The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel

4-star hotel Excellent 701 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, 78701
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel

About The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel

Discover the perfect blend of Austin's storied charm and modern elegance at the award-winning, AAA Four-Diamond rated Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel. Nestled in the heart of downtown, our historic hotel offers unmatched proximity to Austin's top attractions, including the iconic Paramount Theater, just steps away. Explore the vibrant energy of Sixth Street and Rainey Street or visit the Texas Capitol and The University of Texas nearby. Unwind in our beautifully appointed rooms and suites where Texas hospitality shines. Savor elevated dining experiences and enjoy a drink at Stephen F's Bar & Terrace—the only outdoor terrace on Congress Avenue. Stay active in our state-of-the-art fitness center, featuring Peloton bikes, or host a memorable meeting or wedding in our 6,000 square feet of event space, accommodating up to 400 guests. Long Live the Guest at the Royal Sonesta.

Amenities

  • On-site parking
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Meeting space
  • Fitness center
  • On-site dining
  • Valet parking
  • Bar / lounge
  • Café / coffee shop
  • Breakfast available
  • Business center
  • Express check-in / check-out
  • Concierge
  • Dry cleaning
  • Self-service laundry
  • Luggage storage
  • Multilingual staff
  • Full kitchen / kitchenette
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Pool
  • Spa / sauna
  • Pet friendly
  • Family friendly
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transit access

Reviews

4.7 / 5
Excellent 1306 reviews

Guests generally have a positive experience at this hotel, appreciating its central location and friendly staff. However, there are some recurring issues with room cleanliness and maintenance, as well as concerns about hidden fees and poor communication.

What guests liked
  • Central location
  • Friendly and helpful staff
What could be better
  • Room cleanliness and maintenance issues
  • Hidden fees and poor communication
  • Mollie Nov 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Great service, extremely comfortable bed, really enjoyed our stay.

  • Jessica Nov 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    It's an older hotel in a good location. It's an average hotel. Nothing was bad but nothing stood out to make it something to remember. Would I stay again? Maybe if the price was right.

  • James Nov 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    This location was Amazing walking distance to everything cool in downtown Austin

  • Adam Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location and the property is beautiful

  • James Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Staff was very helpful!

  • Matthew Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location

  • Leonard Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    nothing

  • Joana Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Really nice and wonderful staff that were patient and able to help me out.

  • Pamila Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    You won't find a better experience in downtown Austin for location, amenities, staff, and food and beverage choices!

  • Anthony Oct 2026 · via hotels.com
    2/5

    I booked a room advertised as having two double beds, but upon check-in, we were given a room with one king bed. We went downstairs assuming there had been a mistake, only to be told that this was the correct room and that the sofa pulled out into a bed. This was not what was advertised in the reservation description or photos. The sleeping arrangements were uncomfortable, and we slept poorly all three nights. Very disappointing experience, and we will not be returning.

  • Richard Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Convenient to everything

  • Adel Oct 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Quiet room. Comfortable bed. Towel and shower quality subpar for the price.

  • KimBERLY Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Staff very friendly and room was very clean and well maintained.

  • Madhureeta Oct 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Rooms are surprisingly large for an older building, and clean, but a bit dated. Bed was good+. Front desk staff was very good, and valet service perhaps the best I've experienced - very efficient, helpful, pleasant and thoughtful. Bar was nice, but whiskey and beer focused; few cocktail options. Selection was good+, but knowledge about those selections could improve.

  • Weizhen Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Good

  • James Oct 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Convenient location. Nice bar on the second floor.

  • David Oct 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    Hotel is beautiful and historic. A bit dated…my room could’ve used a makeover. It was tiny with very little counter space, peeling finish on tub, well-worn and dated fixtures. However, it was very clean with a comfy bed. Cafe Fuller was disappointing. $25 buffet and no bloody mary’s or mimosas (or any alcohol options). The bar upstairs has only a charcuterie option and doesn’t allow outside food to be delivered. The hotel comes off a bit stodgy and dated and needs to compete better in these areas. Every staff member I dealt with was extremely friendly, helpful and professional. Front desk, valet, housekeeping…all top notch! Had a pleasant, safe stay here.

  • Jacqueline Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Terrific location! Beautiful room! Loved the open-air terrace outside of the bar - great for drinks and people-watching!

  • Joana Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Really helpful and nice staff!

