Jump to:
Finding the best hotel in Boston can be tricky, not because there’s a lack of great hotels in this city, but because there are so many to choose from! Whether you want a high-end, luxury experience or are hoping for more affordable lodgings, we’ll help you find the best hotels in Boston.
Why You Should Visit Boston
Sunny Chanruangvanich/Shutterstock
Boston is a remarkable American city, and if you haven’t had the chance to visit it yet, you should. Even if you’ve been there before, there’s probably something you’ve missed. Beantown is brimming with history, culture, and must-see attractions.
Take the Freedom Trail, for example, a self-guided walking tour that highlights 16 historic city sites like the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution.
As you mosey down the cobblestone streets, you’ll get a first-hand view of the city behind the American Revolution and the “Cradle of Modern America,” as the city’s sometimes called.
If history doesn’t thrill you, the food and culture probably will. Boston is America’s seafood capital, and the restaurants don’t disappoint. Whether you want classic New England clam chowder, a modern sushi bar, or high-end oysters on the half shell, you’ll find it in Boston’s food scene.
Then, take your soup, sushi, or oysters with you to the Commons, America’s oldest park. Once used for Puritan punishments, today, the Commons features music, theater, and other cultural events throughout the summer and autumn months.
Or, head to Fenway Park, America’s oldest baseball stadium, and catch a Red Sox game. Alternatively, you could spend a day at Faneuil Marketplace.
Built in 1742, before the United States was in existence, this marketplace has seen everyone from Susan B. Anthony to Ted Kennedy give speeches, and it’s full of shops, restaurants, and outdoor entertainment.
From quaint cobblestone streets to the towering city skyscrapers, Boston has something for everyone. But before you plan your itinerary, you’ll need to figure out where to stay. Luckily, Boston has some of the best hotels in the USA.
The 15 Best Hotels in Boston
Just like the city itself, the best hotels in Boston run the gamut from historical to modern-day. So, whether you want to experience old-world luxury at someplace like the Fairmont Copley Plaza or prefer a more futuristic experience at a hotel like YOTEL Boston, you’ll find it on this list.
1. Encore Boston Harbor
- Location: 1 Broadway, Boston, MA 02149
- Average Price: $400 per night
For the ultimate luxury Boston experience, the Encore Boston Harbor is our top pick. Located just six miles from Logan Airport and offering 360-degree harbor views, this hotel features a salon, spa, luxury fitness center, twelve restaurants, five bars, and multiple retail outlets.
Plus, there’s an attached casino. You might find it hard to leave your beautifully decorated, spacious room, but should you venture out, there are plenty of nearby sights worth viewing.
Within five miles of the Encore’s front doors, you’ll find the famed Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the New England Aquarium, and John Hancock Tower.
2. Boston Hotel Commonwealth
- Location: 500 Commonwealth Avenue, Fenway Kenmore, Boston, MA 02215
- Average Price: $375 per night
With a top-notch location in Kenmore Square, near Fenway Park, the Boston Hotel Commonwealth is an excellent choice for those who want easy access to Boston sights and high-end accommodations.
The rooms here are exceptionally comfortable, and the hotel excels in hospitality. They offer snacks at check-in, complimentary drinking water in each room, and every room has its own mini-fridge.
In addition, there’s in-room dining service and a full restaurant off the lobby featuring handmade Udon noodles and innovative cocktails.
The Boston Hotel Commonwealth is less than a mile from the Hynes Convention center and provides easy access to public transportation. So, if you want to see the city in full, this hotel’s in the perfect location.
3. Fairmont Copley Plaza
- Location: 138 Saint James Avenue, Back Bay, Boston, MA 02116
- Average Price: $700 per night
If you’re a fan of history who loves a bit of grandeur, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is the best hotel in Boston. This hotel opened in 1912 as a luxury property, and it remains so today.
With its grand ballroom, spacious guest rooms, and one of the best restaurants in the city, it’s hard to beat this hotel.
This four-diamond property is pet friendly as well. Plus, it’s located in the historic Boston Back Bay district near some of the best shops and restaurants in the city.
