Yulia Saf 
Getting ready to visit Nashville? I couldn’t be more thrilled for you! The country music capital of the world is one of my favorite destinations in the world!
If you’re wondering where to stay in Nashville, I’m your gal! I compared hundreds of hotels and cherry-picked the best areas in the city to help you plan your trip!
Downtown is the best place to stay if you’re visiting for the first time! But should you have specific travel preferences, I have 7 more areas where you can stay.
The best part is that I’ll only share the most highly rated and reliable accommodation options, so you can just pick your favorite and pack your bags!
Just make sure you book your hotel in advance, as the city sells more than 9.5 million hotel room nights per year!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Check out the best hotels in Downtown:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. SoBro – where to stay in Nashville for first-timers
- 2. Downtown – best part of Nashville to stay for nightlife
- 3. Midtown – best area to stay for an urban experience
- 4. The Gulch – where to stay for a trendy vibe
- 5. Belmont–Hillsboro – best for budget travelers
- 6. Music Row – where to stay for music lovers
- 7. East Nashville – the most popular part of Nashville
- 8. West End – where to stay for a local experience
- BONUS: Best hotels near Nashville International Airport
- FAQs about where to stay in Nashville
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Explore this quick map of all the areas in Nashville that I’ll discuss in the post:
- SOBRO: for sightseeing
- DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE: for nightlife
- MIDTOWN: for an urban stay
- THE GULCH: trendiest area
- BELMONT–HILLSBORO: budget travelers
- MUSIC ROW: for music
- EAST NASHVILLE: for shopping
- WEST END: for a local experience
1. SoBro – where to stay in Nashville for first-timers
SoBro, or South of Broadway, is a trendy neighborhood just outside of Nashville Downtown and is a perfect base for exploring the city.
This pedestrian-friendly district is home to the Bridgestone Arena, Music City Center and the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum. The first two are the main avenues for concerts and live shows, while the Hall of Fame Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about American music and its most iconic artists.
And if you’re into classical music, you can have a blast at the Symphony Schermerhorn Center!
The SoBro area isn’t short of restaurants and hotels either, making it a great place to stay in Nashville for the first time!
Plan on visiting numerous attractions in SoBro and the rest of Nashville? Get the Nashville Sightseeing Pass for easy access to 30+ attractions! More info is available here.
Since opening its doors in November 2022, Four Seasons has become a top 5-star destination! Guests can enjoy luxury amenities such as a spa and an outdoor pool, as well as a sophisticated interior and amazing views from their rooms.
Other accommodation options in SoBro
A 3-star hotel with an outdoor pool and complimentary breakfast, just next to the Hall of Fame Museum
This super modern hotel is a clean home-away-home with a good breakfast and a fitness center
Enjoy one of the best neighborhoods in this modern apartment, just a short drive from the tourist attractions
Things to do in SoBro
- Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum
- Attend a show in the Bridgestone Arena
- Taste the best BBQ at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
- Walk around the Ascend Amphitheater
- Explore local distilleries like the 6th & Peabody
- Visit the Nashville Symphony Schermerhorn Center
2. Downtown – best part of Nashville to stay for nightlife
If you are wondering where to lodge in Nashville for nightlife, the best area is Downtown! This is also one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Nashville for short visits.
As the heart of the music city, Downtown is a hub for entertainment, overflowing with music venues, cultural institutions (like the Frist Art Museum), and historical attractions.
Here, you’ll also find the iconic Batman Building, a 617-foot (188 m) tall AT&T skyscraper and Tennessee’s tallest building. The building got its nickname because of its design, as it bears a striking resemblance to Batman’s mask!
The vibrant nightlife of Downtown, and notably the Broadway Strip, make this area a top spot for bachelorette parties!
Downtown Nashville’s top attractions include the Lower Broadway (Lower Broad) Historic District, where you can find honky tonks (at the Honky Tonk Row or Honky Tonk Highway), as well as live music venues like the Ryman Auditorium (known as the “Mother Church of Country Music”).
