I spend more nights in airport hotels than I’d care to admit. Over the years, I’ve developed some strong preferences, and I tend to have pretty polarizing takes on them. I love some airport hotels so much that I’d almost want to vacation at them (purely for aviation geek reasons), while there are plenty I just wouldn’t return to.
In this post, I’d like to talk about that in a bit more detail. What makes a great airport hotel, and what are my favorites? I’m not going to do a ranked list, but rather will just share some overall thoughts and highlights.
In this post:
What makes a great airport hotel?
In recent years, we’ve seen a lot of changes to the hotel industry, largely for the worse — rates are higher than ever, while many hotels are offering less than ever before. Arguably the situation is even worse at airport hotels, where hotel owners often feel justified with cutting costs to no end, because they’re not reliant on repeat business.
Broadly speaking, people stay at airport hotels because they absolutely have to, and not because they want to. While there are exceptions:
- There’s often not much repeat business, since people don’t plan their airport hotel stays in the same way they might plan their vacations
- Often airport hotels are booked at the very last minute based on irregular flight operations, and in some cases, airlines put people up in the hotels, so it’s not like consumers actually have control over their stays, or do much research
So that’s why I have a lot of respect for airport hotels that go above and beyond to offer a pleasant guest experience. What makes a great airport hotel? If you ask me:
- There’s huge convenience to a hotel being connected directly to the terminal, or being within walking distance; airport hotel shuttles are just so unreliable, and often I’ll just choose to stay in the city if I have to wait on a shuttle anyway
- As an aviation geek, I love airport hotels with views, as it’s a dream to be able to plane spot from your room
- I appreciate all the things that I like to experience at other hotels, from friendly service, to proper staffing levels, to great restaurants and bars, to an awesome gym
My favorite airport hotels around the globe
Of the airport hotels that I’ve stayed at, which are my favorites? I’d say that I probably have four favorites (one of which I’m not allowed to visit):
- The Fairmont Vancouver Airport (YVR) is incredible, and the hotel clearly doesn’t take its guests for granted; it has awesome apron and runway views, is connected directly to the terminal, and has a phenomenal restaurant and bar, with live music most nights
- The Grand Hyatt San Francisco Airport (SFO) is probably my favorite airport hotel in the United States, also with incredible views, a direct connection to the terminal, and beautiful rooms
- The Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport (ZRH) is my favorite airport hotel in Europe; it’s walking distance from the airport terminal, and is modern, has a solid restaurant and bar, and the hotel is also good with elite recognition
- The Le Meridien Cairo Airport (CAI) is a surprisingly solid hotel, and it’s such a nice contrast to the chaos that is Cairo Airport; it’s connected to the terminal, it has friendly enough staff and service, and it has an impressive selection of dining outlets, including a 24/7 cafe with barista coffee, and a breakfast buffet that starts at 4AM (unfortunately I won’t be visiting this hotel again)
Beyond that, there are several others that come to mind as well:
- The Grand Hyatt Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW) and Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport (MCO) have unbeatable convenience, being connected directly to the terminal, and they also offer great views; however, they’re not really cutting edge otherwise, though the DFW property did recently undergo a refresh, so I’d like to return
- The InterContinental Minneapolis St. Paul Airport (MSP) is also among the better airport hotels in the United States, as it’s connected to the terminal with a private TSA checkpoint open over certain hours; it’s a solid hotel with airport views, though as an avgeek, I wish it would lean a bit more into being an airport hotel in terms of design
- The Hilton Munich Airport (MUC) is nice as well; it’s walking distance from the terminal, the rooms have been recently renovated, I like the club lounge (including the outdoor terrace), and it even has a Michelin starred restaurant
- The Sheraton Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is another good airport hotel in Europe; the design is quite outdated, but you can’t beat the convenience of being directly in the terminal, and I love the views from the property
- The Crowne Plaza Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) is a popular one as well; I’m not quite as blown away by this property as others, but it’s still very nice, with varied dining, a nice pool, and potentially great views
- The Grand Hyatt Incheon Airport (ICN) has modern rooms, is good with elite recognition, and has an incredible club lounge; while it’s not connected directly to the airport, at least shuttles run reliably in South Korea (though it is a long way)
Beyond the above airport hotels, I’m also a huge fan of any sort of transit hotel concept, where you can get some proper rest in a terminal, without even having to leave the secure area. These can come in all kinds of forms, from full-size hotel rooms, to mini sleeping cabins.
The world’s best, worst airport hotel
The TWA Hotel New York (JFK) should be the world’s best airport hotel. Physically, it’s an incredible property with endless history, and it’s almost like a TWA museum. Add in the direct connection to the terminal, plus the airplane views, and you’d think this would be at the top of my list. Unfortunately it isn’t, though.
I have too much self respect to stay here (and to be honest, I don’t have that much self respect). The problem is that the owners of this hotel charge sky high rates in the first place, and then on top of that, nickel and dime as if they’re a subsidiary of Ryanair.
While I loved my stay here when it first opened, everything about the way this hotel has evolved rubs me the wrong way. For more on that, see my post about my second and last stay at the TWA Hotel JFK. I can’t think of another hotel I’ve stayed at that’s as “ungenerous” as this property.
If you’re connecting at JFK, you absolutely should pop in here to walk through the lobby, and maybe even have a drink onboard the Connie. But do yourself a favor, and don’t actually stay here.
Bottom line
I’m a huge fan of memorable airport hotels, since there’s such variance in terms of the quality of these properties. For me, the two most important things are convenience (being connected directly to a terminal) and views (since I’m an aviation geek). If you can add in friendly service, quality restaurants and bars, and good elite recognition and club lounges, then it’s a winning combination, in my opinion.
What’s your favorite airport hotel you’ve stayed at?
The Sofitel in Heathrow T5 is decent and convenient, but I wouldn’t say the restaurant is “great”: the food is international-corporate. It’s also vast, so if you have one of the more remote rooms it can feel like you’re staying in a factory. It’s quite pricey, and for me the Hilton in T4 generally offers better value — and I’d say it has a better restaurant.
The Hilton at Schiphol airport deserves a mention:...
The Sofitel in Heathrow T5 is decent and convenient, but I wouldn’t say the restaurant is “great”: the food is international-corporate. It’s also vast, so if you have one of the more remote rooms it can feel like you’re staying in a factory. It’s quite pricey, and for me the Hilton in T4 generally offers better value — and I’d say it has a better restaurant.
The Hilton at Schiphol airport deserves a mention: nicely-designed rooms with more personality than most chain hotels, and the restaurant here is much better than you’d expect. AMS is a frequent layover airport for me, so hotels inside the airport are a godsend (there’s also a Sofitel but that’s usually double the price of the Hilton).
It’s his home airport so Lucky’s probably not stayed there: the airport hotel in Miami is by no means the world’s greatest but for convenience it takes some beating. And when you’re in the middle of a hideous journey with an overnight connection in Miami, the ordinariness is usually overwhelmed by the sense of relief.
I’m also ambivalent about the TWA in JFK. But as an architecture geek it is unmissable. Eating in the lobby restaurant under that soaring concrete roof is, for me, the equivalent of worshipping in a cathedral. Well worth putting up with the nickle-and-diming elsewhere in the hotel, at least for one stay.
Oops — it’s a Sheraton at AMS, not a Sofitel. Brain fart.
I enjoyed my 19 hour layover at the Andaz Delhi. Nice looking property (yes the upkeep could be better, but not as bad as some reviews have stated) excellent breakfast buffet, and nice spa facilities with no extra charge to use.
Novotel Aukland Hotel. A very well designed and located airport hotel with very good food and drink.
