Best Marriott credit cards of October 2025
If you frequently book hotel stays, having one of the best Marriott credit cards in your wallet can help you enjoy awesome perks across one of the largest hotel portfolios in the world. Marriott Bonvoy cards are issued by both Chase and American Express, and the current lineup features options to meet the needs of any traveler. Or, you can consider a flexible travel card that still includes benefits for your Marriott stays.
Need help choosing the right card to match your spending habits and overnight stays? Our expert travel team has put together this guide with all the important information you need to make an informed decision about which Marriott credit card is the best for you. View our partner offers below.
- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card: Best for occasional Marriott guests
- Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card: Best for small businesses
- Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card: Best for Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status
- American Express Platinum Card®: Best for premium travel perks and digital entertainment
- Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card: Best for Best no-annual-fee card
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: Best for welcome offer and elite status
- Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card: Best for Ritz-Carlton loyalists
Comparing the best Marriott credit cards
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
17X | Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card. |
3X | Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases annually on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining. |
2X | 2X points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. |
The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card is an entry-level card that can help travelers dip their toes into the Bonvoy program. The card is best for those who stay at Marriotts, but not enough to take full advantage of Marriott’s higher-tier cards.
Pros
- Annual free night certificate (up to 35,000 points) each cardmember anniversary
- Automatic Silver elite status with pathway to Gold
- 15 elite night credits annually to help earn mid or high tier Bonvoy status
Cons
- There are better Marriott cards if you want higher tier status or no annual fee
- Doesn't make sense if you don't stay at Marriott properties
- Earn 125,000 Bonus Points + 1 Free Night Award after qualifying purchases.
- Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases annually on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
- Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
- 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
- Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
- Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
- Member FDIC
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
6x | 6x points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program. |
4x | 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. |
2x | 2x points on all other eligible purchases. |
The Amex Marriott Bonvoy Business is a solid pick for small businesses that want the benefits that come with Bonvoy properties around the world. It comes with a great welcome offer and better rewards and benefits than Marriott’s consumer version.
Pros
- 6 points per dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program
- 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, U.S. gas stations, wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and U.S. shipping
- 2 points per dollar on all other purchases
- Earn a free-night award each card renewal month
- Receive 15 elite night credits to jump-start status
- Transfer Marriott points to 40+ different airlines
- Perks include premium on-property internet access, complimentary Marriott Gold status, access to Amex Offers, and no foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Airline points transfer ratios are poor
- Must spend $60,000 in a year for second free-night award
- LIMITED TIME OFFER: Earn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $8,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms apply. Offer ends 10/22/2025.
- Receive a 7% discount on eligible bookings as a benefit of being both a Marriott Bonvoy® member & a Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card Member when you book directly with Marriott through an eligible channel for a participating property under the Amex Business Card Rate.
- 6x points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
- 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
- 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card.
- Terms apply.
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
Up to 18.5X | Earn up to 18.5X Marriott Bonvoy® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 25% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Gold Elite status. |
6X | Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. |
4X | Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points). |
2X | Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases. |
This newest Marriott Bonvoy card from American Express is the first card in their portfolio at the mid-tier level. It gives cardmembers automatic Gold status and an elite night credit boost and offers a generous welcome bonus.
Pros
- This card offers mid-tier perks for those loyal to Marriott Bonvoy
- You'll get automatic Gold Elite status, solid points-earning at Marriott properties and 15 elite night credits each year
Cons
- This card lacks a number of benefits that you might expect from a card with a $250 annual fee
- You have to spend at least $15,000 in eligible purchases (per cardmember year) to earn a free night award, when competing cards at the same annual fee (or even lower) include that perk with no spend
- No lounge membership or statement credits for perks like TSA PreCheck/Global Entry
- Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
- Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
- Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
- Marriott Bonvoy® 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
- Earn up to 18.5X Marriott Bonvoy® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 25% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Gold Elite status.
