The United States is skyscrapers and jazz clubs, red-rock canyons and palm trees by the Pacific, and it’s all so vast that even a month only covers part of it. From New York to Los Angeles it’s around 4,000 kilometres by air, so when you’re deciding where to stay in the United States, the first choice isn’t which hotel to book but which part of the country you want to see.
Here are my recommendations for 15 places to stay in the United States, from the big cities on the East Coast through the Deep South and the national parks of the Southwest to California and Hawaii. For each place I’ve picked three hotels in different price ranges, so you can put together your own route.
Contents
Where to Stay in the United States: The Best Places
- New York - best city for first-timers and big-city life
- Boston - best city for history and a calmer big city
- Washington D.C. - best city for free museums and monuments
- Chicago - best city for architecture and a lakeside big city
- Nashville - best city for live music and a country vibe
- New Orleans - best city for jazz, food and Southern atmosphere
- Miami - best city for beaches and art deco
- Orlando - best base for theme parks and families
- Las Vegas - best city for shows, casinos and starting a road trip
- Grand Canyon - best base for the most famous canyon
- Zion National Park - best base for hiking in Utah
- Los Angeles - best area for beaches and Hollywood
- San Diego - best city for a laid-back seaside city break
- San Francisco - best city for hills, cable cars and the Golden Gate
- Hawaii - best place for a beach holiday and volcanic islands
I go through the places in the order many people travel: first the East Coast, then the South and Florida, then the desert and national parks of the Southwest, and finally the West Coast and Hawaii. For each place you get a map, transport from the airport and three places to stay: the most expensive first, then a mid-range option and finally one for a smaller budget. Where I’ve worked out a driving time myself, I’ve noted that it’s an estimate.
Pick one or two parts of the country per trip. On the East Coast you can easily manage without a car, as New York, Boston and Washington D.C. are linked by train and the cities have metro systems. In the Southwest it’s the other way round. There’s almost no public transport between Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon and Zion, so here you’ll need to hire a car. Between regions you fly domestically, which is often both cheaper and quicker than driving.
Two practical points apply wherever you go. As a British traveller you need an approved travel authorisation before you fly, and you apply for it on the official ESTA website in good time. Only use the official site, as there are lots of private sites that charge extra for the same thing. Also note that many American hotels add a mandatory resort fee or destination fee on top of the room rate. It’s often paid at the hotel, so factor it in when you compare prices. One dollar is roughly £0.75.
1. New York - best city for first-time visitors and big-city life 🗽
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Times Square in the middle of Manhattan. All three hotels are in Midtown, no more than about a kilometre from the square.
- 🚇 Transport: The subway and your own two feet. The subway runs around the clock, and you pay by tapping your bank card or phone on the reader at the entrance.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: About an hour from JFK to Midtown by AirTrain and subway or train. From Newark and LaGuardia it’s roughly the same. That’s an estimate, and if you take a taxi the time depends heavily on the traffic.
- 💰 Price level: $$$ to $$$$. New York is one of the most expensive cities in the United States to stay in, and rooms in the cheaper categories are small.
- 👮 Safety: Midtown is busy and feels safe. Watch out for pickpockets in the crowds on Times Square, and remember that the costumed characters on the square expect a tip for a photo.
Most trips to the United States begin in New York, and the city is enough for a whole holiday on its own. On a first visit I’d give it four to five nights. That way you’ll get to Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, a Broadway show and a trip up one of the skyscrapers without rushing around, and you’ll get over the jet lag before the rest of your trip begins.
I’ve picked three hotels in Midtown, because it’s the most practical place to stay the first time. From here you can walk to Times Square, Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center, and almost every subway line stops nearby. If you’d rather stay on the Lower East Side, in SoHo or in Brooklyn, I’ve written a full guide on where to stay in New York, as well as a guide to things to see in New York.
New York has three major airports. From JFK you take the AirTrain to Jamaica and change to the subway or a commuter train, and you’ll find the best way to do it in my guide to getting from JFK Airport to Manhattan. If you land at Newark or LaGuardia, you can read about getting from Newark and LaGuardia to Manhattan.
Expect small rooms and high prices, especially at weekends and in December, when the city is packed with Christmas visitors. Book well ahead and check the room size in the description. If there are two of you with large suitcases, 18-20 square metres is the smallest I’d go for.
Hotels in New York
The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue - five-star hotel with large rooms on Fifth Avenue
The Langham is on Fifth Avenue, a few blocks from the Empire State Building and Bryant Park. It’s a five-star hotel with a restaurant, bar, gym and 24-hour concierge, and the rooms are large by New York standards. The smallest are 39 square metres, and many are 46.
This is my pick if you want space and peace in the middle of Manhattan. Breakfast is only included in the rates that say so, and guests mention that the lobby is small with few places to sit. The price is high, but you get almost twice as much space as at most hotels around Times Square.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel is perfectly located, and the staff are exceptionally well trained.”
See photos and book The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue here.
The Mayfair Hotel Times Square - four-star hotel in the Theater District just north of Times Square
The Mayfair Hotel is on 49th Street in the Theater District, a few minutes’ walk from Times Square and close to the subway. It’s a four-star hotel with a 24-hour reception and concierge, but no restaurant.
Here you’re paying for the location. The smallest rooms are just 10 square metres, and a standard double with a king-size bed is just under 19, so choose the larger category if there are two of you. Breakfast isn’t included, and a destination fee of just under 30 dollars (around £22) per night is added on top of the price. Guests praise the location and the cleanliness, but many mention the small rooms.
One guest says on Booking.com: “The location was perfect, very close to Times Square and just a short way down the street from a subway station.”
See photos and book The Mayfair Hotel Times Square here.
Pod Times Square - three-star hotel with small, clever rooms and a rooftop terrace
Pod Times Square is on 42nd Street at Ninth Avenue, about 600 metres west of Times Square. It’s a three-star hotel with a bar and terrace, and the rooms are designed as small cabins that make clever use of the space.
A Queen Pod is 12 square metres, and there are also rooms with bunk beds. It suits you if you’re out all day and just need a clean bed close to the subway. Breakfast isn’t included, and there’s a small facility fee per night. Guests praise the cleanliness and the helpful staff, but also mention that the rooms are very small.
One guest writes about their stay on Booking.com: “The location was fantastic, close to Times Square and the subway station and to local shops and restaurants.”
See photos and book Pod Times Square here.
2. Boston - best city for history and a calmer big-city break 🦞
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Boston Common, the city’s big park and the start of the Freedom Trail. The three hotels are no more than about a kilometre away.
- 🚇 Transport: The city is small enough to explore on foot, and the metro, known as the T, takes care of the rest. For Cambridge and Harvard, take the Red Line.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: Logan Airport is close to the centre. The Silver Line SL1 is free from the airport and runs to South Station. Allow 20-30 minutes. That’s an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$$ to $$$$. Boston is expensive, especially at weekends and in the autumn half-term holidays.
- 👮 Safety: A safe city. The centre and the harbour are lively in the evening, and Boston Common is best crossed while it’s still light.
Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States and one of the easiest to visit. You’ll find red-brick houses, a harbour and plenty of history from the time when the American colonies rebelled against the British. The Freedom Trail is a red line in the pavement that leads you about four kilometres through the city, past churches, burial grounds and meeting houses from that era.
The city makes a good stop between New York and Washington D.C., or works as the first or last city on an East Coast trip. Two to three nights is enough for most people. With an extra day, you can cross the river to Cambridge to see Harvard and MIT, or take a trip out to Cape Cod in the summer.
Getting in from the airport is easy. According to the city’s transport authority, the Silver Line SL1 is always free from Logan Airport, and the bus stops at every terminal. Between New York and Boston, take the train, which is far more relaxing than driving yourself. Allow about four hours, but check the timetable, as the fastest trains cost more.
I’ve picked hotels in Downtown and by the harbour, because from here you can walk to most things. If you’d rather stay in Back Bay, in Seaport or near Fenway Park, I’ve written a whole guide on where to stay in Boston. Book early if you’re coming in September or October, when the many autumn visitors push prices up.
Hotels in Boston
Boston Harbor Hotel - five-star hotel with a pool and harbour views
Boston Harbor Hotel sits on Rowes Wharf right by the water, and it’s the big arch facing the harbour that you see in so many photos of Boston. It’s a five-star hotel with a restaurant, bar, indoor pool, sauna and spa.
The rooms are large, with the smallest measuring 46 square metres. This is my pick if you’re celebrating something or simply want to stay with a view over the harbour. Breakfast isn’t included in most rates, and guests mention that room service is expensive.
One delighted guest writes on Booking.com: “The hospitality was absolutely top-notch. The food was fantastic, and the view was breathtaking.”
See photos and book Boston Harbor Hotel here.
Omni Parker House - historic four-star hotel on the Freedom Trail
Omni Parker House is on School Street in Downtown, about 300 metres from Boston Common and right on the Freedom Trail. It’s one of the oldest hotels in the United States and has a restaurant, bar and gym.
This is the hotel for you if you want to stay somewhere historic and walk everywhere. Room sizes vary a lot, from a small single room of 8 square metres to large rooms of over 40, so read the description before you book. Breakfast costs extra, and a resort fee of about $35 (around £25) per night is added on top of the price. Some guests feel the rooms are small for the price.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel was ideal for everything there is to see and do in Boston.”
See photos and book Omni Parker House here.
HI Boston Hostel - large, modern hostel with private rooms and free breakfast
HI Boston Hostel is on Stuart Street between Chinatown and the Theatre District, about 400 metres from Boston Common. There are both dorms and private rooms, plus a shared kitchen, a lounge and a lift.
It’s the cheapest of my three suggestions and a good choice in an expensive city. Breakfast is free, and the hostel organises walking tours and other group activities. Go for a private room if there are two of you and you want some peace and quiet. Guests mention that the facilities could do with an update.
One guest writes on Booking.com after their stay: “Very pleasantly surprised by how good this place is. Definitely recommended.”
See photos and book HI Boston Hostel here.
3. Washington D.C. - best city for free museums and monuments 🏛️
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows the National Mall, the long lawn between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. The three hotels are around one to two kilometres north of it.
- 🚇 Transport: The Metro and your own two feet. The monuments are spread over several kilometres, so wear comfortable shoes or hire a bike.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From Reagan National Airport (DCA), the Metro takes around 20 minutes into the city. From Dulles (IAD), the Metro takes about an hour. Both times are estimates.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$$. Hotels are most expensive on weekdays, when politicians and business travellers are in town.
- 👮 Safety: The central neighbourhoods are safe and busy during the day. In the evening the National Mall is quiet, so walk with others or take a taxi back.
Washington D.C. is the perfect city if you love museums, because most of the big ones are free. According to the Smithsonian Institution, there is free admission to the Smithsonian museums, which include the Air and Space Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Museum of African American History and Culture. On top of that, there’s the White House, the Capitol and the monuments along the National Mall.
Three nights is a good amount for a first visit. The city is easy to combine with New York and Boston, as trains run between all three. The train from New York to Washington D.C. takes around three hours, so you avoid airports and traffic. That’s an estimate, and the fastest trains are the most expensive.
See hotels in Washington D.C. here.
I’ve chosen three hotels close to the White House and Downtown, so you can walk to the National Mall. If you’d rather stay in the charming rowhouse neighbourhoods of Georgetown or Capitol Hill, or in the area around The Wharf, I’ve written a full guide on where to stay in Washington D.C., with six areas to choose from.
Spring or autumn is the best time to visit. Summer is hot and humid, and around the cherry blossom season in early spring the city is packed with tourists, so book well ahead if you want to see the trees in bloom.
Hotels in Washington D.C.
The Hay-Adams - classic five-star hotel opposite the White House
The Hay-Adams sits on Lafayette Square, right opposite the White House. It’s one of the city’s best-known hotels, with a restaurant, bar, gym and 24-hour concierge.
The smallest room is a single of just under 23 square metres, and a deluxe room is 32. It’s my pick if you want to stay somewhere grand and walk to both the White House and the museums. Prices are high, and one guest mentions that it can be hard to get an extra bed.
Asked what was best, one guest on Booking.com answers simply: “The staff, the room, the atmosphere and the location.”
See photos and book The Hay-Adams here.
Hamilton Hotel - four-star hotel on Franklin Square in Downtown
Hamilton Hotel is on leafy Franklin Square in Downtown, around 900 metres from the White House and close to the Metro. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and gym, and the lobby is stunning.
Rooms are around 22 square metres. Breakfast costs extra, and there’s a destination fee of 25 dollars (around £19) plus tax per night. It’s a good choice if you want a central location at a more moderate price than the big luxury hotels. Some guests find the rooms small and a little basic.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Liked the location and the staff.”
See photos and book Hamilton Hotel here.
Hotel Hive - three-star hotel with micro rooms in Foggy Bottom
Hotel Hive is on F Street in Foggy Bottom, close to George Washington University and just over a kilometre from the Lincoln Memorial. It’s a three-star hotel with a restaurant, bar and terrace.
The rooms are small: a room with a queen-size bed is around 13 square metres, and there are bunk rooms too. On the plus side, it’s one of the cheapest ways to stay centrally in Washington D.C. Breakfast isn’t included. The hotel suits you best if you travel light and are out all day.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The minimalist design was charming, and the location was ideal for sightseeing.”
See photos and book Hotel Hive here.
4. Chicago - best city for architecture and a big city by the lake 🏙️
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Millennium Park on the edge of The Loop. The hotels are no more than about a kilometre from the park.
- 🚇 Transport: The elevated railway, known as The L, and buses. You can get around The Loop and the area along the Chicago River on foot.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From O'Hare, the Blue Line runs directly to The Loop in about 45 minutes, and from Midway the Orange Line takes around 25 minutes. Both times are estimates.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$$. Prices rise sharply when big trade fairs are in town, so check the dates.
