Best hotel credit cards of April 2025
Unlock room upgrades, free nights, and enhanced travel experiences with the right hotel credit card. CardRatings’ editors have compiled a list of the best hotel credit cards, catering to both frequent business travelers and occasional vacationers. Whether you prioritize brand loyalty, everyday rewards, or flexible travel points, there’s a card for you. Many options feature no annual fees and offer bonus rewards on everyday purchases, making them valuable additions to your wallet. With hotel credit cards, every purchase helps you reach your next getaway faster!
OUR FEATURED CARD LIST
CardRatings’ top picks for the best hotel credit cards
Whether you’re a frequent business traveler or planning your next family vacation, our expert-curated list features the best hotel credit cards for every type of traveler. Discover options with no annual fees, bonus rewards, and more.
Why we like it
Unlike hotel cards that are tied to specific properties and brands, you can transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to several frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs. Plus, your points are worth 25% more when you redeem them through Chase Travel℠.
Unlike hotel cards that are tied to specific properties and brands, you can transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to several frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs. Plus, your points are worth 25% more when you redeem them through Chase Travel℠.
- Save with a $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit.
- Points can be transferred to the IHG Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy and World of Hyatt programs, among other travel partners.
- Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠.
- Unlike co-branded hotel credit cards, there are no brand-specific perks such as complimentary elite status or free nights.
- Hilton fans may be disappointed to see there is no option to transfer points to the Hilton Honors program.
Why we like it
Cardholders earn a significant amount of rewards on every dollar spent, with an elevated reward rate for travel bookings made through the issuer's platform. This card offers substantial value for hotel stays and, unlike cards tied to specific hotel brands, allows for flexible redemption of earned rewards across a wide range of travel-related expenses, including hotel stays with any company.
Cardholders earn a significant amount of rewards on every dollar spent, with an elevated reward rate for travel bookings made through the issuer's platform. This card offers substantial value for hotel stays and, unlike cards tied to specific hotel brands, allows for flexible redemption of earned rewards across a wide range of travel-related expenses, including hotel stays with any company.
- This card offers a strong, general-purpose travel rewards program, providing a substantial amount of rewards for every dollar spent. When combined with the enhanced rewards rate for hotel, vacation rental, and rental car bookings made through the issuer's travel platform, cardholders can significantly increase their overall earnings.
- Venture Miles come with several flexible redemption options including the opportunity to transfer miles to hotel loyalty programs.
- Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection.
- You won't get complimentary hotel elite status with this card.
- The card comes with an annual fee, but for the right cardholder, its valuable benefits can easily offset this.
Why we like it
We appreciate this card for its user-friendly approach to travel rewards. It offers a straightforward way to redeem points for hotel stays, among other travel benefits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking simplicity. The card allows you to enjoy premium travel experiences without complex redemption processes.
We appreciate this card for its user-friendly approach to travel rewards. It offers a straightforward way to redeem points for hotel stays, among other travel benefits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking simplicity. The card allows you to enjoy premium travel experiences without complex redemption processes.
- An annual 10,000-mile bonus provides consistent value for continued card membership.
- Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection.
- Cardholders can earn a whopping 10X miles on hotels booked through the Capital One Travel portal.
- The travel credit's value is somewhat diminished by its restriction to Capital One Travel bookings, which lacks the flexibility of other premium card credits.
- This card offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to redeeming your miles; however, if you’re loyal to one hotel brand in particular, you may fare better with a card that’s co-branded with that hotel.
Why we like it
This no-annual-fee card is perfect for regular travelers looking for great value. It provides a strong rewards program, maximizing your spending, and allows you to earn miles on any travel purchase, no matter where you book. It's a top pick for those who want to save money and enjoy travel flexibility.
This no-annual-fee card is perfect for regular travelers looking for great value. It provides a strong rewards program, maximizing your spending, and allows you to earn miles on any travel purchase, no matter where you book. It's a top pick for those who want to save money and enjoy travel flexibility.
- Bank of America Preferred Rewards members can significantly boost their earnings, enjoying up to a 75% bonus on all rewards.
- A simple rewards earning structure means rewards can accumulate quickly without requiring a lot of planning.
- Unlike most travel cards, which limit reward redemption to travel-related expenses, this card uniquely allows you to offset restaurant purchases—a significant travel cost often overlooked. This flexibility sets it apart, offering a rare opportunity to use travel rewards for dining.
- While this card provides good rewards for typical spending, those who use credit cards extensively might benefit more from cards with higher earning rates.
