Best Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards of April 2024
Updated March 28, 2024 at 3:31 pm
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One of the best ways to boost your Marriott Bonvoy points balance and improve your travel experience is with a co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit card. Marriott has five co-branded cards as well as transfer partnerships with several other travel credit cards, so the options can be overwhelming.
Whether you prioritize lavish hotel stays, seek accelerated rewards on specific spending categories or want to unlock elite status perks, here are the best Marriott Bonvoy credit cards to choose from.
Our Methodology Understanding the value of cash back is simple, but valuing airline miles or points redeemable for travel requires digging a bit deeper. At Newsweek, we’ve developed a common language to talk about the value of points and miles: our valuations.
Our valuations translate points into dollars and cents in a way that reflects reality. They are based on actual data across a balance of accessible redemption options, not just the aspirational first and business class redemptions that require a PhD in miles and points to book. The upshot is that our valuations help you understand the actual value you can easily get from your miles and points.
Our Picks - Best Overall: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
- Best for Earning Rewards: Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card
- Best for Premium Benefits: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
- Best for Business Travelers: Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
- Best for No Annual Fee: Marriott Bonvoy Bold® credit card
- Best for Saving on Marriott Bookings: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Best for Transferable Rewards: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Best for Earning Miles on Marriott Bookings: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- Best for Elite Status With Multiple Hotel Programs: The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards in 2024
Best Overall: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® credit card
Why we chose it: The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless stands out for its generous welcome bonus and ongoing travel benefits. It strikes the perfect balance between offering meaningful benefits at a reasonable annual fee.
Pros
- Five free nights if you spend $5,000 within three months
- Automatic Silver Elite status
- Up to 17X total points at Marriott Bonvoy hotels
Cons
- Not ideal for everyday spending
- Silver Elite status doesn’t offer substantial benefits
- $95 annual fee
Best for Earning Rewards: Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card
Why we chose it: The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card earns 6X points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, plus an extra 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points per paid eligible stay that’s booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy. With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites status, you’ll earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% bonus points on stays benefit, available for Qualifying Rates. Plus, earn an annual Free Night Award (up to 50,000 points) when you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year.
Pros
- Earn 85,000-point welcome bonus after spending $5,000 in purchases using your new card within six months of card membership
- Earns 4X at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide (up to $15,000 combined in a calendar year, then 2X)
- 15 Elite Night Credits
Cons
- 4X points categories limited to $15,000 annually
- Car rental loss & damage insurance* is secondary only
Best for Premium Benefits: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Why we chose it: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express makes up for its $650 annual fee with lots of premium benefits. The card offers the highest welcome bonus of any Marriott card and gives you automatic Platinum Elite status, which normally requires staying 50 nights at Marriott hotels. Read our Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card review for more information.
Pros
- Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first six months of card membership
- $300 annual dining credit in statement credits for eligible purchases made with your card at restaurants worldwide
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance*
Cons
- $60,000 spending requirement to get Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit
- $300 annual dining credit is only issued in $25 monthly increments
- $650 annual fee
Best for Business Travelers: Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
Why we chose it: The Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card provides cardholders and Marriott Bonvoy members a benefit of a 7% discount on eligible Marriott bookings and 6X points on eligible stays at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. The card also includes automatic Gold Elite status, which provides business travelers with useful benefits like priority late checkout, space-available room grades, 25% bonus points and more. Read our Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card review.
Pros
- Earn three Free Night Awards after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases within the first six months (terms apply)
- 7% booking discount on eligible bookings
- Automatic Gold Elite status
Cons
- Welcome bonus only covers rooms at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy up to 50,000 points per night for each Free Night Award
- An additional Free Night Award requires $60,000 in spending in a calendar year
- $125 annual fee
Best for No Annual Fee: Marriott Bonvoy Bold® credit card
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® credit card
Why we chose it: If you want a Marriott credit card with no annual fee, look no further than the Marriott Bonvoy Bold. Cardholders earn up to 14X points at Marriott, a modest welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees on purchases originating abroad.
Pros
- Lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance and trip delay reimbursement
- Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
- No annual or foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Low welcome bonus
- Lacks meaningful elite benefits
- No annual Free Night Award
Best for Saving on Marriott Bookings: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Why we chose it: The Chase Sapphire Reserve is the best card for saving on Marriott bookings thanks to a $300 annual travel credit. Cardholders can also earn up to 10X points by booking their Marriott stays through the Chase Travel after the first $300 is spent annually on travel. Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve review.