- 👮 Safety: The Loop and River North are busy and safe during the day. Stick to the central neighbourhoods in the evening, and take a taxi if you’re going far.
Chicago is the city where the skyscraper was invented, and the architecture is the reason to come here. Take a boat out on the Chicago River with an architecture guide on board. It’s the best way to see the city, and in an hour or an hour and a half the trip shows you why Chicago has so many famous buildings.
The city sits on Lake Michigan, which is so big it looks like a sea, and in summer there are beaches right next to the centre. In Millennium Park you’ll find the shiny sculpture Cloud Gate, which everyone calls The Bean, and the Art Institute of Chicago is right next door. Three nights is a good length for a first visit.
I’ve chosen hotels in The Loop and just north of the river, because this is where you can walk to the parks, the museums and the boats. If you’d rather stay in River North, Streeterville or West Loop, I’ve written a whole guide on where to stay in Chicago.
The winters are long and cold, and the wind off the lake makes it even colder. Travel between May and October if you want to get the most out of the city. Chicago lies between the East Coast and the West, and from O'Hare there are direct flights to almost every major city in the United States, so it’s easy to fit into a longer trip.
Hotels in Chicago
The Langham Chicago - five-star hotel with a pool and spa on the Chicago River
The Langham Chicago is on Wabash Avenue right by the Chicago River, in a black skyscraper designed by the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. It’s a five-star hotel with a restaurant, bar, indoor pool and spa.
The rooms are large, with the smallest just under 48 square metres. This is my pick if you want to stay in luxury with views over the river and be able to walk to both Millennium Park and River North. Breakfast costs extra, and some guests weren’t entirely happy with the restaurant.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Everything about my stay at this hotel was absolutely perfect.”
See photos and book The Langham Chicago here.
Kimpton Gray Hotel - four-star boutique hotel in the heart of The Loop
Kimpton Gray Hotel is on Monroe Street in the middle of The Loop, about a kilometre from Millennium Park. It’s a four-star hotel in a historic building with a restaurant, bar and gym.
The rooms are a good size for a big city, from 26 square metres upwards. It’s a good choice if you want to stay centrally with a bit more style than the chain hotels. Breakfast costs extra, and some guests mention that the service at breakfast could be better.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The staff were incredibly attentive, friendly and always willing to help.”
See photos and book Kimpton Gray Hotel here.
HI Chicago Hostel - large hostel with private rooms and breakfast in The Loop
HI Chicago Hostel is in The Loop close to Grant Park and the Art Institute of Chicago. It has dorms and private rooms, a shared kitchen, a games room and a 24-hour reception.
It’s by far the cheapest of my three suggestions and has a location many expensive hotels would envy. Breakfast is included in the price, but guests are divided on it. The smallest private rooms are about 20 square metres with a bunk bed. Some guests mention that the bathrooms could be better.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The staff were lovely, and the hostel was clean and comfortable.”
See photos and book HI Chicago Hostel here.
5. Nashville - best city for live music and country vibes 🎸
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Ryman Auditorium right by Broadway, where the honky tonk bars are. Two of the hotels are a few minutes’ walk away, and the third is about one and a half kilometres away.
- 🚶 Getting around: You can get around Downtown on foot. For the Grand Ole Opry and the neighbourhoods outside the centre, you’ll need a taxi or a car.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From Nashville International Airport (BNA), it takes about 15-20 minutes by taxi to Downtown outside rush hour. This is an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$$. Weekends are expensive because the city is popular for stag and hen dos and parties.
- 👮 Safety: Broadway feels safe and is full of people until late at night. It can get very crowded and noisy, so choose a hotel a little further away if you want an early night.
Nashville is called Music City, and not without reason. On Broadway, there’s live music in the bars from late morning until well into the night, and usually with no cover charge. Ryman Auditorium is an old church that became one of the country’s most famous concert halls, and the Country Music Hall of Fame is a couple of streets away.
Two to three nights is enough for most people. The city makes a good stop on a trip through the Southern states, as Memphis is about a three-hour drive west, and you can fly to New Orleans. Drive or take a taxi out to the Grand Ole Opry one evening, as it’s the classic country show that has been broadcast on the radio for over a hundred years.
I’ve picked two hotels close to Broadway and one by Music Row, where the record labels are based. If you’d rather stay in The Gulch, by Centennial Park or out by Opryland, I’ve written a whole guide on where to stay in Nashville.
If you’re arriving on a Friday or Saturday, book early and expect higher prices. Weekdays are both cheaper and quieter, and the music still plays every night. Parking costs extra at almost all hotels in Downtown, so consider whether you need a car while you’re in the city.
Hotels in Nashville
The Hermitage Hotel - historic five-star hotel by the state capitol
The Hermitage Hotel is on Sixth Avenue close to the Tennessee State Capitol and a couple of streets from Broadway. It’s a historic five-star hotel with a restaurant, bar and gym, and the lobby is one of the most beautiful in the city.
The rooms are large, with the smallest at about 45 square metres. This is my suggestion if you want to stay somewhere classic and elegant and still walk to the music. Breakfast isn’t included in the standard rates, and one guest mentions that there’s a bit too little space for clothes and luggage.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Everything. The hotel has loads of charm and character.”
See photos and book The Hermitage Hotel here.
Holston House Nashville - four-star hotel with a rooftop pool close to Broadway
Holston House is on Seventh Avenue in Downtown, a few minutes’ walk from Broadway. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, gym and a rooftop pool that’s open in season.
Rooms start at about 28 square metres. Breakfast costs extra, and there’s a destination fee of 25 dollars (around £19) plus tax per night. Guests praise the location and the staff, but some find the parking expensive.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The location is fantastic, right by Broadway, but still very quiet and safe.”
See photos and book Holston House Nashville here.
Best Western Downtown PLUS Music Row - three-star hotel with large rooms and breakfast
Best Western Downtown PLUS Music Row is on Division Street by Music Row, about one and a half kilometres from Broadway. The hotel has an outdoor pool in summer, a gym and a 24-hour reception.
It’s the cheapest of my three suggestions, and the rooms are large with space for two queen-size beds. A hot breakfast is included in the price, but parking costs extra. You can walk to Broadway in about 20 minutes or take a short taxi ride. Some guests mention noise from other guests in the evening.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel room is big. Loved the large, comfortable bed and the soft pillows.”
See photos and book Best Western Downtown PLUS Music Row here.
6. New Orleans - best city for jazz, food and Deep South atmosphere 🎷
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Jackson Square in the middle of the French Quarter. Two of the hotels are in the neighbourhood, and the third is on Canal Street right on its edge.
- 🚋 Transport: You can get around the French Quarter on foot. The streetcar on St. Charles Avenue runs out to the Garden District.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is about 25 kilometres west of the centre. Allow half an hour by taxi. That’s an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$$. During Mardi Gras and the big music festivals, prices rise sharply.
- 👮 Safety: The French Quarter is lively and packed with people in the evening. Stick to the busy streets after dark, and take a taxi back if you’re leaving the neighbourhood late.
