The Charles Hotel

Hotel · Cambridge

The Charles Hotel

Hotel · Cambridge

1 Bennett St, Cambridge, MA 02138

Highlights

Upscale hotel with stylish rooms & art, plus a spa, a jazz club, restaurants & free Wi-Fi. Adjacent to John F. Kennedy Park, this upscale hotel is a 5-minute walk from Harvard University and the nearest Red Line stop for trains into Boston. The colorful rooms feature contemporary New England decor, and come with custom bedding, free Wi-Fi, DVD players and flat-screen TVs, plus in-mirror TVs in the bathrooms. Some provide river views. Pieces from the hotel's art and early American quilt collections are on display throughout the hotel. There's 18,000 sq ft of meeting space, including a ballroom and 2 courtyards. Other amenities include a library, a spa, a cocktail bar, and a jazz club, plus 2 restaurants.

1 Bennett St, Cambridge, MA 02138 Get directions

charleshotel.com

@charleshotel

$$$

@cntraveler

"The Charles has long been the unofficial stomping grounds for academics, politicians, artists, and celebrities passing through Cambridge. The hotel's library is stocked with biographies that pay tribute to its famous past guests, from David Mamet to Caroline Kennedy, which today's guests can borrow or purchase. With Cambridge's restaurant and nightlife scene on par with Boston proper, The Charles' home in Harvard Square has become a very desirable place to stay, even if you won't be auditing an astrophysics class at Harvard or M.I.T." - Shannon McMahon, Todd Plummer

The 21 Best Hotels in Boston

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@cntraveler

"So, what's the scoop on this place?The Charles has long been the unofficial stomping grounds for academics, politicians, artists, and celebrities passing through Cambridge. The hotel's library is stocked with biographies that pay tribute to its famous past guests, from David Mamet to Caroline Kennedy, which today's guests can borrow or purchase. With Cambridge's restaurant and nightlife scene on par with Boston proper, Harvard Square has become a very desirable place to stay, even if you won't be auditing an astrophysics class at Harvard or M.I.T. What’s the crowd like?The Charles is a little too removed from the city's financial center to attract bankers or lawyers, so the crowd here is largely politicians, artists, professors, parents of Harvard students, thought leaders, and guest speakers. Tell us about your room.Quilts, wainscoting, plaid carpeting, and wood paneling: There's no question this is a New England hotel. And the amenities?The rooms have a traditional feel, but there are plenty of modern creature comforts: TV screens built into the bathroom mirror; heavenly C.O. Bigelow bath products; fast and free Wi-Fi; Italian waffle bathrobes; and goose-down comforters upon request. The Shaker furniture and wingback leather chairs are especially covetable. How about the room service, or the dining scene in general?There's a pretty extensive 24-hour room service menu, and the pie of the day is always a divine choice for a late-night snack, especially during farmers' market season—think rhubarb or Maine blueberries with a handmade crust. Four other excellent dining options make The Charles a destination not just for travelers but for locals, too: Henrietta's Table, the award-winning farm-to-table restaurant that has hosted everyone from Hillary Clinton to the Dalai Lama; Bar Enza by chef Tony Susi, (where Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez have been spotted); Noir, a mid-century-inspired cocktail lounge; and Regattabar, one of the most famous jazz clubs in town. And the staff—did anyone in particular impress you?Upon check-in, make friends with the wonderful Henrietta's Table maitre d'—when dinner time rolls around, you'll get a prime table within sight of whichever VIP is passing through the restaurant that night. Anything else you want to mention?Corbu Spa & Salon is the best place in Harvard Square to get a body treatment and a haircut. In 2023, the hotel added its own stylish in-house fitness center (after years of sending guests to the nearby Wellbridge Athletic Club). The hotel is also a seamless part of the local neighborhood, and offers the area's best farmers' market in summer." - Todd Plummer

The Charles Hotel

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Mel N.

Yelp

Conveniently located to the Harvard campus, restaurants and shops. Charming. Clean. Cozy. Friendly staff. One does not need to leave the hotel to dine or workout. Well-equipped gym. Fine restaurants.

Wendy L.

