Top-Rated Hotels in Austin: Readers’ Picks

They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and the state’s lively capital city of Austin is the perfect place to experience that larger-than-life energy. Home to more than 250 music venues and host to SXSW and Austin City Limits, Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World. Moreover, the city is abundant in outdoor adventures, featuring swimming holes, hiking trails, and urban bat-watching. With delicious Tex-Mex and barbecue available in stylish restaurants, along with food trucks, breweries, wineries, and distilleries, visitors can easily indulge in the city’s diverse flavors.

Every year, for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel gathers insights from travelers about their experiences globally. Readers share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, and more. Specifically, hotels—including safari lodges—are rated on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Consequently, properties are categorized as city hotels, resorts, or safari lodges based on their amenities and locations.

This year marks the first time that iBestTravel readers have voted on the best hotels in Austin. For example, Four Seasons Hotel Austin (No. 3) received praise for its downtown location overlooking Lady Bird Lake, with one guest stating it has the “best location in Austin.” Newcomers to the Austin hotel scene, such as Arrive Austin (No. 2, which opened in 2019), and historic hotels like the Driskill (No. 4)—dating back to 1886—have also been recognized. Readers appreciated its “classic” vibe, noting, “Love the historic Texas feel of the property with hospitality that is wonderfully Austin!”

1. Austin Proper Hotel & Residences

The 32-story, 244-room Austin Proper Hotel incorporates historical influences and local art. High-end amenities include two pools, a spa, a fitness center, and complimentary bike rentals. McGuire Moorman Hospitality oversees the hotel’s dining venues, such as La Piscina, a rooftop poolside Mexican restaurant, and the Peacock, a Mediterranean grill. Located in the 2nd Street District, the hotel is only a short walk from Lady Bird Lake, indie boutiques, and numerous nightlife venues. Readers noted the hotel’s “beautiful rooms,” “great location,” and exceptional service.

Score: 89.44

2. Arrive Austin

Score: 88.75

3. Four Seasons Hotel Austin

Score: 88.26

4. The Driskill

Score: 87.26

5. Fairmont Austin

Score: 87.14