New Orleans is unlike any other city in the United States. You’ll find French and Spanish architecture with wrought-iron balconies, jazz on every other street corner and a cuisine you won’t find anywhere else, with gumbo, jambalaya and beignets dusted with icing sugar. The French Quarter is the centre of it all, and Jackson Square with St. Louis Cathedral is the heart of the neighbourhood.
Three nights is about right. Bourbon Street is loud and full of bars, and it’s fun to walk along, but I wouldn’t stay right on it if I wanted to sleep. Head to Frenchmen Street in the Marigny neighbourhood in the evening instead, where the jazz clubs are packed close together.
See hotels in New Orleans here.
I’ve picked three hotels in and around the French Quarter, because that’s where most people want to stay on their first visit. If you’d rather stay in the Garden District with its old mansions, in the more laid-back Marigny or in the Warehouse District near the war museum, I’ve written a full guide on where to stay in New Orleans.
Summers are very hot and humid, and according to the US National Hurricane Center, the hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic runs from June to November. The best weather is from February to May and again in late autumn. Book well ahead if you want to experience Mardi Gras.
Hotels in New Orleans
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans - five-star hotel with a spa on Canal Street
The Ritz-Carlton is on Canal Street on the edge of the French Quarter, in a former department store building. It’s a five-star hotel with a restaurant, bar, spa and live jazz in the bar in the evening.
Rooms start at about 32 square metres, and a resort fee of around $57 (around £45) per night is added to the price. Breakfast costs extra. This is my pick if you want a large, quiet room and a spa to come back to. Some guests feel the service doesn’t quite live up to the price.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Our room was beautiful. It was spacious, modern and spotlessly clean.”
See photos and book The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans here.
Hotel Monteleone - historic four-star hotel on Royal Street with a revolving bar
Hotel Monteleone is on Royal Street in the middle of the French Quarter. It’s a historic family-run hotel with a restaurant, spa, rooftop pool and the famous Carousel Bar, where the bar slowly turns round.
The rooms aren’t large, and the smallest are about 22 square metres. Breakfast costs extra, and valet parking is around $48 (around £35) a day. Even so, it’s my favourite in the French Quarter, because the location and atmosphere are hard to beat. Some guests mention that the rooms are smaller than expected.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel had a fantastic location and loads of character, and the staff were very friendly and helpful.”
See photos and book Hotel Monteleone here.
Homewood Suites by Hilton New Orleans French Quarter - three-star hotel with suites and breakfast included
Homewood Suites is on North Rampart Street on the northern edge of the French Quarter, about a kilometre from Jackson Square. There’s an outdoor pool, a gym and a 24-hour reception.
All rooms are suites of about 32 square metres, so there’s plenty of space for families. The breakfast buffet is included in the price, though some guests feel the choice could be wider. It’s a good option if you want to stay close to everything for less than in the heart of the neighbourhood.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel had a brilliant location, the staff were very friendly, the rooms were very clean and modern, and the breakfast was lovely.”
See photos and book Homewood Suites by Hilton New Orleans French Quarter here.
7. Miami - best city for beaches and art deco 🌴
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Lummus Park and Ocean Drive in South Beach. Two of the hotels are in South Beach, and the third is in Mid-Beach, about four kilometres further north.
- 🚶 Getting around: You can get around South Beach on foot or by bike. For Downtown Miami, Brickell and Wynwood on the mainland, you’ll need a bus, taxi or car.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From Miami International Airport (MIA), it takes about 25-30 minutes by taxi to South Beach outside rush hour. This is an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$$ to $$$$. Winter and spring are high season, and there’s almost always a resort fee on top of the price.
- 👮 Safety: South Beach is safe and lively. Ocean Drive can get wild at night at weekends, so choose a hotel a street back if you want to sleep.
Miami Beach is a long, narrow island with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the city of Miami on the other. South Beach is what most people picture: a wide sandy beach with pastel-coloured lifeguard huts and Ocean Drive, lined with art deco hotels from the 1930s and 1940s. A great many of them are gathered in one area here, and in the evening the neon signs light up along the street.
Four to five nights is ideal if you want to combine city and beach. Head over to the mainland to see the street art in Wynwood and Cuban Little Havana. If you have a car, you can drive down through the Florida Keys to Key West, but expect a long day, as the road is narrow and the traffic heavy.
See hotels in Miami Beach here.
I’ve chosen hotels in South Beach and Mid-Beach, because the beach is the reason to stay here. If you’d rather stay in Brickell, Downtown or Wynwood, I’ve written a whole guide on where to stay in Miami.
The best weather is from November to April. Summers are hot and humid with heavy afternoon thunderstorms, and Miami also lies in the hurricane belt. If you’re travelling in late summer, keep an eye on the forecast and choose a booking you can change.
Hotels in Miami
The Betsy Hotel, South Beach - five-star boutique hotel on Ocean Drive with a rooftop pool
The Betsy is on Ocean Drive, right across from the beach in South Beach. It’s a five-star boutique hotel with a restaurant, bar, rooftop pool, spa and beach service.
The smallest rooms are about 23 square metres and the suites 37. Breakfast for two is included, and the resort fee is included in the price. This is my pick if you want to stay in style with the beach just across the road. Some guests mention that the rooms can be small.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel is very cosy with a lovely atmosphere, beautiful architecture and an excellent location.”
See photos and book The Betsy Hotel, South Beach here.
Esme Miami Beach - four-star hotel with a rooftop pool by Española Way
Esme is on Washington Avenue by Española Way, a small Spanish-style street, about two blocks from the beach. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and rooftop pool.
Rooms start at about 21 square metres, and breakfast is included in the price. On the other hand, there’s a resort fee of about $46 (around £35) per night. Guests praise the style and atmosphere, but some find the pool small and the breakfast limited.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel’s style and atmosphere were good. The location was good.”
See photos and book Esme Miami Beach here.
Hotel Croydon - four-star hotel in Mid-Beach a block from the beach
Hotel Croydon is on Collins Avenue in Mid-Beach, about four kilometres north of South Beach and a block from the beach. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, gym and spa.
It’s usually the cheapest of my three suggestions, and the rooms are about 25-27 square metres. Breakfast costs around $25 (around £19) per person, and there’s a resort fee of about $30 (around £22) plus tax per night. Mid-Beach is quieter than South Beach, but you’ll need a bus or taxi to Ocean Drive. Some guests mention that the rooms are small and that the cleaning could be better.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel’s location is excellent, just a block from the beach, which was very convenient.”
See photos and book Hotel Croydon here.
8. Orlando - best base for theme parks and families with children 🎢
- 📍 Distance to the centre: Orlando is spread out over a large area. The map shows Disney Springs at Walt Disney World. Two of the hotels are in the area around Disney, and the third is at Universal Orlando, about 15 kilometres further north.
- 🚗 Transport: A car or the hotels’ free buses to the parks. There isn’t much public transport, so check which parks your hotel runs buses to.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From Orlando International Airport (MCO), it takes about 30-40 minutes by car to the Disney area and a little less to Universal. This is an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$$. Prices follow the school holidays in the United States, and resort fees are common.
