Home
Credit Cards
Best Hotel Credit Cards in Canada

Best hotel credit cards in Canada

Sandra MacGregor
Author: Amy Tokic

By Sandra MacGregor & Amy Tokic

🗓️

Updated: September 06, 2024

Partners on this page provide us earnings.

Airbnbs aren’t for everyone. Some travellers prefer daily housekeeping visits, turn-down service and all the travel-sized toiletries they can stuff in their suitcase. For these people, we have some good news, some bad news, and some more good news. The good news: Canada does have a hotel credit card. The bad news: There’s only one—the American Express Marriott Bonvoy—that lets you earn and redeem points with Marriott hotels. The good news again: we’ve got a tonne of credit cards where you can build points by staying at hotels and that offer hotel perks. 

Opting for a hotel credit card means unlocking exclusive perks typically reserved for frequent travelers, like free nights and room upgrades, ensuring every trip is more rewarding. Let’s take a closer look at the best hotel credit cards in Canada so that you can start travel tripping in style.

Compare our picks

Best hotel credit cards in Canada

Hotel credit card Travel and hotel perk More information
American Express Marriott Bonvoy ● Annual fee: $120.00
● Only hotel credit card in Canada
● Annual free night on your card anniversary
● Complimentary Silver Elite status
Apply now
Platinum Card from American Express ● Annual fee: $799.00
● Elite travel card with all the perks
● Includes $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit
● Unlimited access to Airport lounges
● Transfer to Bonvoy Points
● Get 4th night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points
● $$100 NEXUS◊ statement credit
● Priority airport benefits
● Annual worldwide companion voucher
Apply now
American Express Aeroplan Reserve ● Annual fee: $599.00
● $100 NEXUS◊ Card Statement Credit
● Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points
Apply now
TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite ● Annual fee: $139.00
● High earn rate on everyday spending
Apply now
RBC Avion Visa Infinite ● Annual fee: 120.00
● $50 for each additional card
● Get up to 55,000 Avion points* (a value of up to $1,100†), that’s enough to fly anywhere in North America or the Caribbean!
Apply now
Scotiabank Gold American Express ● 120.00
● Earn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points¹

Apply now
CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege ● Annual fee: $499.00
● $100.00 in NEXUS◊ application rebate every 4 years
● 6
● Best credit card for hotel insurance
Apply now
BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* MasterCard®* ● Annual fee: $120.00
● Limited time offer: Get 3,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles! * That's enough for $310 towards purchases with AIR MILES Cash!* Plus, get the $120 annual fee waived for your first anniversary
Apply now
  • Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more. *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Best overall

Best hotel credit card in Canada

Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®

Apply now

4.3

up to 50K pts

Welcome offer

Good

Suggested credit score

New Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Cardmembers earn 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points after you charge $1,500 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership. Subject to change at any time

Apply now

Pros

  • Annual free night award — Receive an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points†

  • Earn points with every eligible card purchase

  • Complimentary upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status

  • Flexibility to transfer to other frequent flyer programs

  • Includes travel accident insurance†

  • Generous welcome bonus

Cons

  • Annual fee—$120

  • Travel medical insurance not included

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$0

Required Annual Household Income

$0

Pros

  • Annual free night award — Receive an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points†

  • Earn points with every eligible card purchase

  • Complimentary upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status

  • Flexibility to transfer to other frequent flyer programs

  • Includes travel accident insurance†

  • Generous welcome bonus

Cons

  • Annual fee—$120

  • Travel medical insurance not included

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$0

Required Annual Household Income

$0

points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®

5

points for every $1 in all other Card purchases

2

Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary

1

Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership

1

Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.

15

Purchase APR

21.99%

Balance Transfer Rate

3.00%

Cash Advance APR

21.99%

Annual Fee

$120

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

The American Express Marriott Bonvoy Card stands out as the premiere choice for Canadians seeking a hotel credit card thanks to its close partnership with the Marriott hotels—the only true hotel card in Canada. And it also helps that it’s the only hotel-dedicated credit card in Canada.

