The best hotels in Philadelphia

Nothing says luxury like a stay at the five-star Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia. Originally built in 1904 as the Girard Trust Company, the building transitioned from a bank to a hotel at the turn of the century and opened as the Ritz-Carlton in 2000. The 299 guest rooms and suites boast views of either the city or historic City Hall and were meticulously redesigned and renovated using a color and textile palette inspired by modern currency—an overt nod to the building’s banking history. The hotel also features an impressive collection of art, which is displayed throughout the premises.

Where is it? Avenue of the Arts, Center City.

Which room? Plump for Club Lounge Access and get breakfast, snacks, hors d'oeuvres, dessert and non-alcoholic beverages included.

Time Out tip: Located steps away from Philadelphia City Hall, it'd be rude not to visit the magnificent Beaux Arts-style building. Tour its public rooms as well as the observation deck for a tremendous 360-degree view of the city.

There’s something about Philadelphia that just makes you want to soak in the history. A stay at the 118-room Rittenhouse Hotel gives you just that opportunity. Originally a mansion owned by the Cassatt family, then the Episcopal Church of Pennsylvania’s headquarters and the Academy of Notre Dame, the Rittenhouse is a premium luxury hotel whose grandeur is unmatched. Opened in its current incarnation in 1989, it has a decades-long tradition of pampering guests with luxury Jaguar driver service, plush bathrobes at turndown time, and a host of amenities for children including complimentary in-room movies, popcorn for pre-teens and teenagers and a gift of choice from the Rittenhouse Treasure Chest for children ten and under. Like some others on our list, the Rittenhouse Hotel is a pet-friendly one that offers homemade treats prepared by the pastry chef for your pooch to enjoy.

Where is it? West Rittenhouse Square, Center City West.

Which room? Book a Park View room, you won't regret it.

Time Out tip: The onsite Rittenhouse Spa & Club is the bee's knees when it comes to relaxation. Check out treatments like the Quartet Massage, which gets not two but four hands up in the mix, or specialized treatments like lip smoothing.

Choose from one of 78 studios and one and two-bedroom suites (with full kitchens) at the 12-story AKA Rittenhouse, available for both short and extended stays. The elegance of the building’s Beaux Arts facade extends indoors with sleek and modern furniture and appliances. Other perks include a gym, business center with Macs and a private resident entrance to onsite restaurant A.Kitchen.

Where is it? South 18th Street, Center City West.

Which room? Pretend you're a member of the upper echelons of society in the two-bed Penthouse Suite.

Time Out tip: Don't miss a trip to Independence National Park, which is just a 25-minute stroll, and the Victorian Philadelphia Zoo, just a ten-minute car ride.

'Eco-friendly' is one of the buzzwords at Hotel Palomar, a Kimpton hotel located in an historic art deco building in Center City that was built in 1929. Whether making use of one of the custom-designed 'PUBLIC' bikes for a ride around town, taking a walk in Rittenhouse Square—which is just steps away—or stretching out on the yoga mat that is found in every room free of charge, you’ll love your stay at this trendy and comfy spot. Decor inside the 230-room hotel is jazzy and fun with a bit of local flair (see the colorful busts of Benjamin Franklin found in the lobby). Hotel Palomar isn’t just for you, either. As one of the city’s premier pet-friendly hotels, your pooch will be pampered with its own bed delivered right to your room, where they can relax with a treat while you unwind with a complimentary glass of wine.

Where is it? South 17th Street, Center City.

Which room? Fancy a sesh in a spa tub with a view of the Philly skyline? Book yourself a night in one of Palomar's King Premium suites.

Time Out tip: Explore the locality on foot or take the scenic route by hopping on one of the hotel's Kimpton bikes. We highly recommend a ride down the Schuylkill Bank trail.

Hotel Monaco features the charming mix of history and modern attention to detail that have come to define the Kimpton chain. Decorated in a classic-yet-trendy style, this 268-room beauty opened in 2012 and offers guests free access to their 'PUBLIC' bikes, a complimentary yoga mat in every room and wine hours in the lobby Living Room each evening.

Where is it? Chestnut Street, Center City.

Which room? Book the King Premium Spa room for the addition of a large, vintage soaking tub. Glorious.