- 👮 Safety: The areas around the parks are safe and built for families. Watch out for the strong sun and the thunderstorms in summer.
Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. Walt Disney World has four big parks and two water parks, and Universal Orlando has three parks, including Epic Universe. On top of that, there’s SeaWorld and Kennedy Space Center, which is about an hour’s drive east on the coast.
Choose your base according to which parks you’ll spend the most days in. If you’re mainly doing Disney, stay in Lake Buena Vista or in one of Disney’s own areas. If you’re mainly doing Universal, stay at Universal, where several hotels give you access to the parks before other guests. With five to seven nights, you’ll have time for the main parks plus a day by the pool in between.
I’d recommend that you hire a car in Orlando if you’re going to visit several parks or head out to the coast. On the other hand, you can easily manage without one if your hotel has free buses to the parks you want to visit. If you’d like to know more about the areas around International Drive, Disney and Universal, I’ve written a whole guide on where to stay in Orlando.
Book your park tickets in advance and check the opening hours for your dates. Tickets are often cheaper online, and in busy periods some ticket types can sell out.
Hotels in Orlando
Waldorf Astoria Orlando - five-star resort with a pool, spa and free bus to Disney
Waldorf Astoria Orlando is in Bonnet Creek, right in the middle of the Disney area, and is an official Walt Disney World hotel. There are several restaurants, pools, a spa, a golf course nearby and a kids’ club.
The rooms are large, with the smallest at around 42 square metres. Free buses run to the Disney parks, although one guest felt they could run more often. Breakfast costs extra, and a daily resort fee is added to the price. This is my pick if you want to combine park days with luxury and peace and quiet.
One guest puts it bluntly on Booking.com: “Lovely hotel, would recommend it if you have the budget. It’s expensive!”
See photos and book Waldorf Astoria Orlando here.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress - four-star resort with large grounds and a free bus to Disney
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is in Lake Buena Vista, close to Disney Springs. The resort has large grounds with a lake, a pool with a water slide, golf and several restaurants.
The rooms start at around 33 square metres with two double beds, so there’s plenty of space for a family. Free buses run to the Disney parks. Breakfast costs extra, and there’s a resort fee of $50 (around £35) plus tax per day. Some guests feel the fees and the parking are expensive.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The resort is very big, and the grounds and the view are very beautiful and quiet.”
See photos and book Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress here.
Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort - Universal’s cheapest hotel with a lazy river and free bus to the parks
Cabana Bay Beach Resort is at Universal Orlando and is one of Universal’s own hotels, decorated in retro style. There are large pools, a lazy river, bowling and a games room.
It’s usually the cheapest of my three suggestions, and the standard rooms are around 28 square metres, while the family suites are 40. Free buses run to the Universal parks, and hotel guests can get into the parks early. Breakfast isn’t included, and guests mention that the food at the hotel is expensive and that there are few places to eat.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The pools and lazy river were wonderful. The facilities on site were fantastic.”
See photos and book Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort here.
9. Las Vegas - best city for shows, casinos and the start of a road trip 🎰
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows the fountains at the Bellagio in the middle of The Strip. All three hotels are on The Strip, no more than about a kilometre away.
- 🚶 Transport: You can get around The Strip on foot, but the distances are longer than they look. Buses, taxis and the monorail cover the rest.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: Harry Reid International Airport is close to The Strip. Allow 10-20 minutes by taxi. This is an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$$. Room rates vary a lot between weekdays and weekends, and a resort fee is almost always added.
- 👮 Safety: The Strip feels safe and is packed with people round the clock. Keep an eye on your belongings in the crowds, and don’t walk alone down the dark side streets at night.
Las Vegas is a city you have to experience at least once. The hotels on The Strip are enormous, with casinos, pools, restaurants and shows all under one roof, and in the evening the whole street is lit up. The fountain show in front of the Bellagio is free and runs at regular intervals every day.
Two to three nights is enough for most people. The city is also the obvious place to start a road trip to the national parks, as Zion is about two and a half hours’ drive to the north-east and the Grand Canyon about four and a half hours to the east. Both times are estimates. Pick up your hire car in Las Vegas on the day you leave the city, as you have to pay for parking on The Strip.
I’ve chosen three hotels in the middle of The Strip, because that way you can walk between the best-known hotels and shows. If you’d rather stay Downtown by Fremont Street or away from The Strip, I’ve written a whole guide on where to stay in Las Vegas.
Always compare the total price including the resort fee. A room that looks cheap can end up costing quite a bit more once the fee of 40-60 dollars (around £30-45) per night is added. It’s very hot in summer, so plan outdoor activities for the morning and evening.
Hotels in Las Vegas
Bellagio - five-star casino hotel with the famous fountains
The Bellagio sits in the middle of The Strip with the fountain lake in front of the entrance. The hotel has a casino, pools, a spa, lots of restaurants and an indoor botanical garden in the lobby.
The rooms are large, with the smallest measuring about 47 square metres. Breakfast isn’t included, and there’s a resort fee of about 51 dollars (around £40) plus tax per night. This is my pick if you want to stay right in the thick of it with views of the fountains. Guests mention long queues at check-in and expensive food.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The location is good and central to everything.”
See photos and book the Bellagio here.
Paris Las Vegas - four-star casino hotel with an Eiffel Tower right opposite the Bellagio
Paris Las Vegas is right opposite the Bellagio, with a replica of the Eiffel Tower in front of the hotel. There’s a casino, a pool, a spa and several restaurants.
The rooms are about 36 square metres. Breakfast isn’t included, and the resort fee is about 55 dollars (around £40) plus tax per night. Guests mention that there’s no coffee maker in the room and that the many fees come as a surprise. On the plus side, you get one of the best locations on The Strip at a mid-range price.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Good hotel, and the location is perfect. Fantastic value for money.”
See photos and book Paris Las Vegas here.
The LINQ Hotel & Casino - four-star casino hotel by the High Roller observation wheel
The LINQ is in the middle of The Strip by the pedestrianised LINQ Promenade, home to the High Roller observation wheel. The hotel has a casino, a pool, a spa and a gym.
It’s usually the cheapest of my three suggestions, and rooms start at about 26 square metres. The resort fee is around 50 dollars (around £35) plus tax per night, and breakfast isn’t included. Guests praise the location, but some feel the rooms are worn and the breakfast options are poor.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Good location right on The Strip, so it’s easy to get around.”
See photos and book The LINQ Hotel & Casino here.
10. Grand Canyon - the best base for the most famous canyon 🏜️
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Tusayan, the small town just south of the park entrance on the South Rim. All three hotels are in the town, and it’s about 11 kilometres to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.
- 🚗 Transport: Car. Inside the park, free buses run along the rim, and in summer a free bus runs between Tusayan and the park.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: There’s no major airport nearby. From Las Vegas it’s roughly a four and a half hour drive, and from Phoenix about three and a half hours. Both times are estimates.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$. The hotels in Tusayan are expensive for the standard you get, because they’re so close to the park.
