The best hotels in New York City capture a sense of bygone elegance while offering thoroughly modern hospitality.

Whether you’re enjoying ice cream cones from Mister Softee in the summer or snagging selfies in front of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in the winter, the streets are always bustling with excitement in the city that never sleeps. Looming high above it all, though, the best hotels in New York City are a welcome respite. Once you’ve visited, eaten, and shopped your way around town, returning to any of these guest rooms is a great way to recharge for another day in the Big Apple.

1. The Lowell

Tucked in among the sleepy side streets of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the Lowell Hotel is a perfect balance of subtlety and luxury. From the brick facade that blends into the neighborhood to the intimate lobby and bar, everything about this space feels special. “There may not be bargains at this hotel, but it’s worth every penny,” said one reader. The interiors also feel carefully curated, courtesy of designer Michael S. Smith, who was also tapped to design the Obama White House.

Score: 98.80

2. The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

Score: 95.27

3. The William Vale

Score: 95.14

4. The Mark

Score: 95.04

5. The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

Score: 94.89

6. Public

Score: 94.31

7. Baccarat Hotel New York

Score: 93.03

8. The St. Regis New York

Score: 92.79

9. The Kimberly Hotel

Score: 91.90

10. The Plaza

Score: 91.73

11. The Standard, East Village

Score: 91.33

12. Park Hyatt New York

Score: 91.17

13. Sofitel New York

Score: 90.89

14. Lotte New York Palace

Score: 90.87

15. The Pierre, New York, a Taj Hotel

Score: 90.29