $650 annual fee is one of the highest of any premium credit card
- Annual Free Night Award is restricted to hotels requiring 85,000 points or less (certain hotels also have resort fees)
- Marriott doesn’t publish an award chart, which makes it difficult to predict how many points you’ll need to save up for a free night
Best for American Flyers
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Earn 70,000 bonus miles after spending $7,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
The Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard is great for American Airlines frequent flyers because it provides many benefits typically reserved for elite members. Cardholders qualify for a free checked bag on American Airlines itineraries, inflight food and beverage discounts, priority boarding and airport lounge access. The card also earns Loyalty Points on every dollar spent, plus tiered bonuses for hitting certain milestones every year.
Pros and Cons
- Includes complimentary Admirals Club membership, valued up to $850
- Complimentary checked bag, priority check-in, security and boarding for cardholders and up to eight travelers on the same itinerary
- Up to $360 statement credits annually through transportation and dining partners
- Admirals Club membership only includes access to around 100 lounges worldwide
- Lacks category bonuses beyond spending on American Airlines./Not very rewarding for everyday spending
- Lacks extensive travel protections
Best for Delta Flyers
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve is among the most prestigious credit cards for Delta flyers who want to enjoy elite perks when flying Delta, including complimentary upgrades, free checked bags, priority boarding and Delta Sky Club access**. Cardholders will also get discounts on Award Travel bookings made on Delta flights booked through delta.com and the Fly Delta app using miles.
Read our Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card review.
Pros and Cons
- Earn MQDs ($2,500 MQDs each Medallion Qualification Year and $1 MDQ for each $10 in purchases)
- Annual companion certificate for eligible flights to select destinations
- 15% discount off Award Travel on Delta award flights
- Lacks category bonuses outside of Delta purchases
- Delta is notorious for inflation award prices, making SkyMiles worth much less than other airline miles
- Delta’s lounge network is relatively small and access is limited to cardholders traveling with Delta**
Best for United Flyers
United Club℠ Infinite Card
Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
The United Club Infinite Card is ideal for United flyers who want to enjoy elevated perks like complimentary seat upgrades and Premier Access before achieving elite status. The card also provides complimentary IHG Rewards Platinum status and United Club membership, in addition to generous rewards on everyday spending.
Pros and Cons
- Cardholders qualify for seat upgrades on award tickets, free first and second checked bags and Premier Access benefits
- Includes United Club membership, which typically costs around $650 per year
- Provides valuable travel protections and high earnings in common spending categories
- Free checked bag benefit is limited to cardholders and just one companion
- The annual fee can be hard to justify if you don’t utilize the United Club membership
- United uses dynamic pricing, making award pricing unpredictable and the miles less valuable
Best for Business Travelers
Capital One Venture X Business
Earn 150,000 miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
Credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Why We Chose It
The Capital One Venture X Business is a great premium card for business owners who want to earn valuable rewards with useful travel perks at a reasonable annual fee. This card earns 2X miles on every purchase as well as bonus rewards on flights, hotels and rental cars booked through the Capital One Travel portal.
Read our Capital One Venture X Business review.
Pros and Cons
- Generous welcome bonus where you can earn 150,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 in the first three months
- $300 annual travel credit and 10,000 anniversary miles help offset the $395 annual fee
- Earns generous rewards on daily spending, which can be redeemed at a flat rate or transferred to more than 15 airline and hotel transfer partners
- Extremely high spending requirement for welcome bonus
- $300 annual travel credit is only valid on Capital One Travel bookings
- Balance must be paid in full every month, which is not ideal for businesses that need the option to pay over time
Best for Mid-Range Annual Fee
U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
Earn an enrollment bonus of 50,000 points worth $750 on travel. Just spend $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening.
Why We Chose It
The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card has a mid-range annual fee that cardholders can mostly recoup through the annual credit benefit. The card also offers bonus rewards on hotel and car rental travel that are booked through its travel portal, and benefits like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee statement credit, Priority Pass Select membership and other travel protections.