Pros
- Up to $1,200 in partner value
- Up to 10X points on Marriott bookings (after first $300 on travel)
- Points transfer at a 1:1 ratio to Marriott Bonvoy
Cons
- Approval is subject to the Chase 5/24 rule
- No specific Marriott benefits
- $550 annual fee
Best for Transferable Rewards: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Why we chose it: The Chase Sapphire Preferred is an excellent choice for those who prefer the flexibility of transferable rewards without a steep annual fee. Cardholders can earn 5X points on travel (including Marriott stays) booked through the Chase Travel portal and can transfer their earnings to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 ratio for award redemptions. Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred review.
Pros
- Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within three months
- 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel
- $50 annual hotel credit
Cons
- $95 annual fee
- $50 annual travel credit doesn’t earn 5X points
- Lacks Marriott-specific travel perks
Best for Earning Miles on Marriott Bookings: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card earns 2X miles on all other purchases, including hotels booked directly with Marriott. However, if you book your stay through the Capital One travel portal, you’ll earn 10X miles. Read our Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review.
Pros
- Earn 75,000-mile welcome bonus if you spend $4,000 in first three months
- Up to a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
- Includes Priority Pass Select membership
Cons
- $300 annual travel credit only valid on Capital One Travel bookings
- Lacks Marriott-specific benefits
- $395 annual fee
Best for Elite Status With Multiple Hotel Programs: The Platinum Card® from American Express
Why we chose it: The Platinum Card from American Express offers Gold Elite status with both Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors. The card offers an annual $200 hotel credit and valuable freebies and perks on hotel stays booked through Fine Hotels & Resorts. Read our Platinum Card from American Express review.
Pros
- Rewards can be transferred to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 ratio
- Over $1,500 of travel statement credits and benefits
- Includes trip cancellation and interruption insurance*
Cons
- Welcome bonus subject to Amex’s once-per-lifetime rule
- No bonus points on direct hotel bookings
- $695 annual fee
A Closer Look at the Best Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards
Best Overall: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
Why we love this card: The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card is a top choice for Marriott loyalists who want to earn elevated rewards and receive useful travel perks without a steep annual fee (it’s just $95). Cardholders get Silver Elite status perks like 10% bonus points, priority late checkout and complimentary Wi-Fi. The card also comes with an annual free night valid up to 35,000 points, 6X points for every $1 at Marriott hotels and other rewards on more common spending categories.
Who should have this in their wallet: This card is ideal for Marriott loyalists who want to reach elite status faster without dishing out an astronomical annual fee. You’ll pay just $95 a year for the card.
Other cards to consider: For those seeking alternative options, look to the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant. It offers premium benefits like Platinum Elite status, unlimited airport lounge access and statement credits for Marriott purchases.
Best for Earning Rewards: Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card
Why we love this card: The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy is an excellent option for Marriott loyalists who want to earn the most Marriott points possible on credit card spending. The card earns 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at Marriott properties, 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (up to $15,000 combined in those categories per calendar year, then 2X points) and 2X points on all other purchases. Some bonuses are higher than even what the Bonvoy Brilliant card offers with its $650 annual fee.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy is the best choice for those who want to earn lots of Marriott points and Free Night Awards through credit card spending. With its $250 annual fee, it strikes a good balance between offering premium travel benefits and breaking the bank.
Other cards to consider: If the annual fee on the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Card is too high, consider the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless. It offers similar category bonuses and an annual Free Night Award at a lower $95 annual fee.
Best for Premium Benefits: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
Why we love this card: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant provides an annual Free Night Award, worth up to 85,000 points, which can save you thousands of dollars on a luxury hotel stay. The card also provides automatic Marriott Platinum Elite status, qualifying you for room upgrades and 50% bonus points on future stays, plus 25 annual Elite Night Credits towards the next status tier. Meanwhile, Priority Pass Select membership entitles cardholders to unlimited airport lounge visits at over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying, and the up to $100 application fee credit as reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership further offsets travel costs.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant is ideal if you want to receive elite style benefits in exchange for a $650 annual fee. It can also be a good addition for any Marriott loyalist who wants to elevate their stay through the $100 statement credit offered at select properties and the $25 monthly dining credit at eligible restaurants.
Other cards to consider: As alternatives, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless offers solid rewards on Marriott stays. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card caters specifically to Marriott loyalists, providing elite status, free nights and bonus points on Marriott spending at a more reasonable $95 annual fee.
Best for Business Travelers: Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card
Why we love this card: The Marriott Bonvoy Business is tailored for business travelers, offering substantial rewards on Marriott stays and business-related expenses. Its robust earn rate is combined with perks like an annual Free Night Award after your card renewal month, a 7% discount on eligible bookings at participating properties (as a benefit of being a Marriott Bonvoy member and Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex cardmember) and automatic Gold Elite status.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Marriott Bonvoy Business can be a great choice for business travelers who prioritize practical benefits at a reasonable annual fee. It caters specifically to the needs of frequent business travelers seeking fast-track hotel rewards and travel benefits.
