Surrounded by water and forest, Seattle is a metropolis that still manages to feel restorative. The 150-plus days of rain it experiences annually help create a verdant and picturesque landscape year-round, making it a prime destination for travelers. Visitors can easily combine city adventures and mountain retreats in a short period of time. For those seeking a blend of luxury and convenience, Seattle has much to offer, and as visitor numbers continue to rise, so does the variety of hotel options.
How Voting Works
Each year for the World’s Best Awards survey, GoTravelDaily invites readers to assess travel experiences around the globe, sharing their insights on the finest hotels, resorts, urban locales, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In 2023, nearly 165,000 readers participated, marking a 25 percent increase compared to pre-pandemic voting levels, with over 685,000 votes cast across more than 8,500 unique properties.
Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, or safari lodges based on their location and amenities, being rated on specific criteria:
- Rooms/facilities
- Location
- Service
- Food
- Value
For each characteristic, respondents rated their experiences as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores represent averages of these evaluations.
What Readers Loved
It is no surprise that Seattle’s iconic attractions—such as Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Seattle Aquarium—draw travelers to hotels in the downtown vicinity. Notably, all five reader-chosen properties are within walking distance of these landmarks. For example, Inn at the Market (ranked No. 4) is situated within Pike Place itself. The Edgewater (No. 3), located on Pier 67, has received high praise from readers for its stunning views and welcoming staff. Four Seasons Hotel Seattle (No. 2) is adjacent to the Seattle Art Museum and a leisurely walk from Waterfront Park. Finally, Fairmont Olympic Hotel (No. 5) is just a few blocks away. Here are the top picks from readers in the Emerald City.
The Winner
Lotte Hotel Seattle
Lotte Hotel Seattle occupies 16 opulent levels within the 44-story F5 Tower, an eye-catching addition to the city’s skyline. Opened in late 2020 and designed by French industrial designer Philippe Starck, the rooms and suites at the 5th Avenue property are distinctive, featuring large windows overlooking Elliott Bay, oversized mirrors, and ample artwork. To maintain a connection with Washington state’s natural beauty, the interior design incorporates timber elements—from the striking live-edge check-in counter made from a massive sequoia to log stools in the guest rooms. Dining at the 16th-floor restaurant, The Charlotte, consists of contemporary seafood and seasonal dishes accompanied by panoramic ocean views. The Seattle Convention Center and Seattle Art Museum are just a 10-minute walk away, while Pike Place Market can be reached in 20 minutes.
The Full List
Reader Score: 95.43
Reader Score: 92.20
Reader Score: 90.15
Reader Score: 90.12
Reader Score: 88.69
