Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row by IHG

The location is hard to beat, right on Cannery Row in the middle of everything, and parking felt easy and secure. I was impressed by the value at Holiday Inn Express on Cannery Row in Monterey. The rooms were spotless, spacious, and had great amenities. Staff were friendly, laid-back, and quick to help. As an early riser, I appreciated having fresh coffee available around the clock and a comfortable lobby with a TV where I could relax. The complimentary breakfast was another nice perk. I'd happily recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Monterey.

I wouldn't stay here again. The place is loud, with paper-thin walls that let you hear every conversation and footstep, and the rooms smell bad. We had to leave our door open for the first half hour after arriving, and people two doors down were doing the same. Getting around with luggage was a pain. The parking spaces are tight, and there's no elevator in the garage, so you have to walk where cars are driving up and down. Then there's a small elevator to your floor, followed by one set of stairs and then more stairs. It's a maze.

The rooms are spacious and clean, and the location was just right. Free parking is a nice bonus. I'd read complaints about breakfast, but for a budget hotel I thought it was fine, and the price made the stay feel like good value. Our room faced the road and got a little noisy at night, though it didn't disturb my sleep. Most of the staff were helpful and nice. The only letdown was the girl who checked us in, who wasn't very welcoming. I'd stay again.

If, like me, you care about a good location and leaving the car parked, this is a strong choice. You can walk to the Aquarium, Cannery Row, and the waterfront, and some rooms have a slight bay view. Free on-site parking is a real plus, and reasonable hotel prices around here are hard to find. The courtyard outside is lovely for reading or relaxing. Breakfast is the standard Holiday Inn Express spread: egg omelets, sausage, biscuits, pancakes, cereal, fruit, yogurt, and more. Most rooms involve stairs, so if stairs are difficult for you, call ahead and check about a room you can reach without them. I highly recommend this place.