- 👮 Safety: A safe little town. Drive carefully after dark, as deer cross the road, and keep well back from the edge when you’re standing at the canyon.
The Grand Canyon is the canyon everyone knows from photos, and it’s still a shock to stand at the edge and look down. The South Rim is the side most people visit, as it’s open all year round and has the most viewpoints. Come at sunrise or sunset, when the light paints the rocks red and orange.
I’d stay at least one night, so you can see the canyon in both the evening and the morning. There are hotels inside the park too, but they’re often booked up well in advance. Tusayan is the alternative. From here, it’s a quarter of an hour’s drive to the park, and there are restaurants, a petrol station and a supermarket.
See hotels near the Grand Canyon here.
According to the national park, free shuttle buses run in the park and, in summer, also from Tusayan, so you can leave the car at the hotel. You’ll need to pay an entrance fee to the park or have a valid national park pass. If you’re visiting several parks on the same trip, an annual pass for the US national parks can quickly pay for itself.
The Grand Canyon fits perfectly into a road trip from Las Vegas. Many people drive Las Vegas, Zion, Page with Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, then the Grand Canyon and back again, which takes a week or more. In winter there can be snow at the rim, as the South Rim sits more than 2,000 metres above sea level, so check the weather before you set off.
Hotels near the Grand Canyon
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon - large hotel with an indoor pool in Tusayan
The Grand Hotel is in the middle of Tusayan on the main road into the park. It’s a large lodge-style hotel with a restaurant, bar, indoor pool, hot tub and gym.
The rooms are around 28 square metres, and the breakfast buffet costs extra. In summer, a shuttle bus runs to the park. This is my pick if you want the most comfortable hotel in Tusayan. One guest mentions that the room was small for a family of five, and another feels the breakfast choice is limited.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The location is perfect for visiting the Grand Canyon, just a short drive away.”
See photos and book The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon here.
Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel - three-star hotel with a pool and restaurant
Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel is in the northern part of Tusayan, close to the road to the park. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool in summer, hot tub and free parking.
The rooms are around 27 square metres, and there are family rooms. The breakfast buffet costs extra, and some guests find it expensive. It’s a good mid-range choice if you want a restaurant on site and don’t fancy driving out after a long day at the canyon.
One guest writes briefly on Booking.com: “Very good hotel.”
See photos and book Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel here.
Red Feather Lodge - simple motel-style hotel with a pool and free parking
Red Feather Lodge is in Tusayan, a few hundred metres from The Grand Hotel. It’s a simple hotel with an outdoor pool in summer, a gym and free parking, but no restaurant.
It’s the cheapest of my three suggestions, and the rooms range from around 21 square metres to 31 for a room with two queen-size beds. Breakfast isn’t included, but there are restaurants within walking distance. Guests praise the cleanliness and the friendly staff.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “A very convenient place to stay when you want to see the Grand Canyon.”
See photos and book Red Feather Lodge here.
11. Zion National Park - the best base for hiking in Utah 🥾
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Springdale, the small town just outside the park’s south entrance. All three hotels are in the town, and the closest is a couple of minutes’ walk from the entrance.
- 🚌 Transport: Free shuttle buses. One line runs through Springdale to the park entrance, and another runs up through Zion Canyon.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: There’s no major airport nearby. From Las Vegas it’s roughly a two and a half hour drive. That’s an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$. The town is small, and the best hotels get booked up early in spring and autumn.
- 👮 Safety: A very safe town. Take the hikes seriously: bring plenty of water and keep an eye on the weather forecast, as heavy rain can cause flash floods in the narrow canyons.
Zion is the most visited national park in Utah, and it’s completely different from the Grand Canyon. Here you stand down in the canyon looking up at cliffs of red and white sandstone, with the Virgin River flowing along the bottom. The two best-known hikes are Angels Landing, which requires a permit from the park for the final section, and The Narrows, where you wade upriver between sheer rock walls.
Stay two to three nights so you have time for a few hikes. Springdale sits right by the entrance, and that’s the big advantage: you can walk or take the free bus into the park and avoid hunting for a parking space.
See hotels in Springdale here.
For most of the year, you can’t drive your own car up through Zion Canyon. According to the national park, the shuttle buses through Zion Canyon run from March to November in most years, and they’re free. You still have to pay the park entrance fee. The Springdale line stops at nine places in town and runs to the pedestrian entrance by the visitor centre.
Zion is easy to combine with Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. If you have more time, Bryce Canyon with its orange rock spires is about a two-hour drive to the north-east. That’s an estimate. In summer it gets very hot in the canyon, so start your hikes early in the morning.
Hotels in Springdale
Cliffrose Springdale - four-star hotel with a garden and pool by the park entrance
Cliffrose Springdale is on Zion Park Boulevard, about 400 metres from the visitor centre and the park entrance. The hotel has a large garden running down to the river, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a restaurant and a bar.
Rooms start at around 30 square metres, and there are rooms with two queen-size beds and a sofa bed. Breakfast is included. This is my pick if you want to stay closest to the park with the most comfort. Some guests find the rooms small and a little dated.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The hotel is a two-minute walk from the park entrance.”
See photos and book Cliffrose Springdale here.
Cable Mountain Lodge - lodge with large rooms right by the park entrance
Cable Mountain Lodge is at Zion Canyon Village just outside the park entrance, only a couple of hundred metres from the shuttle bus. There’s an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a spa and a small café.
The rooms are large. The smallest studios are around 32 square metres, and there are suites with room for families. Breakfast isn’t included, but you can buy a bit of food in the café. Guests love the views and the space, but mention that there are few places to eat nearby.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The best location in Springdale, so you avoid the shuttle buses and the hassle of parking at the Zion visitor centre.”
See photos and book Cable Mountain Lodge here.
Bumbleberry Inn - three-star hotel with breakfast and a bus stop at the door
Bumbleberry Inn is a bit further into Springdale, about two kilometres from the park entrance, but with a Springdale line stop right outside. The hotel has an outdoor pool in summer, a hot tub and free parking.
It’s the cheapest of my three suggestions. Rooms are around 25-32 square metres, and breakfast is included and served in the Porters restaurant. Guests praise the breakfast and the peace and quiet, but some mention that you can hear the neighbours in the ground-floor rooms.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Breakfast at Porters was excellent and cooked to order.”
See photos and book Bumbleberry Inn here.
12. Los Angeles - best area for the beach and Hollywood 🎡
- 📍 Distance to the centre: Los Angeles is huge and doesn’t have a single centre. The map shows Santa Monica Pier by the beach. Two of the hotels are in Santa Monica, and the third is by the beach in Venice, about three kilometres to the south.
- 🚗 Transport: Car or taxi for most things. The Metro’s E Line runs from Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) it takes about 30-45 minutes by car to Santa Monica. That’s an estimate, and traffic can make it much longer.
- 💰 Price level: $$$ to $$$$. The beachfront hotels are expensive, especially in summer.