I've walked past in each of the last two years out if the international terminal to transport into the city. I was sufficiently impressed I booked there for a night before an early international departure. The Pullman is adjacent and both are Accor properties. The Pullman gets higher eatings on Google and was only slightly more expensive than the Novotel. Since, I was flying in late and flying out early, I saved a few $s on the Novotel.
Airport terminal hotel at Osaka-Itami airport (ITM) is in the terminal building. While very basic, it is also cheap and very convenient for early morning departures when you want to sleep as late as possible.
Thoughts on Westin DEN for an overnight reposition prior to a late afternoon long haul flight? I'm thinking the late afternoon departure lessens the need to pay the high price for its convenience, but then again DEN is quite a ways out there, and in mid January is there potential for severe delays on the road?
I like the Westin at DEN, and there is no hotel more convenient, but not sure it's one where I'd want to hang out for the day. The pool/gym floor views are cool, looking across the iconic roof of the airport (or if you're just on a high floor). The airfield views aren't great, as the airport is so spread out.
If you get in early enough the day before, I'd take the A Line...
I like the Westin at DEN, and there is no hotel more convenient, but not sure it's one where I'd want to hang out for the day. The pool/gym floor views are cool, looking across the iconic roof of the airport (or if you're just on a high floor). The airfield views aren't great, as the airport is so spread out.
If you get in early enough the day before, I'd take the A Line train to Union Station. Super easy - only one train line departs the airport, and you take it all the way to the end, about 40 minutes. From there, you have access to a lot more to see and do, and a lot of other hotels. Likely even cheaper in January.
Would add the Sofitel London Heathrow to the list; great restaurant, decent rooms, and much easier for a car and driver to pick you up from the hotel entrance. Have stayed at the Hilton properties at Heathrow, but not really anything to write home about. The Hilton at Narita has a shuttle bus that runs punctually from the baggage claim area and has a lovely pool. Would recommend.
Hyatt does have the greatest breadth...
Would add the Sofitel London Heathrow to the list; great restaurant, decent rooms, and much easier for a car and driver to pick you up from the hotel entrance. Have stayed at the Hilton properties at Heathrow, but not really anything to write home about. The Hilton at Narita has a shuttle bus that runs punctually from the baggage claim area and has a lovely pool. Would recommend.
Hyatt does have the greatest breadth and reliability among airport hotels worldwide. They rotate staff through all the various properties for training/improving their customer care skills. A waiter I'd met at the Grand Hyatt DFW spotted me in the dining room of the Park Hyatt, Sydney (which is not an airport hotel). He was the Food and Beverage Manager there. If one travels internationally quite a bit, you are likely to find folks you've met at one property now working halfway around the world in another Hyatt.
My biggest positive airport hotel surprise was the Hilton Garden Inn at Krakow airport (KRK). I randomly booked a night there because of a very early morning departure. Not only was it a 60 second walk to the terminal, the services and rooms were business-class hotel level, not motel or budget "inn" as the name implies. Consider me sold!
Are there any non-chain airport hotels worth mentioning? Genuinely curious.
Sheraton Milan Malpensa MXP is also directly connected to the terminal.
I have stayed at the following which are either connected to the terminal, or a short walking distance. No shuttle required.
Hyatt Place Zurich Airport
TWA Hotel (convenient location albeit very pricey)
Marriott Calgary Airport
Miami International Airport Hotel
Hilton Knoxville Airport
Sofitel London Heathrow Airport
Hyatt Regency DFW
On the the Hilton front, definitely the Hilton Munich Airport. Also a fan of the Hilton Helsinki Airport and the London Heathrow T4 Hilton. Honorable mention to the HGI Heathrow Hatton Cross - hidden gem at LHR.
... and a not so honorable mention of Hilton Garden LHR T2, which is much worse than the other Heathrow properties mentioned ...
Not aviation related but the Hilton attached to the Silverstone Formula 1 circuit is pretty unique!
You missed the Hilton Garden Inn - Lakeland Linder International Airport.
Enjoyed my day use stay at Courtyard BKK earlier this year. Probably best airport hotel I have stayed in. Anyone going to Bangkok and need an airport hotel with 24 hour check in/check out availability I recommend it
The Sofitel at LHR was a pleasant surprise with comfortable rooms a spa and a decent French restaurant. And you can’t beat its location attached to the terminal.
I have to concur about the TWA hotel. It has so much potential, but the actual hotel stay was so disappointing. I did really enjoy my visit, but wouldn't go again. And perhaps they're just counting on enough people wanting to go just once
I've never, ever seen a positive review of the TWA Hotel.
Maybe not strictly speaking an airport hotel, but I quite enjoyed the Richmond Hotel Narita. Reasonably priced, <10 mins from the airport by train, and dozens of restaurants within walking distance. If you have some extra time, the Narita-san Park and Shinsho-ji is a wonderful and peaceful place for a short hike.
And an honourable mention to the Tune Hotel KLIA2. It’s completely no frills but it’s reasonably priced for a hotel attached to the...
Maybe not strictly speaking an airport hotel, but I quite enjoyed the Richmond Hotel Narita. Reasonably priced, <10 mins from the airport by train, and dozens of restaurants within walking distance. If you have some extra time, the Narita-san Park and Shinsho-ji is a wonderful and peaceful place for a short hike.
And an honourable mention to the Tune Hotel KLIA2. It’s completely no frills but it’s reasonably priced for a hotel attached to the terminal. Lots of decent food options airside at the terminal too.
Recently stayed at the Hilton BNA. Pretty decent option for a US airport Hilton, and it's connected to the terminal by a covered bridge.
I'm partial to the Crowne Plaza Changi for the location and runway views, plus it's still pretty easy to go into the city if you want to. I've burned my IHG CC anniversary night there many times. However, the Hyatt Place at FRA has also been great value for me, especially as a Hyatt loyalist. Short S-Bahn ride to/from the terminal and still solid redemption rates for Hyatt (for now).
The Hilton at Boston Logan is pretty nice. Walk to your gate, nice restaurant and bar, nice gym, online check in through the app. Very convenient.
Non-US airport hotels where I’ve stayed to be within close walking distance of the check-in counters for my flights in recent years:
AMS — Sheraton, Hilton
ARN — Clarion, Comfort, Radisson
ATH — Sofitel
BRU — Sheraton
CDG — Sheraton
CPH — Clarion, Comfort
OSL — Radisson, Radisson Red/Park Inn
BGO - Clarion
AES- Smartrom
SVG — Scandic
HEL — Clarion
MUC — Hilton
Non-US airport hotels where I’ve stayed to be within close walking distance of the check-in counters for my flights in recent years:
AMS — Sheraton, Hilton
ARN — Clarion, Comfort, Radisson
ATH — Sofitel
BRU — Sheraton
CDG — Sheraton
CPH — Clarion, Comfort
OSL — Radisson, Radisson Red/Park Inn
BGO - Clarion
AES- Smartrom
SVG — Scandic
HEL — Clarion
MUC — Hilton
FRA — Sheraton
DUS - Sheraton
DEL — Holiday Inn Express
SIN — Crowne Plaza
CAI — LeMeridien
BKK — Novotel/Hyatt Regency
LHR — Sofitel, Hilton
LGW — Sofitel, Hampton
MEX — NH and Hilton
MXP — Sheraton
FCO — Hilton
ZRH — Radisson, Hyatt Place, Hyatt Regency
WAW — Courtyard, Renaissance
Done short walking distance airport hotels at BOS, DEN, DFW, EWR, IAH, MSP, ORD, and some other US airports.
Fantastic list! Also, wow, you get-around! (Actually had to look AES. Huh, Norway!)
@GUWonder, good list! Despite the reward rate increases, the Choice properties can be a good deal. I've stayed at the Clarion CPH many times, and the rooms are spacious (but virtually unchanged since Hilton days). Super easy to get into town, since it's attached to the station.