- The lack of an annual fee is a clear benefit, but it's important to remember that travel cards with annual fees generally offer more extensive perks. For frequent travelers, those extra features might be worth the cost.
Why we like it
This card provides significant rewards on hotel stays, along with a substantial discount on a single, qualifying hotel booking made through the issuer's travel portal each year. Furthermore, it offers elevated rewards on air travel, as well as everyday spending categories like gas, dining, and groceries. Citi is a CardRatings advertiser.
This card provides significant rewards on hotel stays, along with a substantial discount on a single, qualifying hotel booking made through the issuer's travel portal each year. Furthermore, it offers elevated rewards on air travel, as well as everyday spending categories like gas, dining, and groceries. Citi is a CardRatings advertiser.
- Travel internationally with this card without worrying about the added cost of foreign transaction fees.
- Transfer ThankYou® Points to participating airline loyalty programs to get flights fast. There is no fee, and the minimum transfer is only 1,000 points.
- Outside of transferring rewards for flights, points can also be redeemed for gift cards including for department and home stores, and restaurants, or use ThankYou® Points to shop online at Amazon.com or BestBuy.com.
- The perk of $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more through CitiTravel.com once per calendar year offsets the annual fee.
- Though it can easily be offset, there is an annual fee to take into consideration.
- This card offers a lot of flexibility in how you can earn rewards, but reward redemption with hotels is a bit limited. If you want to use your rewards strictly for hotel stays and there's a hotel you love, a co-branded hotel credit card might be the better fit for you.
Why we like it
This card earns generous rewards for stays at Hilton properties as well as on everyday purchases, and there's no annual fee to worry about offsetting. American Express is a CardRatings advertiser.
This card earns generous rewards for stays at Hilton properties as well as on everyday purchases, and there's no annual fee to worry about offsetting. American Express is a CardRatings advertiser.
- As the entry level Hilton Honors credit card, this card does not charge an annual fee.
- Cardholders receive complimentary Silver Status and get Gold Status if they spend $20,000 in a year.
- You'll only have to spend signup_bonus_spend_amount within six months of opening your account to earn 70,000 bonus Hilton Honors points plus a Free Night Reward. Offer ends 4/29/2025.
- Enrollment required for select perks.
- The earning potential with the Hilton Honors American Express Card is lower than what you could get with other Hilton cards.
Why we like it
For a limited period, new cardholders can earn a significant welcome bonus. The card also provides a complimentary night's stay annually, as well as when redeeming points for extended stays at the issuer's hotel properties. This makes it a highly advantageous card for those who frequently stay at IHG properties.
For a limited period, new cardholders can earn a significant welcome bonus. The card also provides a complimentary night's stay annually, as well as when redeeming points for extended stays at the issuer's hotel properties. This makes it a highly advantageous card for those who frequently stay at IHG properties.
- This card has a solid welcome offer: new cardholders earn signup_reward bonus points after spending signup_bonus_spend_amount on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
- Cardholders can save with a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus application fee reimbursement every four years.
- The card comes with valuable perks such as Elite status, a free reward night on your account anniversary and a free reward night when you redeem points for any consecutive four-night stay at an IHG hotel.
- With popular brands such as Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza, IHG hotels are often associated with economy and business travel. That means this card might not be the best option for those who prefer to stay at higher-end, luxury properties.
- You won't be eligible for the current bonus point offer if you've received a new card member bonus from this card in the past 24 months.
Why we like it
We appreciate this card for its strong alignment with frequent Hyatt guests. It offers valuable perks that enhance the hotel experience, including complimentary nights and elevated rewards on Hyatt stays. The card's ability to unlock higher tiers of elite status further solidifies its value for loyal customers. Information related to this card has been collected independently by CardRatings and was neither reviewed nor provided by the card issuer.
We appreciate this card for its strong alignment with frequent Hyatt guests. It offers valuable perks that enhance the hotel experience, including complimentary nights and elevated rewards on Hyatt stays. The card's ability to unlock higher tiers of elite status further solidifies its value for loyal customers. Information related to this card has been collected independently by CardRatings and was neither reviewed nor provided by the card issuer.
- This card offers a substantial amount of points per dollar spent at Hyatt hotels, combining bonus points with base points earned as a loyalty program member. Travel, dining, and fitness club purchases also earn a good amount of points, and all other purchases earn points as well, making it a valuable card for a variety of spending needs.
- Cardholders receive at least one free night at a Category 1-4 property each year.
- Although the cost is reasonable for a rewards card, there is a AnnualFees annual fee.
