Just across the Charles River from Boston, you’ll find another city that deserves just as much attention as its historic counterpart. Cambridge is more than Boston’s neighbor. And while it may be home to Harvard University and the beautiful Harvard Yard, you’ll also find that it’s much more than just Harvard’s campus.

Cambridge is bursting with entertainment and innovation. You’ll find many museums here, from the several museums associated with Harvard to the monumental Museum of Science. You’ll also find tons of dining options, from upscale restaurants to beloved burger joints. Plus, Cambridge has a huge music scene. Many artists have gotten their start in Cambridge at historic venues like the jazz club Regattabar and the folk artist hub Club Passim.

Wondering where to stay in Cambridge? We’ve compiled a list of the best hotels in Cambridge, from luxury boutique hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Pick a hotel from this list, and you’re bound to have a fantastic stay in this unique city!

Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks:

• Hotel 1868
• The Kendall Hotel
• Hotel Veritas

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Cambridge, MA

1. Hotel 1868

Featuring a design that harkens back to the Industrial Revolution, Hotel 1868 is one of the coolest boutique hotels in Cambridge. While the design style may send you back in time, the amenities are all modern. 

Plus, this hotel places you in a prime location. As you’re staying in Porter Square, you’re just a short stroll to the Harvard University campus. But you’re also just steps away from the Porter T station, which provides you with access to get around Cambridge and Boston.

Guest rooms, which have an industrial style with rustic wood touches, feature Serta Presidential beds, smart TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee makers, small workstations, and free premium bath products from Beekman 1802. 

Start your day with a workout at the 24-hour fitness center and grab a latte from the on-site Caffé Nero, a popular European coffee chain offering rich coffee and other flavorful treats. Then, you’re ready to start your day in Cambridge, with your hotel being in a perfect spot to see the best of this charming city.

2. The Kendall Hotel at Engine 7 Firehouse

Looking for unique boutique hotels in Cambridge, MA? How about one filled with history? The Kendall Hotel is today a Victorian-style boutique hotel, but it dates back to 1894, having originally been constructed as the Engine 7 Firehouse. Although multiple features have been added over the years, including two seven-story towers for guest rooms, the hotel has worked to keep the original design of the firehouse and preserve its history.

Staying at this hotel also means that you’re getting to stay near some of the best sights in Cambridge. You’re in Kendall Square on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) campus and just steps from the Charles River. You’re also right by the Kendall/MIT T station, which gives you easy access to the rest of Cambridge and Boston.

All rooms are uniquely decorated with antique furnishes and come with soundproof windows, Frette linens, custom-made mattresses, coffee makers with Starbucks coffee, electric kettles with Harney & Sons tea, flat-screen TVs with cable and premium channels, smartphone charging ports, complimentary all-natural bath products, individual climate control, and black-out curtains. 

Upgraded rooms add additional touches, like mini-fridges, pull-out sofa beds, and microwave ovens. Suites offer a full kitchen with a full-size fridge, microwave, stovetop, and dishwasher, as well as a separate living room and dining space and a bathroom with a large whirlpool tub.

This Cambridge boutique hotel requires a small daily fee, which gives you access to Wi-Fi, evening wine tastings on their Rooftop Retreat, their daily Fireman’s Breakfast Buffet, and passes to the nearby Cambridge Athletic Club. For more dining options, you can stop by their on-site restaurant, The Black Sheep, which is where you can find the breakfast buffet and sit-down dining for lunch and dinner.

3. Porter Square Hotel

As the name suggests, Porter Square Hotel is located in Porter Square, which places you just one mile from Harvard Square and steps away from the Porter T station, making it simple to get around the area. This simple and cozy Cambridge boutique hotel offers contemporary decor that will ensure you get a good night’s sleep every night of your stay.

Relaxed hotel rooms offer smart TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, bathrobes, slippers, workstations, individual climate control, and free Beekman bath products, while suites add a separate living room area for added space and comfort.

This hotel focuses on little touches that make all the difference during your stay, like 24-hour coffee and tea service and complimentary bottled water. While there isn’t a fitness center on-site, you do have access to the 24-hour fitness center at Porter Square Hotel’s sister property, Hotel 1868, which is just a two-minute walk away. 

What is on-site, however, is an upscale dining experience that provides a cozy atmosphere alongside gourmet French cuisine. Colette Bistro offers unique twists on French classics, all made in-house. 

4. Kimpton Marlowe, an IHG Hotel

Kimpton Marlowe, an IHG Hotel, is one of the best hotels in Cambridge if you’re looking for a stay with a view. This hotel overlooks the Charles River and Lechemere Canal. From this hotel, you could easily walk into Boston or stroll around the neighborhood to some of Cambridge’s best attractions, like the Museum of Science.

