Hotel Contessa

Howdy, Texas travelers! When you're planning a visit to the historic and vibrant city of San Antonio, finding the perfect place to stay can truly shape your experience. For many, a hotel right on the famed Riverwalk is a must, offering immediate access to the city's unique charm, dining, and entertainment. That's where Hotel Contessa comes in – a distinguished all-suite, AAA 4-Diamond hotel that aims to provide a luxurious and convenient stay in the heart of downtown. It's a popular choice for those looking for a sophisticated home base to explore everything San Antonio has to offer.

San Antonio is a beloved destination for Texans and visitors alike, known for its rich history, the iconic Alamo, the bustling Riverwalk, and a distinctive cultural flair. Whether you're coming for a romantic escape, a family vacation, a business conference, or simply a fun weekend exploring our state's heritage, you want a hotel that delivers comfort, accessibility, and a touch of genuine Texas hospitality. Hotel Contessa strives to offer just that, with its inviting lobby, spacious suites, and prime location.

As the only all-suite AAA 4-Diamond hotel directly on the Riverwalk, Hotel Contessa sets itself apart. It boasts newly renovated rooms and a beautiful common area that opens directly to the river, creating an immersive experience. While some past guest experiences have highlighted occasional issues with room cleanliness or noise, the overall sentiment points to an unbeatable location and friendly staff. It's important for any traveler to have a clear picture of what to expect, and this article aims to provide a factual and engaging overview of Hotel Contessa, helping you decide if it's the ideal spot for your next San Antonio adventure.

Hotel Contessa is superbly located at 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA, placing it directly on the banks of the world-famous San Antonio Riverwalk. This prime position is arguably one of its most significant advantages, offering unparalleled access to the city's key attractions.

Guests can step right out of the hotel's lobby area and onto the picturesque Riverwalk, immersing themselves immediately in the vibrant atmosphere. This direct access means you're just a short stroll from countless restaurants, unique shops, and entertainment venues that line the river. Exploring the city on foot from Hotel Contessa is incredibly easy and convenient.

Beyond the Riverwalk, the hotel's central downtown location ensures quick access to other major landmarks. The historic Alamo is within comfortable walking distance (approximately 0.5 miles or a 10-minute walk), allowing guests to easily visit this iconic symbol of Texas independence. The Henry B. González Convention Center is also very close, typically within a 5-minute walk, making Hotel Contessa an excellent choice for business travelers attending events. Other nearby attractions include the Shops at Rivercenter, Aztec Theatre, and various museums, all reachable on foot or via a short ride.

For those traveling by car, Hotel Contessa offers valet parking services. While there is a charge for this (currently around $53 per night plus tax, with in-and-out privileges), it's a valuable convenience in a bustling downtown area where self-parking can be challenging to find and expensive. Please note that the parking garage clearance does not allow for oversized vehicles, duallies, toppers, or trailers. For arrivals from outside San Antonio, the hotel is approximately 9 miles from San Antonio International Airport (SAT), making for a relatively quick taxi, rideshare, or shuttle service. The excellent location minimizes travel time and maximizes your ability to enjoy all that downtown San Antonio has to offer.

Hotel Contessa aims to provide a luxurious and comprehensive experience through a range of upscale services and amenities designed for guest comfort and convenience. Here's what you can expect:

• Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails: The hotel's on-site restaurant and bar offers a culinary tribute to Texas, featuring American cuisine with creative plates and craft cocktails. It serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and happy hour, with options for alfresco dining right on the Riverwalk. A full breakfast is typically served for a fee, though some packages may include it.
• The Spa at Hotel Contessa: A full-service spa provides a complete menu of luxurious treatments, including various massages (couples, hot stone, sports), facials (Hydrafacials, collagen infusion), and body treatments (polishes, scrubs). Weekend yoga is also offered.
• Rooftop Pool: A heated outdoor rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city skyline. It's open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM and features free pool cabanas and sun loungers, creating a relaxing urban oasis.
• 24-Hour Fitness Center: A well-equipped fitness facility is available around the clock for guests to maintain their workout routines.
• Valet Parking: Convenient valet parking is offered on-site for a fee ($53 per night plus tax, with in-and-out privileges). Day parking is also available for a separate fee.
• 24-Hour Business Center: Equipped with computers, this facility supports guests with business needs, including complimentary airline ticket printing.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Wireless internet access is provided in all guest rooms and public areas, ensuring guests can stay connected.
• 24-Hour Front Desk & Concierge Services: A round-the-clock front desk and a dedicated concierge desk (including Les Clefs d'Or concierges) offer personalized assistance with local recommendations, reservations, and other guest inquiries.
• In-Room Dining: Room service is available for guests who prefer to dine in the comfort of their suite.
• Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Hotel Contessa welcomes two dogs up to 40 lbs in designated rooms for an additional fee ($125 per pet, per stay). Welcome treats are provided, and there is a pet relief area behind the hotel. Service animals are exempt from fees. Note: No cats are allowed.
• Meeting and Event Space: Over 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including 11 meeting rooms and a ballroom, many with downtown or Riverwalk views. Event catering is also available.
• Luxury Suite Amenities: All 265 suites feature separate bedrooms and living areas, newly renovated interiors with new pillow-top mattresses, couches, carpet, paint, and light fixtures. Amenities include 37-inch LCD TVs, refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, laptop-compatible safes, and designer toiletries in spacious bathrooms.
• Guest Services: Additional services include express check-in/check-out, luggage storage, dry cleaning/laundry services, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby.

This comprehensive array of services positions Hotel Contessa as a full-service luxury option for a memorable stay in San Antonio.

Hotel Contessa boasts several compelling features and highlights that draw guests to its distinguished Riverwalk location, despite some noted inconsistencies in past guest experiences:

• All-Suite AAA 4-Diamond Hotel: As San Antonio's only all-suite, AAA 4-Diamond hotel on the Riverwalk, Hotel Contessa offers spacious accommodations that are significantly larger than standard hotel rooms. Each suite includes a separate bedroom and living area, providing more comfort and privacy, which is ideal for both leisure and business travelers. This unique distinction underscores its commitment to a higher standard of luxury.
• Prime Riverwalk Location with Direct Access: The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as "excellent" and "hard to beat." Its direct exit to the Riverwalk allows guests immediate access to the vibrant array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options along the iconic waterway. This unparalleled convenience means the city's heart is literally at your doorstep.
• Beautiful Lobby and Restaurant Area: The "very nice lobby/restaurant area" creates an inviting first impression. The design and ambiance of these public spaces are clearly appealing, offering a stylish environment for guests to relax or socialize.
• Recently Renovated Suites: The hotel has undergone recent renovations to its guest rooms, which now "exude a modern, bright, and spacious atmosphere." These updates include new pillow-top mattresses, couches, carpet, paint, and light fixtures, aiming to provide a fresh and luxurious retreat.
• Rooftop Pool with Panoramic Views: The heated rooftop pool offers a spectacular vantage point with "panoramic views of the city." It's a popular amenity for relaxation, providing a refreshing escape with a beautiful backdrop. The availability of free cabanas adds to the resort-like feel.
• Full-Service Spa: The Spa at Hotel Contessa provides a comprehensive menu of luxurious treatments, offering guests a dedicated space for relaxation and rejuvenation without having to leave the hotel premises.
• Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails: The on-site restaurant and bar is a key feature, offering a "culinary tribute to Texas" with its unique blend of flavors and riverfront dining options. It provides a convenient and high-quality dining experience.
• Friendly Staff: Despite some specific room-related concerns in reviews, the staff are generally described as "friendly," suggesting a welcoming and service-oriented approach from the team.

While acknowledging that some guests have experienced minor issues with room cleanliness or noise, the overarching strengths of Hotel Contessa lie in its spacious, renovated suites, unparalleled Riverwalk location, and luxurious amenities, making it a compelling choice for a premium San Antonio experience.

