The 12 best cheap hotels in Washington, D.C.

This is a hotel that at first glance seems like it's out of your budget (and probably should be, based on how nice it is). Yours Truly DC is the best of both worlds: the cute, unique vibe of a boutique hotel with the organization and customer service prowess of a major hotel chain. Part of IHG's Vignette Collection, the hotel is an easy distance from Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Downtown (it's situtated in West End). Best of all? Standard rooms typically run under $200 per night, which means all this isn't so far out of reach. 

The cozy chic rooms are thoughtfully furnished and the beds and pillows are fluffy and soft. As for amenities, there's an upscale gym complete with Peleton bikes, an elliptical, and weight racks. This is a particularly welcoming place for kids and dogs, too; kids can grab activities like colored pencils and books from the hotel's library, and food and water bowls, plus a bone-shaped mat to capture mess, can be delivered to any room for your pooch.

The lobby, a hotspot for co-working Washingtonians thanks to its plush seats and free Wi-Fi, includes an outpost of beloved D.C. bagel chain Call Your Mother and South American eatery Mercy Me. 

How much per night? About $140 per night.

Mood? Cozy, fun elegance with good food.  

Phoenix Park Hotel is a cozy hideout convenient to Union Station, the Capitol, and the National Mall that's a well-liked spot by tourists and locals alike. Named after a massive park in Dublin, the hotel's heritage is on clear display with its friendly service and cozy furnishings (standard-sized rooms decorated with Irish artwork and linens). Another perk of staying here is close proximity to The Dubliner, the hotel's ground-floor Irish pub. Pop down for hearty bites, a pint of Guiness, and to listen to the traditional Irish music that's played live every night.

How much per night? About $180 per night.

Mood? Jaunty, cozy inn.

Time Out tip: Beverage heads, this may be the spot for you—guests are greeted with a complimentary drink upon arrival, and there's a 24-hour free coffee bar in the lobby that offers lattes, cappuccino, teas, and hot chocolate.

If you like your hotel to be every bit as fun as the rest of your vacation, this renovated pet-friendly hotspot should be at the top of your list. The Ven at Embassy Row's rooftop patio, complete with colorful cabanas and a spacious pool, make it a summertime favorite for locals who want to sip frozen cocktails poolside. There are plenty of activities like silent discos and spin classes to keep guests occupied and the hotel's restaurant, Fred & Stilla, offers a rotating menu inspired by city's embassies. The rooms are clean and modern.

How much per night? About $148 per night.

Mood? Colorful and fun. 

Time Out tip: The hotel also offers in-room spa services, a fitness center and games like foosball, shuffleboard and ping-pong in the subterranean lounge.

This Woodley Park grand dame is a great option for history buffs—it's been around since 1930 and has been named among the top Historic Hotels of America—but don't let the Omni Shoreham's age fool you. The rooms here lean traditional decor-wise, but they're clean and comfy and the hotel is packed with amenities that punch above its price point.

This hotel is a bit pricier than others on the list (though still under $200) but is really a bargain for what you're getting—first of all, the gorgeous swimming pool that sits on the hotel’s 11 acres and also includes fountains, views of Rock Creek Park, grand staircases, manicured lawns and stone gazebos. The outdoor pool stays open through the end of October, weather permitting, and there's also a spa and fitness center with a dry sauna.

The hotel’s proximity to park trails and the National Zoo makes it an ideal stay for those active travelers or those traveling with kids.

How much per night? About $180 per night.

Mood? Classic, historical country manor. 

Time Out tip: When you get hungry, venture over to nearby Adams Morgan or Cleveland Park for some excellent eats.

Concealed within a historic Victorian mansion, HighRoad is a delightful pitstop that takes advantage of its vintage charm. You'll find a blend of old and new design features, including a fireplace in the common area and exposed brick in the rooms. Don't worry about there not being an on-site restaurant—guests are smack in the middle of lively Adams Morgan, where plenty of bars and eateries beckon. Rooms range from shared dorms to private nooks with TVs and en-suites. 

How much per night? About $80 per night.

Mood? Charming and characterful. 

Time Out tip: Though you're in a shared room, you'll still have your privacy thanks to the pod-style set-up; expect curtains, storage space and customizable LED lights (plus lockers with locks and hooks). 

