Austin is the oddest jewel in the Texan crown—and I mean that in the best way possible.
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While you’re guaranteed to have a good time almost anywhere in the Lone Star State, Austin specializes in music venues, bats, tasty eats, and creative endeavors galore.
Don’t believe me? Just shop around for some of its best tours, which cover a broad gamut.
The same is true for its range of hotels. Beloved chains dot the city, but they’re dwarfed compared to the number of smaller and more boutique options. There’s something for everyone, no matter how unique their travel needs are.
Here’s what you need to know about the best hotels in Austin, from chains to boutiques to hidden gems.
Best hotels in Austin at a glance
- Best for couples: citizenM Downtown
- Best location: Placemakr Downtown Austin
- Most stylish hotel: Hotel Van Zandt
- Best for social butterflies: Aloft Austin Downtown
- Best chain: Hyatt Place Austin Downtown
- Best for long stays: Sonder at The Catherine
- Most unique hotel: Austin Motel
- Best budget pick: Archer Hotel Austin
Best hotels in Austin
Best for couples: citizenM Downtown
Couples rave about their stay at citizenM thanks to its location, comfort, and flare.
It’s a highly detailed and well-thought-out setup, from its bright and zany design to its friendly and engaging staff.
Though the rooms are pretty small, they have massive windows that frame a great downtown view. There’s also a fantastic outdoor pool and plenty of gorgeous shared spaces.
Even the gym looks stylish as hell. Just take a look at the pictures—they’ll tell you everything you need to know about this hyper-cool hotel.
Best location: Placemakr Downtown Austin
If you’re worried about finding a comfortable hotel smack in the middle of the city, head to the Placemakr.
This no-frills hotel has everything you need, from a calming design to a stellar outdoor pool area. It also has a few other communal areas that simplify your trip, from a shared kitchen to a hangout space with a state-of-the-art billiards table. No worries involved.
Most stylish hotel: Hotel Van Zandt
This gorgeous selection gives off a Gilded Age, Great Gatsby-esque vibe.
From its towering ceilings to its tasteful and rich décor, it’s like stepping into a Hollywood movie set. Its bar and lounge are someplace you’d take a first date, while its on-site eateries are worth dining at for every meal of the day.
There’s also a rooftop pool, swanky toiletries, and all the other finer trappings you’d expect from a luxury hotel like the Van Zandt.
Best for social butterflies: Aloft Austin Downtown
It’s simple, it’s dynamic, and it’s the perfect place to chat it up with fellow travelers.
If you’re heading to Austin with a small group and plan on socializing while in town, then book a room at Aloft. Not only is it a budget-friendly option, but the hotel also goes above and beyond to curate an interactive vibe.
There are Jenga sets and cornhole in communal areas, for example. You can even bring Fido.
Best chain: Hyatt Place Austin Downtown
It’s hard to go wrong with Hyatt—and that’s definitely the case with this downtown staple.
Its central downtown location makes it ideal for most types of trips, while its amenities like the indoor pool and all-day coffee shop give you that added boost.
Seriously—many guests are raving about the quality of the food and how well-stocked the buffet was even during busy times. Those little details can add up to a seamless trip.
Best for long stays: Sonder at The Catherine
This condo hotel (or an aparthotel, as I’d call it) is designed for longer-term stays… in high fashion, as any fan of Sonder would expect.
All units include balconies, dishwashers, and coffee machines, letting you really settle in. And you might not want to leave thanks to Sonder’s cozy-chic design and massive windows, which flood each room with natural light.
Most unique hotel: Austin Motel
It’s bright, it’s funky, and it’s not actually a motel. This high-design hotel occupies the former shell of a classic motel but is otherwise unrecognizable.
From its funky sitting areas to its incredible boutique shop to its large pool, it’s a feast for the eyes—and one of those places someone would have to pry me away from.
Best budget pick: Archer Hotel Austin
The Archer Hotel is part of Austin’s highly sought-after fashion district known as the Domain. And you can feel that focus on style, from its larger-than-life chandeliers to its grand fireplace.
That being said, you won’t be paying exorbitant prices that usually come with exclusive neighborhoods. Instead, you get a surprisingly well-rounded and affordable hotel stay.
