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Best Hotel Credit Cards of 2024: Our Top Picks

Review Updated
Lyle Daly
By: Lyle Daly
Lyle Daly
Lyle Daly
Writer

Lyle Daly is a personal finance writer who specializes in credit cards, travel rewards programs, and banking. He writes for The Ascent and The Motley Fool, and his work has appeared in USA Today and Yahoo! Finance. He was born in California but currently lives as a digital nomad with a home base in Colombia.

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Our Credit Cards Expert

Eric McWhinnie
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Eric McWhinnie
Eric McWhinnie

Eric McWhinnie has been writing and editing digital content since 2010. He specializes in personal finance and investing. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance.

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Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures our experts’ opinions aren’t influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page.

If you're a frequent guest of any hotel chains, picking up one of the best hotel credit cards is a game changer. These cards all earn rewards points that you can turn into free nights and score big savings on every trip.

Many hotel cards also have special benefits that improve your travels, such as elite status in hotel loyalty programs, complimentary breakfasts, and even statement credits toward hotel purchases. See our top picks below to find the right card for you.

  • Our team of experts reviewed over 260 credit cards
  • We evaluate all credit cards across the same 4 key criteria: value, welcome experience, fees, and perks
  • Our credit card ratings are never influenced by our advertising partners
  • If we wouldn't recommend an offer to a close family member, we won't recommend it to you

Robin Hartill, CFP®, is The Ascent’s Head of Product Ratings and has worked for The Motley Fool since 2020. Her work has appeared in various national publications, including Yahoo! Finance, NerdWallet, Investopedia, CNN Underscored, MSNBC, USA Today, and CNET Money. She previously wrote The Penny Hoarder’s syndicated “Dear Penny” personal finance advice column.

Top hotel credit cards
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Ratings Methodology

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Great for: Hotel rewards and savings

Apply Now for Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

On Citi's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

On Citi's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

20.74% - 28.74% (Variable)

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. 10x on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked through CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Restaurants. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Supermarkets. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Gas and EV Charging Stations. Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on All Other Purchases $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking. Travel insurance protection: Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption (Common Carrier), Trip Delay, Lost or Damaged Luggage, MasterRental Coverage (Car Rental).

1x - 10x points

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. N/A

$95

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.

70,000 ThankYou® Points

  • Citi Strata Premier offers a unique combination of bonus categories we don't see on many travel cards. It earns 3X points on travel and everyday-type categories, including supermarkets and gas/EV charging. You can also earn a welcome bonus worth $700. That combination of rewards is an excellent value for a relatively low annual fee. Plus, if you run into any problems on a trip, its complimentary travel protections (including coverage for trip delays, trip cancellations and interruptions, and lost/damaged luggage) could save the day. Read Full Review

    • Big sign-up bonus
    • Annual hotel savings offer
    • Travel and dining rewards
    • Grocery and gas rewards
    • Flexible travel rewards points
    • Travel insurance protections
    • Annual fee
    • Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
    • Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
    • Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
    • Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
    • $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
    • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
    • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Great for: Travel rewards bonus

Apply Now for Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

On Chase's Secure Website.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

On Chase's Secure Website.

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR Circle with letter I in it. N/A

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. N/A

$95

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel℠ value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That's worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.

$300 Chase Travel℠ Credit + 60,000 bonus points

  • We strongly believe this is one of the best welcome incentives Chase has offered for the Sapphire Preferred in a while. Valued at up to $1,050, you get 60,000 miles and a $300 travel credit—a bonus credit comparable to some premium travel cards! The value of the credit alone offsets the first three years of annual fees, and is 6x higher than the standard travel credit in your first year.Bonus travel and dining rewards, along with an annual $50 hotel credit, make this card worth the (very reasonable) annual fee. Chase points are both valuable and easy to use, offering 25% more value for bookings through Chase Travel, which simplifies the experience compared to other travel cards. Not to mention it provides robust travel protections, including primary rental car insurance, trip delay reimbursement, lost luggage reimbursement, and trip cancellation/interruption insurance. Read Full Review

    • Big sign-up bonus
    • Travel rewards
    • Dining rewards
    • Flexible travel points
    • Consumer and travel protections
    • Annual fee
    • Limited-time perks
    • Get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel℠ value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That's worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.
    • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
    • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
    • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
    • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
    • Member FDIC

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Great for: Luxury travel perks

Apply Now for The Platinum Card® from American Express

On American Express' Secure Website.