  • Reed Oct 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Ok

  • Mario Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    in particular the receptionist very kind with us was a 5 start treat

  • Mary Oct 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    No

  • Barrett Oct 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Best staff i have experienced. Highly recommend.

  • Chad Oct 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    The staff was incredibly helpful and very nice. The rooms are a little dated but that's the charm and the history of the building. It was such a convenient location, easy to get around. Highly recommend

  • Martin Sep 2026 · via booking
    4/5

    Clean and great location, exceptionally comfortable bed! We definitely stay there again Decor a little tired

  • Mary Sep 2026 · via priceline
    3.5/5

    Location No housekeeping

  • Carlene Sep 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    Location, location, location is everything when traveling and they have the best here! No complaints it was perfect.

  • Carlene Sep 2026 · via booking
    5/5

    Location, location, location is everything when traveling and they have the best here! No complaints it was perfect.

  • Mary Sep 2026 · via booking
    3.5/5

    Location No housekeeping

  • Mary Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Came to ATX for a busy weekend and this hotel was a perfect vibe in a perfect location! Located close to everything, I simply parked my car and had no further need of it during my stay! Big, luxurious room, impeccably clean, and a wonderful bed. Enjoyed the retro decor and cocktails on the patio overlooking Congress Ave. the staff were polite and professional and shared many local recommendations. Would definitely stay here again!

  • Laurie Sep 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Great location. Wonderful balcony facing the Capitol.

  • Theresa Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    This is our second stay in a month. This hotel is well located and appointed. The restaurant is great. I received a note with our Expedia VIP extras and was upgraded to a suite. I’ve had the VIP amenities at other hotels disregarded and I appreciate that this hotel actually honors them.

  • Michael Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Nice place downtown

  • Matthew Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great Place, great location

  • Susan Sep 2026 · via booking
    5/5

    Everyone was helpful and friendly.

  • Melissa Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Staff was incredibly welcoming and helpful throughout our stay. Great location.

  • Bonnie Sep 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    the location, the front desk, the doormen, & the beds were wonderful! There was apparently a mixup & our room was not serviced by housekeeping our 2nd day.

  • Bonnie Sep 2026 · via booking
    5/5

    the location, the front desk, the doormen, & the beds were wonderful! There was apparently a mixup & our room was not serviced by housekeeping our 2nd day.

  • Deidre Sep 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    No

  • Rhonda Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    All the staff were friendly and helpful. Wonderful check in experience!

  • Barb Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location! Very upscale property with excellent staff.

  • Katie Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The staff is very friendly, and the rooms are beautiful

  • Robert Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location and the staff was really helpful and friendly.

  • Steven Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Thanks!

  • Peter Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location to downtown Austin restaurants and bars.

  • Britt Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The staff is always very polite and helpful.

  • MICHA Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Super friendly staff. Hotel is very charming. Room and bed were comfortable.

  • Shantel Sep 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    The valet guys were great. Quick friendly and helpful. There was one young girl at the check in desk who seemed clueless. We had an issue with a security guy named Chris. He was harassing us about getting a coffee from the downstairs restaurant and bringing it up to join our group in the bar area after we asked the bartender if coffee was available there. He was rude and unprofessional and made it out like we were doing some illegal activity. Front desk was notified. Overall happy with the hotel and the location.

  • Kleimer Sep 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Everything was outstanding, great attitude and very clean

  • George Sep 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Love this place stayed a couple of time booking again today

  • Richard Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Close proximity to things.

  • KELLY Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Excellent stay

  • GARY Aug 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Very well located in downtown Austin. Only gripe would be lack of onsite parking, you’re dependent on expensive garage or valet parking nearby or first-come first-served onstreet public parking. But other than that it’s a great place to use as a base for exploring Austin.

  • Austin Aug 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Clean and opulent room. The place has serious character. The staff made us feel extra special. When I got back to Austin, I will stay here again without a doubt.

  • darcy Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The property was beautiful and in a great location. The only complaint i have is that the cost for the valet was more than expected as there were some fees that were not explicitly explained. Other than that, it was a great experience!

  • Bridget Aug 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    I loved my stay at this hotel. Staff and valet were very friendly and helpful until the last day, when the bellman forgot to get my stuff so I waited almost an hour for help that never came. It was the only time I was disappointed with them and it’s unfortunate that was the last thing that happened since everything else was wonderful

  • Elad Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Beautiful hotel, everything super stylish and well maintained. The staff was super welcoming. Totally recommended very well located my number one go to in Austin, Texas.