Unique artwork is found throughout the hotel, from the courtyard to the guest rooms. In the courtyard, you’ll meet Celeste, a 25-foot-tall Steampunk-style sculpture made of reclaimed metals, steel, and gears, a symbol of the history of Boston and the innovation of the many bustling businesses that call Cambridge home. The hotel rooms are works of art themselves, taking their color palette from the neighboring Charles River.

In addition to one-of-a-kind artwork, your hotel room also comes with LCD TVs, spacious workstations, and free luxury Atelier Bloem bath products. Suites add additional touches like sleeper sofas and Nespresso coffee makers.

Although this unique Cambridge hotel requires a small daily amenities fee, the list of what you get makes the price worth it. You get access to complimentary bikes, children’s scooters, yoga mats, morning newspapers, Wi-Fi, rowing machines, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, Polaroid cameras, GoPro cameras, streaming content, board games, puzzles, seasonal clothing, and even plants!

This pet-friendly hotel also offers beds, crates, bowls, toys, treats, and complimentary access to “Wag! Premium,” which connects you with dog walkers and sitters. You’ll also get fun happenings like an evening wine reception and seasonal movies in the courtyard, as well as free coffee and tea service in the mornings. There’s also an excellent benefit for mothers, as the hotel will safely store breast milk for you, or you can request a Mini Me Milk Fridge for personal use in your guest room.

You’ll also get discounts and credits to use during your stay, like reduced rates on rollerblades from Beacon Hill Skate Shop and a credit to the on-site Bambara Kitchen + Bar. Also on-site is the 24-hour fitness center.

5. Irving House at Harvard

Set in a historic 1890s home, Irving House at Harvard is one of the best places to stay in Cambridge, thanks to its easy access to Harvard University and Harvard Square, both just a short stroll away. This bed and breakfast is a bit larger than other B&Bs, with 44 guest rooms, but you’ll still find that Irving House feels more like a home than a hotel.

Accommodations vary by room. While most rooms have private bathrooms, some do have shared bathrooms with other guests. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, workstations, televisions, and complimentary daily newspapers.

Please keep in mind that the guest rooms are arranged over four floors and, as a historic home, there is no elevator, so this bed and breakfast may not be the best choice for someone with certain accessibility needs. You can request a first- or second-floor room, but you will have to let them know when you book.

If you’re expecting to stay longer and need more, you can also book at their second house, Turner House, where rooms come with all of Irving House’s amenities and a kitchenette with a sink, fridge, microwave, toaster, and coffee maker.

As a part of building a home away from home, Irving House has many touches that go beyond what you’ll find in most hotels. You’ll start your day with a complimentary breakfast, but even if you’re a late riser, you still can enjoy all-day coffee, tea, and snacks. 

Or store your own food in the guest fridge. You also get access to books that you can trade out with your own books and bring home with you. And the postage is on Irving House if you want to send a Cambridge postcard out to your friends and family!

6. AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Cambridge

Located in Discovery Park, this cool Cambridge hotel places you just a short stroll away from the Alewife T station, so you can explore Cambridge and Boston with ease. Offering a contemporary design, the AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Cambridge is the perfect place to rest up after a day of exploring these two beautiful cities.

The sleek and stylish guest rooms come with modern amenities, like air-conditioning, lighted makeup mirrors, rainfall showerheads, oversized chairs, workstations, complimentary bottled water, coffee makers, mini-fridges, USB ports, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with cable, premium channels, and streaming capabilities. 

Some rooms also come with pullout sofa beds, while suites also add separate living room space and microwaves. Small pets are welcome for an added fee.

Wake up to breakfast for an added fee at the AC Kitchen, serving a European-inspired meal each morning. And end the day in the AC Lounge, where you’ll find an industrial-style bar serving handcrafted cocktails and small plates. In between, you can take a dip in the indoor saltwater pool or work out in the fitness center.

7. The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square

The Charles Hotel is one of the best Cambridge hotels if you’re looking to stay near Harvard University. When you stay here, you’re right in the heart of Harvard Square, adjacent to John F. Kennedy Park and a short stroll from Harvard University and the Harvard T station.

This hotel is a celebration of New England and early America. All rooms feature New England-inspired decor. Throughout the hotel, you’ll find unique American artwork and early American quilt collections.

In your thoughtfully appointed guest rooms, you’ll discover free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, Bose radios, leather chairs, spacious workstations, waffle robes, and marble bathrooms featuring mirror televisions. Suites offer added features, like kitchenettes and additional dining and living room space. Some rooms also provide stunning panoramic views of the Charles River.

Relax with a treatment in the on-site Corbu Spa & Salon, or curl up with a good book in the library. Looking for some nightlife? You don’t have to go far. 

Enjoy a farm-to-table meal at Henrietta’s Table, indulge in some Italian fare at Bar Enza, hang out outside on a warm evening at the Garden Bar, grab a handcrafted cocktail at Noir, or listen to some music at one of the best jazz clubs in New England, Regattabar.