The Marriott Bonvoy program offers an annual free night award after each account anniversary, redeemable at a wide range of Marriott properties. In most cases, this perk surpasses the card’s annual fee when used at higher-tier properties where room rates can be steep.

You’ll also be granted complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status, unlocking a suite of perks designed to elevate your travel experience. We’re talkin’ about late checkout times and bonus points on stays, which helps you earn points faster. 

And the more you use it, the more attractive perks, such as room upgrades and welcome gifts—making you feel like a VIP every stay.  

No matter where you are in the world, you’ll find accommodations that perfectly match your travel style and needs, tastes and preferences. This is thanks to the brand’s broad spectrum of brands in its hotel umbrella, from luxurious to budget-friendly options. The Marriott portfolio includes:

  • Luxury offerings (e.g., Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, St. Regis)
  • Premium (e.g., Marriott Hotels, Sheraton) 
  • Select (e.g., Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn)
  • and longer stays (e.g., Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites) 

These hotels span the globe across countries in North America, Europe, Asia and more. For the most current and detailed list, see all of Marriott’s brands.

Flexibility in redemption options further enhances the card's value. It allows points to be used not just for hotel stays, but also for experiences and flights through airline transfer partners like Aeroplan, Cathay Pacific, Delta and others (where most Marriott points transfer 3:1 for airline miles).

Finally, the Marriott Bonvoy card includes travel insurance and purchase protections. It’s important to have peace of mind with coverage like travel accident insurance and baggage delay insurance. 

Calculating your free nights with Marriott Bonvoy

With The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® Card, your annual free night award received every year after your first anniversary (valid for 12 months and includes taxes but not any eligible resort fee) lets you stay in any category 1 to 5 hotel up to a value of 35,000 points. It’s worth noting that the annual certificate is only good for a single night; you can’t, for example, break it down into 5,000-point amounts and use it for multiple stays.

Generally speaking, it can be hard to calculate an exact dollar value of any hotel point program, as they can vary so much based on location, time of year and intangible elements like a hotel’s exclusivity. Overall, Marriott Bonvoy points are valued at approximately $0.01 each; so a category 5 hotel stay could be worth $350 or more.

Maximizing your free night

To get the most value from your bonus, you’ll want to stay at the highest category of hotel (hence the highest monetary value) possible.

Marriott introduced peak and off-peak redemption rates so you’ll also need to consider what time of year to redeem your annual stay—a category 5 hotel will actually be 40,000 points during peak season, outside the 35,000-point value cap of your annual free night. 

If all this talk of categories and point value leaves you with a bit of a headache, you can always check the up-to-date, real-world value of your points by comparing what it would cost you to pay for a hotel night in cash versus redeeming points for the exact same stay. So, for example, if you did a search for a Marriott property and found a great sale that got you a category 5 hotel room for say $250 (instead of $350), it would be better to pay cash and save your annual free night certificate.

Other key benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy credit card

In addition to its annual free night award, The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card has a number of other attractive features, despite a lack of competition from other hotel credit cards in Canada. Here are its main offerings:

  • Points can be redeemed and earned at upwards of 7,000 of the world’s most desired hotels around the world with no blackout dates.
  • New Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Cardmembers earn 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points after you charge $1,500 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership. Subject to change at any time
  • Earn 5 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 spent on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • Earn 2 Marriott Bonvoy points on everything else
  • Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
  • Each year, when you reach $30,000 in purchases, you’ll get an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status (Gold Elite has attractive benefits like 25% extra points at Marriott properties, late checkout, eligibility for room upgrades and more)
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® Card. These can be used towards attaining an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status (25 required)
  • Points can be transferred (most at a 3:1 transfer ratio) to more than 40 airline partners
  • Includes a range of insurance coverage, like travel accident, car rental, flight delay, baggage delay/theft and hotel/motel burglary insurance. (Note: it has travel emergency assistance but no actual travel emergency medical insurance)

To sum it all up, the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Card's hotel-focused rewards, coupled with its broad travel benefits, position it as the best pick for Canadians keen on maximizing their travel experiences—providing value that extends well beyond hotel bookings.

