Best Boston Hotels

From cozy dens to high-end suites, the Hub has a first-rate room to suit your every whim.

Back Bay Hotel
Located on the site of the former BPD headquarters, the Back Bay Hotel (formerly Jurys Boston) is a far cry from the holding cells of yesteryear. Guests are welcomed by a two-story wall of trickling water, sparkling elevators, lighted glass staircase, and helpful staff. The Stanhope Grille, serving sophisticated American entrées (blackened angus burgers for lunch; crispy skin duck breast “saltimbocca style” for dinner), and Cuffs, the hotel’s pub, perfectly blend luxury and relaxation. 350 Stuart St., Boston, 617-266-7200.

The Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers
A member of the Historic Hotels of America, the Park Plaza gleams with classic European style: Bacarat crystal chandeliers, balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Be sure to have afternoon tea in the Swan Café and dinner at celebrity chef Todd English’s in-house Bonfire Steakhouse. 50 Park Plaza at Arlington St., Boston, 617-426-2000, bostonparkplaza.com.

The Chandler Inn Hotel
This South End boutique hotel manages to be both hip and historic: An early 20th-century façade houses 55 decidedly contemporary guest rooms decorated by local designers like Dennis Duffy and Eric Roseff. What’s more, the Chandler offers close proximity to the many acclaimed restaurants of this ultra cool neighborhood. 26 Chandler St., Boston, 617-482-3450, chandlerinn.com.

Charles Street Inn
This elegant bed and breakfast exudes the old-fashioned charm of Beacon Hill, but also offers post-Victorian amenities such as whirlpool bathtubs and HDTVs. With only nine guest rooms, the hotel promises exceptional attention and the utmost privacy. 94 Charles St., Boston, 617-314-8900, charlesstreetinn.com.

Fairmont Battery Wharf
It’s hard to decide which is more impressive: the harbor views, the world-class spa (opening in December), or Sensing, chef Guy Martin’s in-house restaurant dedicated to nouvelle cuisine. In the end, though, the hotel’s location trumps all other amenities—it’s located steps from some of Boston’s top attractions, including the USS Constitution, Freedom Trail, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the historic North End neighborhood. 3 Battery Wharf, Boston, 800- 257-7544 or 617-994-9000, fairmont.com/batterywharf.

Hotel 140
A member of the National Register of Historic Places, this 1929 building boasts 59 newly renovated guest rooms. In addition to its historical appeal, visitors enjoy reasonable rates, a prime Back Bay location, and classic American dishes at the Stuart Street Grille. 140 Clarendon St., Boston, 617-585-5600, hotel140.com.

Hotel Commonwealth
Convenient to Fenway Park and Newbury Street, this gem offers rooms with European décor and one of the city’s favorite brasseries, Eastern Standard. 500 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-933-5000, www.hotelcommonwealth.com.

Hotel Indigo
This upscale hotel might be situated in the quiet suburb of Newton but it has a decidedly urban flair. The poolside cabanas, fashionable rooms, and BOKX 109 American Prime restaurant draw even the most dedicated city dwellers. 399 Grove St., Newton, 617-969-5300, hotelindigo.com.

Hotel Marlowe
This Cambridge hotel boasts panoramic views of the Charles River and Boston skyline, not to mention a dedication to green practices and eco-friendly behavior. 25 Edwin H. Land Blvd., Cambridge, 617-868-8000, hotelmarlowe.com.