Pros and Cons
- Its $400 annual fee is relatively lower than other luxury credit cards that offer similar benefits
- The up to $325 in annual credits is sizable enough to counter a majority of the annual fee
- 5X points on hotels and and car rentals booked using the Altitude Rewards Center
- No introductory APR offer available
- No option to transfer points
- Requires being a U.S. Bank banking customer
Best for Automatic Credits
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card
After you make at least $5,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Why We Chose It
Bank of America’s Premium Rewards Elite Credit Card provides cardholders with automatic annual statement credits that can be applied to various purchase categories, like airline fees, lifestyle-related subscriptions and services. Additionally, every four years, cardholders receive a fee credit toward a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application or renewal.
Pros and Cons
- Up to $550 in automatic statement credits across multiple purchase categories
- Welcome bonus available
- Higher earning potential for Preferred Rewards members
- Limited redemption options
- No ability to transfer points to other air or hotel loyalty programs
- No introductory APR offer available
Best for Lifestyle and Lounge Perks
City National Crystal® Visa Infinite® Credit Card
Why We Chose It
The City National Crystal Visa Infinite Credit Card offers impressive benefits, particularly for travelers who want unbarred lounge access or VIP entertainment perks. The value of its benefits, including an annual airline incidental credit, airline lounge membership fee credit and more surpass the card’s annual fee.
Pros and Cons
- Up to $550 annual lounge membership credit with a minimum $50,000 yearly spend
- Modest $400 annual fee compared to other luxury credit cards
- Up to a $350 annual credit for qualifying airline incidentals
- Must apply for the card in person
- No welcome bonus available
- Rewards points don’t transfer to other programs
A Closer Look at the Best Premium Cards of 2024
Best Overall: Chase Sapphire Reserve
Why we love this card: The Chase Sapphire Reserve stands out for its exceptional travel benefits and premium rewards. Cardholders receive an annual $300 travel credit and access to over 1,300 airport lounges through Priority Pass Select. The card earns an impressive 10X points on dining purchases (through Ultimate Rewards) as well as hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel℠. It also earns 5X points on flights through Chase Travel and 3X points on all other dining and travel, making travel rewards quite lucrative. The travel-related rewards kick in after the $300 annual travel credit is spent each year.
Cardholders can redeem their points through the Chase Travel portal at 1.5 cents each or transfer them to 14 airline and hotel loyalty programs for added value. The Chase Ultimate Rewards program is one of the best and most consumer-friendly out there, offering flexible redemptions and the option to transfer points to popular loyalty programs like World of Hyatt and United Mileage Plus.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Chase Sapphire Reserve is ideal for avid travelers who want a flexible rewards card with high earnings on travel and dining, along with practical benefits to improve their travel experience.
Other cards to consider: If you’re looking for a premium card that earns Ultimate Rewards at a lower annual fee, then the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent alternative. This card offers the same welcome bonus as the Sapphire Reserve plus generous rewards in many of the same spending categories. In exchange for a $95 annual fee, cardholders get a $50 annual hotel credit through Chase Travel and access to the same excellent transfer partners as the Sapphire Reserve.
Best for Travel Perks: The Platinum Card from American Express
Why we love this card: If it’s travel perks you’re after, no card delivers quite like the Platinum Card from American Express. The card offers over $1,500 in value and access to the most comprehensive lounge network, including Priority Pass, Plaza Premium and exclusive Centurion lounges. Cardholders enjoy complimentary Hilton and Marriott Bonvoy Gold status and elite-type perks through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts. Additionally, the card earns notable rewards on select travel spending.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Amex Platinum Card is a great fit for the luxury travel enthusiast who enjoys exclusive airline lounges, hotel elite benefits and access to a premier rewards program. Amex Membership Rewards is one of the best points programs available and Amex Platinum cardholders earn high rewards on flights and prepaid hotel bookings—all while enjoying premium travel protections.