Time Out tip: The sky's the limit here. Get yourself up to the Stratus Rooftop Lounge ASAP to relax after sunset with an aperitif under the twinkling stars.

In the mid-1860s, this Old City building served as a cap-making shop, but today it’s one of the city’s premier boutique hotels. It boasts six stunning rooms and 'invisible service', which essentially means check-in and out is all app-based and an in-room tablet and city guide offer enough support and suggestions for things to do in Philly. As for the rooms’ design: Jersey Ice Cream Co.’s modern-meets-industrial decor—characterized by rich pops of color in kitchen accoutrements and the furniture—offers just as much eye candy as it does sleek functionality. Rooms feature laundry, seating areas, full kitchens and more.

Where is it? North 3rd Street, Old City.

Which room? Despite being split over four floors, Lokal calls all their rooms 'lofts'. Betsy is the biggest (they all have human names) and comes equipped with a clawfoot tub.

Time Out tip: When you're not soaking in the tub or lounging in your cozy Lokal robe, you can head down to the National Liberty Museum, just a few steps away.

Located above a wood-fired Italian restaurant of the same name, guests can book a stay in one of four refurbished suites, each with nods to the building’s 100-year-old history as a whiskey blending and bottling facility. Concrete floors have been polished and exposed brick nicely juxtaposes quirky wallpaper and wooden bed frames. Each room comes equipped with a full-sized kitchen, laundry and Apple TV. With a location right in the heart of Fishtown, you’ll never be more than a few feet away from great bars, some of the best coffee shops Philadelphia has to offer and top-notch eats.

Where is it? North Front Street, Fishtown.

Which room? They're all jaw-drop beautiful, so pick any one and you won't be disappointed.

Time Out tip: You won't be able to resist the smell of fresh dough wafting from the Italian-inspired restaurant downstairs and why would you? Don't miss out on a hearty wood-fired meal at this popular Fishtown joint.

Though smaller than some others on the list, this eight-room spot includes two extended-stay apartments with kitchenettes and full baths, making it ideal for those enjoying longer visits. The Dwight has been in operation since its complete remodel in 2014 and prides itself on its history: the compact 1840s brownstone that houses it was the former home to the Eisenhower Fellowships organization. But don’t be fooled by its quaint size. The Dwight offers many of the amenities of larger hotels, such as 24-hour parking and use of bicycles through a bike-share program.

Where is it? South 16th Street, Center City West.

Which room? The Premium Queen comes with a balcony – all the better to admire views of the city and the private garden.

Time Out tip: Sandwiched between S. Broad St and Rittenhouse Square, this is the perfect spot for foodies. Or walk north to Walnut Street – Philly’s answer to New York City’s 5th Avenue.

These stylish, modern apartments feature fully equipped kitchens, laundry, walk-in rainfall showers, oak herringbone flooring, vintage Moroccan floor rugs and antique furniture. It’s the kind of curated, Instagram-worthy life we could only dream of. Suites are available in weekly or monthly stays and pets are welcome.

Where is it? Ludlow Street, Center City.

Which room? The One-Bed Den offers plenty of space in which to sprawl, including an office, a lounge and dining area, plus two bay windows.

Time Out tip: Look around outside for the heated pool, landscaped terraces, and community vegetable gardens.

The Logan Hotel opened in 2015 on the site of the old Four Seasons. Be sure to enjoy a meal at the Urban Farmer, the hotel’s onsite farm-to-table steakhouse, then grab a nightcap at Assembly, the rooftop bar that makes you feel like you’re on an island in the middle of the city. The 391 rooms and suites are beautifully appointed and all either face the courtyard or the exquisite Swann Fountain in Logan Square.

Where is it? Logan Square.

Which room? The Bristol Suite boasts a fully outfitted kids’ room with bunk beds, a small play table and chairs, and comfy beanbag chairs. Plus views of Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Time Out tip: Do the scene from Rocky, you know the one, go on. Those famous steps are walking distance from The Logan.

The Sofitel Philadelphia, which opened in 2000, proves that luxury can still be affordable. The lobby of this 306-room hotel is home to a carefully curated art gallery and is accented with locally inspired accouterments, such as colorful Shaker quilts and stone floors. Enjoy unique cocktails and one of Philadelphia's biggest collections of bourbons at Liberte Lounge or revel in the atmosphere of Chez Collette. Pamper yourself with the hotel’s indulgent lotions and soaps before a night out on the town and lose yourself in the superior featherbed and duvet sleep system when you return—just make sure you can pull yourself out of bed the next morning so you can get out to see some Philly attractions.