Terms apply

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

The Platinum Card® from American Express
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for The Platinum Card® from American Express

On American Express' Secure Website.

Terms apply

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: n/a

Balance Transfers: n/a

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Earn 1X Membership Rewards® Points on other purchases. Terms and limitations apply.

1X-5X Membership Rewards® Points

Annual Fee

$695

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

80,000 Membership Rewards® Points

  • This luxury travel card has some of the most prestigious perks you'll find — access to over 1,400 airport lounges, elite status with Hilton and Marriott Bonvoy (enrollment required), and spending credits worth over $1,500 in value every year. Just be ready for the hefty annual fee, which can be offset in the first year with a welcome bonus worth $800 in points. Terms apply. Read Full Review

    • Big welcome offer
    • Substantial spending credits
    • Airport lounge access
    • Hotel benefits
    • Flexible travel points
    • Annual fee
    • Limited bonus categories
    • Spending credits can be complicated to manage
    • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
    • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
    • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
    • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
    • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
    • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
    • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
    • $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
    • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
    • Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
    • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
    • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
    • $695 annual fee.¤
    • Terms Apply.
Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Trip delay and cancellation insurance and cell phone protection underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. Extended warranty, purchase protection, car rental insurance, and baggage insurance underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Great for: Luxury travel perks

Apply Now for Chase Sapphire Reserve®

On Chase's Secure Website.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Chase Sapphire Reserve®

On Chase's Secure Website.

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

5x points on flights and 10x points on hotels and car rentals through Chase Travel℠.

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. N/A

$550

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 bonus points

  • All the perks we've come to expect from a top travel card, including a $300 annual travel credit, airport lounge access, and big bonuses on travel and dining. Points are transferable to airline and hotel partners or worth 50% more if you book through Chase Travel. The annual fee is hefty, but if you can use all its features, this card could be well worth the cost. Read Full Review

    • Travel credits
    • Airport lounge access
    • Travel and dining rewards
    • Welcome offer
    • Flexible travel points
    • Annual fee
    • Limited-time benefits
    • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
    • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
    • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
    • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
    • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
    • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
    • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
    • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
    • Member FDIC

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Great for: Frequent Marriott stays

Apply Now for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

On American Express' Secure Website.

Terms apply

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

On American Express' Secure Website.

Terms apply

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: n/a

Balance Transfers: n/a

APR

20.49%-29.49% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.

2X-6X points

Annual Fee

$650

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

95,000

  • It's one of the most expensive hotel cards we've seen, but the benefits could be worth thousands for the right type of cardholder. Read Full Review

    • Big Marriott Bonvoy bonuses
    • Travel credits
    • Free night award
    • Automatic Platinum Elite status
    • Airport lounge access
    • Expensive annual fee
    • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
    • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
    • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
    • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
    • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
    • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
    • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
    • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
    • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card 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.
    • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
    • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
    • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
    • $650 Annual Fee.
    • Terms Apply.
• Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. • Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. • If approved and coordinated by Premium Global Assist Hotline, emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided at no cost. In any other circumstance, Card Members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. • Trip delay insurance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, and cell phone protection underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. • Extended warranty, purchase protection warranty, baggage insurance plan, and car rental loss & damage insurance underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Great for: Marriott benefits

Read Review
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Read Review
Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR Circle with letter I in it. N/A

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn up to 17X total points for every $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® and 2X points on all other purchases.

Up to 17X Points on Stays

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. N/A

$95

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Our best points offer! Earn 125,000 Bonus Points after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card!

Earn 125,000 Points

  • The sign-up bonus, premium hotel rewards earn rate, and deep bench of hotel properties makes this a compelling pick for hotel stays.

    • Big sign-up bonus
    • Annual free night award
    • Automatic elite status
    • Bonus rewards on Marriott Bonvoy purchases
    • Consumer and travel protections
    • Annual fee
    • Few premium travel perks
    • Earn 125,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases - our best points offer!
    • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
    • Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
    • 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
    • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
    • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
    • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
    • Member FDIC

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

Great for: Hyatt benefits

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The World of Hyatt Credit Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
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Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR Circle with letter I in it. N/A

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 Bonus Points per $1 on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member

Up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. N/A

$95

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 5 free nights at any Category 1 - 4 Hyatt hotel or resort after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.* These nights could be worth up to 90,000 points.

