Best Places to Stay in Boston

Boston is one of those cities where the hotel you pick really shapes your trip. Do you want historic charm with chandeliers and martinis, or sleek modern views over the Seaport? I’ve stayed in (and scouted) some of the best, and each has its own vibe. Here are my favorite hotels in Boston, with details on what makes each special—and a few personal notes you won’t find in a brochure.

Revere Hotel Boston Common

The Revere Hotel sits about 15 minutes from Logan Airport and makes an easy, walkable base for exploring Boston. The lobby has that moody-but-modern vibe, clean and welcoming, and check-in is quick.

I stayed in a Superior King Room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. Waking up to that skyline view made mornings feel like a movie montage, and the bathroom had more counter space than most Boston hotels (important when you travel with half of Sephora in your bag). The bed was comfortable, the room quiet, and there was plenty of space for my inevitable overpacking.

Parking is simple: the attached garage gives in-and-out privileges when you swap your ticket at the desk.

For dining, Rebels Guild is the on-site restaurant, moody and fun. My favorites were the wedge salad with heirloom tomatoes and the Korean short rib fried rice—so flavorful I’d come back for it alone. Dessert was crème brûlée, which Brad ended up helping me finish. In warmer months, Rooftop@Revere is the place to be—mocktails, skyline views, and a “you’ve made it” kind of vibe.

Bottom line: Spacious rooms, great location near Boston Common and Newbury Street, and a rooftop that’s worth the stay.

Fairmont Copley Plaza

A Boston landmark since 1912, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is the kind of hotel that feels like stepping into a Gilded Age movie set. Think chandeliers, high ceilings, and marble everywhere.

One of the highlights? Cori, the hotel’s resident black lab and official canine ambassador. If you’re missing your pets at home, Cori will happily fill the void.

The location in Copley Square is central and ideal for exploring Back Bay. For dining, their restaurant OAK Long Bar + Kitchen is an old-school stunner, with leather banquettes and one of the best martinis in the city.

Bottom line: Historic, upscale, and pet-friendly, with a location that makes sightseeing effortless.

Hotel Commonwealth

If Fenway Park is on your Boston itinerary, Hotel Commonwealth is your best bet—it’s just a block away. Rooms here are spacious, the beds are incredibly comfortable, and the staff goes above and beyond.

Bottom line: Perfect for Red Sox fans or anyone who wants an easy walk to Fenway and the lively Kenmore Square area.

The Liberty Hotel

Once a 19th-century jail, The Liberty Hotel has been transformed into one of Boston’s most unique stays. Its architecture alone is worth seeing—the central atrium still hints at its past, but with sleek modern design layered in.

Bottom line: A conversation-starting hotel with history, style, and a prime location near Beacon Hill and the Charles River.

The Bostonian Boston

Located near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, this hotel is central for anyone who wants to dive into Boston’s history and shopping. Rooms often feature views of the marketplace, so you’re right in the action.

Bottom line: Walkable and convenient, especially if you want to be near Boston’s historic core.

InterContinental Boston

This waterfront property offers sleek, modern luxury with views over the harbor. Rooms are spacious, service is polished, and the on-site dining options are top-notch.

Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a modern stay with water views and easy access to the Seaport and Financial District.

The Envoy Hotel

Another Seaport gem, The Envoy is chic and modern, with one of the best rooftop bars in Boston. The vibe here leans young and trendy, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms and plenty of natural light.

Bottom line: If you’re after cool design and buzzing social spaces, this is your pick.

Kimpton Marlowe Hotel by IHG

Just across the Charles River in Cambridge, the Kimpton Marlowe is about a 12-minute drive from the airport. If you’re using rideshare, it’s seamless, but there’s valet and self-parking too.

The staff here really sets the tone—welcoming and quick to accommodate. The lobby is bright and stylish, with plenty of cozy corners to hang out in. My room overlooked the bridge, and I found myself actually excited to open the curtains each morning.

Dining happens at Bambara Kitchen & Bar, the in-house restaurant. I had breakfast there—brioche French toast with apple compote and cider glaze, plus a side of eggs, bacon, potatoes, and sourdough toast. On another morning I tried their oatmeal with apples, dried fruits, and almonds—a hearty start that kept me full for hours.

Extras make this place memorable: complimentary wine hour in the evenings, a fitness center with everything you need, and free bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards for exploring the Charles when the weather cooperates. It’s also fully pet-friendly with no extra fees, so if you’re the type to travel with a furry companion, this is your spot.

Bottom line: Stylish but approachable, with thoughtful touches and one of the best staff experiences I’ve had in Boston.

The Newbury Boston

This hotel is pure elegance. Overlooking Boston Common, the Newbury blends old-world charm with modern updates. The lobby is gorgeous, the rooms are refined, and the rooftop restaurant has some of the best views in the city.

Bottom line: Sophisticated luxury for those who want both history and high-end comfort.

The Langham, Boston

Housed in a former Federal Reserve Bank, The Langham is a mix of classic architecture and luxury touches. Afternoon tea here is a highlight, as is their restaurant, Grana, which serves elevated Italian-inspired cuisine.

Bottom line: Old-world elegance meets modern luxury in a central downtown location.

Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport

The Omni Boston Seaport is a large, modern hotel right in the middle of the action. With multiple dining options, a rooftop pool, and plenty of event space, it’s built for both leisure and business travelers.

Bottom line: Spacious, contemporary, and perfect for anyone who wants to be in the thick of the Seaport District.

The Eliot Hotel

Located near Newbury Street, the Eliot is a boutique option with classic charm. The service is attentive, the rooms are elegant, and the location is hard to beat for shopping and dining.

Bottom line: Boutique charm and prime Back Bay location.

The Whitney Hotel

Set in Beacon Hill, the Whitney Hotel combines understated luxury with neighborhood charm. It feels tucked away but still central, with thoughtful design and cozy touches.

Bottom line: Intimate, elegant, and perfect if you want a quieter stay that’s still close to downtown.

Final Thoughts

Boston’s hotel scene is as varied as the city itself. You can stay in a historic landmark with chandeliers and martinis, a modern waterfront tower with harbor views, or a boutique tucked into Beacon Hill. My personal favorites? Splitting a trip between two hotels works beautifully—Revere Hotel for its rooftop and city views, paired with Kimpton Marlowe for its hospitality and extras.

No matter which you choose, Boston’s hotels deliver on charm, location, and plenty of personality—just like the city.