Best Amex

Best American Express hotel credit card

The Platinum Card

Apply now

3.5

70,000 pts

Welcome offer

Excellent

Suggested credit score

Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points*

Apply now

Pros

  • Earn 5X Rewards Points for flights and on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel

  • Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service

  • Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide

  • Annual statement credits: $200 airline fee credit, $200 hotel credit, $240 digital entertainment credit

  • Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.

  • Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).

Cons

  • High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards

  • The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points

  • Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent

Pros

  • Earn 5X Rewards Points for flights and on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel

  • Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service

  • Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide

  • Annual statement credits: $200 airline fee credit, $200 hotel credit, $240 digital entertainment credit

  • Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.

  • Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).

Cons

  • High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards

  • The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points

  • Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent

Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada

2x

points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel

2x

point for every $1 in all other Card purchases

1x

Purchase APR

21.99%

Annual Fee

$799

Foreign Transaction Fee

0.00%

  • Why we picked the Amex Platinum as the best Amex card for hotels

    +

    If the Marriott Bonvoy card doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can instead use any Amex. American Express Membership Rewards points transfer to Marriott Bonvoy points at a rate of five Membership Rewards points = six Marriott Bonvoy points.

    So if you want the hotel points without the hotel card, but that still comes loaded with elite privileges, the Platinum Card from American Express should be your go to.

    While its annual fee may have you clutching your pearls, it’s important to remember what comes with that impressive price tag. You get a significant annual dining credit at some of Canada’s best restaurants, as well as a valuable travel credit and you unlock access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with the Global Lounge Collection.

    Additionally, enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $600 USD at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts

    Plus, you can earn higher status in hotel loyalty programs like Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy™ Gold Elite without the standard requirements, unlocking even more privileges.

Best Aeroplan

Best hotel credit card with Aeroplan

American Express Aeroplan Reserve

Apply now

5.0

85,000

Welcome offer

Good

Suggested credit score

New American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Cardmembers can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points.

Apply now

Pros

  • Generous signup bonus where you can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points

  • High earn rates on Air Canada, dining, and food delivery

  • Extensive travel perks like priority check-in, boarding, and free first checked bag on Air Canada flights

  • Complimentary access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges within North America

  • Toronto Pearson Airport benefits including priority security, complimentary valet parking, and discounts on parking and car care services

  • Annual worldwide companion pass at a fixed base fare between $99 and $599 CAD (plus taxes and fees)

  • $100 NEXUS statement credit every 4 years

  • Robust insurance coverage including emergency medical

  • Access to Amex Experiences such as VIP parties and movie premieres

  • No minimum income requirement

Cons

  • High annual fee of $599

  • Lower acceptance when compared to Visa and Mastercard

  • High spending to unlock signup bonus

  • Limited high-earning categories

  • 2.5% foreign transaction fee

  • Priority perks limited to Air Canada flights

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$0

Required Annual Household Income

$0

Pros

  • Generous signup bonus where you can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points

  • High earn rates on Air Canada, dining, and food delivery

  • Extensive travel perks like priority check-in, boarding, and free first checked bag on Air Canada flights

  • Complimentary access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges within North America

  • Toronto Pearson Airport benefits including priority security, complimentary valet parking, and discounts on parking and car care services

  • Annual worldwide companion pass at a fixed base fare between $99 and $599 CAD (plus taxes and fees)

