Set in North Carolina’s central Piedmont region, historic Durham is famed for its world-class university and stand-out basketball team. The city is also, however, a wonderful destination for culture aficionados and well-heeled travellers looking for a lively weekend break. Expect a great selection of accommodation, including everything from charming B&Bs to luxurious skyscrapers fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re into swish city hotels, intimate hideaways or expansive resorts, the best places to stay in Durham promise a memorable holiday in a fascinating part of North Carolina.

Many of Durham’s attractions are centred around Duke University, one of the USA’s top academic and research institutions. Luckily for visitors, its collections and heritage buildings are open to the public, so you can marvel at the 210ft tower and 77 stained-glass windows of Duke Chapel, admire the contemporary works housed at the futuristic Nasher Museum of Art and relax amidst the koi ponds and rose gardens of the Sarah P Duke Gardens. If you’re a basketball fan, head to the Duke Basketball Museum for videos, trophies and quirky memorabilia associated with the legendary Blue Devils. Finally, guests of all ages will adore visiting the Duke Lemur Centre, a conservation organisation home to the largest number of endangered lemurs outside their native Madagascar.

Duke’s impact extends beyond the university campus and into the city, too, infusing it with a vibrant, youthful atmosphere. The former Lucky Strike cigarette factory is a particular highlight for party-goers and night owls. Now a huge entertainment district with restaurants, bars and a theatre, the factory is testament to Durham’s past as a tobacco hub. Venture to Stagville, once one of the largest plantations in the South, for an insight into slavery and the tobacco industry, or take the kids to the Museum of Life + Science, filled with exciting attractions, including a vast butterfly house.

Whilst many of the best places to stay in Durham are in the city centre, some of our favourite spots are tucked in the surrounding countryside, offering guests the very best of both worlds. This is a popular destination, so book your trip well in advance to avoid missing out!

The best places to stay in Durham

For a swish city stay

• 21C Museum Hotel is both a contemporary art museum and a stylish hotel in downtown Durham. Housed in a striking Art Deco building, chic rooms are light and airy, with a pale palette of soothing tones, whilst shared areas are filled with imposing modern art pieces. There's a spa, steam room and swanky bar, too. One for art lovers and well-heeled city travellers.
• The Durham Hotel promises a superb boutique stay in central Durham. Think mid-century modern interiors with bright pops of colour and statement furnishings as well as a focus on local arts and crafts. Highlights include panoramic views from the rooftop terrace and an award-winning restaurant showcasing topnotch regional produce. Very hip and quirky.

For a classic resort

• Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club is a sprawling 300-acre resort-style property on the Duke University Campus. Brilliant for active families, couples or business travellers, the hotel features three restaurants, an indoor pool and a gym, as well as a championship golf course. Interiors are classic and opulent. A brilliant escape for travellers of all ages, the hotel is popular for weddings, as well as with families visiting students at Duke.

For an Intimate Hideaway

• Arrowhead Inn is an elegant nine-bedroom B&B just a few miles from Durham. Expect charming old-fashioned decor — think floral wallpapers and big cosy beds — in a gorgeous manor house with tranquil manicured gardens. Ideal for a romantic getaway.

For an apartment

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Raleigh–Durham International Airport, just 24km (15 miles) from Durham, and take the bus or taxi into the city.
• Alternatively, catch a train on the Amtrak rail route from New York (to the north) or Charlotte (to the south).
• North Carolina is a wonderful region to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers in Durham are hot, humid and can be very busy. Time your trip for the spring (March - May) or autumn (September - November) for fewer crowds, lovely temperatures and great hotel offers. Spring visitors can expect beautiful blossoms!

Still not sure?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Greensboro.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in North Carolina.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.