This is a BS rating.
The Grand Hyatt at SFO's location is inferior to the Westin at DTW, which has an airside entrance and its own TSA checkpoint. That alone makes the DTW Westin the best airport hotel in the United States.
The Hyatt Regency at MCO, which is smack dab in the middle of the terminal in a mall-like setting, also has a better location than the Grand Hyatt at SFO and the...
This is a BS rating.
The Grand Hyatt at SFO's location is inferior to the Westin at DTW, which has an airside entrance and its own TSA checkpoint. That alone makes the DTW Westin the best airport hotel in the United States.
The Hyatt Regency at MCO, which is smack dab in the middle of the terminal in a mall-like setting, also has a better location than the Grand Hyatt at SFO and the Hyatt Regency at Zurich. Its location is more comparable to the Sheraton at Paris Charles de Gaulle.
I left SFO off my list along with JFK and a few other US airports because the airport hotels people more typically have in mind are less convenient for me than the IC at MSP and Westin at DTW.
[I really dislike getting stuck overnight at DTW.]
The Grand Hyatt SFO is at the airport but it's not really an in-airport hotel since it is not inside a terminal.
Grand Hyatt SFO is connected to the AirTrain and gets you to the terminal in 15 minutes top. It’s super convenient. Plus, the binoculars and spotter’s guide should make any AvGeek happy. The breakfast, I recall, is pretty darn good too.
I can't believe Westin DTW didn't make the list -- I'm thinking it's because Lucky doesn't fly DL much?
After a nasty winter storm I was stuck here and it was incredibly useful to be connected to the gates with its own security checkpoint. It felt closer to flying private in that regard. I checked out and walked right to my gate in minutes without stress or complexity.
Sadly, Mountain Hub Gourmet is now permanently closed at Hilton MUC
Hilton Frankfurt Airport is solid, too
NH Collection Mexico City Airport T2 is very annoying for what should be a convenient terminal hotel. Hard to find the actual hotel, hard to find your actual room. But sure beats an overnight layover in the terminal
It's not a points property but I prefer the Alt Hotel at YYZ to the Sheraton. The Alt involves a very short walk out of doors but it is on the the airport property and easily accessible via the airtrain. The rooms are small but very well-designed and the bar/restaurant has decent food. The vibe is very quiet and laid back for a busy airport hotel. The Sheraton is fine (was a Swissotel back in...
It's not a points property but I prefer the Alt Hotel at YYZ to the Sheraton. The Alt involves a very short walk out of doors but it is on the the airport property and easily accessible via the airtrain. The rooms are small but very well-designed and the bar/restaurant has decent food. The vibe is very quiet and laid back for a busy airport hotel. The Sheraton is fine (was a Swissotel back in the day) but has endless hallways (not unlike the ORD Sheraton) and always feels much busier than the Alt. And the Alt is often as much as CAD 100 less than the Sheraton for the same date.
Meant to say ORD Hilton
The O’Hare Hilton was my first-ever airport hotel, back in the 70s. I was in awe of its modernity (and the modern art! Amazing!). I only stayed there because my inbound BA flight was late and I’d missed my connection — BA put me up free of charge. The whole experience felt surreal: this felt like really living!
None of the Frankfurt hotels make the list?!?
I'm with you on the Crowne Plaza Changi. It's... fine? Rooms could use a refresh, shower was a bit moldy, and the food I ordered from room service was really pretty bad. Granted it is connected to the Jewel, and there are great restaurants there.
I'm surprised no one mentioned the Oryx Airport Hotel at Hamad International Airport (DOH). It's the one with the indoor pool (pretty unique for airside). For those 8-10 hour layovers with QR, it's far better than roughing it, even in some of the better business class lounges, if you want an actual bed and some privacy. Sure, it's not 'cheap' ($300/stay on-average, no points redemptions or other affiliations), and they really need a better air-dryer,...
I'm surprised no one mentioned the Oryx Airport Hotel at Hamad International Airport (DOH). It's the one with the indoor pool (pretty unique for airside). For those 8-10 hour layovers with QR, it's far better than roughing it, even in some of the better business class lounges, if you want an actual bed and some privacy. Sure, it's not 'cheap' ($300/stay on-average, no points redemptions or other affiliations), and they really need a better air-dryer, but I was grateful for it, when I felt I needed it. (Not sure I'll be connecting through there anytime soon, but still.)
Good to hear. Going to use a CSP hotel credit here for a ~10 hour layover.
The Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand at Haneda Airport is connected to T3, and has and incredibly nice onsen with outdoor baths too. Incredibly nice to visit that after a long flight.
Sofitel Heathrow and YYC (Calgary) Marriott are also lovely.
I am surprised that there is no mention of Villa Fontaine Premier at Haneda?
Anyone have any recommendation for Taipei airport?
@Niko Hyatt Regency Airport is the closest one to the airport. Though, not sure how good it is. It is the former Novotel. I really like the Holiday Inn Airport hotel. It is not super expensive and they treat IHG Diamond elites well. You do get complimentary upgrades as a Diamond elite but nothing to sway you one way or the other. Basically, all of the rooms are the same except whether you are on...
@Niko Hyatt Regency Airport is the closest one to the airport. Though, not sure how good it is. It is the former Novotel. I really like the Holiday Inn Airport hotel. It is not super expensive and they treat IHG Diamond elites well. You do get complimentary upgrades as a Diamond elite but nothing to sway you one way or the other. Basically, all of the rooms are the same except whether you are on a higher floor and the hotel is not that big. What I liked about it was the friendly service and how clean it was. Nothing to eat at the hotel except for the limited hours for lunch at the lobby cafe and of course breakfast during the breakfast hours. No restaurants outside the hotel. You do get a choice of Family Mart or 7-Eleven. You can go across the street for a discount (but basically that discount is just used to off set the mandatory service charge) on a meal at the Sheraton hotel. You just need to inform the staff member that you are a guest at the Holiday Inn. Both hotels are run by the same owner. Also upon payment of meal, you just fill out your room number to ensure that you are a guest at the Holiday Inn. There is a small park very nearby the hotel. If you want more of a choice for food, you can order a taxi to Gloria Outlets where you will be able to dine and shop. Moreover, as a Diamond elite you are allowed an extra piece of luggage without any extra charge for the airport shuttle ride though the hours for the shuttle are limited from the early to late mornings.
Airside, the Plaza Premium lounge has 10 'resting rooms' for purchase in Terminal 2, Zone A, 4th floor. I've been to that lounge, but did not attempt the private rooms. Ben reviewed the lounge before (2020), but not the 'hotel': https://onemileatatime.com/plaza-premium-lounge-taipei-review/
Landside, like Stanley C said, there's that Hyatt Regency nearby; I just wanted to add that it's a Cat 2, so you can burn a WOH Chase card free night there! Ben wrote about...
Airside, the Plaza Premium lounge has 10 'resting rooms' for purchase in Terminal 2, Zone A, 4th floor. I've been to that lounge, but did not attempt the private rooms. Ben reviewed the lounge before (2020), but not the 'hotel': https://onemileatatime.com/plaza-premium-lounge-taipei-review/
Landside, like Stanley C said, there's that Hyatt Regency nearby; I just wanted to add that it's a Cat 2, so you can burn a WOH Chase card free night there! Ben wrote about it in 2024: https://onemileatatime.com/news/hyatt-regency-taipei-taoyuan-airport/
Hyatt Regency is the closest but tend to be overpriced if you’re paying cash (usually goes for $180-250, though could be decent value on points / certificates). City Suites Gateway is ~5 mins taxi away and is cheap and cheerful (usually <$80/night), but is a kinda in the middle of nowhere. If you have a longer transit time, I’d recommend the Fullon Hotel A8, it’s <15 mins away by Airport MRT, conveniently located inside a...