- 👮 Safety: Santa Monica feels safe and lively. There are a lot of homeless people in parts of the city, and Venice Beach can be a bit rough in the evening, so stick to well-lit streets.
Los Angeles is the film city with the Hollywood Sign, the Walk of Fame and the film studios, but it’s so big that it takes some planning. I’d stay by the beach in Santa Monica on a first visit. From here you can walk to the beach, the pier and the Third Street Promenade shopping street, and you have the ocean right on your doorstep when you get back from a day in the city.
Three to four nights is a good amount. Spend one day in Hollywood and at Griffith Observatory, one in Downtown and Beverly Hills and one at the beach in Santa Monica and Venice. You’ll find what to see in my guide to things to do in Los Angeles.
See hotels in Santa Monica here.
If you’d rather stay in Hollywood, Downtown or Beverly Hills, I’ve written a whole guide on where to stay in Los Angeles. From Santa Monica you can hire a car and drive up the coast along Highway 1 towards San Francisco or down to San Diego.
Parking costs extra at almost every beachfront hotel, and it can be pricey. Plan your days so you don’t have to drive back and forth across the city in rush hour.
Hotels in Los Angeles
Shutters on the Beach - five-star beach hotel right on the sand in Santa Monica
Shutters on the Beach sits directly on the beach a few hundred metres south of Santa Monica Pier. It’s a five-star hotel with restaurants, a bar, an outdoor pool and a spa.
Rooms start at about 37 square metres, and there’s a resort fee of about $40 (around £30) per day. Breakfast costs extra. This is my pick if you want to stay in luxury with the ocean right below your balcony. Some guests feel the price is high for the facilities.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Fantastic location right by the ocean. The staff were so friendly and helpful.”
See photos and book Shutters on the Beach here.
Hotel Erwin Venice Beach - four-star hotel with a rooftop terrace on the Venice boardwalk
Hotel Erwin is right on the boardwalk in Venice Beach. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar and a rooftop terrace, and you can borrow bikes for free.
The ocean-view rooms are about 32 square metres. Valet parking costs around $60 (around £45) per night. Guests praise the location and the cleanliness, but many mention noise from nearby bars and clubs, so it’s not the place if you want an early night.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Fantastic hotel. I recommend borrowing the free bikes for a day, it’s a great way to get around.”
See photos and book Hotel Erwin Venice Beach here.
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel - large hostel with private rooms close to the beach
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica is on Second Street by the Third Street Promenade, about 450 metres from the beach. There are dorms and private rooms, common rooms and a 24-hour reception.
It’s by far the cheapest of my three suggestions in a city where the beachfront hotels are expensive. The private double rooms are about 14 square metres, and a simple breakfast is included. Some guests mention street noise and a limited breakfast selection.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Good location. Friendly staff, and the facilities are clean.”
See photos and book HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel here.
13. San Diego - best city for a relaxed city break by the sea 🌊
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows the Gaslamp Quarter in Downtown. All three hotels are in or right next to the neighbourhood.
- 🚋 Transport: Trolley, buses and on foot. For the beaches and La Jolla, a car or taxi is easiest.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: San Diego International Airport is very close to Downtown. Allow around ten minutes by taxi. This is an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$ to $$$$. Prices go up in summer and during big conventions in the city.
- 👮 Safety: The Gaslamp Quarter is lively and feels safe in the evening. There are lots of bars and nightclubs, so it can be noisy at weekends.
San Diego is California at a gentler pace. The city has a mild climate all year round, long sandy beaches and one of the largest parks in the United States, Balboa Park, with museums and gardens. The aircraft carrier USS Midway is moored in the harbour as a museum, and Mexico is only half an hour’s drive away.
The Gaslamp Quarter is Downtown’s historic district, with restaurants and bars in 19th-century buildings, and from here you can walk to the harbour and the Petco Park baseball stadium. Stay three nights and spend a day on the beach in Coronado or La Jolla, where the seals lounge on the rocks.
San Diego is the natural place to finish a trip down the California coast. From Los Angeles it’s around a two-hour drive if the traffic is on your side, and the coastal train is a good alternative. Both times are estimates.
If you’re travelling with children, San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld are two good reasons to visit the city. Book tickets in advance during the summer holidays, and choose a hotel with parking if you have a car, as parking in Downtown is expensive.
Hotels in San Diego
Pendry San Diego - five-star hotel with a rooftop pool in the Gaslamp Quarter
Pendry San Diego is on J Street in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, a few minutes’ walk from Petco Park and the harbour. The hotel has several restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool and a spa.
Rooms start at around 32 square metres, and a daily fee is added to the price. This is my pick if you want to stay somewhere stylish right in the middle of the nightlife. Guests mention that the rooftop pool can get crowded, and some have experienced noise and patchy service.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The atmosphere was lively, and the staff were incredibly attentive.”
See photos and book Pendry San Diego here.
Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter - four-star hotel with breakfast in the eastern part of the Gaslamp
Hotel Indigo is on Ninth Avenue on the eastern edge of the Gaslamp Quarter, close to Petco Park. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar, a roof terrace and a gym.
Rooms start at around 32 square metres, and breakfast for two is included in the price. A fee of 25 dollars (around £19) per night is added on top. Guests praise the location and the beds, but some are unhappy with the breakfast and the street noise.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The location is fantastic. The room was so cool, and the bed was so comfortable.”
See photos and book Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter here.
HI San Diego Downtown Hostel - hostel with private rooms in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter
HI San Diego Downtown is on Market Street in the middle of the Gaslamp Quarter. There are dorms and small private rooms, a shared kitchen, a games room and a 24-hour reception.
This is the cheapest of my three suggestions. The private double rooms are only around 9 square metres, so it’s for you if you mainly need somewhere to sleep. Guests praise the cleanliness and the price, but mention noise from the clubs in the area at night, so bring earplugs.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The location was excellent!”
See photos and book HI San Diego Downtown Hostel here.
14. San Francisco - best city for hills, cable cars and the Golden Gate 🌉
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Union Square in the middle of the city. One of the hotels is on Nob Hill, about 700 metres north of the square, and the other two are by the harbour at Fisherman's Wharf.
- 🚋 Transport: Cable cars, trams, buses and BART. The hills are steep, so take the tram up and walk down.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From San Francisco International Airport (SFO), BART runs to Downtown in about 30 minutes, according to the transport operator.
- 💰 Price level: $$$ to $$$$. San Francisco is expensive, and there’s often a resort fee on top of the price.
- 👮 Safety: The touristy neighbourhoods are safe during the day. Avoid walking through the Tenderloin west of Union Square, especially in the evening, and never leave anything visible in a parked car.
San Francisco is all hills, Victorian wooden houses and fog rolling in over the Golden Gate Bridge. The city is compact, and you can reach most of it by the old cable cars, trams and on foot. Take the boat to the prison island of Alcatraz, walk or cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge, and eat in Chinatown, one of the oldest in the United States.