Where is it? South 17th Street, Center City West.

Which room? The suites come with 55" TVs with laptop connections and marble bathrooms with soaking tubs and Balmain toiletries.

Time Out tip: For those who want to make their breakfast-in-bed dreams a reality, take full advantage of in-room dining.

This National Historic Landmark was constructed in 1787 and retains its post-Revolutionary charm. Even with an ornate library, breakfast area and romantic courtyard, the greatest treat here is feeling like you’re stepping into history. Each of the 15 rooms vary style-wise between a more-updated feel and historical decor. Located near all the marvels of Old City, you’ll truly get the historic experience.

Where is it? South 8th Street, on the westside of Washington Square.

Which room? Room 102, the large extended suite in the Carriage House. It has a balcony overlooking St James Street and the formal gardens, a kitchenette and it sleeps up to four.

Time Out tip: Take full advantage of the freebies! These include 'grab and go' breakfast, freshly brewed Philly Fair Trade coffee and afternoon tea with cookies everyday from 3pm.

Pairing modernity with classic architecture, the Warwick Hotel epitomizes the Rittenhouse vibe. Each of the 301 rooms feature a pop of color and personality with a Philly-themed headboard and refrigerator. If you want continued comfort without leaving the confines of the building, schedule an in-room spa service or head over to the hotel’s hair salon. If you do decide to leave, there is ample nearby shopping and dining. Bring your pup, too. The hotel is pet-friendly.

Where is it? S 17th St, on the eastside of Rittenhouse Square.

Which room? The Junior Suite is $30/$40 more than the Signature rooms so, if you can afford it, spend the extra and get a separate seating area (which also opens out into extra queen-size sleeping space).

Time Out tip: Get your STEM on at The Franklin Institute, just a 15 minute walk from the hotel. There's something for all ages here, including escape rooms, an IMAX theater and VR experiences.

The Franklin on Rittenhouse prides itself on its 'Five Heart Service', which creates an ideal environment and spirit of giving and caretaking. So expect to experience unmatched serenity and peace while staying here. Located in a charming building erected in 1903 and subsequently renovated in 2007, this 23-room boutique hotel includes. Be sure to sample one of the freshly squeezed juices from the bar and enjoy a wine reception each evening.

Where is it? Rittenhouse Square.

Which room? The two-story Presidential Suite is, to put it simply, grand, with a spiral staircase leading up to the loft bedroom.

Time Out tip: Given the fashionable location, you'll be in good stead when it comes to exploring all the best restaurants (get your hands on a Philly cheesesteak), nightlife and culture.

Loew’s Philadelphia Hotel, in operation since 1932, is housed inside the nation’s first skyscraper, the historic PSFS building on Market Street. Oozing Mad Men-era décor and classic sophistication in the lobby and restaurants, Loews combines history with modernity in its 581 guest rooms and suites. Rooms are stunningly outfitted in an art deco style with high ceilings and beautiful views of Center City. While it offers excellent amenities for business travelers (ergonomic desks and free wifi in every room), guests traveling with children are also guaranteed a wide array of special services.

Where is it? Market St, Center City.

Which room? Get multi-aspect views of the city in one of Loew's corner suites.

Time Out tip: Travelling with the brood? Ask about the complimentary kits to baby-proof your room and take a peek inside the 'Kids’ Closet', housing everything from board games to DVD players with kid-appropriate DVDs.

This stately brick hotel sits catty-corner with City Hall and around the bend from Reading Terminal Market. Besides the excellent location, vacationers here stay in rooms decorated with contemporary earthy, stone-grey-and-white decor that gets a pop of color from vibrant accents like throw pillows, curtains and rugs. Snuggle into your luxurious bed, which is outfitted with 350-thread-count sheets and a plush pillow-topped mattress. Rooms also come with a bathrobe, an iPod docking station so you can throw on some tunes and, if you request it, complimentary turn-down service at night. Onsite restaurant Amuse serves classic French fare in amid a sophisticated, urban-brasserie-style atmosphere.

