Charming Galveston is a striking historic city on Galveston Island, set just an hour from Houston on Texas’ Gulf Coast. Previously a key deepwater port and an immigration station, the city is now a brilliant place for a cultural holiday or beach escape. Accommodation options range from simple B&Bs to extensive luxury resorts, ideal for a whole array of tastes and budgets. Our selection of the best places to stay in Galveston includes intimate inns perfect for romantic couples, as well as an imposing city hotel and a trendy beach resort — great for families or business travellers.

Explore Galveston with a stroll along streets lined with nineteenth-century buildings, including a multitude of museums and heritage homes in four designated historic districts. Highlights include tours of the Bishop’s Palace and the Moody Mansion, as well as visits to the Texas Seaport Museum, the Bryan Museum and the Galveston Railroad Museum, depending on your particular interests. There are myriad art galleries, too, as well as quirky boutiques and excellent eateries.

Take the whole family to Schlitterbahn Waterpark and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for a day of adventure, or to spot amazing creatures at the famous Moody Gardens. Head to Pier 21 for watersports and boat tours, or venture further afield to snorkel and dive on the reefs which surround the islands. There are 32 miles of sun-drenched beaches, too, for laid-back days of rest and relaxation.

Whilst many of our favourite places to stay in Galveston are heritage properties in the old part of the city — well-placed for on-foot explorations — keen beach-goers can book a room at a cool contemporary resort for heaps of activities and easy access to the sand and sea.

The Best Places to Stay in Galveston

For a romantic hideaway

• Carr Mansion is a gorgeous Greek Revival property with eight elegant bedrooms, including free-standing tubs and lovely artwork. Expect delicious breakfasts and an intimate, small-hotel feel. Whimsical and romantic.
• Coppersmith Inn boasts five spacious rooms and suites in a teal-and-yellow-painted Queen Anne townhouse, dating back to 1887. Stay here for plenty of privacy, glamorous period charm and contemporary comforts. The balconies, pretty breakfast room and leafy garden are very appealing. Ideal for tranquil couples.

For a grand city hotel

• The Tremont House is a grand Victorian building promising classic, opulent interiors. Think marble bathrooms, generous guestrooms with plantation shutters and vaulted ceilings, a lively rooftop terrace and a funky jazz bar. Stylish and imposing, well-situated for exploring historic Galveston and with flexible options for families.

For a contemporary beach resort

• San Luis Resort is an extensive sea-facing resort with spacious rooms featuring crisp, contemporary decor. Play tennis, hit the gym, unwind at the spoiling spa or cross the road for a dreamy day at the beach before sampling one of the property's many fantastic eateries. Great for families or business travellers, who will appreciate the top-notch conference facilities.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

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

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport, and take a 1-hour taxi to Galveston. You can also hop aboard a bus, but the journey takes closer to two hours.
• Texas is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching 30°C and above in July and August. For slightly cooler weather, come during the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October).

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Houston.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Texas.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.