4. The Eliot Suite Hotel
- Location: 370 Commonwealth Avenue, Back Bay, Boston, MA 02215
- Average Price: $550 per night
The Eliot Suite Hotel is located in the beautiful Back Bay Boston neighborhood, just steps away from the city’s top shops and restaurants. Built in 1927, this historic hotel offers a taste of French elegance with its 95 Paris-inspired rooms.
Spacious and beautiful, you may never want to leave your suite. When you do venture out to explore the city, the hotel’s knowledgeable and attentive staff can help you plan your day.
But, you’ll probably want to end things back at the hotel, enjoying their James Beard Award-winning restaurant, Uni. There, you’ll find globally-inspired street foods and superb craft cocktails.
5. Intercontinental Boston
- Location: 510 Atlantic Avenue, Waterfront, Boston, MA 02210
- Average Price: $450 per night
If you’re looking for a waterfront, luxury experience in Boston, the newly renovated Intercontinental Boston is the perfect place to stay. This hotel features large rooms with exceptionally comfortable beds, big bathtubs, and excellent views of Fort Port Channel.
The Intercontinental Boston is centrally located in the city and in a great area for walking.
You can easily get to some of the city’s top spots, including the Boston Convention Center and the Boston Children’s Museum. Plus, it’s within walking distance of the T, Boston’s subway, which can easily get you to the rest of the city.
6. Hampton Inn Boston Logan Airport
- Location: 230 Lee Burbank Highway, Boston, MA 02151
- Average Price: $300 per night
The Hampton Inn Boston at Logan Airport is a convenient, moderately priced place to stay with excellent amenities and comfortable rooms. The hotel features a pool, hot tub, 24-hour airport shuttle, and complimentary hot breakfast.
It also offers snacks and beverages for purchase at the front desk in addition to its bar and restaurant.
Staying at the Hampton Inn is certainly convenient if you’re flying into the city, and it’s not far from other attractions like the New England Aquarium and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. John Hancock Tower and Copley Square also aren’t too far away.
7. Ramada by Wyndham Boston
- Location: 800 Morrissey Boulevard, Dorchester, Boston, MA 0212
- Average Price: $300 per night
For a top-quality, family-friendly hotel within walking distance to the water and less than six miles from both the convention center and Fenway Park, the Ramada by Wyndham Boston is a perfect place to stay.
This hotel offers a business center, full laundry facilities, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor saltwater pool. They also offer shuttle services to both the airport and local attractions.
At the Ramada by Wyndham, you’re within minutes of the Franklin Park Zoo, Boston Children’s Museum, and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. And though Dorchester is sometimes listed as a not-so-great neighborhood, the area that houses this hotel is okay for tourists.
8. Harborside Inn
- Location: 185 State Street, Financial District, Boston, MA 02109
- Average Price: $300 per night
The Harborside Inn is a boutique hotel in Boston’s financial district, close to Downtown. Their less is more philosophy allows them to offer more affordable rates, despite their central location and high-end vibe.
So, though you’ll experience a smaller room size at this hotel and fewer amenities, it’s still incredibly comfortable, and the staff will do everything possible to ensure your stay is excellent.
This hotel is within walking distance of the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and the convention center. It’s also only steps away from public transportation that can get you everywhere else!
9. Courtyard by Marriott Boston Logan Airport
- Location: 225 William F. McClellan Highway, East Boston, Boston, MA 02128
- Average Price: $300 per night
The Courtyard by Marriott Boston is conveniently located near Logan International Airport and not far from all the downtown attractions. The hotel offers a 24-hour airport shuttle service and free public parking, making it easy to get around.
The rooms here aren’t overly exciting, but they are spacious, comfortable, and clean. The hotel also features a garden area, an American-style restaurant, and a modern lounge where you can enjoy a cocktail after your day in town.
10. YOTEL Boston
- Location: 65 Seaport Boulevard, Waterfront, Boston, MA 02210
- Average Price: $350 per night
The YOTEL Boston is in Boston’s seaport district, close to the water and popular sites like the Boston Children’s Museum and New England Aquarium.