Yelp

I'm not sure why I've never stayed at the Charles Hotel, but I think I'll stay there whenever I'm in the Boston/Cambridge area. The location is awesome - so close to so many things from the Harvard Square T stop to convenience stores to shops to restaurants. Also, if you have need to go to the Harvard campus, there isn't a better location. The rooms are very well appointed and designed with a little table and coat hooks in the entry way of the room. The rooms are spacious enough to have a desk, a nice armchair and a little footrest so that two people can comfortably work or hang out. It annoys me that some hotels don't have coffee machines...and I appreciate the Nespresso machine in the room. I appreciate the lobby which has a ton of comfortable spaces to hang out or do work which can change up the pace from just working in your room. The fitness center is also quite large and has free weights, lots of cardio machines and weight machines. Henrietta's Table is an institution, so it's great to have such a great restaurant in the building.

Wei F.

Yelp

Really bad experience! My flight was cancelled by the airline on short notice, which prevented me from canceling within 48 hours. I called Expedia and the hotel directly to figure out what options I had. Expedia said they could try to get a refund or change my reservation, but the hotel needed to approve it. They contacted the hotel, but the hotel did not allow us to apply for a refund or make changes. If the flight had not been cancelled, I wouldn't need to make any changes to my travel plan. Please be understanding! Also, I asked if we could keep our reservation but arrive one day late. They did not allow this either. The person who answered my call said that if we are not there on the reservation date, the reservation will be cancelled, even though we have already paid online.

Larissa R.

Yelp

We spent a week at the Charles and we absolutely loved it! The service is fabulous, staff are the best. The property, rooms, and decor are beautiful. You cannot beat the location, we will be back for certain.

Tommy G.

Yelp

We loved the Charles Hotel and would stay again. A couple of high points and low points to share: First, half of the front desk staff were very friendly, and others did not seem to have a hospitable attitude. Could be a Boston thing. The room was great, as were the in hotel dining options. Truly enjoyed. The gym area had a strong smell of mildew, mold or trash in certain areas, especially the back wall near the squat rack. Perhaps previous water damage, or trash room nearby. Made me worried for the air quality. Would very much like the management to test air quality and find a way to remove the dank smell. It made me concerned to inhale the air while working out (have dealt with mold damage prior), and shortened my workout during our stay. Other than that the restaurant and bar staff and selection were exceptional. Loved the farm to table healthy vibe of Henrietta's Table - thank you.

MrsMuffin T.

Yelp

The staff is nice, the rooms are clean, but I've never had worse pillows, even in roadside motels. The location can't be beat if you're in town for campus related activities, and the free coffee is perfect.

R. R.

Yelp

This hotel is one of the nicest places I've been to. Worth every cent. For example, the curtains are blackout which makes sleeping better. Everything is updated/high-tech. I always love going to rooms that allow you to buy beverages in a mini-fridge. Plus the restaurants and staff are top-notch.

Lee L.

Yelp

Excellent hotel in a hard-to-beat location in Cambridge, but be prepared to pay dearly for the convenience. We spent three wonderful nights here during our East Coast college tour jaunt, which began a week earlier in DC. We had just come off two straight days of moderate driving and were looking forward to these days of rest and catching up with family. I considered a lot of hotels in Cambridge and the surrounding area, and certainly found others that were considerably less expensive, but I decided that we would indulge ourselves at The Charles. Check-in was a breeze and we settled into our deluxe room with a view of the courtyard. The room was bright and spacious and modern. The beds were comfortable and the sheets were soft and cool. Nights were quiet and if we had neighbors either next to or above us, we didn't hear them at all. The television was large, and as a bonus, the bathroom mirror had an embedded TV screen, so you can watch the business channel while doing your business. The bathroom amenities (soap, shampoo, etc.) were high quality. Service here was impeccable. Complimentary bottles of water were always available at the front desk. Unlike many other hotels during this Covid-19 era, they actually had daily housekeeping service. We requested additional pillows, and when we returned after dinner we found four large pilows waiting for us. We also just missed the coffee service in the restaurant and asked for a coffee machine to be sent up, and within minutes the gentlemen from the front desk was at our door with a Nespresso machine and plenty of pods, sugar, and cream. Ice machines were not available on the floors, but it was promptly delivered after a call to in-room dining. As for location, this is just steps away from the heart of Cambridge and all its shops and restaurants. Harvard is about two blocks away, as is the T station. Parking is easy with an option for valet for $5 more, but the garage is right under the hotel so we didn't think this was necessary. So overall, this was a very enjoyable experience and we will definitely stay here again on our next trip to Boston/Cambridge. And now I'm thinking that I need one of those bathroom mirror/TV contraptions.

