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canopy san antonio
Photograph: Courtesy Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk

The 10 best hotels in San Antonio

Stay at the best hotels in San Antonio, whether you’re in town for the Alamo, the fiesta, or simply having a staycation.

Written by
James Wong
Contributors
Erin Kuschner
,
Alex Floyd-Douglass
&
Camila Karalyte
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San Antonio isn’t just the best day (or weekend) trip to take from Austin anymore. It's a destination in its own right, filled with incredible cuisinefun time bars, gorgeous hotels, fascinating historical structures, and much more. Time your visit for the annual fiesta celebration or the rodeo, and you’ll need a whole itinerary that requires some forward planning, especially when it comes to accommodation. 

Here’s a tip; the bulk of tourist activity happens along the River Walk, and this is where you’ll want to be based. Luckily, there are lots of hotels primely positioned along or at least near it, along with resorts further afield where the point is to get away from the bustle. From right-on-the-water happening hangouts to charming boutiques by the Alamo to family-friendly spa resorts a short drive away, here are our favorite stays and the best hotels in San Antonio.

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Best San Antonio hotels

Canopy by Hilton San Antonio River Walk
Photo courtesy Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk

1. Canopy by Hilton San Antonio River Walk

Positioned right on the River Walk, this stunning hotel puts you right in the heart of the city’s top eats, drinks, and sights. Inside, expect Texan glamor and contemporary design; 195 boutique rooms outfitted with local art, Mediterranean-style black & white tiled bathrooms, and some with towering balconies to enjoy your morning brew or nightcap on. Speaking of which, you’ll want to add their restaurant and bar to the schedule, too. Domingo, under the lobby, serves acclaimed South Texan fare, while Otro Bar, is a go-to for local cool cats with a thirst for agave-forward beverages. Complimentary bike rental is provided.

Mood? Eclectic yet modern.
Location perks? Right on the River Walk – with many attractions nearby.
Budget range? Very affordable.

Mokara Hotel and Spa
Photograph: Courtesy Mokara Hotel & Spa

2. Mokara Hotel and Spa

As part of the Omni Resort family, Mokara Hotel and Spa is one of San Antonio's more luxury options – perfect for couples retreats, a girlfriend's weekend, or, hell, just treating yourself to Swedish massages, a seafood dinner at in-house restaurant Ostra, and swims in the heated rooftop pool. The central setting on the River Walk makes it an ideal location for exploring the city or doing some serious shopping, but you'll want to return every night for a dip in your room's oversized soaking tub.

Mood? A taste of luxury. 
Location perks? Along the River Walk – choose your perfect day out nearby.
Budget range? Affordable for most budgets. 

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Hotel Emma
Photograph: Booking.com

3. Hotel Emma

When it first opened, Hotel Emma was one of the hottest hotels in San Antonio, and it is still a fabulous stay today. Hotel Emma offers luxury accommodations conveniently located in the heart of the trendy Pearl District. The building was originally a 19th-century brewery and has been transformed into a handsome space that expertly combines historic industrial accents with refined modern touches.

Mood? Next level glam.
Location perks? Super close to the River Walk, but with so many amenities, you may never want to leave.
Budget range? Pretty pricey.

La Cantera Resort and Spa
Photo courtesy Sammy Todd Dyess Photography

4. La Cantera Resort and Spa

The ultimate staycation for San Antonians, or travelers who prefer to explore at a slower pace, La Cantera is situated across 550 acres, clad with pools galore and a huge golf course. The family-friendly resort has 496 guestrooms including 34 villas, furnished with modern tech and complete amenities. Those without kids can opt to stay on the adult-only guest floor, which has access to an adults-only pool and champagne check-in.

Mood? Modern design.
Location perks? A few minutes walk from La Cantera, for all your shopping delights.
Budget range? A fantastic deal.

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Crockett Hotel
Photograph: Courtesy Crockett Hotel

5. Crockett Hotel

Every city has at least one haunted hotel, and in San Antonio, the Crockett is rumored to have ghosts and ghouls aplenty. It's easy to see why: Situated just steps from the Alamo, the historic hotel is a stone's throw away from Texas' most epic battleground. Named after Davy Crockett, it offers 138 rooms, plenty of bars and restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool, and access to the spa next door. Of course, you'll have to keep an eye out for the spirit of old Davy himself – who was said to have taken his last breath in the current patio area.

Mood? Inner city bliss.
Location perks? Minutes away from the historic Alamo and the rest of downtown. 
Budget range? Super cheap.

Eilan Hotel and Spa
Photograph: Courtesy Eilan Hotel & Spa

6. Eilan Hotel and Spa

Tucked away on 100 acres of the Texas Hill Country, Eilan Hotel and Spa is one of San Antonio's most luxe destinations. The Italian-inspired grounds include an outdoor pool with cabanas, an indoor Olympic-sized lap pool, tennis courts, a spa, and a virtual golf room. While its surroundings are fairytale-like enough to host plenty of weddings throughout the year, it's also a great place to escape into the rolling hills of Texas, with San Antonio just a short, 25-minute drive away.

Mood? Resort retreat.
Location perks? Did we mention the 100 acres?!
Budget range? Incredible value for money.

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Hotel Valencia Riverwalk
Photograph: Courtesy Hotel Valencia Riverwalk

7. Hotel Valencia Riverwalk

True to its name, this charming ol’ boutique hotel is situated on a more mellow stretch of San Antonio's normally bustling Riverwalk. Spanish and Mediterranean touches lend the Hotel Valencia a more European feel than some of the city's other digs, and the 213 rooms are outfitted like the golden olden days. Think Italian marble bathrooms, breezy balconies, and vintage leather armchairs. If you’re the old-school sort, this is a cozy stay.

Mood? Mediterranean vibes across the board.
Location perks? 400 metres from the River Walk – with a terrace to soak up the atmosphere.
Budget range? Boutique and affordable.

Hotel Contessa
Photograph: Courtesy Hotel Contessa

8. Hotel Contessa

Another River Walk hotel, the Contessa offers sleek, modern rooms that convey more of an urban loft experience than other hotels around town. Exposed brick and private bedrooms are features in every room, and several on-site dining and drinking spots (with prime people-watching views) make spending the weekend here a breeze.

Mood? Contemporary luxe.
Location perks? Ahem... the River Walk, but it really is that great, you'll want to be close to the action. 
Budget range? Varied, but price points to suit most budgets.

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Menger Hotel
Photograph: Courtesy Menger Hotel

9. Menger Hotel

Quite possibly the only hotel known for its mango ice cream, the Menger is a San Antonio institution – and its legendary dessert has been on the Colonial Dining room's menu for over 100 years. The hotel opened in 1859 and has since served as both a landmark and historic hotel in the city's center, just a short stroll from the Alamo. While the Victorian decor in the 316 rooms can seem a little dated, it's all part of the charm of this elegant hotel.

Mood? Big landmark energy.
Location perks? Nestled next to the Alamo and the River Walk, you'll be spoilt for choice here.
Budget range? Suuuuper cheap.

St. Anthony
Photograph: Courtesy St. Anthony

10. St. Anthony

St. Anthony is another historic landmark that has plenty of stories in its old (but renovated) halls. Whether you're staying in one of the superior or deluxe rooms or suites, the modern rooms are a comfortable respite after a day of exploring the city. Swimming pools with private cabanas, a health and fitness center, a rooftop bar, and multiple dining experiences make this all-in-one hotel a splurge that's hard to resist.

Mood? A large slice of luxe.
Location perks? In the heart of downtown San Antonio.
Budget range? Very good value for money.

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