Other cards to consider: The Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card are great alternatives to the Amex Platinum Card, since they offer plenty of travel benefits at a lower annual fee. However, if you want to earn Amex Membership Rewards, the often overlooked American Express® Green Card is a great option. It has a $150 annual fee and earns 3X points on travel, transit and dining worldwide. Cardholders also get an annual $199 CLEAR® Plus credit and $100 in LoungeBuddy credits that can be used to buy day passes to participating airline lounges. While the card doesn’t have quite the same travel protections as the Amex Platinum, it does include a baggage insurance plan and provides plenty of practical perks at a reasonable annual fee.
All information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Newsweek.com. The American Express® Green Card is no longer available through Newsweek.com.
Best Value: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Why we love this card: The Capital One Venture X offers fantastic value for the $395 annual fee, including an annual $300 credit through Capital One Travel. Cardholders also benefit from 10X miles spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, as well as 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals. With access to Capital One and Priority Pass lounges, this card is a compelling choice for those who value versatile travel rewards and an upgraded travel experience.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Capital One Venture X Card is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a premium credit card with practical benefits and flexible rewards. Getting your money’s worth is easy, thanks to the annual 10,000-mile anniversary bonus and $300 Capital One Travel credit.
Other cards to consider: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a budget-friendly alternative to the Venture X card, with a lower annual fee and a similar welcome bonus. Like the Venture X, the Venture Card earns 2X miles on all spending. The card earns a lower 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel. This card is unique in that it has a $95 annual fee but includes a $100 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee credit every four years and up to two complimentary lounge visits per year.
Best for Dining and Grocery Spending: American Express Gold Card
Why we love this card: The American Express Gold Card is a great choice for travel enthusiasts who want to maximize rewards on everyday spending, without paying a too-high annual fee.
Who should have this in their wallet: The American Express Gold Card offers a generous 4X points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X) and restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X), as well as 3X points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com and 2X points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. All other eligible purchases earn 1X points per dollar spent. Cardholders enjoy $10 in monthly Uber Cash (up to $120 per year) and another up to $10 in monthly dining credits earned at select partners (like The Cheesecake Factory). This card allows you to explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit to use towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com (eligible charges vary by property).
Other cards to consider: The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card is a possible alternative to the American Express Gold Card, with a $95 annual fee and generous rewards on dining, groceries and travel. Cardholders earn 3X points at supermarkets, gas stations, air travel, hotels not booked through Citi and restaurants, 10X total points on hotels, rental car bookings and attractions booked through the CitiTravel.com and 1X points everywhere else. The Citi ThankYou program has 18 transfer partners, including multiple in common with Amex Membership Rewards.
Best for Hilton Loyalists: Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
Why we love this card: The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card stands out with its premium benefits, including top-tier Hilton Diamond status, an annual Free Night Reward and up to $400 in Hilton resort credit annually. Cardholders also qualify for Priority Pass Select lounge membership and up to 14X points at Hilton hotels. In addition to the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee credit, cardholders qualify for a $199 CLEAR® Plus credit each year.
Who should have this in their wallet: This card is a great choice for any Hilton loyalist who values premium hotel benefits and wants to fast-track their way to top-tier elite status.
Other cards to consider: The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is a great alternative to the Aspire. It has a lower $150 annual fee (see rates and fees) and comes with mid-tier Hilton Honors™ Gold Status, which offers valuable perks like complimentary breakfast and room upgrades. Cardholders can upgrade to top-tier Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status by spending $40,000 in a calendar year. The card also comes with a Free Night Reward after spending $15,000 in a calendar year plus up to $200 in annual purchases at Hilton hotels.
Best for Marriott Loyalists: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
Why we love this card: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant offers an array of valuable benefits for Marriott loyalists. Cardholders enjoy automatic Platinum elite status, an annual Free Night Award, up to $300 in annual dining credits and the ability to earn additional Earned Choice Awards through credit card spending. The card also includes Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment and a $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit on qualifying bookings (two-night minimum) at select hotel brands. A host of valuable travel protections* make it even more appealing to charge your travel expenses to the card.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant is an ideal option for Marriott enthusiasts who want to give their status goals a boost and enjoy valuable hotel, airline and dining perks along the way.
