What is the best credit card for getting upgraded hotel rooms?

The best card for securing upgraded hotel rooms is the one that aligns with the brand you frequent and your spending mix. For example, if Hyatt is your brand of choice, you’ll want a card that offers upgraded rooms, elevated earnings, and good-value redemptions at Hyatt. To dig deeper into hotel-branded cards, check out our recommendations for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists, Hilton Honors loyalists, frequent guests at IHG, and those who prefer World of Hyatt. You’ll also find plenty of hotel elite and elite-style benefits on premium travel rewards cards.

What credit score do I need for a hotel credit card?

It depends on the specific hotel-branded card, but you will generally need a very good to excellent credit score to be approved for a Marriott, Hyatt, or Hilton hotel-branded credit card. According to Equifax, a very good score ranges from 740 to 799, and an excellent score is 800 and above. Other hotel-branded cards may grant approval with just a good credit score, which is considered 670 to 739. Of course, the higher your score, the more likely you will be approved.

Are hotel credit cards worth it?

If you frequent a particular hotel brand, its branded card can definitely be worth it. You could receive elevated earnings on your spending at that property, upgraded rooms, on-site amenities, special room rates, free hotel nights, and other hotel benefits that make having a hotel-branded card worthwhile.

How does the fifth night free work?

One benefit that comes with joining some hotel loyalty programs is the opportunity to receive your fifth hotel reward night free. Marriott Bonvoy offers the fifth consecutive reward night free for program members and Hilton Honors offers the fifth consecutive reward night free for its elite members. Marriott Bonvoy simply charges points for the first 4 nights and then no charge for the fifth night. Hilton Honors applies an average credit based on all 5 nights and charges the reduced amount after the credit is applied. The IHG One Rewards program offers a fourth-night free benefit to those with an IHG-branded credit card.

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The 9 Best Credit Cards for Hotel Upgrades and Perks [2025]

Updated: September 23, 2025, 1:16pm CDT

Edited by:

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Table of Contents

The Best Credit Cards for Hotel Upgrades — Summary
Best Personal Cards
Best Business Cards
Additional Cards
Final Thoughts

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There are fewer ways to start your hotel stay on a more positive note than hearing the phrase: “You’ve been upgraded.” Whether it’s a more spacious room, a spectacular view, or both, receiving an upgraded experience for no extra charge is definitely a welcome perk.

There are several ways to secure an upgraded hotel room and other on-site benefits. One way is to meet the hotel loyalty program’s annual stay (and occasionally additional spending) requirements to achieve elite status. Elite status can qualify you for upgraded rooms, free Wi-Fi, breakfast, late checkout, and many more on-site benefits.

There is, however, a shortcut to receiving hotel program elite status or elite-style benefits: by simply holding a hotel-branded credit card or luxury credit card.

That’s the focus of today’s article. We’re taking a look at the best cards for securing upgraded hotel rooms and other on-site perks. We’ll dive into the top travel rewards cards that offer complimentary hotel loyalty program elite status, perks at specific hotel collection properties, free night certificates, and hotel-branded cards that offer much more than just an upgraded room.

If you’re looking for those elusive upgraded accommodations with a view, you’ll want to stick with us as we discuss the best cards for securing these perks — complimentary, of course.

The Best Credit Cards for Hotel Upgrades — Summary

Let’s review the upgraded hotel room benefits you’ll receive from each of our featured cards.