Tennessee Performing Arts Center is also worth the visit if you’re interested in theater plays, while the Tennessee State Museum, with its Indian artifacts and Civil War relics, is a heaven for history buffs!
Ole Red, just next to the Batman Building, is Broadway’s most legendary live music bar! So far, it’s my favorite place in Nashville because of its tavern setting!
Here in Downtown, you’ll also find the Johnny Cash Museum, where you can see memorabilia and pictures of this legendary musician! Climb to the second floor, and you’ll be in Patsy Cline Museum (ticket purchased separately), which is far less crowded!
Near Downtown, you can find Germantown, the safest area to stay in Nashville. And if you’re wondering how far Nashville Airport is from Downtown, it’s approximately 18 minutes by car or 7.5 miles in distance.
You can also look for hotels near Tennessee Titans Stadium in case you’re here to see a match.
One of the nicest hotels in downtown Nashville, it has a bar on the 25th floor and offers an outdoor swimming pool, 3 on-site eateries, a fitness center, and more than 15 different room types for couples and families of all sizes.
Apart from the Grand Hyatt Hotel, I must mention another luxury hotel because there are so many good ones!
- Hilton Nashville Downtown – a luxury 4-star Nashville hotel near Broadway comprised entirely of suites and offering on-site car rental services, a contemporary fitness center, and 3 dining options
Other Accommodation Options in Downtown
Spacious apartments with a private bathroom and fabulous city views; some lofts have a private kitchen
Good value for money for 4 people within walking distance of the Downtown area and Ryman Auditorium
A 1-bedroom apartment with modern furniture and stunning rooftop views of the Cumberland River
Things to do in Downtown Nashville:
- Visit the Johnny Cash Museum
- Explore the Walk of Fame Park
- Enjoy the views of the Cumberland River on the Riverfront
- Take a tour of Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
- Admire the artwork of the Frist Art Museum
- Go on a guided tour of the Ryman Auditorium
Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip!
3. Midtown – best area to stay for an urban experience
Midtown is the best neighborhood to stay in for an urban experience close to live music spots!
The nickname of the area is “Elliston” due to the Elliston Street located here boasting some of the most legendary rock clubs. EXIT/IN is one of the best places here for live music with an upbeat atmosphere!
The Church Street that spreads until Midtown has numerous LGBTQ+-friendly places with drag shows (closer to Downtown). If this is what you’re into, I have a must-take tour for you that’ll take you on a bus drag party across Nashville, starting from Church Street!
The Parthenon is a must-see attraction in Midtown’s Centennial Park. It’s a replica of the iconic landmark in Athens, Greece, and it’s well worth the visit!
Also popular in Centennial Park is the public Sports Complex where you can swim, ice skate, and more.
Midtown is home to the prestigious Vanderbilt University, so you’re guaranteed to see tons of young people on the streets!
Now, for years that I’ve been researching restaurants to share with you on my blog, I have never seen a higher-rated restaurant with as many reviews as Hattie B’s Hot Chicken! It’s now officially my favorite restaurant in Nashville and where I’m certainly headed when I set foot in Nashville!
This hotel is a top choice for its upscale amenities, cleanliness, comfortable guest rooms, and location! It is perfect for country music fans. The rooms’ decor is super modern, and the staff is super accommodating!
Other accommodation options in Midtown
A cozy 3-star hotel with complimentary breakfast, an on-site gym, and spacious double suites
The only budget place I could find that can fit 6 guests; the slightly lower rating than I like is due to past issues with Wi-Fi on the property
A recently renovated apartment with a gym, pool, and many other amenities on-site
Things to do in Midtown
- Visit the Parthenon in the Centennial Park
- Attend a live music show in EXIT/IN
- Explore the bars and eateries of Church Street
- Grab dinner at the iconic Hattie B’s Hot Chicken restaurant
4. The Gulch – where to stay for a trendy vibe
The Gulch is one of the most modern neighborhoods in Nashville, surrounded by luxury apartments, fancy hotels, trendy restaurants, and bars with live music!