5 Free Nights

  • The annual fee is well justified for even occasional Hyatt hotel customers, given the card's big welcome offer, annual free night, and points program.

    • Big travel rewards sign-up bonus
    • Bonus Hyatt rewards
    • Free night award
    • Automatic elite status
    • Consumer and travel protections
    • Annual fee
    • Fewer properties than other hotel chains
    • Earn 5 free nights at any Category 1 - 4 Hyatt hotel or resort after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.* These nights could be worth up to 90,000 points.
    • Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
    • Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
    • Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
    • Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
    • Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
    • Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
    • Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
    • Member FDIC
The information related to The World of Hyatt Credit Card has been collected by The Ascent and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Great for: Premium Hilton benefits

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Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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= Excellent
= Good
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Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
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Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

APR

20.99% to 29.99%, variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. 14 points per $1 at Hilton properties, 7 points per $1 on flights booked directly with the airline, rental cars booked through certain agencies, and dining in eligible U.S. restaurants, 3 points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

3X - 14x points

Annual Fee

$550

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. 175,000 Hilton Honors points by spending $6,000 in the first six months of card opening

175,000 Hilton Honors points

  • This card comes with a high annual fee, but if you travel frequently and love to stay with Hilton, the benefits of the card can easily outweigh the fee.

    • Big hotel rewards
    • Generous travel credits
    • Automatic Diamond status
    • Annual free night award
    • Airport lounge access
    • Credits can be hard to use
    • Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors points by spending $6,000 in the first six months of card opening.
    • Earn 14 points per $1 spent at Hilton properties.
    • Earn 7 points per $1 spent on flights booked directly with the airline, rental cars booked through certain agencies, and dining in eligible U.S. restaurants.
    • Earn 3 points per $1 on all other eligible purchases.
    • Earn up to $600 in statement credits.
    • Complimentary airport lounge access
    • Complimentary Diamond status

The information for the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by The Ascent. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Award Icon 2024 Award Winner

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Great for: Hilton benefits

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Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Read Review
Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: n/a

Balance Transfers: n/a

APR

20.49%-29.49% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. 12x points on Hilton purchases, 6x points on U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and U.S. dining, 3x points on other eligible purchases

3X - 12x points

Annual Fee

$150

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.

165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points

  • Automatic Hilton Gold status is one of the many lucrative perks, including sky-high points for Hilton stays and for restaurants, groceries, and gas.

    • Big welcome offer
    • Automatic Gold elite status
    • Airport lounge access
    • Earn an annual free night award
    • Bonus rewards in several spending categories
    • U.S.-centric bonus categories
    • Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
    • Get up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases after you use your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
    • Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
    • Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
    • Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
    • Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
    • Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
    • Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors ™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
    • Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year.
    • Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status. Enrollment in the complimentary Emerald Club® program is required. Terms apply.
    • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
    • $150 annual fee.
    • Terms Apply.
• Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. • Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. • Extended warranty,baggage insurance plan, and car rental loss & damage insurance underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Overview of the best hotel credit cards

Here are the key details for the top hotel credit cards.

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Great for: Hotel rewards and savings

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card earns an impressive 3 points per $1 in multiple bonus categories, including hotel purchases. It includes a $100 hotel savings on a single hotel stay of $500 or more booked through thankyou.com once per calendar year.

Read the full Citi Strata Premier℠ Card review

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Great for: Travel rewards bonus

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers one of the bigger travel rewards bonuses we've come across. It earns versatile and valuable Ultimate Rewards points that you can use with multiple hotels.

Read the full Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Great for: Luxury travel perks

The Platinum Card® from American Express is packed with travel benefits, including a robust rewards program, elite status with multiple hotels, and valuable statement credits. Terms apply.

Read the full The Platinum Card® from American Express review

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Great for: Luxury travel perks

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a high-end travel card with a $300 annual spending credit toward travel purchases. Cardholders get special hotel benefits when booking with The Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection℠.

Read the full Chase Sapphire Reserve® review

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Great for: Marriott benefits

If you frequent Marriott properties, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a practical no-brainer. While the annual fee is high (see rates and fees), it packs in a big welcome offer and lucrative rewards program. Terms apply.

