Friends, the credit card landscape has completely changed in 2025! Premium Credit Cards aren’t just for showing off wealth, but also offer significant benefits on travel, dining, golf, and shopping. For example, cards like HDFC Infinia offer unlimited lounge access and a 33% return.
I’ve reviewed the top cards using the latest TRAI and bank data, and this post is for you – if you’re a high spender or want to live a luxurious life. Let’s take a simple look at which card is best for you. From price to benefits, I’ll tell you everything!
Top Premium Cards: Which is the most powerful?
In 2025, premium cards like HDFC Infinia and ICICI Emerald are leading the charge. These cards are designed for high-income earners – such as those with an annual income of ₹24 lakh+. They offer lounge access, air miles, and hotel memberships. I’ve selected five top cards that are perfect for travel and lifestyle. The joining fee for each is over ₹10,000, but is waived by offers.
HDFC Infinia Metal: The King of Travel
This card is invite-only, but if you’re a high spender, you can apply. Joining fee ₹12,500 (waived on ₹10 lakh spend). Every ₹150 earns 1 airmile, which is transferred 1:1 to airlines. Unlimited domestic/international lounge access, 50 free golf rounds, and a 1% fuel surcharge waiver. This card offers a 33% return on shopping through the SmartBuy portal in 2025. If you travel a lot, this is for you!
ICICI Emerald Private Metal: The Boss of Luxury Dining and Golf
This metal card from ICICI is super-premium. Joining fee ₹12,500 (waived on ₹10 lakh spend). EazyDiner Prime membership offers 25-50% off on top restaurants in India and Dubai. Unlimited lounge access, 50 free golf rounds, and 24×7 concierge service. Colors are vibrant, and details are sharp even in low-light photos. In 2025, this card offers spa sessions at airport lounges – a feature not found in other cards.
Axis Bank Magnus: Milestone Rewards Champion
This card from Axis is designed for a luxurious life. Joining fee ₹12,500 (waived on ₹15 lakh spend). 12 EDGE miles for every ₹200, redeemable on travel. Unlimited lounge access and a 1.5% FX markup on foreign spends. In 2025, this card offers 50% off on EazyDiner and chauffeur pick-up service. If you spend high, you’ll get money back from milestone benefits.
American Express Platinum: Golf and Hotel Superstar
This charge card from Amex offers elite perks. Joining fee ₹66,000 plus taxes. 50 free golf rounds, hotel loyalty memberships (Taj, Marriott), and unlimited lounge access. This card offers discounts on business/first class tickets through 2025. But remember, this is a charge card – the balance needs to be cleared every month. Perfect for high-income earners who spend on golf and stays.
HDFC Diners Club Black Metal: All-Rounder Rewards
This card from HDFC is versatile. Joining fee ₹10,000 (waived on ₹8 lakh spend). 3.3% base reward rate, unlimited lounge access, and 50 golf rounds. 33% return on travel through SmartBuy through 2025. The insurance coverage is also excellent – from trip delay to baggage loss. If you mix travel and shopping, this card is beneficial.
| Card Name | Joining Fee | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| HDFC Infinia Metal | ₹12,500 (waived on ₹10L spend) | Unlimited lounge, 1 Airmile/₹150, 33% SmartBuy return |
| ICICI Emeralde Private | ₹12,500 (waived on ₹10L spend) | EazyDiner 50% off, 50 golf rounds, unlimited spa sessions |
| Axis Bank Magnus | ₹12,500 (waived on ₹15L spend) | 12 EDGE miles/₹200, 1.5% FX markup, chauffeur service |
| Amex Platinum | ₹66,000 + taxes | 50 golf rounds, hotel memberships, business class discounts |
| HDFC Diners Black | ₹10,000 (waived on ₹8L spend) | 3.3% rewards, unlimited lounge, comprehensive insurance |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unlimited lounge access and golf rounds – benefit for travel and leisure.
- High reward rates (3-5%) and air miles transfer – spend money back.
- Hotel memberships and dining discounts – luxury life easy.
- 24×7 concierge and insurance cover – peace of mind.
- AI-based features like auto reward suggestions in 2025.
Cons:
- High fees (₹10,000+), waived only on high spends.
- Invite-only or strict eligibility (₹24L+ income).
- FX markup 1-2% – a little expensive on foreign trips.
- Charge cards in monthly payment compulsory.
- Limited acceptance in small shops.
Conclusion
In 2025, premium credit cards like HDFC Infinia or ICICI Emerald will turn your spending into luxury! If you spend ₹5-10 lakh annually, benefit from lounge access, golf perks, and rewards.
But remember, these cards are for high-income earners – maintain a CIBIL score of 750+. Apply on Paisabazaar or bank sites and check out the offers. Tell us in the comments which card would be best for you and why?