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Card	Welcome Offer and Annual Fee	Hotel Upgrade Benefits
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express	ELEVATED WELCOME OFFER200,000 pointsThe Business Platinum Card^® from American ExpressEarn ~~150,000~~ 200,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $895 (rates & fees)	Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy, Gold status with Hilton Honors, and Sterling status with Leaders Club that qualifies members for complimentary room upgrades (enrollment required) Elite-style benefits at The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts Up to $600 in hotel credits for prepaid stays via Amex Travel at The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts properties Up to $200 Hilton statement credit
Platinum Card^® from American Express	+ NEW BENEFITSAs High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.Platinum Card^® from American ExpressYou may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Annual fee of $895 (rates & fees)	Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy and Gold status with Hilton Honors that qualifies members for complimentary room upgrades (enrollment required) Elite-style benefits at The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts Up to $600 statement credit for prepaid stays at Fine Hotels & Resorts or The Hotel Collection properties (up to $300 semi-annually)
Chase Sapphire Reserve^®	NEW OFFER125,000 pointsChase Sapphire Reserve^®Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Annual fee of $795	Elite-style benefits, including room upgrades at Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection and The Edit by Chase Travel properties $300 travel credit that can be used for upgraded hotel rooms IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status (activation required, through December 31, 2027), with the ability to earn Diamond Elite status through card spend in a calendar year
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card	LIMITED TIME OFFER175,000 pointsHilton Honors American Express Aspire CardEarn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026. Annual fee of $550 (rates & fees)	Top Hilton Honors Diamond status that comes with upgraded rooms, including suites, when available $400 resort credit that can be used for upgraded rooms
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card	LIMITED TIME OFFER175,000 pointsThe Hilton Honors American Express Business CardEarn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $8,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 1/14/2026. $195 (rates & fees)	Hilton Honors Gold status that includes upgraded rooms Spend $40,000 in a calendar year to achieve Diamond status
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card	LIMITED TIME OFFER165,000 pointsIHG One Rewards Premier Credit CardEarn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Annual fee of $99	IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status that includes the benefit of upgraded rooms
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card	100,000 pointsMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® CardEarn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)	Marriott Bonvoy® Platinum Elite status that includes complimentary upgraded rooms 25 qualifying elite night credits toward higher status
Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card	LIMITED-TIME OFFER125,000 Marriott Bonvoy pointsMarriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® CardEarn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $8,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms apply. Offer ends 10/22/2025. $125 (rates & fees)	Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, which includes the Enhanced Room Upgrade benefit (at select properties for qualifying rates) 15 elite qualifying nights towards higher status
The World of Hyatt Credit Card	Up to 60,000 pointsThe World of Hyatt Credit CardEarn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent. Annual fee of $95	World of Hyatt Discoverist status that includes upgrades to premium rooms at most Hyatt properties 5 elite qualifying nights towards any level of elite status

Best Personal Cards

Platinum Card^® from American Express

+ NEW BENEFITS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome OfferYou may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to $3,850

Annual Fee

$895

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than the Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

$895 annual fee (rates and fees)
Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards^® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel^®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts^® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel^® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection^®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club^® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card^® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card^® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel^® using the Platinum Card^®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card^® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card^®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
More Value! $209 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card^® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts^® through American Express Travel^®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card^®.*Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
$100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card^®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
$895 annual fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: See Pay Over Time APR
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of as high as 175,000 points with the Amex Platinum. Welcome offers may vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The Amex Platinum card is well known for its premium travel benefits, earning valuable Membership Rewards, and flexible redemption options. It’s also a great card for hotel elite benefits, including those that offer upgraded rooms.

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

You’ll have plenty of opportunities for upgraded rooms and other on-site perks using the Amex Platinum card with complimentary hotel loyalty program elite status and elite-style benefits at specific hotel groups.

Here are the hotel-related benefits that come with the card. Note that some benefits require enrollment so be sure you explore your benefits to get the most out of your card:

Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status
- In addition to room upgrades, Gold Elite status members receive the fifth consecutive reward night free, late checkout, free Wi-Fi, welcome points, and 25% bonus points earned on paid stays.
- You’d normally have to stay 25 nights in a calendar year to earn Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status and be eligible for upgraded rooms.
Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status
- Hilton Honors Gold status comes with free breakfast, room upgrades, the fifth consecutive award night free, late checkout, free Wi-Fi, and bonus points.
- To earn Hilton Honors Gold status, you would normally have to stay 40 nights or have 20 stays in a calendar year at Hilton properties.
Elite-Style Benefits at American Express’ The Hotel Collection
- On stays of 2 nights or more, enjoy upgraded rooms whenever available. In addition, you’ll receive a $100 hotel credit to be used on qualifying dining, spa, and resort activities. Use your card to reserve the prepaid reservation and earn 5x Membership Rewards points.
Elite-Style Benefits at American Express’ Fine Hotels & Resorts
- Receive room upgrades when available, daily breakfast for 2, late checkout, early check-in, free Wi-Fi, and a welcome amenity worth at least $100. No minimum stay is required.
Up to $600 Statement Credit for Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
- Get up to $600 back in statement credits each year (up to $300 semi-annually) on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through AmexTravel.com when you pay with your card.

Hot Tip: Learn more about the Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts in our overview and comparison of the benefits and perks of each program.

Why We Like the Card Overall

We like the Amex Platinum card for its long list of premium travel benefits, which includes worldwide access to more than 1,550 airline lounge properties. The card also earns valuable Membership Rewards points and comes with statement credits for specific purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue and Uber, for example.

