Luxury Hotels

215 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114 (map)

You would never guess this site used to house the Charles Street Jail. In what is truly an ugly duckling scenario, the architecturally reconstructed swan is a stunningly grand structure retaining artful vestiges (bars, cells, bricks) of its darker past. Restaurants Scampo and Clink, plus bars Alibi and Veuve Cliquot Lounge, render the lobby an unrelentingly trendy nightlife spot.

15 Arlington St, Boston, MA 02116 (map)

Since 1927 (with a renovation in 2002), the Crown Jewel has pampered guests with top-notch amenities and service amidst a prized collection of original art and antiques. Overlooking the Boston Public Garden (the swan boat rides and ice-skating Frog Pond are practically it its front yard), the Taj dishes up an immaculate teatime and a sleek Chanel boutique in its lobby.

776 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199 (map)

Be "a fan" of this cosmopolitan hotel in the heart of Back Bay, blending the simple beauties of Oriental style with Bostonian elegance. Large art pieces stud the clean lines, with suites escalating to utmost grandeur. M Bar and Lounge bustles with crowds of cocktailers and restaurant Asana boasts an intimate chef's table. An indoor corridor leads guests directly to the Shops at Prudential Center

138 Saint James Ave, Boston, MA 02116 (map)

The red awnings of the "Grand Dame of Boston" have welcomed discerning travelers since 1912. You couldn't be closer to Copley Square, minutes away from Newbury Street and South End. The hotel is no stranger to the liquid lunch: The Oak Room and Oak Bar are throwbacks to elegant, old-school tradition. Dogs are warmly welcomed, no less than from resident Canine Ambassador, Catie Copley.

250 Franklin St, Boston, MA 02110 (map)

The Financial District's most opulent hotel delivers modern creature comforts and luxurious dining options in a historic setting. In addition to casually elegant French fare, Cafe Fleuri produces the most lavish cocoa fantasy this side of Willy Wonka's factory in its blow-out buffet-style chocolate bar. BOND, a lounge housed in the former Federal Reserve Bank, provides a swanky, live-DJed, post-work stopover.

200 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116 (map)

Perched leisurely along the Boston Public Gardens, for one of the most glorious views in the city, this hotel exudes elegant simplicity and old-world Boston charm. Restaurants Aujourd'hui and the Bristol are among the most critically acclaimed, and you're steps away from the Theatre District and discerning boutiques including Sonia Rykiel, La Perla and Hermes. At this hotel, your wish is their command.

510 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210 (map)

Like a glorious ship coming into shore, this glittering, reflective-glass structure hugs the harbor on the edge of downtown. It's conveniently right on a water taxi stop and along the gorgeous harbor walk. In the lobby, RumBa pours specialty cocktails, Sushi-Teq pulls off the tequila-plus-sushi-plus-salsa music combo and Miel peculiarly stands as the city's only 24/7 French brasserie.