Other cards to consider: Marriott has three other credit cards to choose from, but the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card and Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card are arguably the best alternatives to the Bonvoy Brilliant. The Bonvoy Bevy has a similar welcome bonus and earns higher rewards to a combined spending cap at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets than the Bonvoy Brilliant, at a lower $250 annual fee (see rates and fees). Meanwhile, the Marriott Bonvoy Business card is another alternative but has an even lower $125 annual fee (see rates and fees) than both the Bevy and Brilliant.
Best for American Flyers: Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard
Why we love this card: Thanks to a host of exceptional travel benefits, the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard is an excellent choice for American Airlines flyers. Cardholders enjoy free checked bags, priority check-in and boarding, 25% savings on in-flight meals and drinks and access to exclusive airport lounges with an Admirals Club membership. With elevated earnings on American Airlines purchases and 1x Loyalty Points per dollar spent, it’s a great option for spending your way to AAdvantage elite status.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite is ideal for American Airlines flyers who don’t have elite status but want to reach it faster through credit card spending.
Other cards to consider: The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® and Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® are solid alternatives to the AAdvantage Executive Card, offering lower annual fees, Loyalty Points on every dollar spent and plenty of travel perks. Both cards have $99 annual fees and offer preferred boarding, in-flight savings and free checked bags on domestic flights. While the Aviator Red card includes an annual $99 Companion Certificate when you spend $20,000 per calendar year, the AAdvantage Platinum Select Card provides a $125 American Airlines Flight Discount when you spend $20,000 on your card in a year.
Best for Delta Flyers: Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card
Why we love this card: The Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card is a premier choice for avid Delta flyers, offering exclusive perks like Delta Sky Club** and Amex Centurion Lounge access. Cardholders also qualify for free checked bags, an annual companion certificate and 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. The card earns Medallion Qualification Miles (MQDs) toward Delta elite status.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is the best choice for Delta flyers who prioritize comfort and convenience when flying Delta, and don’t mind the $650 annual fee.
Other cards to consider: Delta has four personal and three business cards issued from American Express. The best alternative to the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card is the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, which carries a $350 annual fee (see rates and fees) and not only earns the same number of miles on Delta purchases but also offers 3X SkyMiles on purchases made directly with eligible hotels and 2X miles at restaurants world and U.S. supermarkets. Cardholders can earn 1 MQD (Medallion Qualification Dollar) for each $20 of purchases card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year. They’re also eligible for a 15% discount on Award Travel on Delta flights booked with miles (through delta.com and the Fly Delta app), along with free checked bags and are added to the complimentary upgrade list with an eligible Delta ticket after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
Best for United Flyers: United Club Infinite Card
Why we love this card: United Club Infinite cardholders enjoy valuable perks like priority boarding, first and second checked-bag free, Premier Access travel services, discounts on in-flight purchases and United Club membership, granting them access to airport lounges worldwide. Additionally, the card offers generous travel rewards on everyday purchases, with 4x miles per dollar spent on United purchases and 2x miles per dollar on dining (including eligible delivery services) and travel. Cardholders also earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) that can be applied up to and including the Premier 1K level and receive an upgrade to IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite Status.
Who should have this in their wallet: The United Club Infinite Card’s extensive benefits can make it a great card for frequent and infrequent travelers alike. If you frequently visit United lounges and have considered getting a membership, the United Club Infinite Card’s $525 annual fee is lower than the $650 membership fee for non-elite United fliers. If you travel occasionally, the card’s 80,000-mile welcome bonus after qualifying purchases ($5,000 in purchases in the first three months from account opening) can give you enough miles to cover airfare for a bucket list vacation or two. The added travel protections and United travel perks can make even occasional flights more pleasant.