Where is it? Arch Street,

Which room? The classic Guest Rooms are cozy and comfortable with the same amenities as the Deluxe/Superior rooms, so if you don't need more space, don't bother spending more.

Time Out tip: JFK Plaza – better known as Love Park – is across the street. There you can snap a selfie in front of Philadelphia's most iconic art pieces: Robert Indiana’s vibrant LOVE sculpture.

The stunning panoramic waterfront views guarantee the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing a spot on our list. Opened in 2016 in what was formerly a Hyatt, the 348-room high-rise lets you gaze out at the river while swimming in the naturally lit pool, working out in the fitness center, lounging on the balcony of your suite or dining on the outdoor porch of Keating’s Rope & Anchor. The Hilton also offers direct, easy access to the waterfront from the hotel and is just steps away from the Riverlink Ferry.

Where is it? S. Christopher Columbus Blvd, Old City.

Which room? You'll have a tough choice between waterfront, city and skyline views, but thankfully all rooms come with at least a queen-sized bed. 

Time Out tip: The Delaware River waterfront is abuzz all year with food, drink, and carnival-like fun. Go and explore.

Its location in Historic Old City makes this Wyndham the perfect place to stop for sightseeing travelers. Major sites such as Independence Hall, the National Constitution Center, and Betsy Ross House are a mere minutes away. The chic lobby offers a well-stocked bar while the rooftop pool is ideal for a dip with a view of the skyline. This spot hits all the marks for families or those on business who want all the standard features like a gym, in-room desks, free wifi, a restaurant, and modern decor in a super convenient location.

Where is it? Arch Street, just three blocks from the waterfront.

Which room? Each of the 364 rooms is kitted out to a similar standard, so you'll be just as happy in the Deluxe as you would in the Premium.

Time Out tip: Give your brain a workout at one of Philly's newest experiences, the Museum of Illusions. This fun factory opened last year and has so many mind-bending attractions, you'll likely run out of battery 'Gramming them all.

Guests are treated to a stylish, contemporary hotel experience that puts them within walking distance of Rittenhouse Square, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and City Hall. Rooms are decorated with sleek dark-wood furnishings and come with luxury amenities like bathrobes and turn-down service upon request. On-site restaurant Lea serves contemporary American fare all day, and you can grab light snacks in the lobby lounge in the evenings. The hotel is attached to the Shops at Liberty Place, a two-story shopping center with typical mall shops like Express, Aveda, Kiehl’s and more. 

Where is it? South 17 Street, Center City West.

Which room? You're guaranteed to feel spoiled and well-rested whether you go for the Standard King room or lavish Executive Suite.

Time Out tip: The hotel is home to the One Liberty Observation Deck. Located on the 57th floor, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Philadelphia.

Philadelphia is a home-away-from-home for many business travelers and the Club Quarters Hotel offers a comfortable space to hang your hat after a long day at the office. The 275-room hotel opened in 1999 and is located right in Center City, within walking distance of offices, restaurants, public transportation hubs and other attractions. Catering to those in town for business, the hotel offers ultra-fast Wi-Fi, loaner iPads and extended-stay studio apartments. Indulge in world-class fare at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse before taking a stroll over to Reading Terminal Market for a cone of Bassett’s ice cream.

Where is it? Chestnut Street, slap bang between Rittenhouse Square and City Hall.

Which room? Need to stay longer than a holiday? Club Quarters has you covered with their Studio Apartments. These come with fully equipped kitchens and flexible work space, plus complimentary tea, coffee, printing and a weekly maid service.

Time Out tip: It couldn't be easier to enjoy the splendors of Center City eats and nightlife from this convenient spot.

When you think of Philadelphia, you think of Old City: historic, iconic and charming. The Renaissance Philadelphia (formerly The Franklin) at Independence Park boasts all of that and more. Since the early 1990s, the venue has been offering deluxe, modern accommodations within steps of everything that Philadelphia is known for. The décor is best described as classic and clean and several of the 150 rooms and suites offer views of Independence Hall. There's also an indoor pool, fitness center, and an American restaurant and social lounge both serving modern dishes and drinks. 

Where is it? Chestnut Street, Old City.

Which room? Three words: request park view.

