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An imposing brick high-rise, the Marmara could easily pass for one of the countless luxury apartment complexes in the surrounding Upper East Side. The resemblance is fitting for a hotel whose clientele are predominantly businesspeople on extended trips and locals needing a place to stay while remodeling their apartments. The majority of the hotel's 100 spacious suites were fashioned by Turkish designer Tulya Madra, who adhered to a white and beige color palette, with furniture made of blonde wood accented by plush burgundy and navy throw pillows. The remaining suites are more traditionally American, with Ethan Allen dark wood furnishings, fabrics in stripes and pastels and muted, watercolor prints. All guest rooms contain enviable amounts of closet space and full kitchens, and allow room for inhabitants to impose their own tastes and effects. Practical, at-home comforts (washer-dryers, ironing boards, and sofa beds) are coupled with select hotel amenities like a 24-hour concierge and in-room fax machines. — Kate Appleton

Suites on the upper floors have particularly lovely river and city views, some even with terraces. A light-filled art gallery in the lobby is free and open daily.

Cons
The puny gym fits just a handful of machines. Prices, especially for larger suites, are astronomical—staying in a typical hotel would be cheaper, let alone renting a sublet.