Taylor K.

Yelp

This is a very nice hotel but I think it's much too expensive for what you're getting, especially since the hotel is a bit old. The rooms are very cute, have an old charm about them and have interesting art. The first floor of the hotel has unique furniture and plenty of seating areas if you're waiting to check in or for your flight. They have great amenities too, such as a fitness center, spa, cafe. There are several great restaurants there as well so you don't have to travel far for a meal. It's also very close to the Harvard campus and plenty of shopping and eating areas.

Imani T.

Yelp

Hotel charged me for a mini bar item that I didn't consume. It wasn't there when we checked into the room and I explained that when I checked out. Breakfast at Henrietta's was subpar. The eggs used for my omelette didn't taste like real eggs but like the mixed egg substitute. The hotel itself is nicely appointed. Staff not very friendly.

Bill M.

Yelp

We decided to stay at the Charles after we learned it was going to be the site of my too many years to mention high school reunion. To say the least, the function was very nicely done. We could have used a few more bartenders, but the hotel had no way of knowing what a thirsty bunch we would be. Other than the bar bottleneck, the service was fantastic:from the way the bellman and valet swooped right in as soon as our car stopped, through the quick checkin, to the concierge that directed us to lunch, all were friendly efficient and professional! The room itself was very comfortable, stylishly decorated and had a great view of the hotel's outdoor tree lighting ceremony. What more could you ask for? So glad I overcame my high-school insecurities and visited this perfectly located local institution.

Me Iz S.

Yelp

What can one possibly say about the Charles Hotel that is not good. It's one of the best! Rooms are wonderful, reservation is easy, making suggestions and having it taken care of is effortless. The Regatta Bar is always warm and welcoming!

Byron D.

Yelp

One of the Cambridge probably "affordable" best; good restaurants ; stmosphere; await jazz bar opening !!!

J B.

Yelp

excellent experience. spent one night at the Charles Hotel to celebrate my college graduation with my boyfriend ( belated celebration from last spring, now that we are both vaccinated)..... my favorite part of the beautifully decorated, comfortable and elegant room was the TV embedded in the bathroom mirror, nice little detail that I haven't seen in any other fine hotel ( and I travel around the world with my parents on a very regular basis). yes you spend a lot for a night, but you also only live once and you really can't compare the Charles to any of the cheap downtown chains. Will definitely come back! a big thank you to all staff members, front desk and housekeeping alike!

Henry P.

Yelp

Very nice and posh hotel in Harvard Square. Everything is expensive in the square, and this hotel is no different. Large garage. Swimming pool. Nice bar. Very nice restaurant and we had a function with an open bar and hot food that was just fantastic. Rooms are big and comfortable. Quite clean facilities. Expensive, but a very comfort stay.

Stephanie L.

Yelp

Extremely disappointed with my latest interaction with this hotel. They honored a conference 'group rate' for the first night, but refused to honor it for the 2nd night, at the tune of $130 more. I wrote to the general manager and requested they please review the reservation but they refused to make an adjustment to the price. Considering the amount of times the individual I booked for has stayed there, this is really awful customer service. On account of how they treat their 'repeat' guests, I cannot recommend this establishment.

Soo H.

Yelp

Interesting hotel. I've stayed a couple of times. It's extremely close to Harvard and Harvard Square. It's definitely on the pricier side and has interesting amenities like a tv in the bathroom mirror, and a mirror in the shower (I have never seen the latter anywhere else). Water pressure is fantastic. I got a suite the second time around, which had a little kitchenette, which was nice. Beds are super comfy and the rooms are pretty spacious overall. The furniture and decor are all a bit dated but the staff here are all very friendly and helpful. I don't think it's necessarily worth the money but other than being a bit overpriced, it's a good hotel.

Tracy B.

Yelp

Held our Team Offsite meeting at the Charles last week... From the beginning stages of planning & then finally the time coming & checking in - everything went great. The Corp Meetings team (Frances especially) was wonderful & had all our needs met... Would def recommened the hotel... Rooms were great, Location was great, Dinners were great. Would def stay again!

Glen H.