Read the full Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card review

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Great for: Marriott benefits

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card has a modest annual fee that is justifiable even for the occasional traveler staying at Marriott properties. The rewards program and sign-up bonus are standout features.

Read the full Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card review

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

Great for: Hyatt benefits

The World of Hyatt Credit Card includes up to two free nights per year, complimentary Hyatt Discoverist status, and a big introductory welcome bonus.

Read the full The World of Hyatt Credit Card review

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Great for: Premium Hilton benefits

The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card includes a robust rewards program on Hilton Hotels, certain flights, and U.S. restaurants (terms apply). But you'll need to frequent the properties to make the most of the annual fee (see rates and fees).

Read the full Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card review

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Great for: Hilton benefits

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is the lower annual fee cousin of the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card. While the fee is lower, the card still includes a big welcome offer and rich rewards program (terms apply, see rates and fees). This is the Hilton card to choose if you're staying at Hilton properties a few times per year.

Read the full Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card review

How does a hotel credit card work?

A hotel credit card earns points that you can redeem for free hotel stays. Most hotel credit cards are tied to a specific hotel chain and earn points in that hotel's loyalty program. The cards in this travel category often have special hotel benefits, such as complimentary elite status in the hotel brand's loyalty program and free night certificates every card membership year.

There are also hotel credit cards that aren't tied to a specific hotel brand. Instead, they earn travel points that you can use for bookings with multiple hotel chains. Some of the best travel credit cards let you book with a variety of hotels and airlines using your rewards. Since they're not connected to a single hotel chain, these cards give you more flexibility with the hotels you book. But they usually don't have the hotel-specific benefits you get with more traditional hotel credit cards.

How to compare hotel credit cards

To compare hotel credit cards, first decide if you want a card tied to a hotel chain or a more general travel credit card with a rewards program that lets you book multiple hotels. This helps you narrow down your options.

Once you know which type of card you want, you can compare credit cards side by side. Here are the most important features to look at:

  • Welcome bonus: An introductory offer for new cardholders. These bonuses typically include a bonus amount and a spending requirement, such as 100,000 points for spending $4,000 on eligible purchases in three months.
  • Rewards: The amount of points a credit card earns on eligible purchases. Hotel credit cards usually earn more points in certain bonus categories, such as purchases at the hotel itself.
  • Annual fee: The annual cost of a credit card. You can find hotel credit cards at every price point, from no annual fee at all to over $500 per year. Many of the best credit card offers fall into the $95-to-$250 range.
  • Hotel benefits: Any special hotel perks the credit card offers, either with a specific hotel or multiple hotels. Popular hotel benefits include complimentary elite status, free night certificates, and hotel booking discounts.

What is the best credit card for hotels?

The best credit card for hotels is The Platinum Card® from American Express. It includes complimentary Marriott Bonvoy™ Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status (enrollment required), premium rewards on hotels booked through amextravel.com, and complimentary benefits at over 1,000 properties through the Fine Hotels & Resorts® program. It also earns American Express Membership Rewards points that are transferable to multiple hotel chains. Terms apply. Although it has a $695 annual fee (see rates and fees), it's the perfect choice if you want luxury perks with a variety of hotels.

Keep in mind that no hotel credit card is right for everybody. Depending on your travel habits, you may prefer a different option, such as a travel credit card with one hotel chain that you visit frequently. Or, if you travel outside the United States quite a bit, it would make sense to review credit cards for international travel. Check out all the best hotel credit cards so you can pick the one that will reward you the most.

Pros and cons of hotel cards

Here are the biggest pros and cons of hotel credit cards:

Pros

  • Money-saving hotel benefits
  • Hotel rewards on purchases
  • Big welcome offers

Cons

  • Most hotel credit cards charge an annual fee
  • Rewards may be tied to a single hotel chain
  • High interest rates

Pros explained

Now, let's take a closer look at the advantages of hotel cards:

  • Money-saving hotel benefits: The perks offered by the best hotel credit cards can save you hundreds of dollars in travel expenses every year. Free nights, elite status, and other benefits make hotel bookings much more affordable and improve the quality of your stay.
  • Hotel rewards on purchases: Every hotel card earns points that you can use to book a hotel stay. They also almost always have bonus categories, which are great for maximizing credit card rewards.
  • Big welcome offers: Credit cards with a sign-up bonus provide lots of upfront value. While bonus amounts vary depending on the rewards credit card, most hotel cards start you off with a big bonus reward that can get you one or more free nights.

