The Best Hotels in Back Bay, Boston, for Every Traveler

The Charles River is one of Bostons main attractions
The Charles River is one of Boston's main attractions | © Inge Johnsson / Alamy Stock Photo
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Whether you’ve come to Back Bay, Boston, for the great shopping on Newbury Street, to admire the views along the Charles River Esplanade or watch the finish of the Boston Marathon, there’s a hotel to suit your style and wallet in the Massachusetts state capital. Here’s our pick of the bunch.

A little more than two centuries ago the area was just a large swamp but Back Bay is now one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Boston. The reclaimed land is home to cloud-tickling skyscrapers, elegant Victorian brownstones and upscale boutiques.

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Destinations Unlocked:

Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture trip

Looking for an expert's perspective?

Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
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CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
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2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
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Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
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3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
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1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

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Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
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3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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The Westin Copley Place

Hotel, Chain Hotel

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 Courtesy of the Westin Copley Place, Boston, a Marriott Hotel / Expedia

If you’re a lover of city breaks with a plan to lay down some dollars, this reliable yet stylish Westin outpost makes for a great choice. It’s right next to the luxury fashion houses of the Copley Place shopping mall, where you’ll also find restaurants and cafes. Back at the hotel, you can zhoosh up at the Gretta Cole Spa and hair salon before hitting Bar 10, a sophisticated drinks venue with views over the Boston Public Library and Copley Square.

The Lenox Hotel

Hotel

 Courtesy of the Lenox Hotel Boston / Expedia
Built at the turn of the 20th century, the Lenox retains many original features, including an ornate marble lobby with a glowing fireplace. Smart bellhops deliver guests to their rooms past hand-painted walls and via a grand staircase. Complimentary local light snacks are available daily but the main dining event is at City Table, with dishes flavored by honey and herbs from the rooftop apiary and garden.

The Eliot Hotel

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

 Courtesy of the Eliot Hotel / Expedia
Central to the Eliot Hotel is Uni, an acclaimed izakaya –a casual Japanese bar – helmed by celebrity chef Ken Oringer. For some that’s more than enough reason to visit, but the Old World guest rooms with Italian marble bathrooms and welcome amenities might be a clincher if you’re undecided. Pleasing freebies include an overnight shoe shining service and access to the Boston Sports Club.

Loews Boston Hotel

Hotel

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 Courtesy of Loews Boston Hotel / Expedia

The limestone building of the Loews Boston Hotel was once home to a police headquarters and is found where Back Bay meets South End, a neighbourhood known for its many parks and Victorian style houses. Now you can enter the building through the art deco double doors to find 225 rooms spread over 10 floors. Stop for coffee at Apothecary Lounge, which has a nine-screen TV wall, or drink and dine at Precinct Kitchen + Bar – don’t miss the signature New England clam bake.

Hotel 140

Boutique Hotel

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 Courtesy of Hotel 140 / Expedia

Also close to South End is Hotel 140, a neoclassical construction found on the National Register of Historic Places. The building is shared with the Lyric Stage, a small theater run by the oldest professional company in Boston, and the informal Viga Italian Eatery. The simple decor and seventh-floor communal kitchen remind you that this was once a Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), now transformed into an elegant boutique hotel. Self-catering suites are available for longer stays.

The Revolution Hotel

Boutique Hotel

 Courtesy of the Revolution Hotel / Expedia

Mid-century architecture blends with bold contemporary artworks at the Revolution Hotel. A shared workspace with free coffee, beer and wine makes this a great option for digital nomads and those in Boston for business. It’s another original YWCA, reimagined to include huge lobby murals and decor paying homage to the musical heritage of the city. Book a private ensuite room, or sleep in a bunk and share a bathroom for a more affordable stay.

The Colonnade Hotel

Hotel

 Courtesy of the Colonnade Hotel Back Bay / Expedia

You can swim in the rooftop pool or recline in a cabana as a DJ spins the decks at the Colonnade Hotel. The views of the city are great and the atmosphere lively but thanks to large soundproofed windows, you’re sure of a good night’s sleep when it’s time to retire. Dogs and cats are welcome to join you – they’ll receive free use of beds, bowls and a choice of foods. Human guests receive a small rubber duck to take home – a quirky Colonnade tradition.

The Inn at St Botolph

Hotel, Boutique Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, Inn

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 Courtesy of Inn at St. Botolph / Booking.com

If you’re after a quieter locale, you can book a self-catering apartment in this converted house. You have your own facilities, so there’s no on-site restaurant, although you can buy drinks and snacks in the public lounge. Continental breakfast, including bagels, fresh fruit and hot drinks, comes with your stay, and you can get discounts at some local restaurants.

Fairmont Copley Plaza

Hotel

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 Courtesy of Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston / Expedia
Boston’s answer to the Plaza in New York City has hosted many a celebrity, including Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton on their second honeymoon. Recalling the glamorous beaux-arts era, there is plenty of high society glitz – chandeliers, marble columns and the famed P for Plaza motif create an opulent atmosphere. The Oak Long Bar + Kitchen serves down-to-earth burgers, alongside lobster pizzas and chowder, washed down with craft cocktails or fine wines.

The Newbury Boston

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

 Courtesy of the Newbury Boston / Expedia

Formerly the Taj Boston, this hotel is found on the premier shopping destination of Newbury Street. The building, which dates from 1927, is suitably elegant for this boutique lined boulevard. Rooms come with furnishings from interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud, original artwork by illustrator Veronica Lawlor, Nespresso Vertuo espresso makers and Frette linens. There’s also a stylish cocktail bar, afternoon tea salon and rooftop restaurant serving Italian American dishes.

Staypineapple Boston

Hotel

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 Courtesy of Staypineapple, A Delightful Hotel, South End / Expedia

With fresh European-style bedding, lightweight robes and fluffy towels, you might want to ditch your clothes at the door to your room. Staypineapple Boston even has a name for that feeling: the Naked Experience, encouraging guests to disrobe and enjoy the comforts of all that lovely fabric against the skin. This fun retreat is perfect for dog lovers – book the Pineapple Pup Package, and receive a water bowl, treats, doggie bags and a bed for your four-legged friend. For you, there’s an in-room Keurig coffee machine and a vibrant restaurant and bar.

Charlesmark Hotel

Boutique Hotel

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 Courtesy of Charlesmark Hotel / Expedia

Sophisticated leisure is the order of the day at Charlesmark Hotel, housed in a what was a private home built in 1886. When you’re not sitting in the indoor-outdoor lounge and martini bar, take a parasol-shaded seat on the European-style street patio to watch the flow of Boston down Boylston Street, one of the city’s main arteries which is close to the Boston Marathon finish line.

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Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

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It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

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