Hyatt Regency is the closest but tend to be overpriced if you’re paying cash (usually goes for $180-250, though could be decent value on points / certificates). City Suites Gateway is ~5 mins taxi away and is cheap and cheerful (usually <$80/night), but is a kinda in the middle of nowhere. If you have a longer transit time, I’d recommend the Fullon Hotel A8, it’s <15 mins away by Airport MRT, conveniently located inside a mall, and has an excellent gym and public bath / sauna, usually ~$120/night. The Cozzi Blu is another option for longer layovers, ~15 mins away by Airport MRT or taxi, located inside an outlet mall, usually ~$150/night.
@Wayward I totally concur with you about the Hyatt Regency. I thought about how overpriced it was as well. And from the hotel reviews from Hyatt Globalists, they tend to dislike this hotel as top tier elites but the certificate is of good value but there are much better uses for that. And I would not waste the hard to earn Hyatt points on this hotel. Speaking of the Hyatt free night certificates, It is...
@Wayward I totally concur with you about the Hyatt Regency. I thought about how overpriced it was as well. And from the hotel reviews from Hyatt Globalists, they tend to dislike this hotel as top tier elites but the certificate is of good value but there are much better uses for that. And I would not waste the hard to earn Hyatt points on this hotel. Speaking of the Hyatt free night certificates, It is a good choice to redeem it at the Hyatt Centric Hong Kong. One used to be able to use it for the Hyatt Regency TST before the change to category 5. Though, service wise, that Hyatt Centric is good but location wise that Hyatt Regency is good. All depends on what you want, need or prefer for hotel stay. Also, is the Fullon hotel worth it? Good hotel?
@Stanley C — the Fullon Taoyuan A8 is a new-ish business hotel, comparable to a decent Holiday Inn or Courtyard internationally, imo. Nothing fancy but is decently priced for the convenience of being attached to one of the “Express” Airport MRT stations. It’s located in Linkou District, which is quite urban with tons of local shops and food options nearby.
Thank you WaywardAlpaca
Thanks for the tips! I think I'll go with the Fullon A8 as I have 24 hour stop over and there is a mall attached so something to look at.
24 hours?! Why didncha say so! You should just go into Taipei! So many options there, too.
@Nikojas You should consider going into Taipei and have some delicious Beef Noodles
I love the Sofitel at Heathrow! Whether it's a planned stay to catch a very early flight or an emergency stay, they always deliver.
Ron R
Agreed for LHR T5; for T2/3, I'd say, the Hilton is great, too, especially for a day-time stay. Even when I've booked via 3rd parties like Day-Use, they've honored my Diamond status, etc. (not that it meant much, extra bottle of water, etc., but at least it 'counted' as a stay for Hilton purposes.)
I agree the SFO Grand Hyatt is great. A little pricey but staff and location cannot be beat!! OUr other fav is the Trump Towers in Chicago..the only problem is now that he is our President for the 2nd time the cuties will be picketing in front of the hotel daily. They cannot seem to get a life...
My worst airport hotel is the Hilton Ohare . The HVAC only is set to heat or air . So on hot early fall day expect to fry
Best Airport Hotel Embassy Suites PWM . Walk to terminal. 38 years old. You wouldn't know it . The staff are consistent and wonderful
100%
Sheraton at CDG. Sofitel at LHR. Both great. Marriott at IAH is very good. All are expensive but you can’t beat the proximity to the airport.
And is it me but I like the crossroads vibe of bustling airport hotels
Hilton has a new hotel attached to the terminal in Nashville. It has entrances directly across a skywalk from the ticketing level and across a covered street one level below baggage claim. There are two restaurants and a coffee shop. The restaurant and bar on the rooftop on the 10th floor has amazing runway views and downtown views with a pool. Many rooms have great runway views as well. It might not be the best,...
Hilton has a new hotel attached to the terminal in Nashville. It has entrances directly across a skywalk from the ticketing level and across a covered street one level below baggage claim. There are two restaurants and a coffee shop. The restaurant and bar on the rooftop on the 10th floor has amazing runway views and downtown views with a pool. Many rooms have great runway views as well. It might not be the best, but it’s a fun addition to Nashville’s airport. I like it better than the Hilton Boston Logan (restaurant/bar is way more fun) or the Athens Sofitel (most uncomfortable bed ever).
I'm not sure why Grand Hyatt Incheon deserves to be on the list. The shuttle would take more than 15 minutes to go to Terminal 2, slightly better for Terminal 1.
A few people have mentioned Detroit Westin. The TSA line at the hotel was so convenient!
My worst airport hotel is the Hilton Ohare . The HVAC only is set to heat or air . So on hot early fall day expect to fry
Best Airport Hotel Embassy Suites PWM . Walk to terminal. 38 years old. You wouldn't know it . The staff are consistent and wonderful
Stayed at the Fairmont twice this December (flying in and out of YVR) as well as at the Hyatt Dallas. Queues to check in at YVR were mad - even having checked in online already. Took 25 minutes to get checked in. Rooms decent and nice free snacks within the room - Staff very polite and helpful. G.Hyatt at Dallas much easier to check in (allowed us in 4 hours before due check-in) and the suite was large and well appointed. Not too different from the Fairmont.
I know the airport itself isn't the best, but Le Meridien Cairo Airport hotel is a really nice hotel and super convenient. The breakfast is great as well.
Can't believe no one has mentioned the Westin Denver. The convenience factor (and nice rooms, lobby bar, views, etc.) is huge for an early morning flight. Have spent many a night here after a ski trip before an early morning departure.
As for the TWA Hotel at JFK, it is very, very convenient since it part of the JFK AirTrain. Great for an early morning departure. Also, has the novelty of the mid-century vibe....don't forget your fedora.
However, the platitudes stop there. Very long walk from the front desk to the elevators of each wing. A bit pricy. Also, found 2 persons sleeping on a bench in the food hall late one evening. Made it feel like a bus station.
I mostly agree with you and TWA Hotel at JFK has so much potential but now I don't even bother checking the price. I really hope a major chain can take it over and make it at least worthy for paying $300+ for a night.
All the major airports in Canada including YYC, YEG, YUL and YYZ all have convenient Marriott-branded hotels attached to the main terminal. While they are more expensive, the convenience...
I mostly agree with you and TWA Hotel at JFK has so much potential but now I don't even bother checking the price. I really hope a major chain can take it over and make it at least worthy for paying $300+ for a night.
All the major airports in Canada including YYC, YEG, YUL and YYZ all have convenient Marriott-branded hotels attached to the main terminal. While they are more expensive, the convenience factor can't be beaten. At least those hotels are luxurious and the rooms are spacious and modern. Even Marriott in terminal YYZ T-3 hotel has completed a renovation.
Australia/NZ wise - Rydges at Sydney (next to T-1 international terminal) is great especially you have a late international arrival or early international departure. The plane-spotting rooms are some of my favorites in the world. I also like the new Novotel at Christchurch airport too. It is brand new and the rooftop restaurant is excellent for planespotting. Christchurch is not super busy but is a nice spot in the evening watching the daily Emirates A380 taking off. The food is good too. Pullman has a new branch at Auckland airport. While the view from the rooms are not as great as Novotel next door in terms of airport views, the rooftop restaurant/lounge is nice for plane-spotting.
US wise - I actually like the Hyatt Regency at LAX and is walkable if you don't have many bags. Many crews actually walk to and from Hyatt. Grand Hyatt at SFO is of course the best, but taking the Air Train after 10pm still confuses me.
