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The Charles Hotel

1 Bennett St Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA 02138-5707
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Traveller (182)
360
Panoramas (20)
Room & Suite (138)
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

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Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.

About

#6 of 19 hotels in Cambridge
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Travellers' Choice
Experience the charm of The Charles. The Charles Hotel is a proud member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts and a AAA Four Diamond award-winning hotel. Situated in the heart of Harvard Square, bordering the Harvard campus and a mere 10 minutes from downtown Boston's world-class attractions and Logan International Airport, our location is unparalleled. At The Charles Hotel, we serve as a home-away-from-home for accomplished, esteemed guests visiting Boston or Harvard. We're their choice because we consistently meet their exceptionally high standards. We are not just another chain; we are a one-of-a-kind experience. Our renowned restaurants include Henrietta's Table (an homage to the pig, offering fresh and honest cuisine), Noir (offering bespoke cocktails), Bar Enza (Italian cuisine), and the Regatta Bar. The Charles Hotel is the SMART place to stay.
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Property amenities
Electric vehicle charging station
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Bar / lounge
Bicycle rental
Bicycles available
Books, DVDs, music for children
Highchairs available
Valet parking
Paid private parking on-site
Wifi
Coffee shop
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary tea
Outdoor dining area
Wine / champagne
Canoeing offsite
Patio
Walking tours
Board games / puzzles
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Car hire
Taxi service
Business Centre with Internet Access
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Spa
Couples massage
Facial treatments
Full body massage
Makeup services
Manicure
Massage
Pedicure
Salon
Waxing services
Baggage storage
Concierge
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Shops
ATM on site
Doorperson
First aid kit
Umbrella
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Allergy-free room
Blackout curtains
Air conditioning
Desk
Dining area
Minibar
Cable / satellite TV
Bath / shower
Bathrobes
Housekeeping
Interconnected rooms available
Safe
Seating area
Sofa
Telephone
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Iron
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Flatscreen TV
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
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Room types
City view
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Green
Great View
Languages Spoken
English, French, Spanish, Filipino and 2 more
2,694Reviews6Q+A100Room tips
Traveller rating
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Goforarun2025 wrote a review 14 Mar
1 contribution
Central location to many areas of Boston, especially for indoor track at Reggie Lewis Center and The Track at New Balance. Close to Harvard and many restaurants and historical sites. Friendly staff that was helpful.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: March 2024
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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51jimbeaux wrote a review 12 Mar
Randolph, Massachusetts1 contribution
We traveled for the weekend to Cambridge to enjoy the Celebrity Music Series at Sanders Theatre and the Harvard Art Museums. The hotel, restaurants and the staff as well as the surrounding neighborhood made it a special weekend!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: March 2024
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 5 days ago
Dear 51jimbeaux, Thank you for sharing your experience! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your weekend getaway at The Charles Hotel. It is wonderful to know that our convenient location, attentive staff, and surrounding neighborhood added to the specialness of your stay. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another memorable visit. Warm Regards, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Steve S wrote a review 8 Mar
4 contributions2 helpful votes
I’ve been wanting to stay at The Charles for years and found it met or exceeded my expectations in every way. Spacious, gracious, stylish with all the amenities I wanted. I can’t recommend it more highly and look forward to returning.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
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Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 1 week ago
Dear Steve S, Thank you for taking the time to share with us your experience. Our team is overjoyed to hear that your stay at The Charles Hotel exceeded your expectations. Your kind words about the spacious, gracious, and stylish accommodations mean a lot to us. We cannot wait to welcome you back for another memorable stay in the future. Thank you for your high recommendation! Best Wishes, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Michele B wrote a review 3 Mar
Portland8 contributions3 helpful votes
My favorite place to stay when in Harvard Square and Cambridge. Sure, it's pricey, but you get what you pay for. Got a room with two double beds. Everything was perfect. Quiet and comfortable. No strange noises, loud heat/ac, weird lights. Just a lovely sleep and stay. Dinner at Henrietta's was delicious. Almost caught a show at the Regattabar but the timing didn't quite work out. Will definitely return!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: March 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 1 week ago
Dear Michele B, Thank you for your heartfelt review! We are thrilled to be your favorite place in Harvard Square and Cambridge. It is wonderful to hear that your stay, from the comfortable room to the delightful supper at Henrietta's Table, was perfect. Creating a quiet and comfortable haven for our guests is our priority, and we are thrilled to know we succeeded during your visit. We look forward to having the pleasure of welcoming you back soon, and hopefully, the timing aligns for you to attend a show at the Regattabar next time! Warm Regards, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Expedition56615 wrote a review 1 Mar
1 contribution
Staff was wonderful but self park check in is awkward (finding the right elevator isn't obvious leading to a long walk with bags and another elevator to get to the ground floor lobby). No coffee maker in the room and no complimentary water pushes you to pricey room service. Parking lot is cramped and spots are not near the lobby access elevator. No comfortable seating in the room. Disappointing for the money.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear Expedition56615, Thank you for sharing your detailed feedback about your visit to The Charles Hotel, and for choosing to stay with us. We appreciate your kind words about our staff. We are sorry to hear about the challenges you faced, and we will certainly address the clarity of our self-park check-in process and the placement of amenities. We do offer coffee makers upon request, and our team is happy to deliver them to your guest room. Your insights are valuable, and we are committed to making improvements based on your experience. The Charles hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back for another stay in Harvard Square soon so we can give you the experience you expect and deserve. Sincerely, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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mikedrisc18 wrote a review Feb 2024
