What are Boutique Hotels?

Boutique hotels offer a different experience to your standard corporate hotel. Often housed in restored or converted properties, they have between 10 and 100 rooms and offer a more refined, intimate experience. Boutique hotels tend to attract a more discerning traveler, someone who likes sipping an elegant cocktail and sleeping under crisp Egyptian cotton sheets. Historic hotels are often pitched as destinations in themselves, with refined restaurants, cozy bars and top-notch service. Offering stylish rooms and romantic suites, boutique hotels are very popular with couples celebrating birthdays or special anniversaries, and typically create the perfect weekend escape.

Where can I find the best deals on Boutique Hotels?

Boutique hotels are often found in large city locations, close to popular attractions like historic landmarks, major museums, and shopping and entertainment districts. City hotels attract a premium rate in peak seasons, such as July and August in Paris or London, and around national holidays. You can also find some unique boutique hotels in smaller towns and more rural areas such as along the Hudson River; many of these hotels offer the full country house experience. As most guests book a boutique hotel for the weekend, mid-week stays almost always offer the best prices.

Why should I choose a Boutique Hotel?

Many boutique hotels are found in historic properties like European castles, Victorian mansion houses and sprawling country manors, which can add a unique aspect to your stay. Whether you're booking a romantic weekends with a loved one or for a special celebration, boutique hotels have many advantages over large resorts or impersonal hotel chains. Most boutique hotels will offer room service and added extras such as Champagne or spa treatments. Also, they don't tend to attract many families (some will have minimum age restrictions), so your special weekend away is less likely to be disturbed by excitable children.

How much do Boutique Hotels typically cost?

In popular cities like New York, Paris and London, luxury boutique hotels in prime locations will often come at a premium. In Paris, you can find a charming room near the Sacre Couer for EUR 150 a night in July, while a room with a view of the Eiffel Tower in peak season might cost EUR 400. Boutique hotels in smaller towns or rural locations in the UK can really vary: you can find elegant rooms from GBP 80 in country hotels, or pay up to GBP 300 a night in posh hotel with a luxe spa, indoor pool and fine dining restaurant.