It’s hard to get any closer to the action than the Millennium Bostonian, which sits at the edge of Quincy Market. A full renovation, completed in fall 2008, brings a much-needed touch of modern comfort to the formerly uninspiring interior spaces; guest rooms are getting decked out with Frette linens, pillowtop mattresses and flat-screen TVs. During the summer, book a room with a private balcony; in winter months, the rooms with fireplaces are cozy (especially on a cold Boston night).

Millennium Bostonian Hotel Amenities:

• 201 rooms. High-speed Internet access. Restaurant, bar.