Staying here allows you to find something for every taste. Bluegrass music enthusiasts can enjoy fun-filled banjo and mandolin performances at the Station Inn.
The Gulch is a very safe area in Nashville, and it’s also super walkable! You can walk to the Music Row or Downtown in less than 30 minutes, while the savory eateries can be found around every corner!
Take the Instagram-perfect picture at the WhatLiftsYou Wings Mural (map) situated in The Gulch!
You can find plenty of local boutiques, street art murals, and rooftop lounges with fabulous views in The Gulch! L.A. Jackson is one of the best rooftop bars serving craft cocktails I found!
And if you continue south of Gulch along the 8th Avenue South, you’ll find tons of antique shops, dining optins, and cocktail bars in the vibrant Melrose neighborhood!
Nashville’s 5-star luxury hotel with posh decor and the most beautiful bathrooms! Stay here for all the comfort you need, like an indoor pool, a gym, 2 restaurants, a bar, a fabulous breakfast, and a sun terrace!
Other Accommodation Options in The Gulch
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott
Excellent location in the Gulch, complimentary breakfast, and exceptional rooftop bar/lounge
This super modern hotel is a clean home-away-home with a good breakfast and a fitness center
A trendy apartment with a full kitchen, within walking distance from shops and bars
Things to do in The Gulch:
- Take a picture at the WhatLiftsYou Wings Mural
- Enjoy bluegrass music at The Station Inn
- Have the most delicious breakfast at Biscuit Love Gulch
- Go for a night out at Rudy’s Jazz Room
5. Belmont–Hillsboro – best for budget travelers
Situated east of Vanderbilt University and 3.6 miles from Downtown, Belmont–Hillsboro is a lively location within the city where you can find affordable accommodation.
One of the most popular attractions in this area is the Belmont Mansion (known as Acklen Hall) dating from the 1850s. It used to be Tennessee’s largest house!
Other spots of interest include the Belcourt Theater and the Pancake Pantry, with the most savory pancakes of ALL times (think sweet potato, pecans, hash browns, and more)!
12 South is a surrounding neighborhood of Hillsboro Village, and it’s a popular district for shopping and fine dining. 12 South is a super walkable area where you must try Edley’s Bar-B-Que, the most amazing BBQ place!
Belmont–Hillsboro is a popular area to stay in Nashville, but it’s mostly residential and lacks luxury hotels.
Other accommodation options in Belmont–Hillsboro
A 4-star hotel for a younger audience, perfect for a 1-night stay, within walking distance from the Belmont Mansion
A great place for 4 guests featuring private bathrooms and modern rooms at incredible prices
A historic loft with a special charm just a short walk from bars and restaurants
Things to do in Belmont–Hillsboro
- Visit the Belmont Mansion
- Go shopping at 12 South
- Catch a play in the Belcourt Theater
- Eat out at the Pancake Pantry (I love their hash browns!)
6. Music Row – where to stay for music lovers
Visiting Nashville for music? Look no further, Music Row is the perfect place to stay! This area connects Midtown to Downtown, and it’s a safe haven for music enthusiasts!
To get the most out of this area, I suggest going on a night tour with a knowledgeable guide who can explain the history and roots of Nashville music production.
The old brick houses in this modern neighborhood have been transformed into fantastic music studios, record label offices, and music publisher offices.
Staying in any of the areas like Music Row, Downtown, and SoBro (especially around Broadway Street’s neon lights) will help you understand why many people refer to Nashville as Nashvegas!
The most popular attractions here are the RCA Studio B, a legendary recording studio where Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded music.
Did you know that Elvis Presley recorded more than 200 songs at Nashville’s historic RCA Studio B?
Check out the Owen Bradley Park (map) with cute green spaces and a statue of piano, and the Musica Sculpture statue (map) that symbolizes Nashville’s musical heritage.
