The 7 best cheap hotels in Boston

What was once an unremarkable Best Western has morphed into a modern, bright and budget-friendly boutique hotel run by Hilton. Rooms are decked out with locally sourced art and furniture, plus amenities including free wifi, a 32" TV, microwave, fridge and bath slippers. On the grounds, there's a lovely little courtyard in which to relax. Plus, there's a complimentary shuttle to nearby attractions.

The mood? Modern zen.
Location perks? Its North Cambridge location (near Fresh Pond) provides easy access to historic across-the-river landmarks and the ability to hop on public transportation to head downtown.
Budget range? Affordable (think $200/n).

The Inn at Longwood Medical distinguishes itself with kindly customer service and kid-friendly amenities. Kids receive a toy of Hope the teddy bear and a coloring book upon check-in and eat for free at the hotel’s restaurant. A short distance away from Fenway Park, the hotel is also perfect for large groups in town to take in a Red Sox game (or series). Rooms are spacious, bedding is plush and the city views are sweeping; the suites also come with kitchenettes.

The mood? Clinical but cozy enough.
Location perks? Especially good for families traveling to Boston for medical care.
Budget range? The higher end of affordable.

Rooms here are spare, but the location cannot be beat: smack in the middle of the Charlestown Navy Yard and at the head of the Freedom Trail, which means you can walk Boston’s historic path at your leisure. You’re also just a few minutes away from excellent waterside dining. The inn shares a building with the local YMCA, giving guests access to a pool and ample gym equipment. A European-style buffet breakfast is also included.

The mood? Clean lines all over.
Location perks? If Bunker Hill sits atop your Boston to-do list, Constitution Inn is the ideal bunking spot.
Budget range? On certain nights you can bag a real bargain.

Rooms in this narrow hotel are cozy and basic, but you’ll be spending most of your time out on the town given your proximity to, well, everything. The hotel sits across the street from the historic Boston Public Library and a block away from the famed shopping and dining of Newbury Street; the Copley MBTA stop is less than 50 yards away. Don't forget to grab your complimentary coffee and pastry (or bagel) from the onsite cafe.

The mood? Mini condo complex vibes.
Location perks? Given its position on a busy stretch of commercial Boylston Street, convenience is the order of play here.
Budget range? Notching into mid-range.

In a busy area with rather limited lodging options, this modern, 56-room boutique hotel stands out. The sleek, marble-heavy lobby gives way to light-filled rooms thanks to the oversized windows. Porter Square is the forgotten child among Cambridge and Somerville’s more celebrated squares (Harvard, Davis), but the eclectic area boasts a full range of dining options. Rooms come equipped with a desk, hairdryer, iron, bathrobe, slippers and free wifi. There's also a cute patio with benches to enjoy.

The mood? Down to earth comfort.
Location perks? The 1950s, art-house Brattle Theater is less than a 30-minute walk.
Budget range? Very manageable.

Need a room for less than 100 bucks? The Farrington Inn, located in the student-favored area of Allston, will see you through. The decor is dated and the bathrooms are shared, but for your money you get all you need, such as a double bed, TV, dresser, hairdryer, towels and free wifi. If you stay longer than five days, you'll get a room with a kitchenette too (or access to the shared kitchen), but Harvard and Brighton Avenues offer plenty of dining options, as well as independent shops.

The mood? Basic but homely.
Location perks? Especially convenient for Harvard University, which is a 20-minute walk.
Budget range? Uber cheap.

Step into the Buckminster and you step into history. It's the oldest hotel in Kenmore, having been in operation since the late-19th century. Today it’s a cozy, centrally-located option with basic but comfortable rooms, plus a tiny gym and laundry facility. Each of the 132 accommodations come with conveniences such as a hairdryer, iron, tea/coffee making equipment and a TV, while some even come with a kitchenette.

The mood? A brownstone from a bygone era.
Location perks? It's smack in the center of Kenmore Square, with Fenway Park just a home run shot away.
Budget range? Absolute bargain.