  • $100 NEXUS statement credit every 4 years

  • Robust insurance coverage including emergency medical

  • Access to Amex Experiences such as VIP parties and movie premieres

  • No minimum income requirement

Cons

  • High annual fee of $599

  • Lower acceptance when compared to Visa and Mastercard

  • High spending to unlock signup bonus

  • Limited high-earning categories

  • 2.5% foreign transaction fee

  • Priority perks limited to Air Canada flights

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$0

Required Annual Household Income

$0

the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*

3X

the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada

2X

the points on everything else

1.25X

Purchase APR

21.99%

Cash Advance APR

21.99%

Annual Fee

$599

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

  • Why we picked the Amex Aeroplan Reserve as the best Aeroplan hotel card

    +

    The American Express® Aeroplan® Reserve Card is a great card, especially for frequent flyers who want hotel stays. This card distinguishes itself through its ability to earn Aeroplan points at an accelerated rate on purchases directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations, as well as on dining and food delivery within Canada. This kind of earning potential allows cardholders to quickly accumulate points, which can then be redeemed for hotel stays among other travel rewards.

    If you book hotels with Aeroplan points, you can get a fourth night free at any of its partner hotels.

    Unfortunately, while you can transfer Marriott Bonvoy points and Amex Membership Rewards points to Aeroplan, you can’t transfer points out of Aeroplan.

    Beyond point accumulation, the card offers significant travel benefits that enhance hotel and travel experiences. Cardholders enjoy preferred pricing on Air Canada flights, which can be used in conjunction with hotel packages to optimize travel expenses. The exclusive access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges and Priority Airport Services further enriches the travel experience, offering comfort and convenience from departure to arrival.

    The card's comprehensive suite of travel insurance provides an additional layer of security for travelers. This includes coverage for flight delays, lost baggage and notably, hotel or motel burglary, ensuring peace of mind during stays. For those aiming to achieve or maintain Aeroplan Elite Status, the card accelerates this process through everyday spending, unlocking even more perks and benefits relevant to hotel bookings and travel.

    Moreover, the card's global acceptance ensures that cardholders can seamlessly book hotels worldwide, benefitting from the extensive reach of the American Express network. The inclusion of exclusive events and experiences adds further value, offering unique opportunities that extend beyond conventional travel benefits.

    In essence, the American Express® Aeroplan® Reserve Card stands out for its robust rewards structure, comprehensive travel protections and exclusive Aeroplan perks, making it an exceptional choice for hotel bookings and travel. Its array of benefits is designed to enhance every stage of the travel journey, from booking to stay, and positions it as a premier travel card in Canada.

    Aeroplan partners with several hotels, including high-end chains like Marriott, Hilton, Radisson and Wyndham, as well as mid-range brands such as Quality Inn, Choice and Coast hotels. This allows Aeroplan members to earn more points when booking accommodations​.

  • Aeroplan partner hotels

    +

    ALL - Accor Live Limitless

    Best Western

    Choice Hotels

    Coast Hotels

    Hilton Honors

    IHG Rewards

    Longham Hotels and Resorts

    Marriott Bonvoy

    Radisson Rewards

    Shangri-La Golden Circle

    Rocketmiles

    Shangri-La's Golden Circle

    Wyndham Rewards

Other awesome Aeroplan cards for hotels

CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Card

Apply Now

4.3

Read Review
Apply now

Earn up to 10,000 Aeroplan points (up to $200 in value). This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.

$0 Annual Fee

Fair Recommended Credit Score

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card

Apply Now

4.0

Read Review
Apply now

Earn up to $1,300 in value† including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points† and no Annual Fee for the first year†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by January 6, 2025.

$139 Annual Fee

Excellent Recommended Credit Score

$60,000 Required Annual Personal Income

American Express ® Aeroplan ®

Apply Now

4.0

Read Review
Apply now

Earn 30,000 Aeroplan®* points* after spending $3,000 on your Card within the first 3 months as a new American Express® Aeroplan®* Cardmember.*

$120 Annual Fee

Good Recommended Credit Score

$0 Required Annual Personal Income

  • †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer it not available to the residents of Quebec.
  • The information for the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best TD Rewards

Best hotel credit card with TDRewards

TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card

Apply now

4.0

Good

Suggested credit score

Earn up to $1,000 in value†, including up to 135,000 TD Rewards Points† and no Annual Fee for the first year†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by January 6, 2025.

