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This modest boutique hotel is in an old (1858) spice warehouse. Guest rooms have wood floors, exposed brick walls, oriental rugs, and traditional furnishings.

With excellent parking, this large (415 rooms), pyramidal, riverfront hotel is ideal for travelers who have cars. Ask for one of the rooms facing the water for the great sunset views. The shuttle into Harvard Square compensates for those without cars.

In a former railroad roundhouse, this hotel offers spacious suites with all modern conveniences. The service here is friendly and efficient. A frequent bus service makes up for the lack of subway.

Barely within the city limits, the 117-room Days Inn offers clean and basic accommodation. Located on the Charles River, some rooms have water views, and it’s only a 15-minute walk into Harvard Square.

Large desks, good views, and an excellent on-site Greek restaurant are highlights of this older 200-room Cambridge riverfront hotel. For the best vistas climb up to the hotel’s observation deck. The location isn’t ideal unless you have a car.

Harvard Square’s original (1927) hotel emerged more comfortable than ever following its latest facelift. Some rooms are small, but public areas are pleasant and clubby, and the Cambridge Common location is enchanting.

This nicely renovated former motor inn is, indeed, right on Harvard Square. The rooms are tastefully decorated and the tiny lobby has one computer for those who need Internet access.

At the edge of the Theater District, this 1920s tower hotel underwent restoration that gave fresh glitter to its dramatic public spaces (think crystal chandeliers and marble columns). Rooms are small but modern with first-rate amenities. There are conference rooms and executive floors for business travelers.

This charming guest house in the heart of South End has just three rooms, all individually decorated. Continental breakfast is served in the sunny dining nook.

This well-kept Back Bay hotel is frequented by conventioneers who balk at the rates of other nearby chains. Rooms are small, quirky, and old-fashioned in character.