- While there is an option to earn a second award night each year, you'll need to spend $15,000 to get it.
Why we like it
Following the merger of Marriott, Starwood (SPG), and Ritz-Carlton's loyalty programs, the unified Marriott Bonvoy program has expanded opportunities for hotel guests to earn points and enjoy their stays. This card facilitates the accumulation of points across all participating hotel brands and provides the added benefit of an annual complimentary night. Information related to this card has been collected independently by CardRatings and was neither reviewed nor provided by the card issuer.
Following the merger of Marriott, Starwood (SPG), and Ritz-Carlton's loyalty programs, the unified Marriott Bonvoy program has expanded opportunities for hotel guests to earn points and enjoy their stays. This card facilitates the accumulation of points across all participating hotel brands and provides the added benefit of an annual complimentary night. Information related to this card has been collected independently by CardRatings and was neither reviewed nor provided by the card issuer.
- For those seeking to maximize Marriott Bonvoy rewards, this card offers a compelling option. Cardholders earn a significant amount of points per dollar spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties, along with a base level of points on all other purchases, and enhanced points on select categories up to an annual spending limit.
- Automatic Silver Elite Status means you'll get perks such as priority late checkout and free Wi-Fi at Marriott brand hotels.
- You'll receive a free award night every year after your account's anniversary. Plus, cardholders receive 15 elite night credits each year and one additional elite night credit for every $5,000 you spend.
- This card does come with a AnnualFees annual fee, although it is easily offset by the card's many benefits for the right cardholder.
- If you don't stay at Marriott properties frequently, the card's benefits may have little value for you.
Why we like it
Although it comes with a premium price tag, card membership offers a number of luxury experiences which can easily offset that cost. Cardholders enjoy perks like Luxury Property credits, free night awards, Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, and more. (Enrollment may be required for select benefits.)
Although it comes with a premium price tag, card membership offers a number of luxury experiences which can easily offset that cost. Cardholders enjoy perks like Luxury Property credits, free night awards, Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, and more. (Enrollment may be required for select benefits.)
- If you're trying to gain Elite Status within the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, having this card is an easy way to get you there. Membership automatically gains you Elite status, and then each calendar year you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to cards offered by American Express.
- Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases, card members are eligible to select an Earned Choice Award benefit. Benefit options include: Five Suite Night Awards, a free night valued at 85K points, and mattress and box spring $1,000 discount from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Reward earning isn't restricted to just hotel stays. Cardholders can also earn rewards on restaurant purchases worldwide and airline purchases made directly with the airline, as well as a boost of 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
- Terms apply. Enrollment may be required for select benefits.
- If you're truly a luxury traveler the annual fee isn't hard to offeset; however, if you don't think you'll utilize the luxury perks that the card offers, it's likely not worth the price.
- The rewards rate offered on eligible Marriott Bonvoy property stays is nice, but it's not quite as high as you might expect for a card with such a high annual fee. This card is more about its numerous perks.
Why we like it
This is a great option for anyone who regularly uses Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo to book accommodations. Earn bonus rewards on these purchases, plus in a few everyday spend categories, and use your rewards for travel booked on one of the aforementioned platforms.
This is a great option for anyone who regularly uses Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo to book accommodations. Earn bonus rewards on these purchases, plus in a few everyday spend categories, and use your rewards for travel booked on one of the aforementioned platforms.
- Travelers who prefer booking through third-party sites are sure to find this card highly beneficial. The combination of competitive deals and a strong rewards program allows cardholders to achieve substantial savings.
- The ability to earn and redeem rewards on Vrbo purchases is a valuable benefit for travelers seeking alternative lodging options. Vrbo often provides superior solutions for families requiring more space or individuals desiring unique accommodations beyond traditional hotels.
- Due to the card's restricted earning and redemption capabilities, it is likely not the ideal choice for those who routinely book hotel accommodations directly.
- A potential drawback of booking through third-party platforms is the forfeiture of valuable rewards offered by hotel loyalty programs.
Why we like it
With 22 brands and more than 7,400 hotel locations worldwide, this is a great credit card for those who prefer the flexibility of the Choice Privilege brand. Cardholders can earn 10X points at participating properties, plus bonus rewards on everyday purchases as well.
With 22 brands and more than 7,400 hotel locations worldwide, this is a great credit card for those who prefer the flexibility of the Choice Privilege brand. Cardholders can earn 10X points at participating properties, plus bonus rewards on everyday purchases as well.
- This card doesn't charge a foreign transaction fee so it's a great option to take with you when traveling abroad.
