Fodor’s 100: World’s Best Budget Hotels of 2013

You don't have to spend a fortune for an incredible hotel stay, as the affordable picks in our Fodor's 100 Hotel Awards clearly attest. These hotels are true gems, offering luxury amenities at manageable prices (under $285 per night, for a double room). From an island inn that serves homemade breakfasts, to a boutique hotel that doubles as an art museum, travelers will get more for their money at these properties, along with an unforgettable hospitality experience.

 

By Emily Wasserman

WHERE: Christiansted, St. Croix

 

At Carringtons Inn, guests are treated like family. Located in a former private home, the inn features amenities like four-poster beds and hand-woven carpets. Enjoy delicious homemade breakfasts made by owner Roger Carrington. Warm hospitality and stunning ocean views keep guests coming back year after year.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's St. Croix Guide

WHERE: Mérida, Mexico
 

It’s easy to get swept up in Casa Lecanda’s romantic atmosphere. The hotel’s ruby walls, long-stem roses and wrought-iron chandeliers take guests back to a different era, and create a luxurious, romantic atmosphere. Relax in hammocks by the swimming pool, or enjoy a drinks at the hotel's Wine & Tequila Bar.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Mérida Guide

WHERE: Granada, Spain

 

Once a 15^th-century building, Casa Morisca retains much of its original grandeur. The hotel’s meticulously restored interiors include barrel-vaulted brickwork, wooden ceilings and arches. Guests can enjoy views of the Comares Tower from a patio garden, and friendly hotel staff will help you plan a visit to the historic Alhambra and the Albayzin district. The hotel offers complimentary tour and ticket assistance, as well as train station pick-up service.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Granada Guide

WHERE: Berlin, Germany

 

Located in a building that once housed the Royal Danish Embassy, Das Stue combines history and contemporary elegance. Guest rooms feature views of the courtyard, park, or Berlin Zoo, and all rooms come equipped with world-class amenities. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s two onsite restaurants that serve everything from Mediterranean fare to 1920s-inspired cocktails.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Berlin Guide

WHERE: Tavira, Portugal

 

Take a stroll through fruit orchards and olive groves at Fazenda Nova in the Algarve region of Portugal. The hotel is located on a 25-acre farm, and features 10 guest rooms with simple, chic accommodations. Guests can enjoy local fare at an onsite restaurant, or take in spectacular sea views from the hotel library’s terrace.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Portugal Guide

WHERE:  Toronto, Canada

 

Gladstone Hotel is known as Toronto’s “anti chain-hotel—and for good reason. Each room features a different theme, ranging from the Model Citizen room with peacocks, to a Tower Suite fit for Rapunzel. Guests can take a ride in the hotel’s hand-operated elevator, or browse local art and products.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Toronto Guide

WHERE: New Orleans, Louisiana

 

The recently renovated Hotel Maison de Ville takes guests back in time. The property is comprised of historic townhouses and “bachelor quarters,” and the main building dates back to the 1780s. Guest rooms include tapestry-covered chairs and antiques, which add to the hotel’s old-world ambiance.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's New Orleans Guide

WHERE: Phoenix, Arizona

 

Located in the heart of Phoenix’s CityScape is Hotel Palomar Phoenix, one of the city’s most popular boutique properties. The hotel’s quirky interiors and unbeatable location draw a diverse crowd. Guests can relax in luxuriously decorated guest rooms with unparalleled downtown views while they sip wine at the complimentary evening wine hour.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Phoenix Guide

WHERE: Lisbon, Portugal

 

Unrivaled views of the city and a historic setting make Lisboa Carmo a favorite among travelers. Located in the upscale Chiado neighborhood, the hotel features a friendly staff that attends to guests’ every need. Guests can enjoy Portuguese fare at the hotel's popular tapas restaurant that was designed after a traditional tavern.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Lisbon Guide

WHERE: Limeni, Greece

 

Once a seaside fortress, Pigros Mavromichali offers stunning, panoramic Mediterranean views and warm, friendly service. Located above the turquoise waters of historic Limeni Mani harbor, the hotel features outdoor terraces where guests can relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. Many guest rooms overlook the sea, and all include simple, chic furnishings.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Greece Guide

WHERE: Cincinnati, Ohio

 

A contemporary art museum that doubles as a boutique hotel, 21c Museum Hotel offers elegant, cosmopolitan accommodations. Guests can browse a collection of cutting-edge art, or enjoy a gourmet meal at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, Metropole. All guest rooms are designer-decorated, and include quirky amenities like peppermint soap and silver julep cups.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Cincinnati Guide

WHERE: Nashville, Tennessee

 

Once a bustling train hub, Union Station Hotel has since undergone extensive renovations. The building still features much of its original architecture, from the lobby’s 65-foot barrel-vault ceiling to marble floors and limestone fireplaces. Guests can relax in front of the fireplace at an onsite restaurant, or unwind in one of the hotel’s elegant guest rooms.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Nashville Guide

WHERE: Monument Valley, Arizona

 

The only hotel inside Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, View Hotel offers guests stunning views of nearby rock formations and panoramic views of the valley. The building’s red-stucco exterior reflects Navajo culture, and all guest rooms feature colorful Navajo bedspreads, tile floors and private balconies. The hotel’s restaurant also offers a complimentary Continental breakfast from mid-January to March.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Monument Valley Guide

WHERE: Big Island, Hawaii

 

Located the summit of the active volcano Kilauea, Volcano House is the only hotel in Volcanoes National Park. Also known as the oldest hotel in Hawaii, the property was recently renovated and reflects the best of local culture. Guests can dine at locally sourced restaurants, browse artisan jewelry and homemade products, or explore the Park’s nearby rainforests.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Big Island, Hawaii Guide

WHERE: Panama City, Panama

 

The words “Waldorf Astoria” usually come with a hefty price tag, but Waldorf Astoria Panama is surprisingly affordable—and five-star rated. The hotel features excellent service, contemporary décor, and a pool with views of the city skyline. Guests can relax over a meal on the poolside terrace, or enjoy the hotel’s luxurious spa amenities.

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Visit the Fodor's Panama City Guide