Other cards to consider: If you want to maintain many of the United Club Infinite’s benefits without the steep annual fee, the United Quest℠ Card and United℠ Explorer Card are excellent alternatives. Both cards offer a free checked bag and at least 2X miles on dining and United spending. The United Quest card has a $250 annual fee and includes two 5,000-mile anniversary award credits (terms apply) and up to 6,000 Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) that can be earned each calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases). Meanwhile, the United Club Explorer has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year (then $95) and the card’s benefits reflect that with up to a maximum of 1,000 PQP in a calendar year and two one-time United Club lounge passes each year for your anniversary.
Best for Business Travelers: Capital One Venture X Business
Why we love this card: The Capital One Venture X Business Card packs a punch among the premium credit card market with a massive welcome bonus, a $300 annual travel credit through Capital One Travel and access to Priority Pass Select and Capital One lounge networks. Cardholders earn a flat unlimited 2X miles on all spending, 10X miles on hotels and rental cars, and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Capital One Venture X Business Card is an excellent choice for small business owners who want to maximize every dollar spent while enjoying premium travel perks.
Other cards to consider: If you’re looking for a business card with a lower annual fee and welcome bonus spending requirement, consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express or the Capital One Spark Miles for Business. The Amex Blue Business Card earns 2X points on all eligible business spending (up to $50,000 per year, then earn 1X points) and has no annual fee (see rates and fees). The Spark 2X Miles Card also earns 2X on all spending and has a more reasonable $95 annual fee, with an intro $0 annual fee in the first year. The card earns 50,000 miles when you spend $4,500 in the first three months of account opening as its welcome offer, while the Blue Business Card allows you to earn 15,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $3,000 in the first three months.
Best for Mid-Range Annual Fee: U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card
Why we love this card: Cardholders who want to carry one of the best premium credit cards in their wallet but shy away from paying the highest annual fees might appreciate the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card. Its annual fee hits a mid-level spot compared to other luxury credit cards at $400 without sacrificing rewards features or travel benefits. The up to $325 in annual credits is flexible in that it can be used toward travel and dining expenses, like takeout or food delivery.
Who should have this in their wallet: Consumers who travel a couple of times per year might enjoy this card. It lets you earn bonus rewards on hotels and car rentals booked through the Altitude Rewards Center on the occasion you have an upcoming trip, but you can also earn 3X points as a bonus category when using your card in your mobile wallet.
Other cards to consider: The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card might be a preferable alternative for travelers who want to earn 5X points on travel (purchased through Chase Travel), which includes airfare, hotels and car rentals. Plus, its annual fee is significantly lower at $95.
Best for Automatic Credits: Bank of America Premium Rewards Elite Credit Card
Why we love this card: This luxury credit card offers automatic statement credits, that if maximized, are valued at up to the same cost as its annual fee. A unique credit that cardholders receive is up to $150 annually on purchase categories that enrich or bring convenience to your lifestyle, food delivery, rideshare and fitness or streaming subscriptions. It currently offers a 75,000-point welcome bonus when you spend a minimum of $5,000 in the first 90 days of opening the account.
Who should have this in their wallet: Consumers who value the ease of having lifestyle services and subscription costs automatically applied to their statement, up to the credit amount, might enjoy this card.
Other cards to consider: The Capital One Venture X has a lower annual fee ($395) and offers up to $400 in statement credits (a $300 annual travel credit and up to a $100 credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck available every four years when used to pay for membership). It currently offers a 75,000-mile welcome bonus after spending $4,000 within the first three months of opening the account, plus you’ll earn 10,000 bonus miles annually after your anniversary each year, starting with your first anniversary.
Best for Lifestyle and Lounge Perks: City National Crystal Visa Infinite Credit Card
Why we love this card: The Crystal Visa Infinite Card by City National provides the travel perks consumers have come to expect from the most prestigious credit cards, along with exclusive access to entertainment and events, like preferred seating at popular venues and access to luxury golf and country clubs around the country. The card’s airline statement credit and up to $550 annual lounge club membership fee credit (earned after spending $50,000 annually) more than make up for its $400 annual fee.
