Which credit card is best for hotel stays in India?

For chain-loyal Marriott travellers: Marriott Bonvoy HDFC. For flexible bookings across any platform: BOBCARD Eterna (best reward multiplier on travel portals at this fee range) or HDFC Regalia Gold. For zero-fee travellers: BOBCARD One or Amazon Pay ICICI for OTA cashback.

Is the Marriott Bonvoy HDFC credit card worth the annual fee?

If you stay at Marriott properties 4+ times a year, yes , the Silver Elite status perks and annual free night certificate can together be worth ₹5,000–₹15,000 in tangible value. For travellers who stay across multiple chains or prefer OTA bookings, a flexible travel card will deliver better returns.

Can I get free hotel stays with a lifetime free credit card?

Not directly. LTF cards earn reward points or cashback on hotel spends, which you can accumulate and redeem toward future bookings. They do not offer dedicated free night certificates. IDFC FIRST Wealth is an LTF card with strong travel rewards but requires high income eligibility.

Does BOBCARD Eterna offer discounts on international hotel bookings?

BOBCARD Eterna earns 5X reward points (15 RP/₹100) on international spends, including international hotel bookings. At ₹0.25 per RP, that is a 3.75% effective return. The forex markup is 2%, giving a net reward advantage of approximately 1.75% on international hotel spends compared to a zero-benefit card with the same markup.

Best Hotel Credit Card in India: Free Stays & Upgrades