Bottom Line: In addition to offering hotel elite status, statement credits, and benefits at luxury hotel collections, the Amex Platinum card earns Membership Rewards points that can be transferred to the American Express transfer partners where the points can be redeemed for free hotel nights and flights. The card also comes with travel/shopping protections and benefits and is one of the best cards around that helps you upgrade your flight experience, too.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome OfferEarn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
125,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$2,500

Annual Fee

$795

APR

20.24% - 28.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like worldwide airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus, it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to cover you at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
5x points on Lyft rides
4x points on flights and hotels booked directly

Cons

$795 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
$300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge^® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^® every 4 years
Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card comes with IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status (through December 31, 2027, activation required), which provides access to exclusive member rates, free internet during your stay, complimentary upgrades (if available), a welcome amenity, and early check-in and late check-out (when available). Also, if you spend at least $75,000 on the card in a calendar year, you will earn IHG One Rewards Diamond Elite status, where you get all of the benefits of Platinum Elite, plus double points on eligible stays.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card also offers the opportunity for an upgraded experience at the following hotel collection properties.

The Edit by Chase Travel Benefits
- Receive a $100 property credit, upgraded room (when available), a local amenity unique to the property, such as dinner, spa, or resort credit, early check-in/late checkout when available, daily breakfast for 2, and free Wi-Fi.
Relais & Châteaux Benefits
- Receive a VIP welcome amenity and complimentary breakfast.

Why We Like the Card Overall

We like that the card comes with a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership that provides worldwide lounge access to over 1,400 properties. The card also offers elevated earnings on travel and dining and comes with a $300 travel credit that is easy to use, even for upgraded hotel rooms.

The card earns valuable Ultimate Rewards points that can be redeemed for travel to get more value through the Chase travel portal or transferred to the Chase transfer partners for even greater potential value. You’ll also find the card packed with premium travel insurance and shopping protections/benefits.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

U.P. Rating

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

Welcome OfferEarn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026. 
175,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $875

Annual Fee

$550

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Paying hundreds of dollars for an annual fee on a co-branded hotel card might seem ridiculous, but you should know that the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is much more than your run-of-the-mill hotel credit card.

The Hilton Aspire card is not only a phenomenal card for Hilton Honors loyalists, but even those who visit Hilton hotels just a few times a year can still get excellent value out of all the benefits that are packed into this card.

So let’s have a look at what makes the card so valuable to travelers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

14x points per $1 on Hilton purchases
7x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, car rentals booked directly with select car rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants
3x points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Cons

High annual fee of $550 (rates & fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026.
Card Members can earn 14X Points on purchases made directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
Card Members can earn 7X Points on purchases of Flights booked directly with airlines or flights booked through American Express Travel, Car rentals purchased directly from select car rental companies, and purchases at U.S. Restaurants.
Card Members can earn 3X Points on all other eligible purchases.
Enhance your hotel stay with complimentary Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status and enjoy a world of hotel privileges and benefits. Get exclusive perks at any of Hilton's 24 hotel brands, like a 100% Bonus on Base Points earned on every stay, Premium Wi-Fi and space-available room upgrades at select properties, and more.
Enjoy an Annual Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors in your first year of Card Membership and every year upon Card renewal.
$400 Hilton Resort Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually for eligible purchases made directly with participating Hilton Resorts on your Hilton Honors Aspire Card. That's up to $400 back annually.
$200 Flight Credit: Get up to $50 in statement credits each quarter, for a total of up to $200 back each year, on flight purchases made directly with an airline or through amextravel.com using your Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card.
Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Plus, you can earn an additional Free Night Reward from Hilton after you spend an additional $30,000 (for a total of $60,000) in purchases on your Card in the same calendar year.
$209 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: You can receive up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you sign up and pay for a CLEAR Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your eligible Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card.
$100 Property Credit: How it Works: To receive up to $100 in credits for qualifying hotel charges, book a 2-night minimum stay at participating Waldorf Astoria^® Hotels & Resorts and Conrad^® Hotels & Resorts with your Card through hiltonhonorsaspirecard.com and select the Aspire Card Benefit rate option on the booking page or call Hilton Honors at (855) 292-5757 with the proper booking reference. See Terms & Conditions for further details.
Hilton Honors Aspire Card Members can enjoy complimentary National Car Rental^® Emerald Club Executive^® status, including perks like Executive Area Access (for full-size reservations and above) in the USA and Canada. Card Members must enroll in the National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status through their American Express online account using their Card. Terms apply.
$550 annual fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The Hilton Aspire card is one of the best hotel-branded cards available and is known for offering a unique package of hotel-related perks just for having the card.