Who should have this in their wallet: This card might be ideal for cardholders who desire greater access to airport lounges and can meet the minimum annual spending requirement to qualify for the lounge membership credit.
Other cards to consider: The Platinum Card by American Express provides greater access to airport lounges—through Priority Pass Select, The Centurion Lounge and other networks—compared to similar luxury credit cards. Platinum card members also receive various credits and merchant offers related to airline fees, food delivery, rideshares, hotel bookings, digital entertainment and more.
What Is a Premium Credit Card?
A premium credit card is targeted toward consumers with excellent credit and higher household income. These cards come with a range of exclusive benefits designed to provide an improved travel experience. Most premium credit cards have an annual fee of $295 or more, which is much higher than those for standard or basic credit cards. In exchange, they include enhanced travel perks, automatic elite status with airlines or hotel loyalty programs (sometimes both), high rewards on travel spending, access to concierge services, airport lounge benefits and annual statement credits.
Premium cards usually earn transferable points, airline miles or hotel points. The best hotel credit cards often provide mid or top-tier elite status as a cardholder benefit. Meanwhile, the best airline credit cards include elite-type benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding and airline club membership. Premium transferable rewards cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum often hit the sweet spot between earning flexible rewards you can convert to airline miles or hotel points, as well as offering a myriad of hotel and airline-centric benefits.
Nearly all of the best luxury credit cards offer annual statement credits toward travel or dining purchases, which help justify a high annual fee. They also include valuable travel protections like trip interruption and cancellation coverage, primary rental car insurance, baggage delay protection and more.
Both frequent and infrequent travelers can benefit from premium credit cards. They are ideal for consumers looking for an elevated travel experience without actually earning elite status. They can be an excellent value if you make use of their annual statement credits and travel perks.
Should I Get a Premium Credit Card?
Whether you should get a premium credit card depends on your financial situation, spending habits and travel goals. Most premium cards are targeted toward travelers seeking luxury perks and high rewards. They can be a great choice if you have excellent credit, travel often and can take full advantage of the various rewards and benefits.
While the best luxury credit cards can offer fantastic value for some, they may not be the right choice for everyone. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully to ensure that a specific premium credit card is the right fit for you.
Pros
- Generous rewards: Premium credit cards often offer high rewards in the form of a welcome bonus and earnings on everyday spending. If you maximize these rewards, they can offset the card’s annual fee and provide valuable benefits in the long term.
- Premium benefits: All premium cards include premium benefits to offset the annual fee. Examples include travel statement credits, airport lounge access, trusted traveler program application fees and elite status benefits. Some cards even extend these perks to authorized users.
- Valuable travel and purchase protections: Premium credit cards come with some of the best travel and purchase protections. Whether it’s coverage against cell phone damage or trip cancellation insurance, premium credit cards can help protect some of your largest expenses if you charge them to the card.
Cons
- High annual fees: Most premium credit cards carry high annual fees of $295 or higher. These fees can eat into the value of the rewards and benefits.
- Strict credit requirements: Qualifying for a premium credit card requires good to excellent credit. This can exclude consumers with lower credit scores from accessing these cards. A good credit score is typically a FICO Score of 670 and above.
- Credit card application rules: Many banks enforce rules that can limit who qualifies for certain credit cards. For example, Chase likely won’t approve you for a new credit card if you’ve opened five or more cards with any issuer in the past 24 months. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these rules before applying for a premium credit card to increase your approval odds.
How To Choose the Best Premium Credit Card for You
When choosing the best luxury credit card for your needs, it’s important to consider several features to ensure you make an informed decision.
“The best premium credit card ultimately comes down to your personal spending habits and needs. I personally carry multiple cards that provide exceptional value, including the Hilton Aspire, Citi Prestige and Sapphire Reserve.”