Yelp

The location is great, the staff are better the rooms are large and comfortable. The TV in the room is huge! The bed is comfortable. There's a TV that is integrated with the mirror of the bathroom. The Shower is large and functional the bathrooms bright and cheery. The lobby is attractive. The staff could not have been more helpful or cheerful. TV embedded in the bathroom mirror. We attended a jazz concert at the Regatta Bar. I had an excellently concocted Manhattan and the band, The John Jorgenson Quintet were unbelievably entertaining. The only slight, and I mean slight disappointment for the entire stay would be the wait staff for breakfast at Henrietta's Table. Just a little amatuer. An example: One of the 5 diners requested butter for his waffle, the waiter took the butter from the plate of one of our other diners (his butter was for his toast with his eggs). Then the waiter went back and got other butter. Wierd!

Ashley P.

Yelp

There's just something about this hotel, Michelle Obama even mentioned it in her book Becoming. I had already made a one night reservation here for the night before an executive program at Harvard Business School and wanted to have a day in Harvard Square. The fitness club attached is excellent and has a variety of classes including aqua aerobics. Both the restaurants were very cute, not my favorite but reasonable prices for a hotel restaurant. The hotel even had my favorite toiletries C.O. Bigelow Lavender Peppermint shampoo etc. Wish I had an excuse to return!

Phillip J.

Yelp

Very comfy room and very good meals at Henrietta's restaurant. But some annoyances. Annoyed that next door room had a loud barking dog which took three calls to the front desk to move. Annoyed that parking is $50/day. Also annoyed at $10 surcharge when picking up food at Henrietta's to bring back to room and eat out of brown box. Short walk to Harvard Yard and near excellent restaurants and cafés.

Ally C.

Yelp

I was a little sad that I didn't have a bathtub in my room, but the shower was objectively excellent and I was very wow'ed by the mirror TV in the bathroom. Okay, the sound wasn't super clear when you shower due to the running water, and it got steamy pretty quick, but still... pretty awesome. The proximity to Harvard Square is a big bonus. In terms of aesthetics and decor, the Charles Hotel balances the old school, understated classiness of the neighborhood while also delivering on the luxurious features that justify the price tag (like the mirror TV!). It's comfortable without being ostentatious. The grounds of the hotel are also quite spacious, with a larger gym than I've seen of many hotels, and two restaurants on the second floor. According to the elevator label, they also have a pool, but I didn't see it (this go-around). I'll update you on how it is next time.

Simon L.

Yelp

Excellent place to stay. Centrally located and reasonably priced, the hotel itself has exceptional service and a wide variety of restaurants and bars available on premise. Directly in the middle of Harvard square, the Charles could be a great place to stay wherever in Boston activities may lie.

Linda M.

Yelp

Love love loved it! Very nice place to stay if you are looking for a high end hotel in Cambridge. My only criticism is I was woken up by crying children ln the hallway at 7am. Really disappointed that the hotel allowed such gang related behavior in the hallways, I wouldn't want those kids harassing people, which kids seem to do. As always I loved the hotel, just wished they didn't allow children under 16.

priya g.

Yelp

I had a lovely two night stay at The Charles. My room was spacious and well appointed. I could not get over the towels - so many and so soft! Room service was amazing, I highly recommend the pie of the day and ice cream (mine was mixed berry and rhubarb), and my scrambled egg breakfast was perfect. Fruits for bfast are overpriced but portions are big. I love the open access no nonsense wifi. Bathroom mirror TV was an interesting touch. I would definitely stay here again if given the option.

LeAnn B.

Yelp

We have been loyal customers of The Charles ever since our daughter moved to college in Cambridge in 2014. We were persuaded to join the Harvard Parents' Club there, in order to guarantee we could rent rooms during the very busy commencement weekend. Many dollars and stays later, we are dismayed and shocked to find out The Charles jacked up their room rates - by a factor of 3-4 - for the very weekend we were guaranteed rooms. Worse, they're requiring a 3 night minimum stay. After paying all that tuition, the opportunity to spend $8,400 for one weekend's stay is not appealing. To say we're annoyed and feel swindled is an understatement. Despite trying to work it out with management, we got nowhere, so we severed our relationship with the hotel. What a disappointing end to what had been a long and congenial relationship. BEWARE.

Peter D.

