Except for January and February, Baltimore's hotels always seem to be busy, particularly during holiday weekends. Those within walking distance of the Inner Harbor are the most sought after.

Hotels are listed alphabetically within four categories (Business, Luxury, Moderate and Other Recommendations) with two hotels in each section. Price categories, for a double room per night, are as follows:
$$$$ (over US$300)
$$$ (US$200 to US$300)
$$ (US$100 to US$200)
$ (under US$100)
Check hotel websites for online specials. Breakfast is not included unless specified.

Baltimore Marriott Waterfront
Baltimore's largest hotel (733 rooms and 21 suites), offers excellent facilities and spacious rooms with well-lit desks, high-speed Internet access, double line phones and comprehensive cable TV. Its grand lobby, with domed ceiling and brightly coloured Regency-style furnishings, sets the tone, albeit one that rather harks back to the 1980s. Guests can make use of the spa, fitness centre and indoor pool. Grille 700 and Kozmo's Lounge are pleasant choices for dinner and drinks. Super views over the harbour and steps from shops and restaurants.

700 Aliceanna Street
Tel: (410) 385 3000 or 1 800 228 9290.
Website: www.marriott.com
Price: $$$$

Renaissance Harborplace Hotel
This contemporary hotel features soothing earth-toned décor, good conference facilities, a fitness centre and all the in-room services you would expect from the Marriott chain. It's stylish and elegant without trying too hard. Seafood dishes are especially good at the Watertable Restaurant. The hotel is conveniently attached to the attractive Gallery mall and has lovely harbour views.

202 East Pratt Street
Tel: (410) 547 1200 or 1 800 535 1201.
Website: www.marriott.com
Price: $$$$

Hyatt Regency Baltimore
This hotel embraces open-spaces and panoramas, with a six-storey atrium overlooking the Inner Harbor. Enclosed glass elevators whisk guests to simple yet stylish rooms that reveal grand views. Unbeatable vista from the rooftop Pisces restaurant – recently revamped in contemporary style. It's the perfect spot for Champagne brunch on Sundays but is breathtaking by night. The hotel offers a health club, tennis courts and attractive outdoor pool – plus extensive business and conference facilities. The hotel is linked by skywalk to the Baltimore Convention Centre and Harborplace Mall.

300 Light Street
Tel: (410) 528 1234.
Website: www.hyatt.com
Price: $$$$

InterContinental Hotel
Modelled on an English manor, this hotel offers more than a pleasant business environment, although its events facilities, business centre and translation and secretarial services are all one would hope for. Enjoy its spa, pool and fitness centre. The well appointed, spacious guestrooms achieve cosy elegance, with dark wood furnishings accented by wine, forest green and cream linens. You can dine in Brighton's or the Explorers' Lounge.

550 Light Street
Tel: (410) 234 0550 or 1 800 824 0076.
Website: www.harborcourt.com
Price: $$$$

Days Inn Inner Harbor Hotel
This 250-room high-rise is just three blocks from the Inner Harbor and is close to the Convention Centre. It offers a fitness centre, heated outdoor pool, business centre, lobby bar and revamped Hopkins Bar & Grill Restaurant, serving hearty American fare. Its rooms have been recently renovated, with Internet access.

100 Hopkins Place
Tel: (410) 576 1000.
Website: www.daysinnerharbor.com
Price: $$

Peabody Court
Modern comforts meet old-world charm in this boutique 104-room hotel, built in 1928, located in the historic Mount Vernon district. Antique furnishings, original artwork, full marble baths and a rather dramatic crystal chandelier in the tiered lobby set this place apart. Enjoy the cocktail lounge and good dining at George's Restaurant. Fitness room, Internet access and some business facilities.

612 Cathedral Street
Tel: (410) 727 7101.
Website: www.peabodycourthotel.com
Price: $$

Henderson's Wharf
This charming 38-room inn, once a tobacco warehouse dating from the 19th century, sits directly on the waterfront of historic Fells Point. It is a short water taxi ride from the Inner Harbor and serves complimentary breakfast in its courtyard English garden. Offers free secure parking, Internet access and a business and fitness centre. Restaurants within walking distance.

1000 Fell Street
Tel: (410) 522 7777.
Website: www.hendersonswharf.com
Price: $$$

Pier 5 Hotel
Whimsical and fun, this is a hotel for the hip. Its 66 rooms are vibrantly decorated in muted oranges and purples, lending it a funky atmosphere - epitomised by the Austin Power's Suite. Ideally located on the water, next to the National Aquarium, the hotel has two fine restaurants: McCormick & Schmick's and Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.

711 Eastern Avenue
Tel: (410) 539 2000 or 1 866 583 4162.
Website: www.harbormagic.com
Price: $$$-$$$$