  • Lisa Aug 2026 · via expedia
    3/5

    The hotel is in a good location. Nice bar and restaurant. Rooms are small and the bathroom is tiny and outdated.

  • Anonymous Aug 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    Beautiful hotel, perfect location

  • Stephen Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    This is a very well run hotel. The room was very nice and the furnishings were perfect for a historic hotel. It is a beautiful property in a great location.

  • Joseph Aug 2026 · via priceline
    4.5/5

    Construction nearby

  • Amanda Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Love the Boutique vibes! We usually stay at more corporate establishments, but we really enjoyed the quirky touches on the shampoo, lotion bottles, etc. Wish the bathroom had more than just a Pedestal sink however. We needed more space to lay things out a bit. But for just the overnight stay we were there for, it was perfectly fine, and we enjoyed our stay immensely. Would definitely recommend giving this hotel a try, and we will be back again soon.

  • Tim Aug 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    .

  • Martha Aug 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    We really enjoyed our stay! The room was beautiful and clean. Loved the location and the convenience of restaurants and nightlife in walking distance. Will definitely come back. Staff were friendly and very helpful.

  • brenda Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Excellent stay. Great location, outstanding staff. We will definitely stay here again!

  • Ginny Aug 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    The Stephen F Austin is my favorite hotel...anywhere...its the ambience, the staff, the convenience...its the whole package!

  • Ginny Aug 2026 · via booking
    5/5

    The Stephen F Austin is my favorite hotel...anywhere...its the ambience, the staff, the convenience...its the whole package!

  • Veronica Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location and great staff!

  • Vicki Aug 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    A bit older Hotel but ok for downtown Austin

  • Yessica Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Very pleasant stay, staff was freindly and helpful.

  • Francisco Aug 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Place was amazing all together, staff was great place is clean

  • Kirstin Aug 2026 · via booking
    5/5

    I loved the size of the bed and the view from the room! Also the keycards have cute animal pictures on them! I didn’t like the parking situation

  • Kirstin Aug 2026 · via priceline
    5/5

    I loved the size of the bed and the view from the room! Also the keycards have cute animal pictures on them! I didn’t like the parking situation

  • Velve Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    All the staff at the property was very friendly and unique.

  • Christian Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Awesome stay

  • Amy Aug 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Friendly staff, nice amenities, exceptional valet parking staff, nice room. We enjoyed our 2- night stay!

  • Mike Aug 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Great location & everyone is super nice and helpful!

  • Anonymous Aug 2026 · via priceline
    4.5/5

    The beds are great !

  • Claudine Aug 2026 · via booking
    4/5

    Location, location, location . Great value and very comfortable. Doorman seldom opened door for me. Breakfast area unappealing

  • Claudine Aug 2026 · via priceline
    4/5

    Location, location, location . Great value and very comfortable. Doorman seldom opened door for me. Breakfast area unappealing

  • Ever Aug 2026 · via priceline
    2.5/5

    Pool is too small

  • Joyce Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    This is a lovely and historic property. Great central location in the downtown area, near the famous Driskill hotel and other famous buildings. The staff were friendly and helpful. I enjoyed breakfast at the cafe in the morning and had a lovely lunch at the adjoining restaurant, The Roaring Fork.

  • Jimmy Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Enjoyed my stay

  • Kara Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Amazing staff. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Great location for day and night.

  • Zahira Aug 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    .

  • David Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Cleanliness

  • Nora Jul 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Excellent all aspects. We enjoyed the distance to everything. Perfect!

  • Anna Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The staff were very friendly, and the hotel was clean and comfortable. Thank you for a pleasant stay!

  • Sarah Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Beautiful property with easy access to downtown. Staff was incredible!

  • Janice Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The staff was fantastic and we loved our room. Perfect location downtown to walk to everything.

  • mathieu Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Beautiful and clean property, will be back.

  • Michael Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great restaurant and pub. Great central location in downtown Austin.

  • Kristi Jul 2026 · via hotels.com
    2/5

    We had such high hopes after seeing the beautiful pics of hotel and the room with 2 double beds. Sadly, our room was nothing like it promised in the advertisement. The AC in our room never worked snd it wasn’t until I called down to the front desk well after midnight…maybe 2:30 am, that I was asked if we finally wanted to change rooms? That was just one of the negatives we experienced. The lack of sleep in the hot and humid room left us irritable and exhausted. We both left the hotel feeling incredibly disappointed and let down. But, as a single mom that gets very few moments like this with her 23 year old son, I left utterly heartbroken. Being on a teacher’s salary, trips like these with my son are extremely rare. I just wanted our mother/son road trip to Austin to the best for him, and a nice and comfortable hotel stay plays an integral of any trip you take..no matter who you are. I truly wanted to love the Sonesta…but I’m truly feeling like I let Zach down.