Other cards to consider: As alternatives, the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card offers comprehensive travel protections, a generous welcome bonus and rewards tailored to business travelers. While not explicitly Marriott-focused, this card earns versatile points that can be transferred to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 ratio.
Best for No Annual Fee: Marriott Bonvoy Bold credit card
Why we love this card: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold provides a pathway to earning elevated rewards on Marriott hotel stays and other spending categories without the burden of an annual fee.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Marriott Bonvoy Bold is a good fit for occasional travelers or those beginning their journey within the Marriott Bonvoy program. It’s ideal for individuals who wish to earn Marriott points without committing to an annual fee, providing access to basic perks and benefits with Marriott.
Other cards to consider: If the perks of the Marriott Bonvoy Bold card aren’t quite as appealing, you can opt for a higher-tier card like the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless or Marriott Bonvoy Bevy. These cards offer better benefits and premium perks to make your Marriott stays more rewarding.
Best for Saving on Marriott Bookings: Chase Sapphire Reserve
Why we love this card: You can use the $300 annual travel credit on any travel purchase. Once you’ve maxed out the credit, you’ll earn 3X points on Marriott bookings as part of the other travel worldwide category—or 10X points when you book through the Chase Travel portal. Both these earn only after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Points are worth 1.5 cents each toward travel bookings.
Who should have this in their wallet: Frequent travelers who value premium travel benefits and flexible rewards should have the Chase Sapphire Reserve in their wallet. Travelers who appreciate exclusive benefits and frequently spend on travel and dining will find this card’s rewards and perks highly rewarding.
Other cards to consider: The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card provides elite status, free nights and statement credits for Marriott spending. For a lower cost option, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred, which charges a $95 annual fee.
Best for Transferrable Rewards: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Why we love this card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred earns 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel, where you can also use a $50 annual statement credit on hotel bookings. Marriott hotels booked through other means earn 2X Ultimate Rewards points outside Chase Travel as part of other travel purchases and more category. With a generous points program and the ability to transfer points at a 1:1 ratio to various airline and hotel loyalty programs (including Marriott Bonvoy), this card offers versatility in redeeming travel rewards.
Who should have this in their wallet: The Chase Sapphire Preferred is ideal for Marriott loyalists seeking versatility and value in their rewards. It’s great for those who value transferable points, allowing them to leverage various travel partners for flights, hotel stays and experiences. Additionally, individuals who appreciate comprehensive travel benefits and wish to earn rewards on everyday spending will find this card a perfect fit for their lifestyle.
Other cards to consider: The American Express® Gold Card is a great card to help you stock up on rewards that you can convert to Marriott points with an annual fee of $250 (see rates and fees). The card earns 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in annual spending, then 1X points) and at restaurants worldwide, plus 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. Cardholders may occasionally get targeted for Amex Offers that include discounts on Marriott stays.
Best for Earning Miles on Marriott Bookings: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Why we love this card: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card stands out for earning 2X miles on all other purchases, including stays at Marriott properties. It allows you to easily redeem them toward Marriott bookings at a rate of 1 cent each or transfer them to Capital One’s airline and hotel partners. The card even has a $300 annual travel credit that you can apply towards Marriott hotel bookings through the portal.
Who should have this in their wallet: Travelers who frequently stay at Marriott properties and prefer airline miles over hotel points should consider the Capital One Venture X. Additionally, individuals who prioritize premium travel perks, such as airport lounge access and travel credits, will find this card a compelling choice.
Other cards to consider: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has a lower annual fee than the Venture X at just $95 but includes many of the same perks. The card earns 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 2X miles on all other purchases, like hotels booked through Marriott’s website. The card also has no foreign transaction fees and offers up to a $100 credit for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee. Cardholders can also get hotel freebies like room upgrades and a $50 experience credit when booking through Capital One’s Lifestyle Collection.
Best for Elite Status With Multiple Hotel Programs: The Platinum Card from American Express
Why we love this card: The Platinum Card from American Express earns 5X points on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com. Cardholders can also claim complimentary Gold Elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy. The card offers over $1,500 worth of travel and entertainment statement credits, access to one of the largest airport lounge networks and a host of travel protections and privileges that cater to the discerning traveler.
Who should have this in their wallet: Travel enthusiasts who frequently stay across different hotel brands and value premium perks should have Amex Platinum in their wallet. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking elevated, convenient and luxurious travel experiences, lounge access and automatic Gold Elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy.
Other cards to consider: The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a more affordable alternative to the Amex Platinum card. It also offers premium travel benefits, including $300 in annual travel credits, Priority Pass Select membership and travel protections. The annual fee is also much more reasonable at $550.
Who Should Get a Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card?
