The Newbury BostonvsThe Royal Sonesta Boston
Both hotels are highly recommended by professional reviewers. On balance, Taj Boston ranks slightly higher than Royal Sonesta Boston. Taj Boston has a TripExpert Score of 87 with recommendations from 14 reviews including Travel + Leisure, Oyster and Condé Nast Traveler.
The Newbury Boston Show All Reviews
15 Arlington Street, Boston, MA 02116
From $186/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
Frommer's
"With its luxurious accommodations, wonderful service, and old-Boston atmosphere, Taj Boston appeals to both vacationers and business travelers." Full review
Concierge
"The public spaces are gilded, service is genteel, and the dimly lit, leather-studded bar overlooking the park is still a favorite with Boston Brahmins."
Fodor's
"The old-school elegant Taj is doing its best to win over the old Ritz fans... as well as woo new guests, with discounted weekend rates and a soft renovation." Full review
i
Avoid rooms on the 16th floor, under the roof-deck party space.
Oyster
Upscale
"Bought from the Ritz-Carlton in 2007, the Taj Boston holds on to the Ritz' elegant look, but also offers some superb perks, like chenille bathrobes and free rides in the house Jaguar." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"The property became part of the Taj Hotel Group in 2007, but continues to emphasize elegance and excellent service."
Rough Guide
"Replacing (albeit lovingly) Boston’s historic Ritz-Carlton, Taj Boston is the ultimate in luxurious, old-school Boston accommodation."
Star Service
"The hotel also features complimentary daily newspaper and shoeshine, a 24-hour concierge, and perhaps the fastest and most expensive laundry service guests will ever encounter. " Full review
Gayot
"As the original Ritz-Carlton, which opened in 1927, this hotel retained all of the glitz and glamour when it changed hands to become a Taj property."
BlackBook
"A recent extensive restoration left glittering crystal chandeliers and shiny marble in its luxurious wake."
Forbes Travel Guide
4 Stars
"The venerable Taj Boston, perched at the top of Newbury Street across from the Public Garden, hasn’t changed much since it opened in the 1920s." Full review
The Royal Sonesta Boston Show All Reviews
40 Edwin Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA 02142
From $109/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Concierge
- Restaurant
- Pool
Frommer's
"This luxurious hotel is popular with business travelers and with families, who enjoy the huge pool." Full review
i
The East Tower underwent a $6-million refurbishment in 2011; request a room there if possible.
Fodor's
"Right next to the Charles River, the certified-green Sonesta has one of the best city skyline and sunset views in Boston." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"The Royal Sonesta looks over the Charles River from the Cambridge side, with views of Boston Harbor and downtown Boston." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"The Royal Sonesta boasts a prime location on the pathway along the Charles River. Many of the comfortable rooms have river views and public areas are noted for outstanding art works."
Rough Guide
"Luxury quarters with good views of the Boston skyline, and a free on-site shuttle available to whisk you around town."
Gayot
"This hotel, with views of the Charles River or Boston skyline, offers a wealth of amenities for the leisure or business traveler."
Zagat
3.7
"Fans of this Cambridge chain outpost praise its "family feel", as well as guestrooms armed with "modern touches" and "spectacular" views of the skyline and Charles River."
Star Service
"This place provides better crossover opportunities than Hyatt or nearby Marriott. In short, it is a better choice for individuals with business or pleasure in this university town." Full review
i
Rooms in the -02 series are the ones to request for their spectacular views of the city and Longfellow Bridge.
The Telegraph
8.0
"Appealing to both business and leisure travellers, the riverside Royal Sonesta offers an ideal location, close to both Boston and Cambridge, with plenty of perks." Full review
Lonely Planet
"Besides the luxurious rooms and up-to-date amenities, come to the Royal Sonesta to admire the incredible contemporary art collection." Full review