Honestly the trend for airport hotels is directly attaching to terminal or walkable from terminals in a covered walkway, as the airport shuttle situation has gotten pretty bad on the post-Covid era. Many hotels even charge for that shuttle service. Things in US seem to improve a bit now but I personally still prefer those airport hotels that are within walkable distance or else I mind as well find a nearly suburban chain hotel and take Uber there.
I always liked the steam / relaxation room after a flight at the AMS Sheraton. Any airport hotel (or post travel hotel at all) with a nice steam room / sauna setup gets my vote.
The purpose of staying at an airport hotel is usually when in transit or just before or in between trips. As you correctly mention these hotels generally do not get much repeat business. However, I do think the better ones are more convenient - actually at the airport and those probably get much more repeat business than if you need to take a shuttle. It is a shame how low quality the TWA hotel has...
The purpose of staying at an airport hotel is usually when in transit or just before or in between trips. As you correctly mention these hotels generally do not get much repeat business. However, I do think the better ones are more convenient - actually at the airport and those probably get much more repeat business than if you need to take a shuttle. It is a shame how low quality the TWA hotel has become. Some of them have attempted not to follow the guidelines from the bigger affiliated brands or charge unusual fees in my expereince in the past...
What about your preference at CDG?
Hard to beat the Sheraton for convenience (unless you are flying in/out of T1)
I avoid CDG at all costs. Terrible airport. Starts when you land and you have to bus to the terminal after a 14 hour long haul flight! Get through passport priority queue takes another hour at least. Then find your hotel.
CCW. I've flown into CDG a number of times. I've never had an international arrival get bussed. Passport control has never been bad, even post EES. But, passport control may have gotten worse. You end the story the story about finding your hotel. So, if you are staying in Paris, you avoid CDG?
I agree with Grand Hyatt SFO. The lounge is especially nice for plane spotting and dinner (since their food comes from the attached restaurant.)
I’m staying at Hyatt Regency Taoyuan tomorrow… Flyertalk posts tell me the hotel is in a state of wild disrepair and to check all my expectations at the door. Maybe after they’re done refurbishing it, it’ll be another story.
I have stay at the TWA hotel simple as an airline geek. Super high prices and, I may be wrong, but they open up the roof pool to anyone so its packed with non-hotel guests in the summer (or it was on the one time I was staying and it was open). Will avoid at most costs now.
Very much liked the Auckland Novotel with its very modern interiors and food options.
Ben - I believe you live in Miami, but am surprised that you did not include the luxurious MIA Airport Hotel! It was built in the 1950's and retains most of that charming era, HaHA. I know Mayor Daniella $$$ Cava is building a new airport hotel but am not sure if it is - or will be - connected to the terminal. Hopefully it will function better than the airport.
Thanks to the posters...
Ben - I believe you live in Miami, but am surprised that you did not include the luxurious MIA Airport Hotel! It was built in the 1950's and retains most of that charming era, HaHA. I know Mayor Daniella $$$ Cava is building a new airport hotel but am not sure if it is - or will be - connected to the terminal. Hopefully it will function better than the airport.
Thanks to the posters that mentioned the DTW Marriott in the DL terminal. Very nice property that I enjoyed due to a DL IRROP. DL did not offer the hotel but did reimburse me afterwards.
I also like the Marriott YUL - great for early am US departures but yes, it is a hike from the main terminal.
I think there are two categories of "world's best airport hotels." One is hotels physically located inside the terminal, preferably with their own entrance and security checkpoint. The other is hotels physically located either outside the terminal or off-airport.
Within those two categories, you then have to look at which properties check all the boxes: elite recognition, upgrades, overall operating standard, F&B options, club lounge, etc. I think the Sheraton CDG is one of...
I think there are two categories of "world's best airport hotels." One is hotels physically located inside the terminal, preferably with their own entrance and security checkpoint. The other is hotels physically located either outside the terminal or off-airport.
Within those two categories, you then have to look at which properties check all the boxes: elite recognition, upgrades, overall operating standard, F&B options, club lounge, etc. I think the Sheraton CDG is one of the few that can check all the boxes, even if the rooms are at least five years overdue from an exhaustive renovation.
If you slightly broaden the second category of off-airport hotels then you have airports like Kuala Lumpur, where you can book a VIP airport greeting for next to nothing, a train ride and then shuttle from the train station to your hotel. Basically, you get a bellman the whole way. The Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur even sends a butler with a luggage cart.
Meanwhile, in the first category, I couldn't even get the bellman at the Hyatt Regency inside MCO to carry my luggage to the airline check-in desk even with the offer of a generous tip.
That said, the Hyatt Regency at MCO is nice because you can get up super early and check your bags as soon as the ticket counters open as opposed to fighting the lines later in the morning. Sadly, you still have to deal with Orlando's awful TSA checkpoints since the Hyatt Regency doesn't have its own dedicated TSA checkpoint.
I too stayed at TWA Hotel when it first opened and everything was new, The pool situation with incredible views of gate 5 where you see EY and EK A380's pulling in and out was totally. That said, I returned May of 2024 and everything was already dirty and worn. My runway view room that I paid a lot extra for all it did was give me a view of the Jet Blue sign of...
I too stayed at TWA Hotel when it first opened and everything was new, The pool situation with incredible views of gate 5 where you see EY and EK A380's pulling in and out was totally. That said, I returned May of 2024 and everything was already dirty and worn. My runway view room that I paid a lot extra for all it did was give me a view of the Jet Blue sign of terminal 5. When I complained, they were absolutely horrible about it. Only thing good there is the gym which is unusually large and well equipped for any hotel.
So are the Fairmont and the Grand Hyatt SFO worth a trip just to stay there?
The Marriott IAH next to Terminal C is my favorite domestic airport-connected hotel. Friendly staff, decent rooms, decent elite recognition for Marriott elites, and one of the better M-club lounges in the system.
And I like the convenience of taking the little underground train to the IAH Marriott; it goes to all the terminals from baggage claim ateas.
Couldn't agree more about the HR ZRH. They also offers one of my favorite Globalist welcome gifts! This stuff is amazingly good (and is available for purchase).
https://www.laeckerli-huus.ch/en/BaslerLackerliSelection820g/artdet/4883
IC at JNB. Great use of a Chase free night! Just walk over, avoid driving at night around J-burg, get a good night's sleep, have breakfast, pick up your rental car and be in Kruger NP in time for lunch.
No runway views! But at least you stay safe :)
Two observations:
(1) I find it telling, but not surprising in the least, that 5/8 hotels you mentioned are Hyatt properties. The HR MCO is a personal favorite (I'll often stay here when visiting Orlando - a friend lives over in Lake Nona, and I usually stay on points so as a Hyatt Globalist I don't have to pay for parking, and as hotel restaurants go McCoy's is a personal favorite).
(2) I've...
Two observations:
(1) I find it telling, but not surprising in the least, that 5/8 hotels you mentioned are Hyatt properties. The HR MCO is a personal favorite (I'll often stay here when visiting Orlando - a friend lives over in Lake Nona, and I usually stay on points so as a Hyatt Globalist I don't have to pay for parking, and as hotel restaurants go McCoy's is a personal favorite).
(2) I've stayed at the TWA hotel once, pre-pandemic in 2019. It was fairly nice (especially for being stuck with a clumsy layover), but the available food options were a bit desultory and it had the feeling of being "half a hotel". Since then...the only times I've considered it are when I'm pretty sure my travel insurance will be paying (this happens rather more than it "should"), and even then I'd rather get a night at a Hyatt downtown reimbursed and go out for ramen.
The Grand Hyatt San Francisco Airport (SFO) and The Hyatt Regency Zurich Airport (ZRH) are my 2 favorite airport hotels as well!
