Boston offers its visitors a lot. Whether you are here for the history and culture (this is America's oldest city after all), or the food (the seafood is an absolute must), or perhaps to see Boston's beloved Red Sox play - there is plenty to keep everyone busy. Reflecting the city's merging of progressive modernism and grand historic architecture - the hotel scene is equally varied. Five-star options range from sleek contemporary towers overlooking the city and the bay to stately buildings offering some old-school glitz and glamour. There are, of course, luxury offerings with particularly noteworthy restaurants or spas or design - which is how our list of the best five-star hotels in Boston are categorised in order to make booking your next stay a quick and easy decision. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your trip?
For foodies
- Once a jail, The Liberty Hotel is now a chic five-star. Rooms are spacious and minimalist and offer epic views over the Charles River. Boasting two of Boston's best fine dining restaurants (innovative modern dishes at CLINK and excellent Italian at Scampo) plus there are knockout cocktails at Alibi. This is a foodie haven.
- Eliot Hotel is like a little bit of Paris in Boston. Rooms are elegant and the location, in the Bay Back area, is unbeatable. However, at the heart of this property is the superlative French restaurant, Clio, and the sushi offering in Uni Sashimi Bar.
For the spa
- Four Seasons One Dalton Street is a slick 61-storey glass tower in Boston's Back Bay; this a luxury 5-star hotel with a lot to boast about. Rooms and suites are a master-class in contemporary design. However, book this property for the art collection, 3 buzzy restaurants, and the floor that is entirely dedicated to a spa.
- Four Seasons Boston is another luxury option by Four Seasons well positioned overlooking the Public Garden. Elegant rooms offer wonderful city views and plenty of mod cons. The spa which offers a wide range of treatments and includes a pool, whirlpool and saunas is a real lure.
For a waterfront hotel
- Luxurious Boston Harbor Hotel offers classic rooms with bay or harbour views. Complete with an award-winning restaurant, a spoiling spa, and an indoor pool, not to mention first-class service, this indulgent choice is worth every penny.
For the location
- The Newbury is a grand luxury stay occupying an enviable location in the exclusive Bay Back neighbourhood overlooking the Public Garden. Rooms are contemporary, spacious, and lend wonderful city views while the Italian glass-rooftop restaurant is a romantic spot.
- Located again in the sought-after Back Bay area, Mandarin Oriental Boston is a classic luxury stay. Suites and rooms are simple and contemporary with a chic Asian aesthetic. Complete with fine dining and a spoiling spa - this is an indulgent choice.
- Ritz Carlton Boston is a modern offering boasting beautiful minimalist rooms lending far-reaching views across Boston Common. You'll find all the expected five-star trimmings here from an elegant cocktail bar to a well-equipped spa. Pick this property for its location in the theatre district - this is a great option for those visiting to catch a performance.
- Hotel Commonwealth is set in vibrant Kenmore Square, minutes from the city's best attractions and particularly well placed for Red Sox fans as it overlooks Fenway Park. Expect attentive service, spacious and light modern rooms and a highly popular restaurant and oyster bar.
- XV Beacon is a preppy New England frat boy with style; proud, polite but ready to party if you want to. With luxurious rooms, fine-dining and a dedicated wine-room this is a smart choice set in the upscale Beacon Hill neighbourhood.
For a historic stay
- Fairmont Copley Plaza is Boston's landmark luxury hotel which has been in operation since 1912. Expect historic glitz and glamour with 5-star service and great amenities. A local favourite for upscale events, the lobby is always buzzing with a chic crowd. An indulgent choice.
For a boutique
- The Whitney Hotel is a luxury boutique set at the foot of Beacon Hill. Rooms are stylish and feature white subway-tiled bathrooms and offer lovely city views. However, the family run Italian/American restaurant is a charming personal touch and the real attraction.
Still not sure where to book?