Expires

Jan 6, 2025

Apply now

Pros

  • Major combined value for the welcome bonus (up to $1,000 in value)†

  • Good base earn rate on all purchases

  • Huge earn rate when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†

  • Very flexible redemption options

  • $100 TD Travel Credit†

  • Visa Infinite Benefits

  • Great savings on annual fees for accountholders of TD’s All-Inclusive Banking Plan

Cons

  • Does not provide free lounge access

  • Charges foreign transaction fees

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$60,000

Required Annual Household Income

$100,000

Pros

  • Major combined value for the welcome bonus (up to $1,000 in value)†

  • Good base earn rate on all purchases

  • Huge earn rate when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†

  • Very flexible redemption options

  • $100 TD Travel Credit†

  • Visa Infinite Benefits

  • Great savings on annual fees for accountholders of TD’s All-Inclusive Banking Plan

Cons

  • Does not provide free lounge access

  • Charges foreign transaction fees

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$60,000

Required Annual Household Income

$100,000

Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend through ExpediaForTD†

8 Points

Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on groceries and restaurants.†

6 Points

Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on recurring bill payments.†

4 Points

Earn 2 TD Rewards points for every $1 you spend using your card.†

2 Points

Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards points†.

10% Bonus Points

Get an annual TD Travel Credit when you book at Expedia For TD†

$100

Purchase APR

20.99%

Balance Transfer Rate

22.99%

Cash Advance APR

22.99%

Annual Fee

$139

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

  • Why we picked the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite as the best TDRewards hotel card

    +

    The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite is the best hotel credit card for TD customers. This is particularly true for the travel-savvy interested in earning and redeeming TD Rewards Points for travel, including hotel stays where you can earn 8 TD Rewards Points through ExpediaForTD† when booking travel.

    Earn 6 TD Rewards Points on groceries and restaurants.† Earn 4 TD Rewards on recurring bill payments.† Earn 2 TD Rewards Points For every $1 you spend on other Purchases made using your Card†

    Earn up to $1,000 in value†, including up to 135,000 TD Rewards Points, no Annual Fee for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by January 6, 2025. 

    •Earn a welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Rewards Points when you make your first Purchase with your Card†.
    •Earn 115,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $5,000 within 180 days of Account opening†.
    •Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards points†.
    •Get an annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD.
    •Get an Annual Fee Rebate for the first year†.

    To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening and you must add your Additional Cardholders by January 6, 2025.

    The best redemption value for your points is through the Expedia For TD portal. You can also redeem points for any travel booked on your own, education payments, merchandise, Amazon Pay with Points or various gift card options, so you have lots of flexibility.

    The card comes with a suite of travel and purchase protection benefits, including comprehensive travel medical insurance and more. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy Visa Infinite benefits such as Luxury Hotel Collection access and exclusive dining experiences​​​​.

    TD Rewards, in partnership with Expedia For TD, allows cardholders to earn and redeem points on a wide array of hotels available through its exclusive platform. This partnership does not specifically highlight preferred or featured hotel partners but offers access to most hotels listed on Expedia, providing a broad selection of accommodations ranging from budget to luxury. This arrangement gives TD Rewards members the flexibility to book virtually any hotel found on Expedia, often with special deals or rates exclusive to Expedia For TD users.

Best RBC Avion

Best hotel credit card with RBC Avion

RBC Avion Visa Infinite

Apply now

4.1

55,000 pts

Welcome offer

Very Good

Suggested credit score

Get up to 55,000 Avion points* (a value of up to $1,100†), that’s enough to fly anywhere in North America or the Caribbean!

Expires

Nov 26, 2024

Apply now

Pros

  • Rewards program is highly flexible, transferable, and includes a slew of non-travel-related reward options

  • Partnerships with other retailers like HBC and Petro-Canada

  • Provides excellent travel insurance

  • New cardholders earn 55,000 welcome Avion points on approval*

  • Solid option for looking for a travel-centric points program

Cons

  • The points-to-dollars ratio is only average and there are few opportunities for accelerated earning.