Three to four nights is ideal. Union Square is the most central place to stay, and from here the cable car lines run up over the hills to the harbour. Fisherman's Wharf is more touristy, but handy if you want to visit Alcatraz or cycle across the bridge.
See hotels in San Francisco here.
Getting in from the airport is easy. According to the transport operator, the BART station is in the International Terminal, and you reach Downtown in about 30 minutes. If you’d rather stay in the Marina District, on Nob Hill or in the Financial District, I’ve written a full guide on where to stay in San Francisco.
Pack a warm jumper, even in summer. The fog and the wind off the sea make July and August chilly, and the city often has its warmest weather in September and October.
Hotels in San Francisco
Fairmont San Francisco - classic five-star hotel at the top of Nob Hill
Fairmont San Francisco sits at the top of Nob Hill with the cable car lines right outside the door. It’s a classic five-star hotel with restaurants, bars and a spa, plus views over the city from the highest floors.
Rooms start at about 30 square metres. There’s a resort fee of 45 dollars (around £35) plus tax per night, and breakfast costs extra. Guests praise the location and the size of the rooms, but several feel the hotel is a little old-fashioned and that everything is expensive.
One guest writes honestly on Booking.com: “Comfortable but old-fashioned hotel.”
See photos and book Fairmont San Francisco here.
Hotel Zephyr - four-star hotel with a play area and games at Fisherman's Wharf
Hotel Zephyr is on Beach Street at Fisherman's Wharf, close to Pier 39 and the boats to Alcatraz. The hotel has a large courtyard with games such as table tennis and pool, and it’s popular with families.
Rooms start at about 23 square metres, and there’s a resort fee of 30 dollars (around £22) plus tax per night. Breakfast isn’t included. Guests praise the location and the staff, but some feel the price is high for what you get.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Good location and comfortable beds.”
See photos and book Hotel Zephyr here.
HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel - hostel with free parking and views towards the Golden Gate
HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf is in Fort Mason park, between Fisherman's Wharf and the Marina District. There are dorms and small private rooms, a shared kitchen, a terrace and free parking, which is rare in San Francisco.
It’s by far the cheapest of my three suggestions, and breakfast is included in the price. The private rooms are small, about 9-11 square metres. Guests praise the location and the communal areas, but some mention that the bathrooms could do with an update.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Lovely quiet hostel with a perfect location for watching the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge.”
See photos and book HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel here.
15. Hawaii - best place for a beach holiday and volcanic islands 🌺
- 📍 Distance to the centre: The map shows Waikiki in Honolulu on the island of Oahu. All three hotels are in Waikiki, no more than about 150 metres from the beach.
- 🚌 Transport: You can get around Waikiki on foot. Buses run around the island, but if you want to see the North Shore and the east coast, a hire car is easiest.
- ✈️ Time from the airport: From Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), it takes about 25-30 minutes by taxi to Waikiki. That’s an estimate.
- 💰 Price level: $$$ to $$$$. Hawaii is expensive, and resort fees are common.
- 👮 Safety: Waikiki is safe. Respect the beach flags and the lifeguards, as the currents can be strong, especially on the North Shore in winter.
Hawaii is a holiday in its own right. The islands lie in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, about a five-hour flight from California, and most people land in Honolulu on Oahu. Waikiki is the classic place to stay on a first visit, with a long sandy beach, surfers and the Diamond Head volcanic crater in the background.
According to Hawaii’s official tourism website, Go Hawaii, you can hike up Diamond Head for the views and visit Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace if you’re interested in history. Give Oahu four to five nights, and ideally add one or two of the other islands.
Maui has the beaches and the Road to Hana, Kauai has the Na Pali Coast, and on the Big Island you can see active volcanoes. Flights between the islands take half an hour to an hour. I’ve written a full guide on where to stay in Hawaii, with the best areas on all the main islands.
Hawaii has beach weather all year round. Winter brings the biggest waves on the north shores, and summer is a little warmer and drier. If you’re flying from Europe, save Hawaii for the end of a West Coast trip, so you avoid an extra-long flight.
Hotels in Waikiki
Halekulani - five-star beach hotel with no resort fee
Halekulani sits right on the beach in Waikiki and is one of the best-known hotels in Hawaii. The hotel has restaurants, bars, an outdoor pool, a spa and a gym.
Rooms start at about 39 square metres with ocean views, and there’s no resort fee. Breakfast costs extra unless you choose a package that includes it. This is my pick if you want to celebrate something or simply want the best service in Waikiki. The price is high.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The service, quality and atmosphere are impeccable.”
See photos and book Halekulani here.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort - four-star beach hotel with Hawaiian culture
Outrigger Reef is on the beach in the western part of Waikiki, close to Fort DeRussy Beach. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar, an outdoor pool and a kids’ club, and it organises activities about Hawaiian culture.
Rooms start at about 32 square metres, and there’s a resort fee of about $53 (around £40) including tax per day. Breakfast isn’t included. Guests praise the location and the cultural activities, but some find the parking expensive.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “Fantastic location. You can walk to Waikiki Beach in ten minutes.”
See photos and book Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort here.
Hotel Renew - boutique hotel near the beach in the quiet end of Waikiki
Hotel Renew is on Paoakalani Avenue in the eastern, quieter end of Waikiki, about 150 metres from the beach and close to Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head. It’s a small hotel with a 24-hour reception but no restaurant.
It’s usually the cheapest of my three suggestions. Rooms are about 22-30 square metres, and breakfast isn’t served. There’s a resort fee of $30 (around £22) plus tax per night. Guests praise the staff and the location, but some feel the cleaning could be better.
One guest writes on Booking.com: “The staff were very friendly and accommodating.”
See photos and book Hotel Renew here.
Where not to stay in the United States?
I wouldn’t book a hotel on price alone. Many cheap hotels and motels are by the motorways or airports, far from everything you want to see, and then your holiday is spent driving or paying for taxis. Always check the distance to the area where you’ll spend your days, and add the resort fee and parking to the price before you compare.
I also wouldn’t stay in Downtown Los Angeles or the Tenderloin in San Francisco on a first trip, as both areas can feel unsafe in the evening. And don’t stay outside The Strip in Las Vegas or far from the parks in Orlando if you don’t have a car. You rarely save money once you add the cost of transport.
If I had to pick a first trip, it would be the East Coast with New York, Boston and Washington D.C. The cities are close together, you can travel between them by train, and you don’t need a car. If you’d rather have nature and a road trip, start in Las Vegas, drive to Zion and the Grand Canyon, and carry on to Los Angeles and up the coast to San Francisco.
If you’re travelling with children, Orlando is the obvious choice, and it’s easy to combine with a few days on the beach in Miami. If you’d rather have music and food, head to the Southern states and split your trip between Nashville and New Orleans. And if you fancy a far-flung beach holiday, finish in Hawaii.
If you’re considering a stopover in Iceland on the way to New York, you can read about what it’s like to fly to New York with Icelandair via Iceland. Book flights and hotels well in advance, especially in the summer holidays and around the major public holidays when Americans travel themselves. That way you’ll have the widest choice and the best prices.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?