- With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite Status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year, receive 15 Elite Night Credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
- Booking the trip is easy. Avoiding delays is next to impossible. If a round-trip is paid for entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason delays your trip more than 12 hours, Trip Delay Insurance can help reimburse certain additional expenses purchased on the same Eligible Card, up to $300 per trip, maximum 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
- Plan It® is a payment option that lets you split up large purchases into monthly installments with a fixed fee. A fixed monthly fee is shown upfront so you'll know exactly how much you’ll pay. Plus, you'll still earn rewards for the purchases you plan the way you usually do.
- $250 Annual Fee.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Best for premium travel perks and digital entertainment
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
5X | Earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. |
The American Express Platinum Card® has a high annual fee but remains one of the best cards on the market for those who prioritize premium travel experiences. A combination of updated and new statement credits makes the refreshed Amex Platinum an ideal card for frequent travelers and digital entertainment enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Up to $600 hotel credit (disbursed as up to $300 in statement credits semiannually; enrollment required)
- Up to $300 digital entertainment credit (disbursed as up to $25 in statement credits per month; enrollment required)
- Earns transferable Membership Rewards points
Cons
- $895 annual fee
- You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
- More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
- More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
- More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
- More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
- More Value! $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
- Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
- New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®. *Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
- $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
- Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
- $895 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
14X | Earn up to 14X total points for every $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. |
2X | Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services. |
1X | 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases. |
The Bonvoy Bold card is the no-annual-fee card option in Marriott’s lineup and offers a way to start earning points and a jump start to elite status. However, it lags behind Marriott’s other card options when it comes to earning rates and perks.
Pros
- 5 elite night credits annually to help earn mid or high tier Bonvoy status
- Automatic Bonvoy Silver Elite status
- Baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and trip delay reimbursement coverage
Cons
- Limited perks and meager earning rates
- May not make sense if you don't stay at Marriott properties
- There are better Marriott cards if you want higher tier status or benefits
- Limited Time Offer! Earn 60,000 Bonus Points after qualifying purchases.
- Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase®!
- Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
- Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services.
- 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
- Travel now, pay later - Break up purchases into equal monthly payments with no interest plus no plan fees on qualifying travel purchases. Terms apply.
- Pay Yourself Back® - Redeem Marriott Bonvoy® points for a statement credit to cover qualifying travel purchases made directly with airlines or at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, up to $750 total in redemptions per year.
- Member FDIC
Best for welcome offer and elite status
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
Up to 21X | Earn up to 21X Marriott Bonvoy® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 50% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Platinum Elite status. |
6X | Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. |
3X | Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. |
2X | Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases. |
The Bonvoy Brilliant is ideal for travelers who are loyal to the Marriott brand. You’ll get a solid return on Marriott stays and a number of premium perks that can help you upgrade your trips. However, with high-end perks comes a high annual fee.
Pros
- Earn up to $300 in statement credits each account year for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide (up to $25 per month)
- 1 free night award (up to 85,000 points) every year after your card renewal month, valid at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program (certain hotels have resort fees)
- Priority Pass™ Select membership (enrollment required)
Cons
- $650 annual fee isn't insignificant
- May not make sense if you don't stay at Marriott properties
- Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
- Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
- Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
- Earn up to 21X Marriott Bonvoy® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 50% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Platinum Elite status.
- $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
- A Marriott Bonvoy® Platinum Elite member will earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member.
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®, such as Le Metropolitan, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Paris. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
- $100 Marriott Bonvoy® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
- Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
- Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
- With your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you can enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, with an unlimited number of visits to over 1,200 airport lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
- Trip Cancelled or Interrupted? If you purchase a round-trip entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason cancels or interrupts your trip, we may be able to help. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
- $650 Annual Fee.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Best for Ritz-Carlton loyalists
Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card
Information updated as of 07/29/2024
6X | 6X points for every $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. |
3X | 3X points for every $1 spent on dining, car rentals and airline purchases. |
2X | 2X points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. |
Pros
- Annual free night award
- Offers lounge access
- Features a $300 annual travel credit
Cons
- This card isn’t available to new applicants (though you can still get it)
- No welcome offer is available since you must upgrade from another card to get this one
The Ritz-Carlton Rewards™ Credit Card* makes sense for Ritz loyalists who frequent the upscale hotel chain. The myriad perks of card membership — like an annual free night award and complimentary Marriott Bonvoy elite status — help offset the $450 annual fee.