  • The $120 annual fee isn’t cheap

  • High annual income requirement: Personal: $60,000 or Household: $100,000

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Very Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$60,000

Pros

  • Rewards program is highly flexible, transferable, and includes a slew of non-travel-related reward options

  • Partnerships with other retailers like HBC and Petro-Canada

  • Provides excellent travel insurance

  • New cardholders earn 55,000 welcome Avion points on approval*

  • Solid option for looking for a travel-centric points program

Cons

  • The points-to-dollars ratio is only average and there are few opportunities for accelerated earning.

  • The $120 annual fee isn’t cheap

  • High annual income requirement: Personal: $60,000 or Household: $100,000

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Very Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$60,000

Earn 1.25 Avion point for every dollar you spend*.

1.25

extra Avion points on eligible travel purchases

25%

mobile device insurance

$1,500

savings on fuel at Petro-Canada and always earn 20% more Avion points

3¢/L

Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall

50

off at Hertz and earn 3x the Avion points

20%

delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash

$0

Purchase APR

20.99%

Balance Transfer Rate

22.99%

Cash Advance APR

22.99%

Annual Fee

$120

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

  • Why we picked the RBC Avion Visa Infinite as the best RBC Avion hotel card

    +

    The RBC Avion Visa Infinite and its Avion rewards can be redeemed for travel purchases, including hotels, without blackout periods or seat restrictions.

    In our opinion, the best way to use your Avion Rewards for hotels is by purchasing gift cards to BestWestern, Global Hotels or Hotels.com on the Avion rewards portal. (Occasionally, RBC will offer a 25% discount on its gift cards, so keep an eye out for this deal.)

    However, if hotel burglary insurance is important to you, its credit card insurance won’t protect you if you buy using gift cards and not the RBC Avion card (which gives you $2500.00 of hotel insurance).

    Whichever payment option you choose, you’ll still have to book through the Avion rewards portal and it doesn't offer price matching. So, it’s much better to use your Avion points for flying (your points carry more value here).

    RBC does have airline transfer partners including British Airways Avios, Cathay Pacific and American Airlines.

Best Scotiabank

Best hotel credit card with Scotiabank and Scene+

If you’re loyal to Scotiabank and its Scene+ points program, there are four options for your hotel aspirations.

Scene+ Rewards can be used for flights and hotels at equivalent rates, with the flexibility of booking through the Scene+ travel service or by using the “apply points to travel” option on its website. 

However, booking through Scene+ travel allows you to pay any points shortage with your credit card, whereas you must cover the entire cost in points if you don’t use the portal. The downside of the portal is it doesn't offer price matching, so be sure to check pricing elsewhere before booking. 

You earn three points for every $1 spent on hotel stays and car rental when booked through Scene+ travel. 

You can earn one Scene+ point for every $5 spent with a Scotia Rewards Passport debit card (it’s not great, but at least you’re earning). 

Then there are three credit cards we recommend to book your hotel accommodation where the annual fee equates to better earn rates. 

Scotiabank Gold American Express®

Apply now

4.8

up to 45K pts

Welcome offer

Very Good

Suggested credit score

Earn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points¹

Expires

Nov 1, 2024

Apply now

Pros

  • Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses

  • Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets

  • Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad

  • Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel

Cons

  • Relatively low-value welcome bonus

  • $120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially

  • Scene points redeem poorly for travel

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Very Good

Pros

  • Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses

  • Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets

  • Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad

  • Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel

Cons

  • Relatively low-value welcome bonus

  • $120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially

  • Scene points redeem poorly for travel

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Very Good

Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more

6x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.

5x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.