This futuristic hotel provides a tech-driven experience with features like contactless check-in and super-fast Wi-Fi. They even have a robot that responds to guest requests and can deliver necessary items, like extra towels, to your room.
The rooms are on the small side, but their amenities are fantastic. The hotel offers heated towel racks, monsoon showers, and exceptionally comfortable beds.
11. Doubletree by Hilton Boston Bayside
- Location: 240 Mount Vernon Street, Dorchester, Boston, MA 02125
- Average Price: $250 per night
For an affordable hotel that’s close to the beach, the Doubletree by Hilton Boston Bayside is the perfect place to stay. The beach is a six-minute walk away, and an underground station isn’t much further, allowing you to catch a train to any part of the city.
The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to the airport and to the city’s center. Plus, there’s a free hot breakfast that tends to impress guests. Many users rave about how unexpectedly good it is.
12. Holiday Inn Express Boston
- Location: 69 Boston Street, Dorchester, Boston, MA 02125
- Average Price: $250 per night
The Holiday Inn Express Boston offers exceptional affordability within walking distance of the beach and other landmarks. This hotel is less than six miles from Logan International Airport and also close to the theater district, Chinatown, and the Hynes Convention Center.
Plus, it’s only a short walk to the nearest T station, allowing you to access the rest of the city easily.
The hotel itself is fairly no-frills, but you’ll receive a complimentary hot breakfast during your stay. There’s also a refrigerator and microwave in every room so you can easily store and reheat leftovers from Boston’s best restaurants.
13. Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel
- Location:606 Congress Street, Waterfront, Boston, MA 02210
- Average Price: $250 per night
The Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel is a Marriott property that provides affordable waterfront accommodations less than 1,500 feet from the Boston Convention Center.
It’s also within walking distance of the aquarium and several other harbor attractions. And, if you prefer not to walk, you can always take a water taxi up and down the seaport district!
Along with an excellent location, this hotel offers an indoor swimming pool, hotel library, and an on-site restaurant. They also provide goose-down duvets, marble bathrooms, and access to entertainment platforms like Netflix and Hulu.
14. Comfort Inn Boston
- Location: 900 William T. Morrissey Boulevard, Dorchester, Boston, MA 02122
- Average Price: $175 per night
Comfort Inn Boston offers budget-friendly, family-oriented accommodations within walking distance of the beach. On-site, you’ll find an expansive family fun center that features bowling lands, billiards, and classic arcade games.
There’s also an outdoor swimming pool that kids are sure to love. This hotel is about a 15-minute drive from some of Boston’s top sites, like Fenway Park.
But it’s relatively close to other attractions like the Boston Children’s Museum. They offer a complimentary airport shuttle and a free hot breakfast.
15. Best Western Plus Waltham Boston
- Location: 380 Winter Street, Waltham, MA 02451
- Average Price: $200 per night
If you need an affordable place to stay near many of Boston’s corporate offices, look no further than the Best Western Plus Waltham Boston.
This hotel offers all the amenities you’d expect in a Best Western and then some, including complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, and a full fitness center. It also offers an on-site restaurant that recent guests can’t stop raving about.
They say the staff is excellent, as is the ambiance. Plus, this hotel is only a short drive away from other interesting Boston attractions like Walden Pond Forest, Fogg Art Museum, the Ralph Waldo Emerson House, and the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.
Making the Most of Your Boston Hotel Stay
f11photo/Shutterstock
Your hotel choice is only part of your Boston trip. Below we provide general information on the finer details of your stay, including how to get to your hotel from the airport, crime and safety information, and general Boston traveler tips.
Getting to the Hotel
Getting around Boston is fairly simple, and that includes getting to your hotel. If you’re landing at Logan International Airport, you have a few options, such as taking the Silver Line Bus or the Back Bay Shuttle.
The Silver Line (SL1) picks you up at the airport and can drop you off in the city center for around $2. The Back Bay shuttle will drop you off at Back Bay for under $10.