Yelp

This was the most well-equipped bathroom ever. It came with a scale, a phone, an ice bucket, various toiletries and a TV IN THE MIRROR. If you think I didn't weigh myself, call my friends,* chill my drinks, brush my teeth and shave my face all while watching the Sopranos on A&E and taking the Browns to the Super Bowl, you're wrong. Also, the shower pressure was awesome, the bed was insanely comfortable, and the room service eggs were delicious and only on the low end of exorbitantly priced. ______ *OK, my parents.

Tara L.

Yelp

I could have probably done a back handspring in the King sized bed at the Charles Hotel. And even if that didn't work out and I busted my ass, it would have been okay because the bed was so soft that it would have cradled my fall...and lulled me to sleep. This may have been the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in! In fact, the whole room was fresh, spacious and minimalistic. My check-in was flawless and I was handed a little metal key. I was thinking, a key? Wow, they must be a little behind on the times! But really, I was the one that was a little behind. The room key was designed like a key, but still opened my room door magnetically. The bathroom here was awesome as well. There was a huge mirror and tons of counter space with a nice selection of toiletries. There was even a phone, scale and television IN the mirror! The only thing this bathroom needed was a clock. Why? Because I lost track of time in there once I plugged in my laptop. Oh - and free Wifi! Service was wonderful and the staff was attentive yet un-obtrusive. There are three restaurants on site. One of them, Noir stays open until 2:00am and turns into a lounge in the evening. I even had the option to check out via the television! Unfortunately, at my time of check-out the system was down but that's still a pretty cool option.

Alex L.

Yelp

I proposed in one of the rooms here. I don't know why. It just felt right. Sometimes, I'm ashamed of this because I didn't have a grand plan. Some local guy lit up a whole building dorm with lights that said "Will You Marry Me?" I didn't do that. His proposal went viral on Reddit and on local / national news. Mine probably won't even get 10 "funny" votes on Yelp. I got on one knee in one of the suites and asked her to marry me. There was some cheesy romantic music playing in the background. It was July 4th. She said yes. It was all mostly a blur. The room was fantastic. The staff was even better. They sent up some complimentary strawberry covered chocolates (thank you!). The bed was incredibly comfortable. The room was modern. The location is great --- right near Harvard Square. Very nice hotel.

Casey F.

Yelp

The weather outside was frightful (Dec 19 2008), but there was no way I was going to miss my company's holiday party at the Charles Hotel. I chose to play it safe by booking a room at a ridiculously low rate, even though I live just 4 miles away. That's right, 4 miles. But that could be a very dangerous 4 miles when there's a blizzard outside! Boy were we glad we had the room. Instead of racing around after work and before the party, the BF and I took a nap on the luxurious bed in our standard room, read some of the magazines in the room (Atlantic monthly, anyone?), and admired the views. The room was delightful and cozy, though I was a little confused by the country-cum-modern look they were going for. There were definitely a few things different about this hotel. It seems like they thought to themselves, "what do people really need in a hotel where they'll probably just be staying a few nights?" - They had metal keys. Like real metal. - No coffeemaker in the room. - No ice maker on the floor - you could call for complimentary ice. - No dresser, really. - Minibar was in the desk and had a tricky little key hidden in the envelope you get when you arrive. - There was a TV in the mirror!!!!!! Amazing. - Really cool "real" clock on the wall. You could touch it and it would stop the gears from spinning, not that i did that. Really. I swear. - The bed faced the windows, which was cool. Most hotels have the bed perpendicular to the windows. - Room, especially compared to downtown Boston hotel rooms. The ballroom where we had the party was nice,. pretty anonymous. Service was great. The buffet was good, though I definitely preferred the standard fare of beef and potatoes versus the "gourmet" pastas and seafood, which are normally my favorites. I don't know how Meghan P managed to go to Henrietta's Table when she was in college - the food is delicious, but not cheap. For those out of towners - the Charles Hotel is right near the subway (the T), and close to the river. Definitely a good place to base your Boston/Cambridge visit. And in the summer you can sit at the outdoor Legal Seafoods bar or visit the farmer's market, and in the winter you can ice skate! Win-win. Overall, we had a great stay. I want to book a room every year for our holiday parties!! :)

Vineet S.