I really like the Hyatt Regency in ZRH. I love that Flughafenpark is just there if you want to go for a short hike or do some planespotting. If you don’t want to hike up Butzenbüel hill, then you have the option of taking a short, free ride on the standseilbahn.
Talking about ZRH, there is also a Radisson Blu and Capsule hotel directly connected to the airport.
But I agree that Hyatt Regency is the best, followed by Hyatt Place, and one then comes Radisson Blu and - with a large distance for obvious reasons - Capsule.
It's baffling the TWA Hotel is so bad. As you said, it has the potential to be the worlds best airport hotel.
A 500-room airport hotel that doesn't offer room service?!? That is a license to print money they are missing out on.
Is there no ambition there? Surely the staff, dealing with all the complaints about how bad it is, wish they were working for a better hotel?
This baffles me. Were I the management, I'd charge what I needed to charge but I'd offer at least a limited 24-hour room service menu (a burger, some soup, a salad, and a few sandwiches) because you /know/ you're going to get folks coming in on a late flight who need a meal. As you've said, it's a license to print money.
This is why I always used to swear by the Royal York -...
This baffles me. Were I the management, I'd charge what I needed to charge but I'd offer at least a limited 24-hour room service menu (a burger, some soup, a salad, and a few sandwiches) because you /know/ you're going to get folks coming in on a late flight who need a meal. As you've said, it's a license to print money.
This is why I always used to swear by the Royal York - I got in after midnight (bump hilarity had ensued, and I'd made like $1300 in vouchers, but I'd also had no time for meals between the last few flights) and I was able to get a decent meal (soup and a salad IIRC) at 0130. I didn't care that I had to pay like $35 or $40 for this - it was a decent meal at a clumsy hour and I was grateful for it.
Seriously, Hyatt or Fairmont should take up the TWA Hotel. Stick it in the Unbound Collection or something and put some stick about, but the price point, added "resort fee" or whatever, and so on just end up pricing me out of what I'm willing to pay for a half-effort experience. It /should/ be the AvGeek equivalent of a Monorail Resort at Disney World, but it isn't.
Staying 'in the city' if you've only got an overnight connection is a waste of time and money. The smart thing to do in the circumstances is look at the train/metro map and find a hotel that's next to a station 2-3 stops from the airport. The suburban stations are relatively quick and easy to navigate and the prices should be cheaper than the centre (unless you're unlucky enough to coincide with a trade fair held in the vicinity).
Not true. Quite often I will do so if I am flying in later in the day and connecting early the next morning. That airport /city may not necessarily be part of my trip and I don't much feel like going to a "airport" hotel that is called that but is actually 15 minutes away and could double as a homeless shelter. If you're on this site then you should be well versed with flying...
Not true. Quite often I will do so if I am flying in later in the day and connecting early the next morning. That airport /city may not necessarily be part of my trip and I don't much feel like going to a "airport" hotel that is called that but is actually 15 minutes away and could double as a homeless shelter. If you're on this site then you should be well versed with flying into a city on your own dime to catch a business class flight on another airline you got on points and you want to get in the day before so that you don't miss the flight. And sometimes it makes financial sense. I got into Changi at 11pm. I was staying at the Fairmont in Singapore but I wasn't about to spend $500 that first night to just literally go to bed so I stayed in the airports airside hotel overnight then head into Singapore.
I recall you wrote a very favourable report on the Le Méridien Cairo Airport a few years ago.
Sheraton Manila -- next to terminal 3, attached to mall, resort pool
Intercontinental JNB -- 4 star hotel easy walk from arrivals hall and avoid all the Joburg hotel shuttle scams
Westin Detroit -- I don't think the TSA checkpoint is open much anymore tho.
Sheraton Hartford -- 60 second walk from lobby to Precheck
Intercontinental MSP -- Attached to airport and new
Sheraton Toronto -- Attached to terminal, very easy access to train into city
Westin at DTW has its own checkpoint for TSA open every day.
Intercontinental at MSP does not have an open checkpoint since covid. You have to take a bus to/from.
The hotel itself is a franchised Intercontinental that doesn't honor Intercontinental ambassador benefits and doesn't have a club lounge.
Concur on Westin Detroit (stayed there on a WX meltdown) and Sheraton Toronto (wound up there during a flight delay conga in '23). I'd also add the Montreal Airport Marriott (I've stayed there twice - once right as the pandemic was breaking out, once last year).
The rooms at the Marriott at the Montreal airport are virtually unchanged from a Marriott or Courtyard circa 2007-2008. And the club lounge is way too small for the number of rooms and elites.
Always have appreciated the DTW Westin. Food options are a little "lazy" but do like the plane views, convenience , and "private" TSA checkpoint
The food is good but sooooo expensive. That;s the one downside. There are also no food options in the terminal pre-security. So, you're stuck at the hotel. Though I guess with a boarding pass you could go inside the terminal and to the Sky Club to eat for free but the 3-hour rule probably makes that unrealistic.
I would echo @Ben's assessment of the TWA hotel. The issue is that there really haven't been that many alternatives around JFK until very recently. The prices have thus been outrageous, and now that the novelty of the place is over for many, I suspect there won't be as many repeat visitors (though that's total conjecture!). If I need to overnight near JFK, I take a cab up to the Hyatt Place by LaGuardia...it's way...
I would echo @Ben's assessment of the TWA hotel. The issue is that there really haven't been that many alternatives around JFK until very recently. The prices have thus been outrageous, and now that the novelty of the place is over for many, I suspect there won't be as many repeat visitors (though that's total conjecture!). If I need to overnight near JFK, I take a cab up to the Hyatt Place by LaGuardia...it's way cheaper than the TWA, and it costs far less to get there than into the city; nothing special, but what you would expect from a well-run HP, and great dumplings around the corner :). Airport hotels I've liked include the Sofitel at LHR, the Clarion and Comfort hotels at ARN, the Grand Hyatt at ICN, and the Sheraton at YYZ, and the Novotel (now Hyatt) at BKK (though I usually got upgraded to a suite so that might make me biased...); the worst have included the Hilton at SEA, the Ibis Budget at AMS (you get what you pay for...but this was awful), the Ibis Styles at CDG (super convenient and fun Star Wars theme, but needs refurbishment), and Sheraton BRU (well taken care of and adjacent to the airport but they do not care...).
You lost me at Dallas eww
Singapore and Dallas on the same list? Nope Dallas is pure trash makes sense why AA is always trailing.
It's a shame you've never visited Hyatt Regency SZX & HGH, two excellent airport Hyatts with runway views, *and Category 1*, and SZX one literally world second best.
Wow going to say that. People who doesn’t give a shit about china are missing out a ton.
Even the hyatt place in those two airport are awesome.
I get rates below 500rmb for hyatt regency there.
Also these people who.
The only thing sucks about Chinese aviation rn is the lack of wifi, but i can see that as a good thing or else someone uncivilized will blast their douyin....
Wow going to say that. People who doesn’t give a shit about china are missing out a ton.
Even the hyatt place in those two airport are awesome.
I get rates below 500rmb for hyatt regency there.
Also these people who.
The only thing sucks about Chinese aviation rn is the lack of wifi, but i can see that as a good thing or else someone uncivilized will blast their douyin. Which happened more time than often in US flights as well esp on LCC like spirit or allegiant or even southwest..
I see some value to the TWA Hotel at JFK, not like some of the posters. The location and history are great. The extra services beyond the room are a little spartan but are fine with me. The room rate is not necessarily overpriced. I have seen dates where the room rate is less than some midtown Manhattan hotels. In fact, I was going to stay the first night at the TWA Hotel for one...
