Last Updated on September 8, 2024 by Ben

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San Antonio is a fun, cosmopolitan city with a strong Tex-Mex vibe that is home to The Alamo and the Riverwalk. Also known as Paseo del Rio, the Riverwalk is a world-renowned 15-mile urban waterway and the largest urban ecosystem in the United States. If you want to be in the middle of the city’s action and atmosphere, book a stay in one of the the nicest hotels on San Antonio’s Riverwalk.

Tucked just below the city’s street level, Riverwalk can be enjoyed on foot or you can hop on a colorful river barge for a ride and guided tour. There are plenty of shops and some of the city’s best dining.

Omni La Mansion del Rio (112 College St.; 210-518-1000) Downtown

One of the dreamiest hotels on the San Antonio Riverwalk, the Omni traces its history back to 1870. This hotel carnation opened just in time for Hemisfair, San Antonio’s 1968 World Fair. The Omni La Mansion del Rio boasts distinctive Spanish colonial architecture and AAA Four Diamond luxury. “This amazing hotel is another of the most luxurious hotels you’ll find in San Antonio with top-tier amenities that include a gorgeous courtyard with a heated swimming pool, a luxurious four-star spa and world-class fitness center,” writes USA Today’s 10Best.

More than one Trip Advisor reviewer called this their favorite San Antonio hotel. “The location on the Riverwalk is perfect. The hotel itself is beautiful and historic, with exposed brick walls in the rooms and beamed ceilings,” wrote one. >> Book this hotel for less

Hotel Valencia Riverwalk (150 East Houston St.; 210-227-9700) Pearl District

Opened in January 2003, this was San Antonio’s first boutique hotel. The property was number one on Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Hotels in Texas: Readers’ Choice Awards. “Rooms—with custom-made beds, oversize leather armchairs, and plantation shutters—have views of the city or internal courtyard,” rave the editors.

A Yelp reviewer agreed. “It’s close but not too close to the main attractions so it’s very quiet. The rooms are very clean, the staff is very polite and while the hotel feels upscale it does not feel unwelcoming ” You can listen to a live flamenco guitarist, have a cocktail and enjoy Riverwalk views. “You can sit at the Naranja Bar or you can sit in the comfortable couches and chairs by the fireplace,” a Yelp reviewer recommends. >> Book this hotel for less

Hotel Contessa (306 W. Market St.; 210-229-9222) Downtown

Opened in November 2005, this was the first all-suite hotel located on the Riverwalk. It’s also a popular spot for weddings because of its close proximity to Marriage Island, a heart-shaped bit of land on the Riverwalk that makes a popular and very romantic photo op. “If you are considering getting married on the Riverwalk, this would be the place to go,” writes a Google reviewer.

The property is number nine on U.S. News & World Report Travel’s list of best San Antonio hotels. “Guests are impressed with Hotel Contessa’s genuinely friendly staff, which sets this property apart from large chain hotels found in downtown San Antonio,” write the editors. Visitors also love the hotel’s good-sized rooms. A Trip Advisor reviewer said it was “well located and the rooms are very spacious.” >> Book this hotel for less

Hotel Emma (136 E. Grayston St.; 210-448-8300) Pearl District

“It’s hard to believe this used to be an old brewery,” says Conde Nast Traveler. “Despite opening in 2015, this hotel has a timeless elegance that feels like a particularly luxurious stop on San Antonio’s annual parade of homes tour.” A Tripadvisor user raves, “Wow! What a cool hotel! The history of Hotel Emma is amazing as they actually give a history tour of the old brewery. And, upon checking in you can go into the library and enjoy a complimentary margarita. The staff are fantastic!” Upgrading to a river terrace room gives you an amazing view. “There was a fireplace on my deck which came in very handy once the sun dropped down.” >> Book this hotel for less

Mokara Hotel and Spa (212 W. Crockett St.; 210-396-5800) Downtown

Originally built in 1900, the hotel retains its historical Renaissance Revivalist architectural style. It’s now the only Forbes four-star hotel in San Antonio. “Guest rooms and suites are handsomely appointed with iron four-poster beds, colonial furnishings, and distinctive local artwork,” write the editors.

This is also a popular girlfriend getaway pick. “This spa is an amazing experience from beginning to end. Clean, plush, luxurious. I wouldn’t go anywhere else in San Antonio.” writes a Trip Advisor reviewer. The Travel Channel named Ostra, a seafood eatery with Riverwalk views, one of the best restaurants on the Riverwalk. “This AAA four-diamond restaurant emphasizes a sustainable seafood menu Savor the freshest oysters, crab, clams and shrimp from Gulf Coast fisherman, along with a full wine list and specialty tequilas,” wrote the reviewer. >> Book this hotel for less

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