This 4-star hotel on Broadway Street has a convenient location in Music Row, close to Midtown and Church Street. Everywhere you go, you’re looking at fun places! The posh interior and the enormous meeting space make this hotel suitable for business travelers as well. Rooms here are cozy and have super comfortable bedding!
Other Accommodation Options in Music Row
An all-suite hotel offering free shuttles within a 2-mile radius to and from the hotel
A centrally-located 1-bedroom apartment featuring a fully-equipped kitchen
Historic Studio on Famous Music Row
A cozy place that used to host songwriters and musicians just next door to Warner Bros
Things to do in Music Row
- Visit the legendary RCA Studio B
- Take a picture of the Musica Sculpture (map)
- Take a night tour of the city that explores Music Row
- Walk along Broadway Street and soak in the atmosphere
7. East Nashville – the most popular part of Nashville
If you’re looking for a hip place to stay in Nashville, East Nashville is it!
The area is home to stylish vintage boutiques, talented local artists and musicians, and vendors of handcrafted goods. You can explore the eclectic Five Points area or catch a game at the Nissan Stadium!
Other notable attractions include the Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Nature Center with wooded trails, and the East Nashville Farmers’ Market. Absolutely make sure to pay a visit to Grand Ole Opry – a music venue and a testament to country music. I recommend visiting even if you are not a huge fan (I am not!), but you will get to learn a lot of interesting facts and even stand on the stage (if you take the tour)!
Did you know that Grand Ole Opry is the longest-running radio broadcast in the world? It debuted on November 28, 1925.
Beer lovers will enjoy this neighborhood for its beer gardens and some of the best burgers. Head to The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden for a combination of both, or explore Southern Grist Brewery for craft beer!
East Nashville is one of the best places to stay in Nashville, especially for visitors who want a calmer stay with easy access to country music and city vibes. And if you’re visiting during the summer heat, you can cool off at the Wave Country public swimming pool!
East Nashville has a local feel and, therefore, lacks luxury hotels. If you’re looking for a luxury stay, you’ll find plenty of options Downtown and around Midtown!
Near East Nashville, in the Music Valley, you’ll find the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, the iconic 4-star resort you can visit even if you don’t stay there as a guest!
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is the world’s largest non-gaming in-hotel exhibition space in the world!
It covers the areas of 700,000 ft2 of meeting space – that’s approximately 12(!!) football fields! You can also enjoy 15 on-site restaurants, an exhilarating SoundWaves water park, boat tours, 9 acres of gardens, a top-class spa, and so much more! All this is just 6.5 miles from East Nashville!
Other accommodation options in East Nashville
The most authentic accommodation in the area, with cozy and colorful guest rooms reflecting the city’s true spirit
Located in East Nashville a 3 star hotel with a swimming pool, free buffet-style breakfast and free parking
A private cottage nestled in the heart of the district, a short drive from Downtown
Things to do in East Nashville:
- Explore the Five Points area for creatives
- Stroll down the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway
- Visit the Grand Ole Opry in the Music Valley
- Catch a football game at the Nissan Stadium
8. West End – where to stay for a local experience
If you’re coming to Nashville on your second visit and have already seen most of the Downtown attractions, I recommend you stay in the West End district.
This area is still popular for nightlife due to the vicinity of Vanderbilt University, but it’s mostly a residential community with far fewer tourists!
Love Park in West End is a great hilltop place for a romantic picnic with views of the city. You can also easily walk to Centennial Park or Vanderbilt University. Both are some 10-12 minutes away on foot!
Many of the residents here don’t have cars since the area is very walkable. I’ve read so many reviews about this place, and everyone raves about how they love walking around the streets of the West End and how close everything is!
Note that you will need a car if you plan on visiting Downtown Nashville, as West End is almost 5 miles or a 12-minute ride away. Alternatively, you can also take Bus No. 3 to get to most attractions!
And 5 miles further west, you’ll find the legendary Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery you should visit for wine-tasting and romantic dates!