Cons explained

It's also important to consider the disadvantages of hotel credit cards:

  • Most hotel credit cards charge an annual fee: You can find travel cards with no annual fee, including hotel cards, but these are few and far between. They also don't offer nearly as much value as hotel cards with an annual fee.
  • Rewards may be tied to a single hotel chain: The traditional hotel rewards credit card earns points in one hotel chain's loyalty program. If you get this type of card, then you can't use your points anywhere else or for any other travel, such as airfare.
  • High interest rates: Rewards credit cards, which include hotel cards, tend to have higher interest rates than cards that don't earn any rewards. This isn't an issue if you pay your bill in full every month, but if you plan to carry a balance, it's better to look at 0% intro APR credit cards.

Is a hotel reward credit card right for you?

A hotel credit card is right for you if you stay at hotels multiple times per year. If you usually stay at the same hotel chain, look for a card with that hotel. Cards tied to a specific hotel loyalty program can be very rewarding for the hotel's most loyal guests. If you don't have a particular hotel you use most, then a more all-purpose hotel rewards card would be a better choice.

Compare the best credit cards for hotels

The Picks
Card Rating Great For
Graphic of Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Great For:

Hotel rewards and savings
Graphic of Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Great For:

Travel rewards bonus
Graphic of The Platinum Card® from American Express
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Luxury travel perks
Graphic of Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Great For:

Luxury travel perks
Graphic of Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Frequent Marriott stays
Graphic of Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Marriott benefits
Graphic of The World of Hyatt Credit Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Hyatt benefits
Graphic of Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Premium Hilton benefits
Award Icon 2024 Award Winner
Graphic of Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Hilton benefits
Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Trip delay and cancellation insurance and cell phone protection underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. Extended warranty, purchase protection, car rental insurance, and baggage insurance underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
• Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. • Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. • If approved and coordinated by Premium Global Assist Hotline, emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided at no cost. In any other circumstance, Card Members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. • Trip delay insurance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, and cell phone protection underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. • Extended warranty, purchase protection warranty, baggage insurance plan, and car rental loss & damage insurance underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
The information related to The World of Hyatt Credit Card has been collected by The Ascent and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.
The information for the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by The Ascent. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
• Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. • Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. • Extended warranty,baggage insurance plan, and car rental loss & damage insurance underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Our travel credit cards methodology

At The Motley Fool Ascent, we rate travel credit cards on a five-star scale (1 = poor, 5 = best). Our rating criteria Includes rewards systems and bonus categories, rewards redemption flexibility, and sign-up bonuses.

Our highest-rated travel credit cards have:

  • Rewards system and bonus categories (the earn rate of flat-rate rewards, or tiered spending categories)
  • Rewards redemption flexibility and points programs (booking travel, transfer partners, statement credit, etc.)
  • Sign-up bonuses that can drastically boost card value in the first year
  • Perks that can offset annual fees like airport lounge access, travel credits, and TSA PreCheck reimbursement

We combine these factors with an evaluation of brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure you're getting the best travel card recommendations. Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring travel credit cards from reputable brands.

Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list, but our product recommendations are NEVER influenced by advertisers. Learn more about how The Ascent rates credit cards.

FAQs

  • A hotel credit card earns rewards points that are redeemable for hotel stays. Traditional hotel credit cards are connected to one hotel chain and earn points in the loyalty program for that hotel. They also usually have extra perks with the hotel, such as certificates for free nights or elite status in the hotel's loyalty program. The other type of hotel card is general travel cards that earn points you can use for hotel bookings or other travel.

  • Compare hotel credit cards by looking at the following features:

    • Sign-up bonuses, including bonus point amounts and spending requirements
    • Hotel point rewards rates on purchases
    • Annual fees
    • Extra hotel benefits

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express is the best card for hotels overall. This card offers the most versatile hotel benefits, including elite status with multiple hotels, complimentary benefits through its Fine Hotels & Resorts® program, premium rewards on hotel bookings through amextravel.com, and flexible points redeemable with several different hotels. Terms apply and select enrollment is required. Instead of being limited to a single hotel, you can use this American Express card to save money at properties from different brands all over the world.

    If you have one hotel chain you stay with all the time, then a rewards card with that hotel is likely best for you. In that case, you can get the most value through the benefits a credit card tied to that hotel chain offers.