- Because there are so many hotels under the Choice Privilege brand, this is a great option for those seeking flexibility when they travel.
- While the Choice Privileges portfolio encompasses numerous brands, their varying levels of recognition compared to major hotel chains may limit property availability in certain destinations.
- There's an annual fee to take into consideration.
Why we like it
This card is packed full of benefits that make it worthy for any serious traveler. If you frequently fly in addition to frequently staying in hotels you're likely to love what this card has to offer. In fact, if you're looking hotel-specific benefits, you're sure to appreciate that this card offers you up to $200 in statement credit annually on prepaid bookings made with your card with American Express Travel at Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection (minimum two-night stay required).
This card is packed full of benefits that make it worthy for any serious traveler. If you frequently fly in addition to frequently staying in hotels you're likely to love what this card has to offer. In fact, if you're looking hotel-specific benefits, you're sure to appreciate that this card offers you up to $200 in statement credit annually on prepaid bookings made with your card with American Express Travel at Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection (minimum two-night stay required).
- Complimentary access to the Global Lounge Collection is an awesome perk for anyone who spends a lot of time in airports.
- There are plenty of benefits and credit opportunities to more than offset the annual fee if you take advantage of them all. See the "additional details" tab for full details.
- Enjoy complimentary status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors.
- Enrollment required for select benefits.
- The annual fee is sizable so this card is only worth it for frequent travelers who can take advantage of the card's numerous perks.
- This is a more general travel rewards card so it doesn't earn quite as heavily on hotel rewards. However, because it's not a co-branded card, it does offer you some added flexibility in how you travel.
Why we like it
We appreciate this card for its tailored benefits for business travelers. It streamlines earning Bonvoy points on everyday business expenses and offers valuable perks for hotel stays, making it a strong choice for those who frequently travel for work.
We appreciate this card for its tailored benefits for business travelers. It streamlines earning Bonvoy points on everyday business expenses and offers valuable perks for hotel stays, making it a strong choice for those who frequently travel for work.
- Enjoy enhanced hotel experiences with complimentary Gold Elite status, including late checkout and room upgrades (when available).
- Receive an annual free night award, redeemable at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, offering substantial value for frequent travelers.
- Benefit from practical business-related perks, simplifying expense tracking and providing added convenience for business owners.
- Terms apply.
- The card carries an annual fee, which may not be justifiable for those who don't frequently stay at Marriott properties.
- While Marriott purchases earn well, the everyday spending bonus categories are not as broad as some other business rewards cards.
Compare the best hotel credit cards by perks and features
Want to see how our picks for the best hotel credit cards stack up against each other? Our comparison tool makes it easy to compare up to threetwo cards at a time. Simply select the cards you’re interested in and we’ll automatically display their key perks and features side-by-side. With a quick glance, you can easily identify the card that best suits your needs and preferences.
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Compare the best hotel credit cards by user ratings
By analyzing real-world user experiences, we have developed a robust rating system that reflects the performance and value of various credit cards based on consumer insights. This chart allows you to easily compare these ratings side-by-side, enabling informed decision-making based on the feedback of actual cardholders.
How did each of our winning cards rate according to you?
CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. Responses were given on a scale of 1-10 and respondents’ ratings were then averaged under broad topics.
How did each of our winning cards rate according to you?
CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. Responses were given on a scale of 1-10 and respondents’ ratings were then averaged under broad topics.
COST EFFECTIVENESS
REWARDS SATISFACTION
CUSTOMER SERVICE
WEBSITE/APP USABILITY
LIKELIHOOD OF CONTINUING TO USE
RECOMMEND TO A FRIEND/COLLEAGUE
Survey results by card
Select a card below to see the results for each card.
Survey methodology: CardRatings commissioned Slice MR in November 2024 to survey 1,666 cardholders nationwide. CardRatings’ website analytics from Jan. 1, 2024-Oct. 31, 2024 were used to determine a selection of the most popular cards. Responses to 10 questions were given on a scale of 1-10. For nine of these questions, respondents’ scores were averaged under broad topics. The overall rating represents an average of respondents’ responses to their overall rating of each card. “Cardholder favorite” cards are those scored in the top 10 overall.
Ask CardRatings’ experts
Who is a good fit for a hotel credit card?
Since hotel credit cards offer perks and rewards specific to the hotel brand itself, they are best for people who stay with a specific hotel chain on a regular basis. This can include frequent leisure travelers or business travelers. For those who don't travel often and people who stay with different hotel brands, a flexible travel credit card can be a better fit.
