The Charles Hotel
1 Bennett St Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA 02138-5707
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About
#6 of 21 hotels in Cambridge
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Travellers' Choice
Located just minutes from downtown Boston and a variety of world-class attractions, The Charles is a AAA Four Diamond Hotel and a proud member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts. Reflecting the eclecticism that is Cambridge, The Charles Hotel is a modern interpretation of New England hospitality with a thriving jazz club, the Regattabar; Henrietta's Table restaurant; seasonal farmers market; state of the art conference facilities; Corbu Spa & Salon; and a central location in the heart of Harvard Square.
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Property amenities
Electric vehicle charging station
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Bar / lounge
Bicycle rental
Bicycles available
Books, DVDs, music for children
Highchairs available
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
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
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
Steam room
Waxing services
Baggage storage
Concierge
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Shops
ATM on site
Doorperson
First aid kit
Umbrella
24-hour front desk
Laundry service
Ironing service
Shoeshine
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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
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Business
Languages Spoken
English, French, Spanish, Filipino and 2 more
Location
100Great for walkers
Grade: 100 out of 100
78Restaurantswithin 0.5 km
32Attractionswithin 0.5 km
Contact
1 Bennett St Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA 02138-5707
Getting there
HarvardBoston T5 min
Car HireSee all Cambridge car hire
2582Reviews6Q+A100Room tips
Reviews
Traveller rating
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Pet policy needs to be explained prior to arrival. Pets cannot be left in the room. There was no available pet service. We stayed in a suite that was not fitted out for in room take out, which was required because of the pet policy.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
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.
Helpful
The Charles is pricey, but location is excellent. Henrietta’s Table was great for breakfast and dinner. Just down the street from Harvest and the American Repertory Theater, and close to campus for concerts, museums and events. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, dark and quiet.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: March 2023
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.
Helpful
Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 4 days ago
Dear Laura H, Thank you very much for choosing to stay with us at The Charles Hotel. We are delighted to hear you that your visit with us in Harvard Square was enjoyable. We are happy you were able to dine at our restaurant, Henrietta's Table, and that you had a great experience. We look forward to welcoming you back soon and thank you again for taking the time to review your stay! Best, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hotel was excellent . Accommodations were excellent, however snow and ice removal around the building left alot to be desired. slippery areas . But it may be a subcontractor. Would definitely recommend for a stay.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2023
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.
Helpful
Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear teboj2023, Thank you very much for choosing to stay at The Charles Hotel. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us in Harvard Square. We appreciate your valuable feedback, and thank you for making us aware of these conditions. We will be addressing this immediately because the safety of our guests is extremely important. Please do not hesitate to let us know as we monitor the conditions regularly. We look forward to welcoming you back here in the near future! Best Wishes, Abby Hall
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Wonderful hotel; perfect for where it is. Can't wait to come back! Was able to walk everywhere I wanted to go and had a lovely time in Cambridge. Do hope they get the fitness center up and running again!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2023
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.
Helpful
Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 5 weeks ago
Dear Elizabeth T, Thank you very much for choosing to stay at The Charles. We are glad to hear that your visit with us in Harvard Square was enjoyable. We do have a newly built Fitness Center coming in the near future that is sure to impress and motivate. We apologize for this inconvenience while we complete the project. We look forward to your next stay with us! Best Wishes, Abby
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Charles Hotel has a unique touch in its design and style which I enjoy very much. The rooms are clean, the location is perfect for a business trip. They had some issues with fire alarms when I stayed there last time - alarm was going off in the middle of the night. and then the following day as well. Also they still haven't fixed issues with staffing after COVID - room service is not available which is surprising for a 4 star hotel.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
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.
Helpful
Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 10 Feb 2023
Dear Dreamer46115540583, Thank you for choosing to stay with us at The Hotel. We are glad that you enjoyed Harvard Square and your guestroom. We apologize for the disturbance from the fire alarm tests. We acknowledge the inconvenience and we hope it does not prevent you from coming back to see us soon. In-Room Dining will soon be restored, and we are diligently working to get it back up and running! Best Wishes, Abby
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Very nice. Always a pleasure to be in the Charles Hotel. I like the rooms, service is very nice and the location in Cambridge, close to HBS is perfect. The restaurents are nice, the choices for dinner at Henrietta's could be a bit better.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
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.