Comparing the best Marriott credit cards
Credit card | Best for | Intro offer | Earning rate | Annual fee |
---|---|---|---|---|
at Chase's secure site | occasional Marriott guests | 125K Points + 1 Free Night Open Intro bonus Earn 125,000 Bonus Points + 1 Free Night Award after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening with your Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. Free Night Award valued up to 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees. | 2 - 17X points | $95
|
at American Express's secure site | small businesses | Earn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points Open Intro bonus Earn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $8,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms apply. Offer ends 10/22/2025. | 2 - 6X points | $125 |
at American Express's secure site | Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status | Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points Open Intro bonus Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. | 2 - 18.5X points | $250 |
+ New Benefits at American Express's secure site | premium travel perks and digital entertainment | As High As 175,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. Open Intro bonus You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. | 5X points | $895 |
at Chase's secure site | Best no-annual-fee card | Earn 60,000 Bonus Points Open Intro bonus Limited Time Offer! Earn 60,000 Bonus Points after spending $1,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card! | 1 - 14X points | $0 |
at American Express's secure site | welcome offer and elite status | Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points Open Intro bonus Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. | 2 - 21X points | $650 |
Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card * *The information about the Ritz-Carlton Rewards® Credit Card has been collected independently by ThePointsGuy.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer. Information updated as of 07/29/2024 | Ritz-Carlton loyalists | no offer | 2 - 6X points | $450 |
More details on the best Marriott credit cards
The Bonvoy Boundless is a great pick for travel credit card beginners. The card offers an annual free night certificate (worth up to 35,000 points) after account anniversary, Silver Elite status and 15 elite night credits annually to help you jump-start your journey into the Bonvoy program. Even the most casual Marriott user could benefit from this entry-level card. Read our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card.
Travelers who book at least one Marriott hotel a year would benefit from having the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless in their wallet. With its many perks, including the annual free night certificate, the card basically pays for itself.
“This card is worth keeping in my wallet every year due to the fact that I can get outsized value from the free night certificate for a low $95 annual fee. Combining the 15 elite night credits I receive with this card with the ones I get by holding another Marriott business card means it is attainable for me to requalify for Platinum Elite status every year.” — Matt Moffitt, senior credit cards editor
For travelers who are looking for more flexible reward earning and redemption options, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card can be a better option. The Sapphire Preferred earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to any of Chase’s 14 travel partners (including Marriott) or used directly through Chase Travel.
The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is the perfect mid-tier business card for a small-business owner loyal to Marriott. It features elevated earning rates for business categories like U.S. gas stations and U.S. wireless telephone service. Plus, it comes with complimentary Gold Elite status, 15 elite night credits (which can be stacked with those from a personal Marriott card) and an annual free night certificate after your card renewal month. Read our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card.
Small-business owners who prioritize Marriott properties for stays should consider adding this card to their business wallet. The $125 annual fee can easily pay for itself with the annual free night certificate. Not to mention, the additional perks of elite status and elevated earning rates add to its value.
“If I had to name one credit card I’ll never cancel, I’d choose this one. I love that its elite night credits stack with those from my personal Marriott credit card, and I can get far more value from the free night award than I pay for the card’s annual fee each year. This card has a permanent place in my wallet.” — Ryan Smith, former credit cards writer
If you are looking for a business hotel credit card but find your company frequents Hilton properties, consider The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card instead. The card offers many of the same perks as the Marriott Bonvoy Business but at a slightly more affordable annual fee of $195 (see rates and fees).
The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy is a mid-tier Marriott products that offers a great welcome offer, complimentary Gold Elite status and bonus points on each paid stay. For the right Marriott customers, the Bevy could be a great way to earn more on their Marriott stays. Read our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy.
Marriott customers who don’t have a Marriott card yet should consider adding the Bevy to their wallet. The Bevy’s automatic elite status, welcome offer and bonus points on paid stay can help them maximize returns on their stays.
Earning elite status typically requires many hotel nights, but with the Bevy card, cardholders receive automatic Gold status and 15 elite night credits every year.