This modern and funky boutique hotel is a little further from the National Mall and city centers than others on this list, but Hotel Nell - Union Market is perfectly located to explore Union Market, one of the city's best shopping and entertainment districts. Staying here puts you next door to the market itself, the Angelika popup theater, and Gallaudet University. When you want to venture further out, simply hop on the Metro or one of the many buses nearby to access every other neighborhood in D.C.

The hotel itself is a warm, intimate space housed in a historic building. The rooms are small but comfortable and clean, and decorated with vibrant colors and decor. Friendly staff provide excellent service. Take time to hit the rooftop bar for a great panoramic view of the city and Capitol building. 

How much per night? About $105 per night.

Mood? Artsy and intimate. 

The Deco-inspired lobby and lounge at Melrose Georgetown are stunners, and the rooms themselves are chic and modern yet cozy. What else could you ask for? The hotel restaurant, Jardenea, is pricey but very good, particularly if you’re looking for a romantic dinner. If that's not your vibe, you're close to several nice restaurants in West End and have access to the whole city via all the bus lines running through the area. 

Exploring is easy here: it's breezy walk to the heart of Georgetown, George Washington University and Rock Creek Park, which runs through the city from north to south.

How much per night? About $150 per night.

Mood? Classy and cozy. 

Time Out tip: One of the city’s few Trader Joe’s locations sits one block away, so stock up on picnic supplies and head to Rock Creek Park or the banks of the Potomac River for a lunchtime picnic.

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The Tabard Inn, which has been around since 1922, has the feel of a European budget hotel, with all the good (charm, quirkiness and excellent food) and bad (no elevators) that comes with. Even though you’re surrounded by great Dupont Circle restaurants, the hotel's restaurant serves a cozy dinner and brunch, especially when the fireplace is turned on in colder months. 

How much per night? About $130 per night.

Mood? Vintage townhouse and historic vibes. 

Time Out tip: Don’t look for any TVs in the rooms—there aren’t any. Worry not, though! Wi-Fi and access to a nearby gym are both available.

Tastefully decked out in silvery gray tones and an Art Deco design scheme, this Foggy Bottom hotel is ideal for business travelers and families who want a full kitchen and eating area in their room. The State Plaza Hotel's location near the White House, Metro stop, Dupont Circle, George Washington University and the Kennedy Center are also convenient and desirable. Amenities include in-room spa treatments and a fitness center.

How much per night? About $160 per night.

Mood? Traditional with a twist. 

Time Out tip: The Garden Cafe serves lunch and dinner as well as breakfast, and you're gonna want to bag a seat outside on the patio if the sun's out. 

Want to experience old-school Washington? Stay at Hotel Lombardy, an opulent hotel built in 1926, which happens to be one of the Historic Hotels of America. Expect traditionally elegant décor that includes imported furniture, Oriental rugs and retro touches like complimentary shoe-shines. Guests can also indulge in assorted spa services like manicures, facials and massages—all available through Relax & Rejuvenate, an independent company that partners with hotels without in-house spas.

How much per night? About $119 per night

Mood? Old-school glamour

Time Out tip: Avoid the pricey valet parking, if you can.

This D.C. hotel is proving that the tiny living movement isn’t reserved solely for homes. Motto's micro-rooms are just 150-square-feet each and do a great job at maximizing the living space with bunk beds and under-bed storage. Three restaurants are on-site, including a retro diner, a chic whiskey bar, and an indoor/outdoor penthouse spot. You can't beat the location, which is a mile away from the White House, Union Station, and the National Mall.

How much per night? About $102 per night.

Mood? Urban vibes and right next to all the major attractions. 

Time Out tip: The extras offered here go way beyond what hotels normally offer, including free weekend walking tours of the neighborhood, access to nearby fitness centers, classes and co-working space.

While hostels in Washington aren’t for everyone, this one turns the traditionally bare-bones accommodation into something warm and inviting. Expect tons of freebies at Duo complimentary tea and coffee, access to computers, a Nintendo Wii, premium cable and a free locker—if you bring your own lock. There's rooftop deck for hanging out with new friends from all over town.

Although the idea here is to socialize and interact, you’ll appreciate the available quiet room when you’re in need of a retreat. Other great features not present at most hostels? A 24/7 front desk and no lock-out or curfew policy.

How much per night? About $70 per night.

Mood? Fun and extra frugal.

Time Out tip: This hostel adheres to a no-shoes-inside policy, which some may love. Others, not so much.