Time Out tip: One block over is the Liberty Bell in all its cracked-up-the-side glory. This beast rang in 1776 to alert citizens to the first public reading of the Declaration – go and witness a piece of history.

Part of Philadelphia’s charm rests in its varied and interesting neighborhoods and the Sonder Arco showcases just that. Ideal because of its Midtown Village location (right in the heart of the 'Gayborhood', where Benjamin Franklin carried out his famous kite experiment), this boutique stay boasts hardwood floors, calming natural tones and in-room fireplaces. Each bright and airy room comes with a coffee maker, flat-screen TV with Chromecast, a private bathroom and free wifi.

Where is it? Locust Street, Midtown Village.

Which room? If you can stretch to the Superior King, do, as the extra space makes it feel just that bit more homely.

Time Out tip: Bustling only begins to describe the Gayborhood, dubbed for its popularity among the LGBTQ+ crowd. Just a block away, you'll find South Broad Street, lined with galleries, theaters and lots of eateries.

One of the greatest things about the Alexander Inn, open since 1998, is the variety of accommodation type it offers. Every room at this Center City spot boasts a city view, modern digs, free wifi and complimentary breakfast. Whether you’re on your own and looking for a single room with a twin bed or prefer to stretch out in a King Deluxe, the Alexander Inn has got you covered. Bonus points: the complimentary, all-day snack bar in the lobby.

Where is it? South 12th Street, near the lovely little tree-lined Kahn Park.

Which room? Traveling solo? The Alexander Inn offers affordable single rooms, so you don't have to pay for that extra space you won't use.

Time Out tip: In less than ten minutes you can immerse yourself in Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, a non-profit art museum and gallery that's been evolving in a burst of color since the 1960s.

Thanks to the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation’s exciting developments, guests to Penn’s View Hotel will simply have to check out the attractions, including summertime pop-up park, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Penn’s Landing’s wintertime ice-skating destination, Winterfest. The European decor, exposed brick, balconies, wine cellar and dark-wood furnishings harken to an old-world appeal, while complimentary wifi and onsite restaurant Panorama bring the vibes into contemporary times. Other historic Old City attractions, including the Museum of the American Revolution, are within walking distance.

Where is it? North Front Street, overlooking the Delaware River.

Which room? Book the King Patio room for views of the Delaware River and Ben Franklin Bridge from your own private patio. Then head indoors to enjoy the gas fireplace and spa bathtub.

Time Out tip: It would be remiss to stay here and not tick off all the Independence attractions: the Hall, National Park, Visitor Center, Seaport Museum and Blue Cross RiverRink, all of which are within ten-minutes' walk.

Studio and one-bedroom suites here include living, cooking and sleeping areas decked with sleek furniture and appliances such as a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, cookware, coffeemaker and toaster. Other goodies include complimentary wifi and continental breakfast, combo laundry and a fitness area, plus indoor pool. Located just steps from Reading Terminal Market, the Pennsylvania Convention Center and Philadelphia public transportation's Jefferson Station, Home2 Suites is easily accessible by foot or public transit.

Where is it? Arch Street, right in the city center.

Which room? Each room here is just as well-equipped as the next, so if you only need to sleep two – or are happy to share up to four – book the Queen Bed Studio. Not only is this the cheapest room, but both the bed and the sofa bed are queens.

Time Out tip: Pop over to Reading Terminal Market, literally, it's the other side of the road. It's one of the oldest and largest urban markets in the country and is a treat for all the senses.

Chestnut Hill Hotel is a historical landmark. The structure was built in 1894 on the spot of a former hotel and was a 'Sommer Hausen' for colonial Philadelphians. During Prohibition, it became a speakeasy, among other things, and has been restored three times since then, most recently in 2010. Each of the 36 rooms is unique, including the five rooms in the Post Office building, three of which include kitchenettes and are decorated in a fun and campy Andy Warhol style. The Chestnut Hill Hotel gives guests a taste of 'Old Philly', while still offering the most modern amenities.

Where is it? Germantown Ave, Chestnut Hill.

Which room? There are four rooms available in the nearby Carriage House, which is delightfully decorated with reclaimed wooden doors and seasonal fireplaces.

Time Out tip: Chestnut Hill is a village of Philadelphia known for its hometown feel and quaint collection of galleries, shops, restaurants and a traditional farmers’ market, so get out and explore on foot.