If you want a Marriott card but are looking for one that comes with a free night every year, consider the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card instead. You’ll receive a free-night certificate (valid up to 35,000 points) each year when you renew your card, and it also features a lower annual fee of $95.
The American Express Platinum Card® is a great travel companion thanks to perks like no foreign transaction fees and enhancements like a generous up to $600 hotel credit (disbursed as up to $300 in statement credits biannually). Now, it also features more lifestyle credits that cardmembers can take advantage of to help offset its hefty annual fee. Enrollment required.
Frequent travelers and digital entertainment subscribers will enjoy travel perks like lounge access and an up to $209 Clear Plus statement credit in addition to an up to $300 digital entertainment credit (disbursed as up to $25 per month in statement credits). Enrollment may be required and you may be subject to auto-renewal.
Adding this card to your rotation makes sense if you can use its perks and statement credits to offset its $895 annual fee.
If you want a premium travel and lifestyle card that’s not nearly $900, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. It features a $795 annual fee — which is still a big figure — but offers several similar perks and credits that offset this fee, and it earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, one of the most valuable reward currencies on the market.
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold is a great starter option for any traveler interested in the Bonvoy program. The card provides travel protections, 5 elite night credits to help you jump-start your elite status journey and automatic Silver Elite status, all for no annual fee. Read our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy Bold.
New travel credit card users who are looking for a solid no-annual-fee pick can find great value in the Marriott Bonvoy Bold’s earning rates and perks.
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold is a great way to enter the Bonvoy program since it has no annual fee but still features automatic status and a solid welcome offer. If you've been considering applying for a Marriott credit card, the Bonvoy Bold is a good start.
If you want to earn transferable points but are looking for a card without an annual fee, consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card instead. It earns a flat 1.25 miles per dollar spent on all purchases and can be transferred to any of Capital One’s 15-plus travel partners.
The Bonvoy Brilliant Amex is Marriott’s most premium card and comes loaded with perks, including up to $25 in monthly dining credits (up to $300 per year), automatic Platinum Elite status, a free night award (worth up to 85,000 points) after your card renewal month and a Priority Pass™ Select membership (enrollment required). The card’s benefits come at a premium annual fee of $650, but this can still be a great addition to a Marriott enthusiast’s wallet. Read our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant.
Marriott loyalists would get the most value out of having the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant. The annual free night award, worth up to 85,000 points, can be a great way to score a free night at any of these Marriott hotels.
“This card is an absolute no-brainer for those who stay at full-service Marriott brands multiple times a year but not quite enough to naturally earn the Marriott Platinum Elite status that unlocks perks like free breakfast, club access and suite upgrades. I’ve got the card so that I can enjoy hundreds of dollars in annual status perks, plus the annual 85,000-point award certificate that saves me hundreds of dollars on a night at higher-end Marriott hotels and resorts.” — Summer Hull, director of content
If you are looking for a premium hotel card at a lower cost but with similar perks, consider the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, which carries an annual fee of $550 (see rates and fees) and offers many premium benefits — just at participating Hilton Honors properties.
Automatic elite status, a $300 annual travel credit, 15 elite night credits each calendar year and Priority Pass lounge access make the Ritz-Carlton RewardsRitz-Carlton Rewards™ Credit Card Credit Card* a winner.
*The information for the Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
This card is ideal for travelers who prioritize staying at Ritz-Carlton properties above other options.
If you’re a fan of Ritz properties and you maximize the credits that come with the Ritz-Carlton RewardsRitz-Carlton Rewards™ Credit Card, you can completely offset the annual fee while enjoying luxury perks.
Consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® if you want a more general travel rewards card that still offers lounge access and an easy-to-use $300 annual travel credit.
How we rate cards
Here’s why TPG readers continue to choose Marriott cards
Along with a large suite of cards to choose from, cobranded Marriott cards provide access to the Bonvoy loyalty program (though you can enroll with this program on your own as well).