I see some value to the TWA Hotel at JFK, not like some of the posters. The location and history are great. The extra services beyond the room are a little spartan but are fine with me. The room rate is not necessarily overpriced. I have seen dates where the room rate is less than some midtown Manhattan hotels. In fact, I was going to stay the first night at the TWA Hotel for one business trip but the trip was cancelled for business reasons.
The Hilton at O'Hare is not mentioned. The exterior looks nice. I stayed there once many years ago. It was fine.
The Hilton in Seattle (SeaTac) is somewhat like an airport hotel. It is not connected to the terminal but it is across a small street from the Sound Transit light rail station. If you have a rollaboard carry on, you can walk. If you have heavier suitcases, then there is a free shuttle that is slower than walking with one carry-on.
There are several hotels that are technically on airport property and well connected to transit. For example, Taoyuan airport (Taipei) has a Novotel, soon to change names, if not already. That is connect to the MRT, 1 stop. Toronto has a hotel on the train that connects terminal 1 and 3.
I really like the Sheraton LAX. It is walking distance from the Airport, has great elite recognition, and many of the rooms have exceptional views of the very interesting LAX runways.
The Sheraton Toronto Airport is extremely convenient as it is directly connected to the airport. It is a nice hotel but has limited views.
The Marriott SeaTac is also walkable from the Airport and light rail station though it is up a bit of...
I really like the Sheraton LAX. It is walking distance from the Airport, has great elite recognition, and many of the rooms have exceptional views of the very interesting LAX runways.
The Sheraton Toronto Airport is extremely convenient as it is directly connected to the airport. It is a nice hotel but has limited views.
The Marriott SeaTac is also walkable from the Airport and light rail station though it is up a bit of a hill (could be difficult with lots of luggage though it does have a reliable shuttle). The hotel rooms are comfortable and quiet though the Club Lounge is marginal and it has no views.
The Sheraton LAX can be quite a walk - like 30 minutes - if you come into Tom Bradley terminal And even if you come into the closest terminal (1 - Southworst), it is still a 15 minute walk. I live in LA and stayed there Wednesday night when I was evacuated due to the fires, and I’ve stayed there a few times before an early morning flight. It’s a perfectly fine hotel, but it’s...
The Sheraton LAX can be quite a walk - like 30 minutes - if you come into Tom Bradley terminal And even if you come into the closest terminal (1 - Southworst), it is still a 15 minute walk. I live in LA and stayed there Wednesday night when I was evacuated due to the fires, and I’ve stayed there a few times before an early morning flight. It’s a perfectly fine hotel, but it’s nothing special at all. The rooms are a bit dated, the restaurant is mediocre, and the club lounge is quite pedestrian
Sheraton LAX is the central casting airport hotel
I also like the Hilton LAX
I've stayed at the Sheraton Toronto Airport twice and really liked it.
Also agree with Ben on the Fairmont Vancouver Airport, definitely tops my list.
The Calgary Airport Marriott was convenient w/great views when i stayed there in 2018.
Think Price should really be a metric. Some of them are an absolute rip off. Sometimes the best airport hotel is the one with a free 5min airport shuttle to the same chain brand at half the price...
For the people who are not on expenses..
Agreed. Like the DFW Hyatt Regency vs. the Grand Hyatt in the terminal, at often 1/3 the price and better service
Are you kidding me? The DFW Hyatt Regency is an absolute dump. No club lounge. They downgrade globalists on a confirmed suite upgrade stay. Old rooms. And they've now eliminated table service at breakfast.
3 Bonvoy Canadian airports I think are good value for the points and convenience and Elite lounges for value are YYC Marriott, nice lounge in airport, YUL Marriott nice lounge Monday-Friday in airport but at the far end of the airport terminal by US Departures. Finally YYZ Sheraton- great lounge and one of the nicest lounges but does not have airport views. All of these I have redeemed my free night certificates at too.
The Marriot at the Montreal Airport has pretty good views of the US and International appron from the lounge and northeast facing rooms.
The Sofitel at the Athens Airport and Hilton at Schipol airport are my favorites!
No relation to the original poster. Have to the props for second for Sofitel Athens airport. It's been a few years, but we enjoyed the modern clean room and location directly across the road from the terminal.
Can't say enough good things about the Fairmont Vancouver. It's just a great hotel regardless of being at an airport, and then add that they have terrific service, quiet rooms (the design and furnishings work well to reduce noise), etc., plus the convenience can't be matched. Also, the restaurant quality and service is superb. Hope they all know how good they are.
It’s also pretty unique that they provide a Plane Spotting Guide in the room.
Sheraton CDG. Needs update but super convenient.
Also, I was pleasantly surprised by the Holiday Inn at the Santiago, Chile, airport.
+1 for Holiday Inn Santiago. Location is great, service is very friendly. Their restaurant has some fantastic ceviche, which seems like an insane thing to say about a Holiday Inn lobby bar and yet...
Stayed there two weeks ago. Rooms clean and decent size. Staff very friendly and rates really cheap. Signage from the airport could be better. It takes you only so far and then signage disappears.
+2 for Holiday Inn at Santiago.
Except there's no signage to find the Sheraton inside CDG. That is a challenge. But yeah, the location is way more convenient than the off-airport Marriott or any other nearby hotel. Old rooms that are more than five years overdue for a renovation. But the staff are excellent and extremely competent. And elites get wonderful recognition and treatment. They also sell day rooms if you have a 7-hour layover at CDG.
Or a 12-hour layover. Very reasonable. I paid 200 euros for 9 hours in a room. Sure beat staying in the Air France lounge for 9 hours.
I second the Sheraton at CDG. It is the only hotel actually in the airport. It's in Terminal 2, and RER and long-distance trains are below. Very convenient.
The Sheraton at CDG is very convenient in Terminal 2, and has great views onto the tarmac.
The Sofitel at Heathrow. I don't know how they manage to keep it so quiet! You would never believe you were at an airport
The Sheraton/Marriott at Frankfurt is extraordinarily convenient, has a great lounge, a nice gym, and it's perfect for an early morning longhaul flight.
I like the Loew's (former Intercontinental) at O'Hare. It's a pain to get over there, but it's far nicer than other options. The rooms are great.
And...
The Sofitel at Heathrow. I don't know how they manage to keep it so quiet! You would never believe you were at an airport
The Sheraton/Marriott at Frankfurt is extraordinarily convenient, has a great lounge, a nice gym, and it's perfect for an early morning longhaul flight.
I like the Loew's (former Intercontinental) at O'Hare. It's a pain to get over there, but it's far nicer than other options. The rooms are great.
And one secret: the Cedarbrook Lodge at Seatac. It's hidden in the forest but quite close to the airport. They have beautiful food and lovely surroundings. It feels nothing at all like an airport hotel.
Airports that beg for better options:
LAX: The Sheraton is probably the best choice with the Westin a close second. But none of them are good. I think I've stayed in all of them.
PHX: Nooooo. The Crowne Plaza is a dirt, tobacco, and weed-infused catastrophe. The Marriott is grim, dank. And it's still fairly far from the airport. It's best to stay in town.
CLT: The Sheraton is distant and sad. Like Phoenix, it's a massive hub and deserves a far better hotel.
IAD: the best choice (in my experience) is the Westin in Reston because it rhymes. It's quite far from the airport, and it just isn't that great.
Sofitel at Heathrow is awful. Yes, it is crazy quiet and yes it is connect to T5, but I found the hotel so unsanitary that I've stopped staying at Accor hotels all together.
The Loew's at ORD is fantastic!
The Sheraton at Frankfurt is a dump, although the lounge has better food and booze than the Marriott. The Marriott has the newer rooms. You have to take a shuttle to the other terminal, however. That can be a hassle.