Yelp

This is probably one of the nicest hotels in the area. I stayed here during my recent visit. This hotel is definitely upscale , modern and chic. It is bit expensive to stay, I paid like $400 a night to stay here :) My overall experience was good and I am just giving 3 stars because of the follwing reasons - Check In - The guy at the check in counter gave me the wrong key and navigated me to the wrong floor. I had to come to front desk to get this fixed. It's not a big deal but it matters when I am paying $400 bucks for a night and was tired from my flight. Quite Room - I had very specifically told them during my booking and while checking in that I want a quite room. But even then till the wee hours I could hear people in the room next to me. Also since they gave me a room in the middle of walkaway, there was lot of disturbance with people walking upto their rooms. In terms of amenities this hotel is top notch , my bed was very comfortable and it had all the amenities. Hopefully the next time with them I will have a much more pleasant stay!

Andrea R.

Yelp

When I first entered Miriam W's room I gasped with delight: a huge living room with an enormous dining room table and a bathroom fit for a Queen. "Doesn't your room look like this," she asked. Ummmm, NO! The lucky Miriam W had been upgraded to a fantastic suite. My room wasn't nearly as exciting, but I was still happy with it during my quick one night stay. The bed was comfortable, the shower had good water pressure and there was plenty of space for me to throw my clothes/shoes around. I usually try to pick hotels that have gyms and while there wasn't any time to workout on this trip, workout fanatics will be happy to know that they do have one here. Just not sure how good it is...since I also didn't have time to even glance at it. I'd stay here again and will be crossing my fingers for one of those suites!

Joel S.

Yelp

Very nice hotel, with good facilities. Room spacious enough. Points off for: - no coffeemaker in room - unbelievably expensive in-room snacks ($16 cashews, anyone?) - the worst internet system I've ever seen in a hotel (and I routinely travel in developing countries): - no wireless in the rooms. In 2009. Seriously. - charge $11 per day for in-room ethernet - even if you're paying the $11 in-room, the wifi in the lobby is a SEPARATE charge. No, I'm not kidding. - the internet in the conference areas is --- wait for it --- YET ANOTHER separate system You could easily spend $30 per day on internet services at this hotel, in the heart of one of America's most tech-oriented cities.

Keev G.

Yelp

Check-in was smooth and my room is nice. My stay was spoiled by the fact that the managers of the gym are assholes. Rather than give a polite 5-minute warning before closing (the gym is part of the fee, jerks) one of the employees shouted at me from across the room and demanded I leave right away. One of the other assholes made comments as I walked out. Nice look, guys. Hope you don't have jobs much longer.

Arlette A.

Yelp

Great location if you are visiting HKS. The room is nice, service is polite but not friendly. TV in bathroom window is cool but not practical. Very expensive, even with the Harvard discount price... Unlike most hotels, water and coffee in the rooms are not free. The bar in the lobby serves exceptionally good mixed drinks.

erica c.

Yelp

I absolutely adore this Cambridge compound. made up of great bars, restaurants, shops, markets and local flavor. The hotel itself id a bit old school and semi -eclectic. The location is perfect and the overall ambiance is super chill. The hotel has a rich history but seems to always be trying new and interesting things to constantly re-invent itself in a not at all gimmicky way. They now have ice skating in the winter time which is yet another brilliant touch.

David T.

Yelp

Ok, this is probably an odd review for this hotel. I have only stayed here once, years ago and it was pretty good. But this review is not directed at the hotel rooms. My 5 stars are about the parking. I am in Harvard Sq quite often and needing to park a car. I park at the Charles Hotel all the time. It's expensive, but it is the most civilized parking to be had in Harvard Sq. They have Electric Car recharge outlets. They will even wash your car for you while you are gone. Even if it is not your main parking choice, it is a good overflow option when everything else is taken.

Beverly S.

Yelp

I can't believe I'm paying so much to be bombarded by music so loud that it makes my feet reverberate here on the 5th floor! After suffering through an hour or so, I called to complain (after 11 pm). The hotel manager said that, because the group had rented the room, she could not ask them to turn down the music. (Apparently, it was not beyond the noise limit in the rental contract.) She offered to move me to a quieter room, which is an inconvenience, and assured me the music would stop at midnight. But I am more than disappointed that this hotel doesn't consider its guests' comfort more important than its clients' rental privileges. If I were ever to stay here again (unlikely), I'll try to remember to ask if there's going to be a party Saturday (or any) night and request a room far away from it.

Lori W.

