The Halliburton
5184 Morris St.; 888-512-3344; www.thehalliburton.com
Occupying a trio of 200-year-old brick townhouses, the Halliburton has 29 boutique rooms that mix period furnishings with modern amenities. Some even have fireplaces, so it's a fine place to cozy up on cool nights. Rates from $145, with parking, breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Westin Nova Scotian
1181 Hollis St.; 888-679-3784; www.thewestinnovascotian.com
The Queen slept here twice, so why not give it a try? Located beside the train station, it's a bastion for business travellers, but the Westin has perks for vacationers too, including a vintage swimming pool and in-house spa. Ask for a harbour-view room in the back. Rates from $99.