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

The Hilton Aspire card is the only hotel-branded card that comes with valuable top-level hotel elite status. With Hilton Honors Diamond status, you’ll enjoy the best that the Hilton Honors loyalty program has to offer.

Here are some of the hotel perks you’ll enjoy with the Hilton Aspire card:

Free hotel night certificate after card approval and each card anniversary
The benefits of Diamond status include upgraded rooms (even suites when available), free breakfast or breakfast credit, lounge access, free Wi-Fi, bonus points, and a welcome amenity
14x earnings at Hilton properties when paying with your card
Up to $400 Hilton Resort credit
Up to $100 credit for a 2-night or more stay at Waldorf Astoria or Conrad properties

Without the Hilton Aspire card, you would need to stay 60 nights, 30 stays, or earn 120,000 points from stays in a calendar year to achieve top-level Hilton Honors Diamond status.

Why We Like the Card Overall

The Hilton Aspire card is packed with travel benefits.

The card comes with hundreds of dollars in statement credits for specific purchases including a $200 airline credit. In addition to elevated earnings at Hilton, you’ll receive 7x earnings on qualifying flights, car rentals, and at U.S. restaurants.

For those looking for a Hilton-branded card with a lower annual fee with complimentary Gold status and corresponding upgrade benefits, have a look at the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card.

To learn more about all the best Hilton-branded cards and the associated benefits, check out our complete overview.

Bottom Line: All Hilton-branded credit cards come with a generous welcome bonus that can be redeemed for free hotel nights, elevated earnings at Hilton, on-site benefits, and complimentary elite status. If you stay at a particular hotel brand even once or twice a year, you’ll benefit from having a hotel-branded credit card.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
100,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $700

Annual Fee

$650

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
Earn up to 21X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 50% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Platinum Elite status.
$300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
A Marriott Bonvoy^® Platinum Elite member will earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member.
Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®, such as Le Metropolitan, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Paris. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
$100 Marriott Bonvoy^® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
With your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you can enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, with an unlimited number of visits to over 1,200 airport lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
Trip Cancelled or Interrupted? If you purchase a round-trip entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason cancels or interrupts your trip, we may be able to help. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
$650 Annual Fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

With thousands of properties worldwide, Marriott Bonvoy offers one of the largest global hotel footprints. It’s a big plus for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card that you have so many properties to enjoy your hotel benefits.

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy^® Platinum Elite status
Earns 6x points per dollar spent at Marriott properties
Annual free hotel night award worth 85,000 points
25 elite qualifying night credits each year towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status
Up to $100 property credit at Marriott, Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties
Free premium Wi-Fi

Why We Like the Card Overall

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card offers 3x earnings on flights purchased directly from the airline and 2x earnings on all other purchases.

Every Marriott Bonvoy -branded card comes with hotel elite status or elite qualifying nights that help you reach higher elite status faster. Learn more about all of these cards in our article on the best cards for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists.

Best Business Cards

Just like personal hotel credit cards, these business cards offer travelers the opportunity for upgraded hotel experiences.

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

ELEVATED WELCOME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome OfferEarn 150,000 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
200,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $4,400

Annual Fee

$895

APR

18.24% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,550 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Earn 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on eligible travel purchases like flights, prepaid hotels, and prepaid short-term rentals booked through AmexTravel.com
Access to over 1,550 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
Earn 2x Membership Rewards points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (on up to $2 million per calendar year)

Cons

High annual fee of $895 (rates & fees)
Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card^® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
New! Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
Make the Business Platinum Card^® work even harder for you. Hilton For Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Benefit enrollment required.
Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $209 back per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
New! Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
New! Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
Enhanced! 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
1X points on other eligible purchases
$895 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 18.24% - 28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 250,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum card. The current public offer is ~~150,000~~ 200,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

You’ll enjoy all the same hotel upgrade benefits with the Amex Business Platinum card as the personal consumer version — Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy, Gold status with Hilton Honors, and Sterling status with Leaders Club, upon enrollment, plus elite-style benefits at American Express’ The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels + Resorts and up to $600 back in statement credits each year (up to $300 semi-annually) on prepaid bookings through Amex Travel when you pay with your card. The Hotel Collection requires a 2-night minimum stay.

Additionally, after enrollment, you can receive up to $200 in Hilton statement credits per calendar year — up to $50 per quarter. Purchases must be made directly with a property in the Hilton portfolio on your Amex Business Platinum card, and a Hilton for Business membership is required.