8. Ginkgo House on Harvard

Ginkgo House on Harvard is a charming inn in a restored Victorian home set on a residential street that places you within walking distance of Harvard Square and the Harvard T station. If you’re looking for a Cambridge boutique hotel that offers you a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, you’ll find what you’re looking for in this enchanting inn, which gets its name from the pair of Ginkgo trees in the front of the house.

All rooms are individually decorated and feature TVs, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, workstations, and en-suite bathrooms. If you’re looking for more privacy, you can stay in one of the basement apartments, which have private entrances and kitchens.

Enjoy a meal with your fellow travelers in the illuminated garden on a warm summer evening, or hang out in the shared living and dining room spaces. This inn also offers free coffee and snacks all day long. 

9. Hotel Veritas

Hotel Veritas is one of the best boutique hotels in Cambridge, MA, if you’re looking for a truly upscale experience. If you plan to explore Harvard University, this unique Cambridge hotel is a perfect option, as it’s just a one-minute walk from campus. It’s also a short walk to the Harvard T station.

Each guest room is designed with soothing earth tones to help get you a restful night of sleep. Amenities include HDTVs, free Wi-Fi, marble showers, complimentary Palais Jamais by Etro bath products, robes, heated bathroom floors, sitting areas, and workstations. Some rooms come with balconies.

With your room, you also get complimentary Nespresso coffee and espresso, as well as Stash teas and bottled water, available at all hours in the lounge. The concierges, which are available to you 24 hours a day, also take pride in going the extra mile, so be sure to take advantage of your access to them to help secure coveted reservations in Cambridge and plan your trip itinerary.

10. Le Méridien Boston Cambridge

Located right by MIT and about a 15-minute walk to the Kendall/MIT T station, the Le Méridien Boston Cambridge is one of the best Cambridge hotels for those looking for luxury. This elegant hotel features a contemporary design with modern amenities.

The artistic guest rooms come with free Wi-Fi, HDTVs with cable and premium channels, air-conditioning, their signature Le Méridien Euro Top mattresses, coffee makers, mini-fridges, USB outlets, workstations, and air-conditioning. Suites add additional touches, like separate living and dining room areas, sofa beds, and whirlpool tubs. Small pets are welcome for an additional fee. 

Start your day with breakfast at the on-site Amuse Restaurant for an added fee, or grab lunch or dinner in the lobby’s Amuse Bar. Also available to you is the 24-hour fitness center.

11. Sheraton Commander Hotel

Sheraton Commander Hotel is a cool Cambridge hotel with an American Revolution-era style but more modern amenities. When you stay here, you’re just steps away from Cambridge Common Park, Harvard University, and the Harvard Square T station.

Each room, which features a soothing, minimalist aesthetic, has modern conveniences like lighted makeup mirrors, ergonomic workstations, free Wi-Fi, complimentary bottled water, air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs with cable and premium channels. Pets are invited to stay with you for an added fee.

When you stay in a Club Level room, you also get access to the Club Lounge, which is open 24 hours. Here, you’ll find complimentary hors d’oeuvres and Starbucks drinks. All suites come with Club Lounge access and offer additional amenities, like separate living room areas.

Get a workout in at the fitness center, then grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant. Nubar serves up classic New England fare alongside handcrafted cocktails in a stylish, cozy space that’s perfect for date night.

12. Prentiss House by Thatch

Located just a short stroll from the Porter T station, which will allow you to spend your days exploring Cambridge and Boston, Prentiss House by Thatch is a revival of a former Cambridge inn, the Mary Prentiss Inn. This building dates back to 1843 and marries historic charm with modern conveniences. 

Each room is individually decorated, but all rooms feature smart TVs, individually controlled heating and air-conditioning, local coffee and tea, and free Wi-Fi. Most rooms come with king beds and wet or dry bars with fridges and microwaves. Suites add an additional living room area with sleeper sofas. Some rooms also have private entrances.

Spend the day soaking up the sun on the garden terrace. Then, after you’re done exploring Cambridge, come relax in the parlor lounge and meet your fellow travelers.

Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com

There you have it! The 12 best hotels in Cambridge. What’s your favorite place to stay in Cambridge? Let us know in the comments!

Where to Stay in Cambridge

Many of the top attractions in Cambridge are located in and around Harvard Square, so it may be ideal to stay in the Harvard Square area. However, don’t discount the other squares around Cambridge, like Porter Square, which also features plenty of entertainment.

But the best thing to do is stay near an MTBA station. Here’s where you’ll find the Boston area’s subway system, known as the T. The Red Line will take you around Cambridge, but you can also take the Red Line into Boston, where you can ride on the other lines to see the surrounding Boston communities.

Planning a trip to Massachusetts? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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