Helpful
Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 9 Feb 2023
Dear eduard664, It is our pleasure to have you stay with us when you visit HBS, and that the location is perfect for you. We are happy to hear that our service as well as guestroom amenities were enjoyable, and the feedback for Henrietta’s Table is appreciated. We look forward to welcoming you again in the future! Thank you, Abby abigailhall@charleshotel.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My husband and I (in our 60s) felt like we were taking a shower at an ice rink - the shower floor marble was extremely slippery and there were no useuable grab rails, etc. Not enjoyable at all. Very uncomfortable bed. Extremely uncomfortable pillows. Barely slept. No comfortable seating options in the suite or adjoining room (even leather chair in each room was not comfortable). No coffee or tea in room (we did get them to bring a tea kettle). No room service. No explanation on check in regarding the specifics of self park vs valet etc.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2023
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.
Helpful
Response from Kathryn V, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 10 Feb 2023
Dear OnAir565142, Thank you very much for making the Hotel aware of the experience that you had with us. We can understand the frustration generated from the lack of comfort with us. We are very sorry that this occurred and would like the opportunity to speak directly with you so we may learn more. We hope to hear from you, as this is not a typical experience. We are confident if we can welcome you back, you will experience a pleasurable stay. Best Wishes, Kathryn KathrynVallier@TheCharles.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stayed here while visiting a student at Harvard. Loved the location , the convenience of getting to coffee shops, Resturants and shopping in general . Loved my room …. Quaint and comfortable ! Would stay at this hotel again in a heartbeat 💓
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2023
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.
Helpful
Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 9 Feb 2023
Dear sav2230, Thank you for choosing to stay with us while you visited Harvard! We are pleased to hear that your time at the property was convenient for exploring Harvard Square as well as your guestroom being comfortable. We take pride in ensuring our staff and services are superior. We appreciate the kind words and we hope to welcome you back very soon! Best Wishes, Abby abigailhall@charleshotel.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I have been happily staying at The Charles regularly over the past 15 years since one of my kids was in school at Harvard University. The Charles has always been the premier property in the Cambridge submarket. Unfortunately, the Charles has fallen from a 4.5 star property to a 3 star hotel. My suite is filthy with other guest’s dirty underwear and the hotel offers no room service, of course in the name of Covid, but it’s clearly cost cutting. The room electronics are from the pre smart phone era, and there has not been an FF&E refurbishment in the guest rooms in years. This has presented the opportunity for another developer or flag to claim the luxury market. This will sadly be my last visit to The Charles.
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Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
Room Tip: Avoid this property if you want luxury or a business stay.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Kathryn V, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 30 Jan 2023
Dear NorthStar654354, Thank you for taking the time to review the property. Your feedback is vital to our success in providing excellent service and helpful by alerting us to opportunities for improvement. We appreciate that you have been loyal to us over the years, and we are embarrassed for this mistake your experienced. Please accept my apologies for the issue of cleanliness found in your guestroom. It is of the highest level of importance to us that we are able to address this and correct our error. I have reviewed this issue directly with our Housekeeping team to ensure our focus is on track and not allowing this issue to repeat. We are a passionate team, and are disappointed this has occurred. Thank you again for sharing your experience with us. Please know, that our In-Room Dining will be returning in the near future, as we are currently working towards this daily. There will be late night options available. I would like to connect with you directly if you have a moment, it would mean a great deal. We hope to see you with us again in your travels. Best Wishes, Kathryn Vallier KathrynVallier@CharlesHotel.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The room was excellent in almost every respect. The shower, TV, bed, etc., were all top notch. The price we paid was commensurate. Some of the amenities of lower-priced hotels were missing, such as in-room refrig, microwave, coffee machine. The biggest disappointment was the wifi - it was so slow as to not even meet the FCC's old obsolete 25/3 definition of broadband.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2023
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.
Helpful
Response from Abby Hall, Other at The Charles Hotel
Responded 9 Feb 2023
Dear David I, Thank you very much for staying with us and for your valuable feedback. We are pleased to hear a majority of your visit was exceptional for you. However, we do apologize for the inconvenience you experienced with the wireless internet service and appreciate you for bringing it to our attention. We will take further action and look into the matter. Please know we examine all feedback given by our guests to assist us in learning and growing as a hotel. Also, for your next visit we would be happy to deliver a coffee service directly to your guestroom upon request. Thank you again for sharing your experience with us and we hope to see you again. Best Wishes, Abby abigailhall@charleshotel.com
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
US$427 - US$648 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
charles hotel cambridge
LOCATION
United StatesMassachusettsCambridge
NUMBER OF ROOMS
295
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Claim Your ListingTHE CHARLES HOTEL - Updated 2023 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.
Is The Charles Hotel located near the city centre?
Yes, it is 0.4 km away from the centre of Cambridge.
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.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at The Charles Hotel?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Hindi, Indonesian, and Filipino.
Are there any historical sites close to The Charles Hotel?
Many travellers enjoy visiting The Printing Office of Edes & Gill (5.7 km), Old North Church & Historic Site (5.6 km), and Granary Burying Ground (5.3 km).