— Ariana Arghandewal
Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Annual Fees
Premium credit cards carry high annual fees, though the exact amount can vary by card. It’s important to evaluate your budget and weigh the annual fee against the benefits provided—and whether you will maximize those benefits. While premium cards have high annual fees, they often come with substantial rewards and ongoing benefits that can make up for the expense.
Calculate the value you expect to gain from the card’s benefits to determine which card would best suit your needs. Some credit cards charge fees for authorized users, so you’ll want to factor that into your decision as well.
Rewards
Rewards are crucial in choosing a premium credit card. You want a card that helps you meet your travel goals and aligns with your spending habits. Once you’ve set your travel goals, consider which type of currency will help you meet your needs: airline miles, hotel points or transferable rewards?
Transferable rewards are often the best type of points since you can convert them to airline miles or hotel points. Once you know what type of rewards you want to earn, you’ll want to get a premium credit card that earns bonus points in the categories where you spend the most money.
Card Benefits
While welcome bonuses and rewards are important, a card’s ongoing benefits will help you decide whether it is worth keeping long-term. Premium credit cards often come with features like annual statement credits, free hotel nights, airport lounge access, elite status upgrades and more. Be sure to calculate these benefits’ value and whether you’ll realistically use them each year to get the most value.
Redemption Options
A card’s redemption options are key in evaluating whether it’s a good fit for you. Some credit cards offer airline or hotel points, which are limited in how you can redeem them. You’re pretty much stuck using them for flights and hotels exclusively.
However, transferable rewards like Citi ThankYou points and Chase Ultimate Rewards can be used for travel, cash back, statement credits or converted to airline miles and hotel points. Understanding the redemption option can help you maximize your rewards and get a card that suits your travel goals better.
Travel Protections
If the pandemic taught travelers anything, it’s the importance of having travel insurance. When things go sideways, you don’t want to be on the phone for hours, trying to get your travel provider to issue a refund. With travel insurance, you can submit a claim and get reimbursed for nonrefundable travel expenses. Rather than paying for travel insurance, you can get it free of charge through most premium credit cards.
There’s different types of insurance, including trip cancellation and interruption, baggage delay, lost baggage, rental collision waiver and travel accident insurance. When choosing a premium credit card, you’ll want to compare the different types of travel protections to ensure you’re getting adequate coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Premium Credit Card?
The best premium credit card depends on your own personal travel goals and spending habits. The best card helps you save money on travel, earn more rewards and elevate your experience with elite status and other perks that you’ll actually use each year, often making up for its annual fee in the process.
What Credit Score Is Needed for a Premium Credit Card?
Premium credit cards generally require a good to excellent credit score. A good credit score is considered a FICO Score of 670 and above. Banks may also consider other factors, like your current banking relationship and income, when evaluating your application for a premium credit card.
What Is the Most Luxurious Credit Card?
The most luxurious credit card is the Centurion® Card from American Express, also known as the Black Card. This invitation-only card has a $10,000 initiation fee and a $5,000 annual membership fee.
All information about the Centurion® Card from American Express has been collected independently by Newsweek Vault. The Centurion® Card from American Express is no longer available through Newsweek Vault.
What Is the Fanciest Amex?
The Centurion Card from American Express is Amex’s most exclusive credit card, as well as being one of the most luxurious cards available across issuers. It’s available by invitation only, though existing American Express members can request consideration. Its benefits and features are equally elusive, as Amex doesn’t publicly disclose the Centurion Card’s perks.
All information about the Centurion® Card from American Express has been collected independently by Newsweek Vault. The Centurion® Card from American Express is no longer available through Newsweek Vault.
Is Chase Sapphire Preferred Worth It?
If you’re a frequent traveler but aren’t ready to spend hundreds of dollars in annual fees for the best luxury credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred might be a good fit. It offers a similar welcome bonus as its premium sister card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve, but at a lower $95 annual fee. You’ll also earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel and 2X points on other travel purchases.
Newsweek writer Jennifer Calonia contributed to this post.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
**Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