Yelp

From the authentic and friendly greeting by the bellmen to the helpful concierge who navigated us to the starting point for the Minuteman bike trail, we experienced perfection at this amazing hotel. Room 435 - amazing. -Henrietta's Table: incredible cocktails and staff. outstanding breakfast and bustling energy. The best chef around: Chef Peter. -outstanding staff and so friendly. I know that Harvard is right around the corner. I feel like i "snuck in" with my University of Oklahoma degree and was probably standing next to some Nobel Prize winning professor and didn't even know it! -Room 435 - wow...beautiful large suite with incredibly comfortable sofa and the most perfect "dark" room - and quiet. -love the way the doors close without making any noise. -the best bathroom floor rug - strange right? But i must find out where to buy this! On top of that, Bigelow soaps/toiletries -location location location - was able to run along The Charles River early in the morning on Saturday - my birthday morning. -beautiful decor: greys/blues/creamy neutrals This was the perfect weekend - great weather too! Look forward to staying here again.

Dave R.

Yelp

Con: The room rates vary wildly depending on "availability", and generally move upward. My mother and I were part of a room block for two nights, but we were going to stay longer. The third night was nearly twice what the other two were, and the fourth was going to be even more, but we left. And upscale place with student ambience; my guess is that it's a place for the parents of well-heeled Harvard students. The hotel tilts: The shower door slides open while you're showering, and the bathroom door opens as if haunted if you don't shut it all the way. Housekeeping didn't replace the soap or shampoo. There is no coffee maker in the room, and ice has to be delivered by staff. I'm going to count the tv in the bathroom mirror as a minus. I seem to stub my toe _every time_ on the corner leg of the bed as I go around. Ow. I've never had that happen in any other hotel room. Pro: That said, it's a very nice hotel. Not worth $$$$ but worth $$$. Everyone was very nice and the rooms are comfortable and have plenty of space (except at the corner of the bed). The desk has standard AC power outlets and USB outlets as well. Right on Harvard Square, it's within walking distance of Harvard and quite a few restaurants and shops. The restaurant in the hotel is pricey, but has a good reputation. Frankly, we walked across the hotel plaza to Legal Seafood most of the time. Each room has three phone lines, and I'm going to count the phone in the bathroom as a plus. Other: Wifi B-: Medium-strength signal in rooms is easy enough to connect, but you lose the signal when going to other parts of the hotel (which have their own network) and need to reconnect. I saw one small room with a computer and printer, to let businesspeople check mail or print boarding passes. Didn't use any other amenity. I suspect this is what rich Harvard parents call "the sacrifice we make to visit our kid in college". I didn't touch the expensive-looking snacks or use the key to the drinks, so I'm going to count the mini-bar as an other.

Catherine K.

Yelp

Nice hotel in a great location. Rooms are comfortable and sheets are very smooth. The biggest drawback was their approach to technology. On the plus side, there was a Web Cube just outside my room with a computer and a printer. First 30 mins are complementary. However, when I called the number for Technical Support, the lady literally said, "I have no idea. Let me transfer you to the front desk." Front Desk had no idea either. They told me to come use their Business Center instead. Their Business Center is ONE COMPUTER STATION!! Makes it hard to take care of anything here.

Meghan P.

Yelp

The Charles Hotel has a lot to offer especially in the way of food! In college, I spent a fair amount of time dining at the Charles' restaurants. They are all great including Henrietta's Table and Legal Seafood! The rooms are a bit pricey but very posh and comfy. The lobby is attractive and the elevators entertain you with flat-screen tv's while you travel a few floors. The gym is also great though a run along the famous Charles River right outside the hotel is another super option!

Drew M.

Yelp

Came by here for a lunch at the downstairs bar/restaurant. soup salad and quiche. The food was very good and it was delightful experience. The hotel looks nice too but I have not stayed there. I would go back and stay if in the area again.

Johnny G.

Yelp

The front desk is really polite and helpful. However, we were never notified of the construction that went on above our floor which started from 8am. Needless to say, sleep was interrupted. The phone next to the bed also doesn't work. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the staff in the hotel.

Stef S.

Yelp

Clean and beautiful rooms, comfortable beds, nice toiletries (CO Bigelow products) in the bathroom. The location is excellent and service is courteous. Wifi is free. The exterior of the hotel belies the upscale inside. Expensive but a very comfortable stay in Cambridge, I would definitely come back.

Darren B.