Anyone who travels regularly should consider a hotel credit card. Not all hotel cards are equal, but the best ones let you earn lucrative sign-on bonuses you can use for free stays. If you travel regularly enough, you can use the card to earn a preferred status that opens up discounted rates, room upgrades, and more.
Anyone who stays at a hotel at least a few times a year and can be loyal to a particular brand can benefit from a hotel credit card. Hotel credit cards offer higher rewards for stays within the property portfolio and often include other meaning perks too. I have a premium hotel card that's been worth every penny of the annual fee as I've been upgraded to bigger rooms and suites on nearly every trip, thanks to the card's automatic top-tier elite status.
What are some of the benefits consumers can look forward to with a hotel credit card?
People who love certain hotel brands can get some pretty sweet perks with a hotel credit card, including welcome amenities, early check-in, late checkout and even automatic elite status. Automatic elite status you get with hotel credit cards can also unlock a separate selection of benefits like room upgrades based on availability, executive lounge access and guaranteed reservations.
Depending on the credit card, you can receive a wealth of hotel perks. For example, my family loves to travel hack. We use different hotel cards to earn free nights, elite status, and points we can use to reduce our spending on travel. Don't overlook bonus categories to increase earning potential.
Aside from increased earning opportunities for stays within the brand, many hotel cards com with valuable benefits like automatic elite status, which in turn can unlock other perks like free breakfast, early check-in/late check-out, room upgrades, and more. I hold a couple of hotel credit cards that offer a free annual night, which I've found to be worth more than the cards’ annual fees.
Our CardFinder tool is also a great way to find the right card for you!
Tired of searching for the right credit card? CardFinder makes it quick and easy. Simply tell us your preferences and we’ll do the heavy lifting. Our three-step process saves you time and effort, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying the rewards. Get started today!
Frequently asked questions about hotel credit cards
How do hotel credit cards work?
Hotel credit cards generally fall into two categories: brand-specific cards and flexible travel cards. Brand cards earn points within a single hotel loyalty program, while flexible cards let you transfer points to multiple programs. Both types earn points on purchases, redeemable for hotel stays and perks. Brand cards often offer bonus points for spending at their own hotel properties.
Learn more about how hotel credit cards work, their benefits, and who should get a hotel credit card.
What are the benefits of having a hotel credit card?
Hotel credit cards provide rewards points for spending, which you can use for hotel stays. Many cards also offer elite status, giving you extra perks at hotels. Plus, you can find cards with other benefits like travel insurance and free nights.
Learn more about the benefits of having a hotel credit card.
Are hotel credit cards worth it?
Hotel credit cards offer significant value for frequent hotel guests. If you primarily utilize alternative accommodations like Airbnbs or guest bedrooms, the benefits may be less pronounced. However, even occasional hotel stays can justify a no-annual-fee card. These cards accrue rewards on all purchases, effectively offsetting hotel costs. Brand-specific cards provide bonus rewards for loyal customers, and hotel loyalty programs offer perks like upgrades, complimentary amenities, and free nights, which are particularly valuable for frequent travelers.
What credit score is required for a hotel credit card?
Generally, you'll need a good to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher) to qualify for most hotel credit cards.
How to choose a hotel credit card
To choose the right hotel credit card, start by thinking about how often you travel and if you prefer a specific hotel brand. If you travel a lot, a card with more perks and an annual fee might be worth it. If you travel less, a no-fee card will likely suffice. Next, look at the rewards and perks, like how many points you earn and if you get free upgrades or nights. Consider how you spend money, as some cards offer better rewards for certain purchases. Finally, check the annual fee and interest rate, and always read the fine print to understand the card's terms.
What are the eligibility requirements for hotel credit cards?
To qualify for a hotel credit card, you generally need a good to excellent credit score (typically 670+), a solid credit history with on-time payments and low credit utilization, and sufficient income to manage the debt. Lenders may also consider your debt-to-income ratio. Specific requirements vary by issuer.
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Rating methodology: CardRatings’ experts review the fine print, details, perks, rewards and features of hundreds of cards and compare them side-by-side with similar cards. A card that makes an excellent balance transfer card may not make a great cash-back rewards card even though it offers those rewards. While the Best of the Year list is announced annually, that list – and all other “best of” lists on CardRatings – are regularly reviewed and updated as issuers change the terms and features of each card often.
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For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
The information in this article is believed to be accurate as of the date it was written. Please keep in mind that credit card offers change frequently. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this article. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. See the online credit card application for full terms and conditions on offers and rewards. Please verify all terms and conditions of any credit card prior to applying.
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