1 contribution
Poor at the start …: but was corrected fast and professionally by you staff I will be back and also recommend to others. Great rooms and food and a jazz show as well you are asking for 200 letters I have said all I need too lol take care and continue to treat your guests with respect I received in the bad beginning to the great experience after 👍
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear mikedrisc18, We appreciate your honest feedback and thank you for choosing to stay at The Charles Hotel! We are pleased to hear that despite a rocky start, our staff was able to swiftly and professionally address the issue, turning your experience around. It is wonderful to know you enjoyed your guestroom, food, and the jazz show at our beloved Regattabar. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another visit to Harvard Square soon! Warm Regards, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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RITA E B wrote a review Feb 2024
Scarsdale, New York103 contributions64 helpful votes
This is our third stay at The Charles Hotel - convenient walking distance to lively Cambridge and Harvard University. Rooms are comfortable and clean. Choice of dining areas. But please improve the munchies in Noir Bar. No pretzels?? Stale peanuts!!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear RITAEB, Thank you for your positive review and continued loyalty during your third stay at The Charles Hotel! We are thrilled to have you back for another visit to Harvard Square. Our team is delighted to hear you found our location convenient and our rooms comfortable. Your feedback about the small plates at Noir Bar are appreciated, and we will certainly take them into consideration for improvements. As it is not typical for us, we sincerely apologize for the stale peanuts, and it has been addressed with the Manager of Noir Bar. Thank you again and The Charles looks forward to welcoming you back soon for your fourth visit! Warm Regards, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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rvk953 wrote a review Feb 2024
1 contribution
No desire to accommodate guest preferences for simple food like a cheese sandwich food outside the menu. The bell service also leaves much to be desired. Rooms and beds are really comfortable and good. The staff at the front desk is excellent. Friendly and efficient.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 8 Feb 2024
Dear rvk953, Thank you for sharing your feedback with us and for choosing to stay at The Charles Hotel. We are delighted to hear you enjoyed your guestroom, and we appreciate your kind words about our Front Office team. We apologize for any inconvenience regarding the service lapses you experienced. Your comments have been noted, and we will strive to enhance our offerings to better meet guest preferences. The Charles hopes to have the opportunity to welcome you back for an overall improved experience in the near future. Sincerely, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Inspiration769990 wrote a review Feb 2024
Grand Rapids, Minnesota3 contributions1 helpful vote
Top notch…I forgot what it was like to stay in a hotel like thud! Amazing from checking in…to checking out..and everything in between. I will definitely stay there for all my future visits. Great location and walking distance to Harvard, and shops!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 8 Feb 2024
Dear Inspiration769990, We are delighted to hear that your stay at The Charles Hotel exceeded your expectations! It is wonderful to know you enjoyed the convenient location, excellent service, and everything in between. Your kind words are truly appreciated and it will be our pleasure to share with the team. The hotel looks forward to welcoming you back for your future visits to come. Warm regards, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Expedition726475 wrote a review Feb 2024
2 contributions1 helpful vote
Great location. Room was great but now there are DOGS barking inside the hotel. Mattress was lumpy. For the price, you can do better than this. The staff has an attitude, especially upon check-in. It's as if they cannot be bothered.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 8 Feb 2024
Dear Expedition726475, Thank you very much for staying with us at The Charles Hotel. We deeply appreciate your detailed feedback. Your kind remarks about our prime location and aspects of your room bring us joy. However, we are genuinely sorry for not meeting your expectations in certain areas. We understand the importance of a peaceful stay, and we truly apologize for any disturbance caused by dogs and the discomfort of your guestroom's mattress. We also appreciate your input regarding staff interactions. Our team is committed to addressing these concerns through ongoing training and improvements. Thank you again and we hope for the opportunity to welcome you back and to provide a significantly improved stay. Sincerely, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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PRICE RANGE
HK$2,995 - HK$4,270 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
charles hotel cambridge
LOCATION
United StatesMassachusettsCambridge
NUMBER OF ROOMS
303
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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THE CHARLES HOTEL - Updated 2024 Prices & Reviews (Cambridge, MA)

Frequently Asked Questions about The Charles Hotel
Which popular attractions are close to The Charles Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Harvard University (0.4 km), Harvard Square (0.3 km), and Harvard Cooperative Society (0.3 km).
What are some of the property amenities at The Charles Hotel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at The Charles Hotel?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at The Charles Hotel?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at The Charles Hotel?
Yes, a parking garage, paid private parking on-site, and paid public parking on-site are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Charles Hotel?
Conveniently located restaurants include L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates, The Hourly Oyster House, and Alden & Harlow.
Are there opportunities to exercise at The Charles Hotel?
Yes, guests have access to a fitness centre during their stay.
Is The Charles Hotel located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.4 km away from the centre of Cambridge.
Are any cleaning services offered at The Charles Hotel?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Are pets allowed at The Charles Hotel?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Does The Charles Hotel offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers a business centre, meeting rooms, and a banquet room.