Here’s a quick guide to the best places to stay in Nashville, especially if you’re visiting for the first time or on a budget.
You don’t need to spend $500 for a great hotel stay in Music City.
Before my recent trip to Nashville I spent hours combing through reviews looking for cheap places to stay that were still nice.
I settled on the Element Nashville Vanderbilt in the West End and really enjoyed my stay, but based on my research, any of these other affordable hotels would be a great choice.
These hotels are top-rated, affordable and perfect for friends, couples or groups (like bachelorette parties).
At the end there’s also a summary of the best neighborhoods and areas to stay in Nashville.
Here’s where we recommend staying in Nashville on a budget (especially if it’s your first time visiting).
This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!
Where to Stay in Nashville on a Budget
Embassy Suites Vanderbilt
- Free shuttle for hotel guests to and from downtown (Broadway)
- Evening reception from 5 to 6:30 includes complimentary drinks
- Hot breakfast included
- Sauna & hot tub
- Across from Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (a must try)!
Element Nashville Vanderbilt West End
- $8 Uber ride to Broadway and downtown attractions
- Only a few years old, all rooms are modern
- Spacious rooms that can sleep 6-8
- Several suites with full kitchens so you can make meals, snacks and drinks (perfect for groups)
- Free hot breakfast
- 24/7 gym
- Pool and outdoor lounge space
The Drury Inn & Suites Nashville Airport
- Great budget hotel
- Good option if you need to stay close to airport, or have a vehicle and plan to do some day trips or sightseeing
- Free parking
- Hot breakfast every morning
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- Free popcorn & soda in lobby
- Nightly reception with snacks, hors d’oeuvres and 3 complimentary alcoholic drinks per person (there’s enough food this could basically be dinner)
Bode Nashville
- One of the cheapest hotels in downtown Nashville, steps from attractions, restaurants and Broadway
- 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom suites make it a great option for traveling with a group
- Modern vintage aesthetic
- Onsite cafe (Dawn) and cocktail bar (Sidebar)
- Outdoor courtyard (complete with fire pits)
Comfort Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown – Stadium
- 1 mile walk across the lovely pedestrian bridge to downtown (free shuttle too)
- Free parking
- Right across from Nissan Stadium – just steps away if you’re going to go to a football game or a concert here
- Guitar shaped pool
- Free hot breakfast
- Easy access to East Nashville (trendy neighborhood)
Best Western Plus Music Row
- Great breakfast including an omelet station
- 20 minute walk to downtown
- Guest reviews consistently report this is one of the cleanest hotels in Nashville
- Outdoor pool
- One of the cheapest hotels on this list!
Hutton Hotel
- Convenient location close to downtown without being in the midst of noise & crowds
- Free welcome drinks
- In room record players with a selection of vinyl
- Access to guitars to jam on
- 24/7 fitness center with Peloton bikes
- Pet friendly
Club-Hotel Nashville
- 10 minute drive to downtown
- Welcome drinks upon check in
- Significantly cheaper than most hotels
- Hot breakfast buffet
- Hot tub and outdoor pool
- Complimentary cocktail hour
Best Areas to Stay in Nashville
Nashville is a relatively compact city, so even if you’re not staying right in the heart of downtown, you can easily access various neighborhoods within a short drive or rideshare trip.
Whether you’re a first time visitor or need to find the cheapest place to stay, there’s really only a few neighborhoods you should stay in Nashville.
Here are the best areas to find a hotel or Airbnb in Nashville:
Downtown (closest to Broadway)
This is the heart of the city and home to many of its iconic attractions, including the famous Broadway strip with its live music venues and honky-tonk bars.
Staying downtown gives you easy access to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and the lively nightlife.
SoBro
SoBro (short for South of Broadway) hotels are a little more expensive and upscale, but generally pretty quiet for being so close to Broadway.
The Gulch
This trendy and upscale neighborhood is known for its boutique shopping, art galleries, and modern dining options.
It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in a more upscale experience. Don’t miss Biscuit Love or Milk & Honey for amazing brunches!
Music Row
As the name suggests, this neighborhood is closely associated with the music industry.
It’s home to numerous recording studios, music-related businesses, and historic sites.
Music enthusiasts might enjoy staying in this area. And you’re only a 20 minute walk to Broadway or a 5 minute drive.
Midtown
Midtown offers a more local experience when it comes to bars, top-notch dining and nightlife.
It’s less touristy than Broadway but still lively. Lots of trendy boutique hotels here.
12 South
A charming neighborhood with a mix of boutiques, coffee shops, and eateries.
It’s a more relaxed and residential area, offering a glimpse into local life.
Great local shopping, eateries, pop up events and murals!
East Nashville
This area has a hip and eclectic vibe, with a thriving arts scene, unique shops, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
It’s a popular choice for those looking for a more alternative and local experience. Tons of amazing breweries, vintage shops and local art.
Don’t miss the Music City Brew Hop tour.
West End/Vanderbilt
This area is close to both Vanderbilt University and Centennial Park, which houses the iconic Parthenon replica.
It’s a good mix of residential and commercial spaces, offering a quieter atmosphere.
More Nashville Posts
Best Hotels in Nashville for a Bachelorette Party (official guide)
38 Things to Do in Nashville for First Timers (with hidden gems)
11 Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee (that you can actually afford)