Why We Like the Card Overall

We like that the Amex Business Platinum card earns valuable Membership Rewards points that can be redeemed for travel via AmexTravel.com or transferred to travel partners for the potential of even greater value.

With car rental benefits, shopping protections, and a long list of valuable travel insurance benefits, there’s plenty of value to derive from the card.

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

U.P. Rating

An excellent option for business owners and business travelers who stay at Hilton properties often and want perks like Hilton Honors elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

An excellent option for business owners and business travelers who stay at Hilton properties often and want perks like Hilton Honors elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $8,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 1/14/2026.
175,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $875

Annual Fee

$195

APR

19.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

For frequent business travelers who regularly stay in Hilton hotels, The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is a great option.

Not only will the card help you earn more points on all of your Hilton stays, but you’ll also receive automatic elite status and travel protections.

Here’s a detailed look at all the benefits this card offers so that you can determine if it’s a good fit for you.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Earn 12x points per $1 on eligible Hilton purchases
Earn 5x points on other purchases made for the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3x points thereafter.
Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, and the ability to spend your way to Diamond status

Cons

$195 annual fee (rates and fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Limited Time Offer: Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $8,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 1/14/2026.
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on eligible purchases made directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on other purchases made using the Hilton Honors Business Card on the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3X Points thereafter.
Get up to $60 in statement credits each quarter for purchases made directly with a property in the Hilton portfolio on your Hilton Honors American Express Business Card.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors Business Card. With Hilton Honors™ Gold Status, you can enjoy benefits at hotels and resorts within the Hilton Portfolio. As a Gold member, earn an 80% Bonus on all Base Points you earn on every stay.
You may receive an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year if the total eligible purchases that you spend on your Card Account during a calendar year reach $40,000 or more.
Terms apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99% - 28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Hilton Honors loyalty program

Enjoy complimentary Gold status, with the opportunity to earn Diamond status after spending $40,000 on the Hilton Business Amex card in a calendar year.

You can expect these hotel benefits with Gold status:

Free breakfast or breakfast credit, room upgrades to executive room level, and free Wi-Fi
No resort fees on award stays
80% bonus points earnings on spending at Hilton properties

Why We Like the Card Overall

Earn big when you stay at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio
Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental^® Emerald Club Executive^® status. Enrollment required.
Receive up to $240 back each year for eligible purchases made directly with Hilton

If your business involves travel and staying at Hilton properties, investigate the Hilton Business Amex card to see if it could be a fit for your operation.

Your points will go further when you utilize Hilton’s fifth-night free benefit. Reward stays of 5 consecutive nights or longer receive a credit for the average of the rewards points spent.

Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card

LIMITED-TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating

A great option for business owners who stay in Marriott hotels and want automatic elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card

A great option for business owners who stay in Marriott hotels and want automatic elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $8,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms apply. Offer ends 10/22/2025.
125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $875

Annual Fee

$125

APR

19.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Business travelers who opt for Marriott as their hotel chain of choice will definitely want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card. The card offers great benefits to cardholders like a complimentary hotel night once a year, complimentary Gold Elite status, and multiple point redemption options.

Pros & Cons

Pros

6x Marriott Bonvoy points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy^® program.
4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

Moderate annual fee of $125 (rates and fees)
No premium perks like airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Earn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $8,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms apply. Offer ends 10/22/2025.
Receive a 7% discount on eligible bookings as a benefit of being both a Marriott Bonvoy^® member & a Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card Member when you book directly with Marriott through an eligible channel for a participating property under the Amex Business Card Rate.
6x points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy^® program.
4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
2x points on all other eligible purchases.
Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card.
Terms apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99% - 28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Like the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, the Marriott Bonvoy Business card comes with Gold Elite status. We like that the card provides a faster path to elite status, a free hotel night certificate each year, and elevated earnings at Marriott. The card also comes with a lower annual fee.

Why We Like the Card Overall

Free hotel night certificate at card anniversary
Enhanced Room Upgrade benefit at select properties for qualifying rates
6x earnings at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program
4x earnings at restaurants worldwide, U.S. shipping, U.S. wireless telephone services, and U.S. gas stations
2x earnings on all other purchases

For the Marriott Bonvoy business traveler loyalist, this card should be a consideration.

Hot Tip: American Express-issued cards all have access to Amex Offers that frequently contain hotel savings or bonus earnings. Recent examples include a $50 statement credit after making a $200 Marriott purchase, $50 back on a $250 Hyatt purchase, and $50 back on a $175 purchase at Hampton Inn or Hilton Garden Inn hotels. Both business and consumer personal cards are eligible for Amex Offers.