Hotel Contessa, as an independent luxury property, frequently offers a variety of promotions and packages designed to enhance your stay and provide added value. These offers often cater to different types of travelers, from locals seeking a staycation to those planning a romantic getaway or a family adventure. While specific deals change, here are common types of promotions you might find:

• Texas Resident Summer Package: A popular offer tailored specifically for Texans! This often includes significant savings (e.g., up to 25% off room rates), a daily hotel credit (e.g., $25), the waiving of the amenity fee, and sometimes a "summer swag bag." A valid Texas ID is required at check-in.
• Sabor Staycation Package: Designed for an ultimate summer reset, this package often features a luxury suite, discounted spa treatments (massage or facial), a percentage off spa retail, local perks, and a refreshing welcome drink upon check-in.
• Pride & Stay Package: Offered during Pride Month (e.g., June), this package typically includes a luxury suite, valet parking, and a daily hotel credit to be used throughout the hotel, including for themed cocktails at Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails.
• Riverboat Package: This immersive offer allows guests to "cruise, dine, and unwind in style." It usually includes daily breakfast at Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails and one River Boat ticket per adult per stay, providing a classic San Antonio experience.
• Teacher + Nurses Appreciation Summer Package: Honoring community heroes, this promotion offers exclusive savings on room rates and often a percentage off spa retail, requiring a valid ID at check-in.
• Bed and Breakfast Package: A straightforward and popular option that includes a delicious daily breakfast at Ambler Texas Kitchen, usually featuring one entrée and a non-alcoholic drink per person.
• Romance Getaway: Perfect for couples, this package often includes amenities like chocolate truffles, sparkling wine, and breakfast for two, setting the scene for a special occasion or spontaneous escape.
• Park & Stay Package: This convenient offer bundles overnight valet parking with unlimited in-and-out access, making it a stress-free option for those driving downtown.
• Advance Purchase Rates: Booking your stay a certain number of days in advance can often secure lower, non-refundable rates.
• Spa-Specific Offers: Beyond general packages, the Spa at Hotel Contessa may have its own seasonal specials on treatments or products.

For the most current and specific promotions, it is always recommended to visit the official Hotel Contessa website (thehotelcontessa.com) and navigate to their "Deals | Offers" section, or contact the hotel directly using the provided contact information. Booking direct often ensures access to these exclusive offers.

• Address: 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA
• Phone: (210) 229-9222
• Mobile Phone: +1 210-229-9222
• Toll Free: (877) 850-8033
• Email: contact@thehotelcontessa.com

For reservations, inquiries about current promotions, or any specific requests regarding your stay, please feel free to contact Hotel Contessa directly. Their friendly staff will be ready to assist you.

For Texans looking for an elevated experience right in the heart of San Antonio, Hotel Contessa offers a highly suitable and often luxurious option, particularly for those who value location, space, and upscale amenities.

Its unparalleled location directly on the San Antonio Riverwalk is a significant draw for locals planning a "staycation" or a special city escape. You can easily stroll out of the hotel and immediately immerse yourself in the vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural experiences the Riverwalk is famous for, without the need for extensive travel or parking hassles once you arrive (beyond the valet service). For Texans from other parts of the state, this direct access to San Antonio's crown jewel is a major convenience.

The fact that Hotel Contessa is an all-suite property is another key advantage. Texans often appreciate spacious accommodations, and these newly renovated suites, with separate living and sleeping areas, provide ample room to relax and unwind. This is especially beneficial for families or for those on a romantic getaway seeking extra comfort and privacy.

Furthermore, the hotel's on-site amenities like the rooftop pool with city views, the full-service spa, and Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails offer a complete luxury experience within one property. Whether you're looking for a relaxing spa day, a refreshing dip with a panoramic backdrop, or a delicious Texas-inspired meal, it's all right there. The availability of specific "Texas Resident" packages also highlights the hotel's commitment to welcoming its local clientele with tailored offers.

While past reviews have sometimes pointed to minor issues with room cleanliness or noise, these are often considered "simple oversights" in light of the hotel's prime location and overall luxurious offerings. For Texans seeking a sophisticated, centrally located, and amenity-rich experience on their next San Antonio visit, Hotel Contessa remains a compelling choice for a memorable and comfortable stay.