Marriott Bonvoy credit cards are great for avid travelers who frequently stay at Marriott properties. Marriott credit cards offer generous rewards and exclusive perks within the Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem like elite status perks, annual free nights and even savings on hotel expenses.
It’s worth noting that Marriott points aren’t as valuable as airline miles or transferable rewards. So unless you’re doing it to achieve higher elite status, spending on your Marriott credit card isn’t the best idea. A card that earns flexible rewards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture X card, might be a better option. You’ll earn rewards you can transfer to over a dozen airline and hotel loyalty programs, including Marriott Bonvoy.
What Is a Co-Branded Credit Card?
A co-branded credit card is a partnership between a credit card issuer and a specific brand, like an airline, hotel chain or retail store. These cards are designed to enhance brand loyalty by offering rewards, benefits and perks that align with customer needs. For example, many co-branded credit cards earn elevated points on purchases made with the respective brand.
Nearly every major hotel chain has teamed up with a bank on one or more co-branded cards that reward users with hotel points for purchases. These cards often provide recurring travel benefits to justify the annual fee, including annual free nights, elite status upgrades, statement credits and more. Importantly, co-branded cards also come with the standard features of a regular credit card.
How Do I Choose the Best Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card for Me?
Choosing the best Marriott Bonvoy credit card depends on your preferences and travel habits. Here are some of the top things to consider:
Welcome Bonus
When choosing a Marriott credit card, look for one that offers a welcome bonus in line with your needs. If you’re looking for the best credit card bonus for new cardholders, the Bonvoy Brilliant is ideal, with an intro offer to earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you spend $6,000 within the first six months of card membership. If you’re looking to redeem points at low-category hotels, the Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless might be a better fit since it offers Five Free Night Awards (valued up to 50,000 points each) after you spend $5,000 within the first three months of account opening.
Spending Habits
While welcome bonuses are a nice short-term boost, you want a card that earns rewards on recurring spending. When choosing the best Marriott Bonvoy credit card, consider how much you spend on Marriott stays and other categories. Additionally, consider what other benefits a card offers based on spending. For example, the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy offers a Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases with your card in a calendar year.
Elite Status
Marriott Bonvoy elite status comes with numerous perks and requires a minimum of 10 nights annually. However, you can fast-track your way to as high as Platinum Elite status with a Bonvoy credit card. The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant offers Platinum status as a cardmember benefit, while the Bonvoy Bevy offers Gold Elite status.
Recurring Benefits
Several Marriott cards offer useful recurring perks that can benefit cardholders in the long run. When evaluating the best Marriott cards for your travel goals and budget, factor in perks like Free Night Awards, Priority Pass Select membership, discounted Marriott stays and more. These benefits can offer substantial savings over a year, helping to enhance your travel experience and offset any annual fee you’re paying.
Annual Fee
Consider the annual fee against the card’s benefits; higher fees often accompany premium perks, so weigh these against your anticipated use to ensure the card’s value aligns with your spending and travel needs.
Benefits of a Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card
A Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card can be a game-changer for avid travelers seeking enhanced experiences and valuable perks at Marriott hotels. Here are some benefits you can expect from a Marriott Bonvoy credit card:
- Free nights: Enjoy annual Free Night Awards that can be redeemed at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels.
- Earn bonus points: Accumulate points on Marriott stays and everyday spending, redeemable for hotel stays, flights and more.
- Elite status: Earn automatic elite status or fast-track to higher tiers, unlocking benefits like room upgrades and bonus points.
- Travel benefits: Access exclusive travel perks such as complimentary airport lounge access, travel credits and travel insurance.
- Special offers: Gain access to cardholder-exclusive discounts and perks at Marriott hotels worldwide.
How Much Are Marriott Bonvoy Points Worth?
The value of Marriott Bonvoy points varies based on how they’re redeemed. According to Newsweek Vault valuations, Marriott Bonvoy points are worth an average of 0.84 cents apiece toward travel redemptions.
Note, this valuation can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as the category and location of the hotel and seasonal demand.
*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Marriott Credit Card Is Best?
The best Marriott credit card depends on your travel habits and preferences. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless is often favored for its balanced rewards, annual free night benefit and solid earning potential on Marriott purchases. Meanwhile, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant offers premium perks like unlimited lounge access, annual credits and higher-tier elite status for frequent travelers willing to invest in a higher annual fee.
What Credit Score Do I Need for a Marriott Card?
Chase and American Express haven’t publicly released information about credit scores recommended for a Marriott credit card. However, these are premium credit cards typically aimed at consumers with good to excellent credit, which is at least a 670 FICO Score or higher.
Which Marriott Card Gives Lounge Access?
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant provides lounge access through the Priority Pass network. Cardholders who claim their complimentary Priority Pass Select membership can access over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