Yelp

I had a seminar at Harvard Medical School and chose to stay here since it was only a short Uber ride from campus. It is a beautiful hotel with spectacular service. From the moment I arrived until the moment I left, I was impressed by all of it. I ate at both restaurants in the hotel and they were fantastic. I've traveled quite a bit this year, but The Charles Hotel was my favorite of the hotels that I stayed at. I will be back.

Tsada K.

Yelp

TSADA: Omigod I love your iPhone! It's SO cool. Arrrgh! I WANT ONE! *plays with stupid app* COUSIN: I know right? I love it. It's so fucking amazing! I mean, it like literally does *everything*! I even dropped it in the toilet and it still works! TSADA: *hands phone back to COUSIN and removes Purell from purse* COUSIN: Oh, come on. Not just *any* toilet. The toilet at the Charles Hotel! TSADA: Ohhhh! Phew! *takes back phone* You had me worried there for a second. *giggles, resumes play* Nice rooms, great location, and the best-kept-secret restroom in the Square. *flush*

Jane N.

Yelp

I'm having a love affair with the king-size bed at the Charles. It was like cuddling up to a big bunny rabbit. You'll fall asleep in less than five seconds and when that alarm goes off in the morning you'll need a crane to remove yourself. Or at least a knock on the door from room service with a big tray of eggs, perfectly cooked bacon and a pitcher of steaming hot coffee. Despite the $30 price tag, sometimes it's just worth it to order room service so you get to stay in that heavenly bed a bit longer. Other perks? A TV in the mirror in the bathroom. Yeah, it's pretty sick: you can watch Robocop as you soak in the massive bathtub with the organic EO toiletries. I even used the complimentary sewing kit twice, once to hem my dress and then to safety pin part of my jumpsuit garb for an evening party. The hotel has a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool, a business conference center, a relatively hip bar called Noir that doesn't close until 2am (that is actually considered late night in Boston), several restaurants and friendly staff. On top of all that you're in a great neighborhood with crap loads of restaurants and shopping walking distance away. While I'm not a huge fan of Boston (see bar closing times), The Charles makes me wonder when can I go back.

Chantelle D.

Yelp

Previously furious over the fact my family decided to take a vaca sans moi AND during the Yelp Boston Red Carpet Gallery Gala? Rude. That meant I couldn't get pampered by my Mom or swing in the hammock with my Dad at Home Sweet Home. However, Charles Hotel quickly - and very effectively I might add - came to my rescue. We checked in with two very pleasant associates who, upon hearing me proclaim I was self digesting, pointed me to both their restaurants as well as the snack kiosk behind them. Assuring them my lunch was on its way, we went up to our rooms to drop off our bags. The keys are a little tricky (well, Peter D. had some issues) But I'm going to cut to the chase and tell you the two things you need to know: 1) The COMFIEST hotel bed I have ever slept in. 2) TV in your bathroom mirror with remote. You still need more? OK, awesome toiletries, snuggly bathrobe, spacious room, great restaurant and in spitting distance of Legal Seafoods (I know, I'm too classy). The staff was also super pleasant to deal with whether at breakfast or hailing us a cab. Sigh. This is the one time I wish my parents didn't live in Boston so I could have more excuses to stay at the Charles Hotel.

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Mel N.

Yelp

Conveniently located to the Harvard campus, restaurants and shops. Charming. Clean. Cozy. Friendly staff. One does not need to leave the hotel to dine or workout. Well-equipped gym. Fine restaurants.

Wendy L.

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Wei F.

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Larissa R.

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Tommy G.

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MrsMuffin T.

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R. R.

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Lee L.

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Taylor K.

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Imani T.

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Bill M.

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Me Iz S.

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Byron D.

Yelp

One of the Cambridge probably "affordable" best; good restaurants ; stmosphere; await jazz bar opening !!!

J B.

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Henry P.

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Stephanie L.

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Soo H.

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Tracy B.

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Glen H.

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Ashley P.

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Phillip J.

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Ally C.

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Simon L.

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Linda M.

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priya g.

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LeAnn B.

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Peter D.

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Tara L.

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Alex L.

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Casey F.

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Vineet S.

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Andrea R.

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Joel S.

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Keev G.

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Arlette A.

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erica c.

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David T.

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Beverly S.

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Lori W.

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Dave R.

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Catherine K.

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Meghan P.

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Drew M.

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Johnny G.

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Stef S.

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Darren B.

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Tsada K.

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Jane N.

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Chantelle D.

Yelp

The Charles Hotel

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