5x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more

3x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services

3x

Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases

1x

Purchase APR

20.99%

Balance Transfer Rate

22.99%

Cash Advance APR

22.99%

Annual Fee

$120

Foreign Transaction Fee

0.00%

  • Why we picked the Scotiabank Gold American Express

    +

    You buy groceries, and the Scotiabank Gold American Express is ready to reward you for it. You earn 6x Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco and Foodland, 5x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores., 3x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options, including rideshares, buses and subways. You’ll also earn 3x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services

    While abroad, this card charges 0.00% - an amazing perk for the jet setter. As well, you can redeem points for statement credits of any travel expense, plus enjoy the perks and special privileges of American Express.

  • Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more. *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card 

Apply now

4.3

up to 35K pts

Welcome offer

Excellent

Suggested credit score

Earn up to $1,100* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 35,000 bonus Scene+ points

Expires

Nov 1, 2024

Apply now

Pros

  • No FX fees means the card saves you significant expenses on foreign transaction fees

  • Earn up to 3x Scene+ points per $1 spent on eligible purchases

  • Flexible and straightforward redemption program

  • Visa acceptance globally compared to American Express, especially outside major cities.

  • Enjoy six annual visits to airport lounges

  • Robust insurance offerings, including extended travel emergency medical coverage

  • Access to Visa Infinite Program benefits, with added advantages like a free supplementary card

Cons

  • High annual fee

  • Limited rewards categories for earning reward max rate on purchases

  • Primarily best for travel within Canada

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent

Required Annual Personal Income

$60,000

Required Annual Household Income

$100,000

Pros

  • No FX fees means the card saves you significant expenses on foreign transaction fees

  • Earn up to 3x Scene+ points per $1 spent on eligible purchases

  • Flexible and straightforward redemption program

  • Visa acceptance globally compared to American Express, especially outside major cities.

  • Enjoy six annual visits to airport lounges

  • Robust insurance offerings, including extended travel emergency medical coverage

  • Access to Visa Infinite Program benefits, with added advantages like a free supplementary card

Cons

  • High annual fee

  • Limited rewards categories for earning reward max rate on purchases

  • Primarily best for travel within Canada

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Excellent

Required Annual Personal Income

$60,000

Required Annual Household Income

$100,000

Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and more

3x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including ride shares, buses, subways, taxis and more)

2x

Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases

1x

Purchase APR

20.99%

Balance Transfer Rate

22.99%

Cash Advance APR

22.99%

Annual Fee

$150

Foreign Transaction Fee

0.00%

  • Why we picked the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite

    +

    The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card is another hotel credit card option if you collect Scotiabank’s Scene+ Rewards.

    The annual fee is $150.00. First supplementary Card is $0/year ($50/year on each additional Card)

    You also get 6 complimentary airport lounge passes for you and anyone travelling with you using the Visa Airport Companion program. And thanks to the Visa Infinite Hotel Collection, you can save with great hotel rates, receive automatic room upgrades when available and get free Wi-Fi in your hotel room when you check in.

  • ¹ Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card to learn more.

    *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

Scotiabank American Express

Apply now

3.9

up to 5K pts

Welcome offer

Good

Suggested credit score

Earn up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months (that’s up to $50 towards travel).¹

Expires

Nov 1, 2024

Apply now

Pros

  • Earn 5,000 welcome bonus rewards points.

  • Earn up to three Scene+ points on everyday spending.

  • Earn points across five different categories, including food, travel, entertainment and streaming.

  • No annual fee.

Cons

  • The welcome bonus is lower compared to other rewards cards.

  • American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.

  • Limited insurance coverage.

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Pros

  • Earn 5,000 welcome bonus rewards points.

  • Earn up to three Scene+ points on everyday spending.

  • Earn points across five different categories, including food, travel, entertainment and streaming.

  • No annual fee.

Cons

  • The welcome bonus is lower compared to other rewards cards.

  • American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.

  • Limited insurance coverage.

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Good

Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more

3x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.

2x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.

2x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more

2x

Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services

2x

Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases

1x

Purchase APR

19.99%

Balance Transfer Rate

22.99%

Cash Advance APR

22.99%

Annual Fee

$0

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

  • Why we picked the Scotiabank American Express

    +

    We think the Scotiabank American Express earns the title of the best no-fee hotel credit card.