As this is a residential area, you’ll mostly find condos here, and there are no luxury hotels.
Other accommodation options in West End
A 3-star hotel near the Centennial Park, featuring a swimming pool and a gym on-site
A fantastic value for money if you’re coming with a large group (5+ people!)
This chic place has a fabulous location and the cutest interior, featuring 2 bedrooms with queen beds
Things to do in West End
- Spend the afternoon in the Love Park
- Taste the best cheese ravioli and butter cake at Maggiano’s Little Italy
- Visit the iconic Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery
| 👑 Luxury price: | $300 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | $200 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $150 |
| 📍 Best neighborhood: | Downtown |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Grand Hyatt Nashville |
| 🧳 Mid-range hotel: | Drury Plaza Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | TownePlace Suites |
BONUS: Best hotels near Nashville International Airport
Whether you have an early/late flight or a layover, you can always book a hotel near the airport for greater convenience.
Below is my pick for the best hotels near Nashville International Airport, sorted by budget.
This hotel is only 1.2 miles from Nashville International Airport and offers a free airport shuttle. It features a huge swimming pool, a bar, a great gym, and many other amenities to keep you busy.
Other Accommodation Options Near The Airport
A great hotel with free airport transfer, an indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center
Club Hotel Nashville Inn & Suites
One of the best cheap hotels close to the airport, offering complimentary breakfast and a wellness center
A cozy guest suite with a clean, modern feel in a quiet neighborhood
FAQs about where to stay in Nashville
📍 What is the best area to stay in Nashville?
🤠 Where to stay in Downtown Nashville?
Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown is the best luxury option. For a more affordable stay, I recommend TownePlace Suites!
💑 Where to stay in Nashville for couples?
Grand Hyatt Nashville is an excellent option for a luxury stay for couples! Staying anywhere in Downtown and around 12 South is ideal for romantic dinners and walks.
🎹 Where should I stay, Music Row or Downtown?
f you want to visit recording studios and learn more about country music, I recommend Music Row. If you prefer a touristy area with activities for all interests, choose Downtown!
🍻 Where should I stay in Nashville to walk to bars?
Moxy Nashville is the perfect hotel for young adults coming to town for nightlife and bars! Honky Tonk Highway in Lower Downtown is a street full of bars and live music from 10 pm to 3 am, and Moxy Nashville is just next to it.
✈️ What is the best month to go to Nashville?
The best time to visit Nashville is from April through October, when the warm weather brings this music city to life. 2 or 3 days are enough to explore all the tourist attractions.
🚗 Do I need a car in Nashville?
Possibly! The best way to get around Nashville is to rent a car. Even though they have public transportation, the neighborhoods and attractions are too spread out.
🚶♀️Where to stay in Nashville without a car?
Downtown is the best place to stay without a car since you’ll be close to all the action and have easy access to public transportation.
🎉 Where to stay in Nashville for a weekend?
The best place to stay in Nashville for a weekend is Downtown Nashville, with its vibrant music scene, historic sites, and proximity to popular attractions and restaurants.
🪩 Where is the best area to stay in Nashville for a bachelor/bachelorette party?
Downtown is an excellent area for bachelor parties! You’ll be close to the best hotels, bars, music venues, and restaurants!
Conclusion
I hope that my guide on where to stay in Nashville with the best areas helped you plan your upcoming trip!
Whether you are exploring the city with friends or your significant other, I covered all the top-notch hotels sorted by budget!
In case you still haven’t decided on the hotel, these are my top picks:
- Grand Hyatt Nashville – this is where to stay on Broadway Street in Nashville for the ultimate luxury
- Drury Plaza Hotel – one of the best hotels near Bridgestone Arena, a perfect base to explore the best of Nashville attractions and nightlife
So, dear reader, I did my part of the planning. Now it’s your turn to book your place as soon as possible!
You can ask me anything related to your stay in Nashville in the comments below. I promise I’ll be quick to answer!
Have fun visiting Nashville!
Yulia
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