When paired with a cobranded Marriott Bonvoy card, the Bonvoy program offers elevated rewards, including a faster way to earn points you can redeem for stays and on-property perks, room upgrades and even a free night award depending on which product you hold. This, plus other card benefits — think automatic elite status — continues to be the reason why 37% of TPG readers who hold a cobranded hotel card choose Marriott.
How to choose the best Marriott credit card
- Our picks offer different welcome bonuses that let you earn different types of points, including Marriott Bonvoy points. Choose a card that you can easily reach the minimum spend threshold in order to obtain the welcome bonus.1Welcome bonus
- From cards that feature hefty annual fees — and offer premium perks — to cards with no annual fees, there’s a good choice for every type of consumer, whether you stay at Marriott properties several times a year or just a few sporadic nights here and there.2Annual fee
- Thanks to a variety of cards to choose from, narrowing down your options should be easy when you consider your top spending categories. Whether it’s on dining, gas or at U.S. supermarkets, there’s a card that’ll help you earn even more points and miles rewards.3Bonus categories
Pros + cons of Marriott credit cards
Pros
- Using Marriott credit cards responsibly can help you build your credit score
- Marriott credit cards can earn Bonvoy points (or flexible travel rewards) on every dollar you spend
- Many Marriott credit cards provide travel and shopping protections
- Some Marriott credit cards provide perks like free night certificates, automatic elite status and more
Cons
- Carrying a balance and using your Marriott card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
- Applying for too many credit cards can negatively affect your credit score
- Marriott Bonvoy doesn’t have a published award chart, so the number of Marriott points you need for a free night can vary significantly
- You may not stay at participating properties enough to make a Marriott credit card worthwhile
Frequently asked questions
The best Marriott card depends very much on your personal situation. All have their own perks, but your perfect card will be the one that offers a collection of benefits and earning rates that match your travel needs. Compare each card prior to applying, and remember to take into account your willingness to pay an annual fee, how often you stay in Marriott properties and what your individual spending habits are before you submit an application.
Ultimately, there isn’t a universal best option for everyone. Instead, you should aim to pick the Marriott credit card that’s best for you.
If you stay at a Marriott property, even occasionally, it’s likely worth it to have a Marriott credit card. The annual free night certificates alone can make the math work on both the low-tier and high-end Marriott cards, as you can easily use free nights to cover the cards’ annual fees. Once you factor in all the other benefits the cards offer, you’ll find that you can often get additional value beyond the amount spent annually to have the card.
To apply for any Marriott card on this list, you can click on the card’s name, photo or “Apply Now” link to the right of the card. Then, simply follow the on-screen prompts to complete (and submit) your application. Just be sure you’re eligible for a welcome bonus on the card you’re applying for, which isn’t a simple proposition for Marriott credit cards.
You can read more about Marriott Bonvoy credit card eligibility requirements in this guide. You’ll also want to check out our overall guide to credit card application restrictions.
Marriott does not publish a limit on the number of cards you can have, though it’s worth noting that Marriott uses two issuers for its cobranded cards: American Express and Chase. Amex does not typically allow individuals to have more than five credit cards, while Chase usually caps the total amount of credit it’ll extend to you across all cards. Additionally, Chase has its infamous 5/24 rule, which means it won’t approve users who have opened five or more new personal credit cards within the prior 24 months.
If you can avoid running afoul of both of these general rules, you certainly can have two (or even more) Marriott credit cards — especially if you want multiple free night certificates.
Marriott Bonvoy credit cards have either a Visa logo or an American Express logo. Thus, they can be used at any merchant that accepts these networks.
Many Marriott credit cards do include rental car insurance. However, this may be secondary coverage, which means you’d need to submit a claim with your personal car insurance policy in the event of theft or damage to your vehicle.
It’s critical to read the details of any included rental car insurance to ensure that you are adequately covered by the perk.
All Marriott credit cards waive foreign transaction fees when swiping your card outside the U.S.
There are several Marriott credit cards that come with an annual free night award, which is received upon card opening and at each card renewal month. Additionally, by using your card at Marriott properties and on everyday purchases, you’ll earn Marriott Bonvoy points that can then be redeemed for free nights across the program’s global footprint.