    Much like the other Scotiabank cards, you earn Scene+ rewards (at a lesser rate) but you don’t pay an annual fee. You can use your Scene+ points for any hotel redemption via Scene+ travel or as a statement credit.

  • Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank American Express® Card to learn more.*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Best Aventura

Best hotel credit card with CIBC Aventura

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

Apply now

4.8

up to 80K pts

Welcome offer

Very Good

Suggested credit score

Get a total of up to 80,000 Aventura Points† (up to $1,600 in travel value) during your first year.

Apply now

Pros

  • A welcome bonus of up to 80,000 points

  • Up to three points per dollar spent (two points for the most popular spending categories, though)

  • Six complimentary visits at over 1,200 lounges per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program

  • $200 annual travel credit

  • Two NEXUS application fee rebates

  • Robust travel insurance, including emergency medical, trip cancellation, flight and baggage delay, auto rental collision and loss and more

Cons

  • Only available to those who make $150,000 per year as an individual or $200,000 as a household

  • High interest rates: 20.99% for purchases and 22.99% for cash advances (21.99% for Quebec residents)

  • High fee of $499 per year

  • Despite this being a luxury travel card, you’ll have to pay foreign exchange fees

  • Have to spend $6,000 on the card within the first four months to unlock the maximum welcome bonus

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Very Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$150,000

Required Annual Household Income

$200,000

Pros

  • A welcome bonus of up to 80,000 points

  • Up to three points per dollar spent (two points for the most popular spending categories, though)

  • Six complimentary visits at over 1,200 lounges per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program

  • $200 annual travel credit

  • Two NEXUS application fee rebates

  • Robust travel insurance, including emergency medical, trip cancellation, flight and baggage delay, auto rental collision and loss and more

Cons

  • Only available to those who make $150,000 per year as an individual or $200,000 as a household

  • High interest rates: 20.99% for purchases and 22.99% for cash advances (21.99% for Quebec residents)

  • High fee of $499 per year

  • Despite this being a luxury travel card, you’ll have to pay foreign exchange fees

  • Have to spend $6,000 on the card within the first four months to unlock the maximum welcome bonus

Eligibility

Recommended Credit Score

Very Good

Required Annual Personal Income

$150,000

Required Annual Household Income

$200,000

for every $1 spent on travel purchased through CIBC Rewards Centre

3 points

for every $1 spent on eligible dining, entertainment, transportation, gas, electric vehicle charging, and groceries

2 points

for every $1 spent on all other purchases

1.25 points

complimentary visits at 1,200+ lounges globally through Visa Airport Companion Program

6

annual Travel Credit

$200

NEXUS Application Fee rebates

2

Purchase APR

20.99%

Balance Transfer Rate

22.99%

Cash Advance APR

22.99%

Annual Fee

$499

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

  • Why we picked the CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege as the best CIBC Aventura hotel card

    +

    If you’re a client of CIBC and its Aventura program, we recommend the CIBC Aventura Infinite Privilege card. We picked it because it’s the best hotel credit card for hotel burglary insurance.

    Hotel burglary insurance is like a safety net for your stuff when you're staying in a hotel. If someone breaks into your room and steals or damages your personal items, this insurance has got your back. It covers the loss as long as there's clear proof of the break-in. Though, depending on your home insurance policy, your items may be covered while away from home.

    While Aventura points aren’t incredible for everyday rewards (e.g. gift cards, merchandise etc.), it's all about travel rewards, and this hotel perk may be worth keeping this card in your wallet.

    †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available in Quebec.

    The information for the CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best AIR MILES

Best hotel credit card with AIR MILES

BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* MasterCard®*

Apply now

3.3

3,000 miles

Welcome offer

Excellent

Suggested credit score

Limited time offer: Get 3,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles! * That's enough for $310 towards purchases with AIR MILES Cash!* Plus, get the $120 annual fee waived for your first anniversary

Expires

Nov 30, 2024

Apply now