16 Most Romantic Hotels in Austin

Although they vary in price, atmosphere, and location, these romantic hotels in Austin all have at least one thing in common–they provide the perfect backdrop for a loved-up escape in the South’s coolest city.

From eclectic boutique stays to tried-and-true classics, every couple can find something to get excited about on this list. 

Plus, we’re breaking down all the gorgeous decor, must-have amenities, and indulgent add-ons that can be found at each property.

Austin is a fabulous city to call home, but sometimes you need to see it from a fresh perspective to fall in love all over again. 

A reservation at one of these romantic Austin hotels is just what you need to set normal routine aside and send sparks flying.

Editors’ Picks: Most Romantic Hotels in Austin

So pack your bags, and make sure to include a flirty outfit, some massage oil, and whatever else you need to spice up this getaway. The planning for your romantic Austin staycation starts now!

1. Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt

Couples that jam together, stay together. So for all our music-loving pairs, there’s no better place to staycation than Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt.

Located near the Austin Convention center and the legendary Sixth Street and featuring regular live music of its own, Hotel Van Zandt taps into Austin’s title as the Live Music Capital of the World to create a downtown, boutique experience unlike any other.

To catch a show, just head to Geraldine’s on the fourth floor, which functions as a chic New American restaurant, cozy café, and buzzing bar all in one, with weekend jazz brunches and nightly sets from local artists.

If you don’t want any interruptions, unwind in a plush suite complete with in-room spa services, luxury bath amenities, room service, and a minibar. Or, if the weather’s nice, snag a poolside cabana for two at the rooftop pool retreat.

If you feel like connecting with other couples, grab drinks from a curated selection of craft beer, cocktails, and wine (on the house!) at the evening Social Hour, held daily from 5-6 PM.

2. Colton House Hotel

Warm, welcoming, and oh-so-cozy, Colton House Hotel brings the best of Southern hospitality into a chic central location.

Each suite includes king-size beds and flat-screen TVs. Each of them is thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home, with plenty of space to lounge, cook, and create memories together.

Fitness couples will love the fully-equipped gym and private yoga studio, while oenophiles could easily spend all evening sampling decadent reds and whites on the outdoor patio.

For the perfect date, make the short walk over to South Congress Avenue and spend a few hours wandering in and out of funky vintage shops, record stores, and local eateries.

However, you hardly have to leave the property to have a good time. You can have a drink in the coffee bar, take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, challenge each other to some lawn games, or cuddle up around the fire pit–all onsite.

3. Austin Proper Hotel

You wouldn’t want to settle for anything less than the best when splurging with your special someone, and this perfect spot is easily one of the most luxurious romantic hotels in Austin.

You’ll have plenty of options for a dinner date, as the property boasts two different eateries as well as an elegant cocktail bar.

Sample bright, flavorful North African, Israeli, and Lebanese cuisine at The Peacock or share decadent family-style meat platters at La Piscina, then wrap up the evening with stylish cocktails at Goldie’s (exclusively open to hotel guests and residents).

Once you’ve filled up on incredible dishes, keep the indulgence going with an array of health and wellness amenities, like a 2,000-square-foot fitness center, holistic spa, and wellness classes (think barre, yoga, guided meditations, and more).

Austin Proper Hotel is within 5-minute drive from Zilker Park, where you can have a romantic picnic with your partner.

4. Hotel Ella

Few romantic places to stay in Austin are packed with quite as much character (or history!) as the charming Hotel Ella.

Ella Newsome and Goodall H. Wooten called the city home in the late 1800s and the eponymous matriarch was one of the first women to graduate from UT and the first to serve on Austin’s Chamber of Commerce board.

Now a popular wedding venue, the Greek revival mansion was actually a gift from Goodall’s father to celebrate the couple’s own marriage.

Visit today and you’ll still feel that foundation of love throughout the sprawling property, which features a courtyard pool, wraparound veranda, and a diverse collection of Texas Modernist artworks.

For the most authentic stay, book one of the 9 original suites, which all feature custom-made furniture and an extra touch of luxury.