Additional Cards

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

Having the World of Hyatt card enhances the benefits you’ll find with the popular and robust World of Hyatt loyalty program. You’ll receive complimentary entry-level Discoverist status that offers upgraded rooms at most Hyatt properties. The card also comes with an annual free hotel night, late checkout, waived resort fees, and bonus points on Hyatt stays.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

U.P. Rating

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Welcome OfferEarn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Up to 60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$900

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.99% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The World of Hyatt Credit Card makes your Hyatt stays more rewarding and helps you get coveted World of Hyatt elite status faster. This card is a must-have for any traveler who regularly stays at Hyatt hotels, or even for anyone who’s able to take advantage of the card’s annual free night certificate.

When you factor in all the benefits the World of Hyatt card offers, it’s easy to see why it is one of the best co-branded hotel credit cards on the market.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
2x points per $1 at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit, rideshares, and fitness clubs/gym memberships
1x point per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

$95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

With a stellar welcome bonus, and up to 9x earnings at Hyatt, it’s easy to earn free nights, plus, earn 2x spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships.

If you’re a small-business owner, you may also want to check out the newly launched World of Hyatt Business Credit Card that offers big earning potential and an easier path to Globalist status.

Hot Tip: Qualification requirements for earning World of Hyatt elite status have been reduced for 2021. Learn more about the value of elite status, more details on the benefits at each level, and how to qualify.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

U.P. Rating

The perfect card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Platinum Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The perfect card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Platinum Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

Welcome OfferEarn 165,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
165,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$825

Annual Fee

$99

APR

19.99% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you regularly visit IHG hotels throughout the year, then the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is probably a perfect card to have in your wallet.

The IHG Premier card offers a great bundle of perks and benefits, including automatic Platinum elite status, an annual free night certificate, and travel protections.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Up to 26x points per $1 on IHG stays
5x points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants
3x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

$99 annual fee
Does not earn transferable points

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Limited Time Offer! Earn 165,000 Bonus Points
Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG^® hotel stay.
Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck^® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $120 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental^®, Crowne Plaza^®, Kimpton^®, EVEN^® Hotels, Indigo^® Hotels & Holiday Inn^®
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

We like the IHG brand because you can find an IHG property just about anywhere. And if you stay at IHG properties, even occasionally, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how the IHG Premier card can earn you free nights and improve your IHG experience.

Here are the features and benefits you can expect from having the card:

An annual free hotel night certificate at card anniversary
Complimentary Platinum Elite status
Earn up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at an IHG hotel
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, gas stations, and restaurants.
Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases

Platinum Elite status comes with room upgrades, late checkout, 60% bonus points at most properties, free Wi-Fi, and guaranteed room availability. To earn Platinum Elite status, members would normally need to stay 40 nights or earn 60,000 points in a calendar year.

To learn more about elite benefits in the IHG One Rewards program, check out our article where we go into more detail.

Final Thoughts

If you spend even a few nights a year at a specific hotel brand, you’ll benefit from having a hotel-branded credit card. At the very least, you’ll earn reward points faster, which allows you to redeem for more free hotel nights and receive on-site benefits that make your stay more comfortable. Many cards offer complimentary hotel loyalty program elite status and even free night certificates plus you’ll even find a few without annual fees.

Most points don’t expire as long as you have the associated card, so even if you don’t stay at a hotel brand frequently, you can take your time earning your next free hotel night while enjoying the perks of a hotel-branded card.

If you stay frequently at a specific brand, a hotel-branded card or premium travel rewards card could deliver even greater value.

We’ve given you an overview of some of the hotel-related benefits that come with our featured cards, but there may be even more features and benefits offered on each card — the most significant being credit cards with travel insurance benefits and protections, and also shopping benefits and protections. Prior to applying for any card, you’ll want to review the card’s entire earning, redemption, and benefits package plus the applicable rates and fees.

The Best Credit Cards for Hotel Upgrades — Summary

Best Personal Cards

Platinum Card® from American Express

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

Why We Like the Card Overall

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

Why We Like the Card Overall

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

Why We Like the Card Overall

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

How the Card Upgrades Your Hotel Experience

Why We Like the Card Overall

Best Business Cards

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Why We Like the Card Overall

The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

Why We Like the Card Overall

Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

Why We Like the Card Overall

Additional Cards

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

Final Thoughts

Platinum Card^® from American Express

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card