Crowne Plaza Singapore Changi's main advantage is its very convenient location within the airport, which is a welcome sight for those arriving with significant jet lag. Stayed there a couple of times and found it to be perfectly adequate and reasonably nice by Crowne Plaza standards, even if not exceptional. A much easier trek than, say, Hilton Garden Inn at LHR, which requires quite a hike through terminals, tunnels, a parking garage, escalators, etc.
...Crowne Plaza Singapore Changi's main advantage is its very convenient location within the airport, which is a welcome sight for those arriving with significant jet lag. Stayed there a couple of times and found it to be perfectly adequate and reasonably nice by Crowne Plaza standards, even if not exceptional. A much easier trek than, say, Hilton Garden Inn at LHR, which requires quite a hike through terminals, tunnels, a parking garage, escalators, etc.
Speaking of convenient location, a relatively new Hilton right on the BNA property looks like a solid option, literally a 60-second walk from the exit. Have not stayed there but noticed it a few months ago for the first time immediately after exiting and then saw it has accumulated many favorable reviews. Granted, not many people connect at BNA, but this appears to be a great option for those with an early morning flight.
The Hilton Garden Inn at LHR T2 is great for arriving & departing T2 as in fact I will be next month. Also useable for T3.
Most of the other self-styled airport hotels are outside the airport perimeter, completely unwalkable, with flaky shared shuttles, or public transport (albeit free) reliant with limited timetables.
Haven’t stayed there in almost 10 years, but the Westin Detroit Airport used to be a great airport hotel. Had (has?) its own TSA checkpoint so you could go directly from your room, take an elevator and go right into the terminal. Great tarmac views, a decent bar/restaurant and gym.
I would definitely include the Sofitel at LHR. Directly connected to T5, with a lounge and great rooms.
2nd this one Ralf Toenjes. Great airport hotel.
Ben, with your newly minted Accor Platinum status you could review the LHR Sofitel and review the hotel lounge as well.
Do they still have the Perrier Jouet champagne bar? The lounge on the ground floor is also decent.
Agree on TWA hotel. What a complete let down.
LHR T4 has several hotels directly connected to the terminal: Hilton, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn Express and Premier Inn. Some of those offer incredible views of the runway, and nothing beats the variety of planes you see at LHR. Whenever I stay there, I spend the entire day plane spotting
Stayed at the Premier Inn when it had just opened, for a quick overnighter. It was very basic, but brand new, and thought that with normal wear and tear it could look pretty tatty before its time.
Come on, Ben. I don't know how anyone could compose a ranking that includes the Crowne Plaza at Singapore's airport, the Hyatt Regency at Zurich's airport (not actually inside the terminal), or the Hyatt Regency at Orlando (no club lounge!) without at least mentioning The Westin inside Detroit's main terminal used primarily by Delta. That probably is probably the best in-terminal airport hotel in the USA. The rooms and overall services/amenities are nicer than the...
Come on, Ben. I don't know how anyone could compose a ranking that includes the Crowne Plaza at Singapore's airport, the Hyatt Regency at Zurich's airport (not actually inside the terminal), or the Hyatt Regency at Orlando (no club lounge!) without at least mentioning The Westin inside Detroit's main terminal used primarily by Delta. That probably is probably the best in-terminal airport hotel in the USA. The rooms and overall services/amenities are nicer than the Hyatt Regency at MCO, though the Hyatt Regency does have a resort-like pool. Both Calgary and Montreal's airports have in-terminal Marriott properties. The Montreal property while a little tired even has a luxury spa.
The Westin at DTW even has its own dedicated TSA security checkpoint. For a domestic Westin, it's excellent.
The HR MCO has one of the better (and at least until '22, one of the more reasonably priced - the miso soup going from $5 to $8 between two stays was a bit of sticker shock) hotel restaurants. I wish there was a lounge, but the breakfast buffet is solid (I'm staying there tonight, btw). If they'd sub in complementary tea/coffee downstairs that'd be a fine replacement - I've spent many, many evenings at McCoy's relaxing after a long day at e.g. Disney.
I like the resort-style rooftop pool at the Hyatt Regency MCO but I think the quality of the food and wine for the price charged is poor. Especially when there are some options in the airport concourse. The lack of a club lounge is disappointing. They're also poor at globalist recognition. Upgrades can be difficult and there's no welcome amenity or anything extra, besides two bottles of water and breakfast. Would it be too much...
I like the resort-style rooftop pool at the Hyatt Regency MCO but I think the quality of the food and wine for the price charged is poor. Especially when there are some options in the airport concourse. The lack of a club lounge is disappointing. They're also poor at globalist recognition. Upgrades can be difficult and there's no welcome amenity or anything extra, besides two bottles of water and breakfast. Would it be too much to ask for a bottle of the cheap Hyatt Canvas wine or a free drink voucher for one mediocre glass of wine from the lobby bar or a can of Diet Coke from the pantry at the front desk?
There is literally a SkyTrax category for this:
https://www.worldairportawards.com/worlds-best-airport-hotels-2024/
I trust Ben a lot more than Skytrax. Although I mildly disagree on the Fairmont YVR. Yes, it's connect right to the terminal, and the view are fantastic. But I found the rooms and the gym/pool area a little underwhelming for the price. Still, any hotel attached to a (hub) airport is super convenient. I also like the Sheraton, Marriot Hilton and HGI in Frankfurt for the same reason.
Generally, yes, the biggest drawback for the Fairmont is definitely the price. Multiples of the prices for all the other airport hotels reachable by shuttle.
Totally agree. One of the biggest advantages to this site is how Ben never accepts comped hotels or quid-pro-quo deals. Some bloggers get a 50-90% discount and rate the hotel five stars.
Some even try to gaslight their readers about a "raffle at work" - which would be highly illegal in the European Union if not disclosed as an ad. We're talking giant, business-ending fines.
Ben would never do that.
We really liked the Novotel in Auckland. kids very entertained by the views.
Glad to hear that. I've reserved there for a night late this year.
While I wouldn't put it in the category of the "best," the Hilton at Heathrow is convenient and has a good selection of restaurants.
The Crowne Plaza and co-located Holiday Inn Express are very convenient if flying out of Terminal 4, although the club lounge is poor.
I've stayed three times at the DFW Grand Hyatt and have had problems each time. The front desk has an attitude. Want a coffee maker in your room? First visit: "Sorry, there isn't enough space in the room for one". Second visit: "We are a different hotel and we offer barista coffee in the lobby" (but I want a cup of coffee so that I can get a cup of coffee). Third visit: "We'll bring...
I've stayed three times at the DFW Grand Hyatt and have had problems each time. The front desk has an attitude. Want a coffee maker in your room? First visit: "Sorry, there isn't enough space in the room for one". Second visit: "We are a different hotel and we offer barista coffee in the lobby" (but I want a cup of coffee so that I can get a cup of coffee). Third visit: "We'll bring a coffee maker up, but it will take some time because we're really busy", and it never came. It also takes an engineering degree to figure out how to turn on the lights in the room. The restaurant staff has an attitude - only QR coded menus, and they don't like special requests or bringing you a paper check, etc. As Ben said, its as if they only rely on the fact that they are literally an escalator ride up from baggage claim.
Because of all this we've lately only stayed at the Hyatt Regency DFW instead and have received wonderful treatment. It's a little harder to get to, but still no more than 5 minutes - and if you arrive in the C terminal you can walk there.
I've stayed at numerous airport hotels over the years. Here's my list:
-Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong
-Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott
-Crowne Plaza Changi
-Pan Pacific Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Now Sama Sama Hotel)
-Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel
-Hotel Nikko Kansai, Narita
-Grand Hyatt Incheon
-Vancouver Airport Marriott
The Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi is now a Hyatt Regency.
I’m definitely a big fan of the Crowne Plaza at Changi!
I believe it's changing hands in 2025. Not sure what impact this will have.