5. Fairmont Austin Gold Experience

Fairmont is already a name well-associated with extravagance, but take things to the next level with the Gold Experience, which includes private check-in/check-out, a dedicated concierge service, and upgraded amenities for the ultimate romantic getaway for couples.

Best of all, you’ll get special access to a lavish, sky-high lounge with Austin downtown views, complimentary breakfast, afternoon snacks, evening canapés, and late-night dessert.

Want even more luxury? Couples’ massages at Austin’s only full-service spa and sunset watching from a private cabana at the seventh-floor terrace (complete with a seasonally-heated rooftop pool and hot tub) seal the deal.

6. ARRIVE Austin

Sunlit suites, trendy onsite dining restaurants, and modern room amenities like Apple TV and a Marshall Bluetooth speaker are exactly what you’d expect from a city that’s basically Texas’ answer to San Francisco or Portland.

Calling all foodie couples! Vixen’s Wedding, the in-house restaurant, was named one of Austin Magazine’s 2019 Best New Restaurants and dishes up fusion cuisine inspired by some of the best food cultures in the world–Portugal, Goa, India, and the American South.

For your nightcap, look no further than the rooftop bar, where you’ll find the city’s largest gin curation (90+ varieties, from local bottles to jet-setting international options).

7. Four Seasons Austin

The Four Seasons is nestled away near the idyllic Lady Bird Lake, boasting the self-proclaimed “best backyard in Austin.” 

Nature-loving couples will find plenty to do, from hand-in-hand strolls along miles of waterfront trails to romantic paddles via kayak or SUP.

Celebrating a special occasion or just want to turn up the heat? Select from customizable couples add-ons like continental breakfast in bed, a vintage boat ride for two, or a private bartender and margarita cart brought right to your room.

For any fur baby parents, this is easily one of the best romantic hotels in Austin for a staycation. 

Not only can your pets come along, but they’ll also receive all kinds of amenities of their own–plush beds, gourmet biscuits, and even a room service menu.

8. The Driskill

Overflowing with timeless elegance and a whole lot of history (this spot has been around since 1886!), The Driskill promises impeccable service, lavish living spaces, modern luxuries, and an overall unforgettable stay. Besides, it is one of the best hotels in Austin with a jacuzzi in the room.

History buffs should book the “Keeping up with the Johnsons” package, which will have you and your special someone following in the footsteps of former President LBJ and his leading lady, who both called the hotel home throughout the 1950s and 60s.

As part of the deal, enjoy paddle boarding or kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, two tickets to the LBJ Presidential Library, and evening cocktails in the in-house bar, the renowned Driskill Bar, a famous couple’s first date.

The Driskell’s oh-so-romantic afternoon tea (held every Saturday and Sunday) is another must-do. Indulge in 3 courses of French pastries and other finger foods, plus unlimited loose-leaf tea and sparkling wine.

This luxury hotel is located at the corner of the 6th Street and within 10 minutes walk from Congress Avenue Bridge and the Texas State Capitol Building.

9. Hotel San Jose

Chic and minimalist Hotel San Jose embodies all the best parts of Austin–its music scene, modern take on Texas style, and just plain cool city culture.

In true artsy fashion, they offer amenities like custom-made kimono bath robes, curated mini-bars, and typewriters and Polaroids to borrow during your stay.

And it gets even better. You’re familiar with Austin’s iconic SXSW festival, but have you heard of South by San José? Timed to line up with the massive annual event, this property’s scaled-down version features 5 days of fun and live music right in the hotel parking lot.

At other times of the year, events like courtyard yoga, more intimate live shows, and chili cook-offs fill the schedule. Even if things are a bit quieter, a cute coffee date at Jo’s is hard to beat.

10. Hotel ZaZa Austin

Colorful and packed with personality, Hotel ZaZa is a hub for all things art, style, and entertainment.

Their individually-themed concept suites are so stunning that the pair of you may just want to draw those blackout drapes, slip into your plush robes, and raid the minibar until morning.

Our favorite option for couples is the Erotica room, which boasts a balcony, whirlpool soak bath for two, and tactile fabrics, velvets, furs, and silk throughout to “create a suite of pure sensuality at the sexiest choice for couples in Austin hotels.”