  • eric Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Friendly and funky and unique. And it’s a 10-15 minute walk to downtown and the plaza.

  • Stirling Jul 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Outstanding hotel situated exactly where one needs to be when visiting Austin

  • Jeremy Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Amazing

  • Allison Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great staff was awesome

  • Christopher Jul 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Nice building in a very convenient area. All staff were very pleasant and helpful. It is an older building but is overall well maintained. However, there was an issue with the hanging of our bathroom door, which was obviously known about due to the stripped screw heads on the upper hinge from an apparent failed repair job, which made closing the door difficult and loud to close. Nevertheless, we would not hesitate to stay again.

  • Ahuva Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    We really enjoyed our stay. A beautiful room and lovely bar upstairs in the hotel. Great location and friendly staff.

  • Diane Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Absolutely love this romantic old hotel. Right within the heart of so much austin has to offer. Splendid!

  • Hemant Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    I had a great stay. Myneka welcomed me at check in. She was very helpful. Not only she gave me the room I preferred but also was helpful in locating convenient restaurants late in the evening to order food from. She went out of the way to help out. I have not come across this kind of hospitality before and I am a frequent traveler. Thank you Myneka. Also, the rest of the hotel facility and staff is very good. Location is very convenient. Room prices are very reasonable. I will book this hotel every time I am in Austin.

  • Kimberly Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    beautiful hotel, perfect location & extremely friendly staff!

  • Peter Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Staff was very helpful and friendly. Room was clean and serviced each day.

  • Kathleen Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    I was able to check in early and check out late. Very close to walkable attractions.

  • Miguel Jul 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Our favorite hotel in downtown Austin.

  • Dylan Jul 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Great location and easy in/out parking access.

  • Lauren Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Lovely hotel!

  • Deana Jun 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    The location was wonderful for walking around downtown Austin. The staff were super friendly and helpful during our stay. The room had nice ambiance and amenities.

  • Angel Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Awesome location! Very cozy room.

  • Roland Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Perfect location, great hotel with a nice atmosphere.

  • Alejandra Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    The bar is very enjoyable. Valet parking expensive but very convenient

  • David Jun 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    O

  • Devlin Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Hot tub and pool were a welcome delight and my wife and I had it all to ourselves both times we went

  • Layton Jun 2026 · via expedia
    5/5

    Staff is wonderful and helpful. Enjoyed our stay very much and would definitely return and recommend to others.

  • Keith Jun 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    You can park a block away for a lot cheaper. The location is superb.

  • Michael Jun 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    A wonderful place to stay in the heart of downtown Austin. Nice quiet room. Impeccably clean. Super staff.

  • Joel Jun 2026 · via expedia
    4/5

    Located within walking distance of 6th street.

  • Lesa Jun 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    This is an elegant hotel. Comfortable beds with all amenities! The staff is amazing and property is well kept. Stayed for business but will definitely stay here again for any occasion.

  • Priscilla Jun 2026 · via hotels.com
    4/5

    I planned a quick getaway to Austin for the weekend. I enjoyed that the hotel was in downtown walking distance for the night life. In addition, it was easy to get to Barton Springs Pool.

  • David Jun 2026 · via hotels.com
    5/5

    Loved staying at this hotel and love how they have preserved such a historic location.

Frequently asked questions about The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel

Does The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel have free Wi-Fi?
Yes, The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel offers free Wi-Fi for all guests.
Does The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel offer parking?
Yes, The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel offers both self-parking and valet parking. Fees may apply.
Does The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel have meeting spaces, conference centers, or conference rooms?
Yes. The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel features meeting spaces and dedicated conference rooms, suitable for corporate meetings and group gatherings. Banquet and reception facilities are also available.
Does The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel have a fitness center?
Yes, The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel features an on-site fitness center for guests. Additional wellness amenities include spa, pool.
Where is The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel located, and how walkable is the area?
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel is located at 701 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701. With a Walk Score of 98, the area is rated Walker's Paradise. Most daily errands can be done on foot — ideal for travelers without a car.

House rules

Check in 4:00 PM
Check out 11:00 AM
Cancellation Not available
Children Not available