If taking a shuttle doesn’t suit your needs, you can always use Uber or Lyft to go directly from the airport to your hotel. Both ride services pick up from the central parking garage at the airport.
Crime and Safety
Boston is a relatively safe city, at least in the tourist areas. You won’t need to worry much about crime and safety as long as you’re hanging out downtown or across the river in highly populated, tourist-friendly spaces.
Less tourist-friendly neighborhoods, like Dorchester, have higher crime rates, and you’ll want to be more careful. Regardless of where you are in Boston, use common sense. Don’t flash wads of cash, avoid dark alleys, and don’t give money to scammers.
Traveler Tips
When traveling in Boston, there are a few things you should know. For one, use the T as often as you can. Renting a car in Boston isn’t the best plan as the streets are small and don’t sit on a typical city grid, making the city hard to navigate.
If you’re traveling on a budget, keep in mind that though Boston hotels are always pricey, many of its attractions are free, including much of the Freedom Trail and many museums.
And, if you want to see the city fast you should consider either a Duck Tour or the Old Trolley Tours. Either one makes for an entertaining afternoon, and you’ll see many of the city’s best sights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travellaggio/Shutterstock
Finally, before we go, we want to address some of your most frequently asked Boston hotel questions.
What is the best part of Boston to stay in?
If you’re a tourist in Boston, some of the best places to stay include Downtown, the Seaport District, and Back Bay. Downtown has the biggest concentration of tourist sites and plenty of upscale hotels, while Seaport will give you waterfront views and great restaurants.
Or, if you decide to stay in Back Bay, you’ll get the ambiance of a quaint Boston neighborhood and some of the city’s best shopping.
Where do celebrities stay in Boston?
Celebrities tend to stay at the nicest Boston hotels. These include the Fairmont Copley Plaza and the Liberty Hotel. The Fairmont Copley Plaza has a particularly dignified celebrity guest list, including nearly every U.S. president, Frank Sinatra, and the Prince of Wales.
Meanwhile, the Liberty tends to house more modern-day celebrities, including Eva Mendez, Kate Hudson, and Larry David.
Where should I stay my first time in Boston?
If it’s your first time in Boston, we recommend staying in either Downtown or Back Bay. Downtown has tons of sights and historic locations, plus it’s an easy connection point for other destinations like Fenway Park.
Back Bay offers everything Boston has to offer in one concentrated location, including historical sites, amazing restaurants, and quaint cobblestone streets. You’ll get a taste of the entire city without leaving the neighborhood.
Where should I stay to walk everywhere in Boston?
If you want to be able to walk everywhere in Boston, Downtown is the best place to stay. The Fairmont Copley Plaza is very centrally located, and you’ll be able to walk most of the city.
Walking along the waterfront is also very enjoyable. For that, consider the Renaissance Boston Hotel by Marriot. It puts you on the water and is near awesome attractions like the Faneuil Market and the aquarium.
Where should you not stay in Boston?
You won’t want to stay in Roxbury, Mattapan, or Hyde Park in Boston. Those neighborhoods have particularly high crime rates and not much in the way of tourist attractions. Parts of Dorchester are also best to avoid.
The tourist-friendly areas of Boston, like Downtown, Seaport, and Back Bay, are all much better choices.
What is the best month to visit Boston?
Anytime from June to October is the best for visiting Boston, but we’re partial to June. Early summer can be pricey, but it also brings the best tourist experience. You can enjoy baseball games, outdoor music, and quaint sidewalk cafes.
If you choose to go in late summer or autumn, you’ll get better hotel rates and still get to experience the city outdoors. Just avoid visiting in winter if you can. Winter storms in Boston can be a real hindrance to the tourist experience.
So, What’s the Best Hotel in Boston?
Finding the best hotel in Boston depends on what you want to do and what type of experience you want. For a luxurious experience in the center of the city, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is the ideal place to stay.
For something along the water that’s also affordable, the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel can’t be beaten.
Regardless of which hotel you choose, your trip to Boston is bound to be full of history, culture, and great seafood. So, here’s to safe travels and a wicked Boston trip!