If you venture out into the rest of the property, a resort-style pool, award-winning spa, and two full-service restaurants will be waiting.

11. South Congress Hotel

With a prime location in one of Austin’s most popular districts, South Congress Hotel has all the dining, shopping, and entertainment you could ask for under one roof.

Reserve a table for two for Otoko, an exclusive 12-seat Japanese restaurant built around the “omakase” experience, in which the chef chooses each element of your tasting menu.

In warmer weather, lounge under the sun, take a dip, and munch on poolside snacks at the rooftop urban retreat. Or heat things up with a partner workout at the 24-hour fitness center, complete with Peloton bikes.

Forgot to bring a present for your loved one? Snag curated gifts at the onsite shop, or utilize your complimentary personal shopper at the Sunroom boutique.

12. The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel

As soon as you see the historic Art Deco façade of this gem in the heart of downtown, you can’t help but fall in love. And the charm continues indoors, with dramatic staircases, plush decor, and a spacious indoor pool.

The way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, so start each day with Southern comfort dishes at Café Fuller–grits, breakfast potatoes, and fresh pastries, oh my!

As your romantic evening winds down, catch some sunset colors from the only outdoor dining terrace on Congress Avenue, Stephen F’s Bar. While you’re at it, split a bottle from their extensive wine list or sip on one of their artisan cocktails.

13. The LINE

There’s a line out the door (see what we did there?) to score a reservation at this swanky, modern spot, because the LINE brings a unique twist to the landscape of romantic hotels in Austin.

Order tacos and cocktails to share at the saltwater infinity pool or at the sun terrace. Browse masterpieces courtesy of the hotel’s private collection, plus their rotating artist’s residency program. Enjoy a dinner date at Arlo Gray, the buzzy onsite restaurant that draws on the freshest of local, seasonal ingredients.

For sunset, head straight to P6, a former rooftop parking garage that has since been converted into an open-air lounge with town lake views and the city skyline.

14. Hotel Viata (Former Hotel Granduca)

Don’t be fooled–this list is still covering romantic hotels in Austin, even though this hillside escape feels a world away from the big city.

Somewhere between Tuscany and Texas, Hotel Viata offers opportunities for couples to dig into Northern Italian fare, float in a sparkling outdoor pool, and explore Hill Country in the adjacent 227-acre wilderness preserve.

Their Romantic Getaway package is sure to send sparks flying. It includes a complimentary room upgrade, bottle of wine, record player for all your favorite love songs, daily breakfast for two, and a 3-course candlelight dinner in Laurel Restaurant.

15. Commodore Perry Estate

Few Austin romantic hotels are as glamorous as Commodore Perry Estate, a stunning private retreat that looks more like a mansion than a hotel.

As soon as you step onto the manicured 10-acre grounds, you’ll be ready to start planning the wedding. And things only get better as you get lost amidst elegant courtyards and luxury suites full of heirloom vintage furniture.

As far as activities, bespoke experiences make for super memorable dates. Among their offerings are botanical drawing classes in the gardens, chef-prepared picnics, and even an exclusive private shopping experience with the luxury jewelry designer. (Just have your wallet at the ready).

16. East Austin Hotel

We wrap up our list of romantic hotels in Austin with a locally-owned and operated boutique hotel full of Scandinavian-inspired suites and bright, airy spaces.

The East Austin Hotel has a laundry list of thoughtful amenities that any Austinite will love, including signature robes and caftans, deluxe bath products, and Keurig coffee machines.

Grab dinner at Second Bar + Kitchen, which overlooks the lively East Sixth Street and serves all kinds of healthy (but still indulgent) dishes. Then, dance the night away at one of the many bars or live music venues just a short walk from your front door.

Romantic Austin Hotels

From Lake Travis to Barton Springs Pool and beyond, there are countless options of hotels for a romantic weekend in Austin.

Dine in an incredibly romantic restaurant (Italian cuisine maybe?), enjoy a bubble bath, sip wine in a wine bar, or take in the Austin City views from an outdoor swimming pool. The options are endless and pretty appealing in these hotels in Downtown Austin.

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