When it comes to accommodation, Marriott has a diverse portfolio of brands to cater to the different tastes and preferences of travelers. Two of its popular select-service brands are Courtyard and Fairfield by Marriott. These two may offer similar lodging experiences at a glance, but they also possess unique characteristics that distinguish them from each other.

1. Brand Size and Global Reach

Courtyard remains Marriott’s largest brand with a robust presence not just in the United States but also in international markets. This brand boasts an array of excellent properties outside the US, particularly in Asia. In Asia, Courtyard hotels are often more upscale, featuring expansive lobbies, full-service amenities, and extravagant breakfast offerings.

On the other hand, Fairfield by Marriott has grown aggressively and is nearly catching up to Courtyard in total property count. The brand has a strong reputation for providing consistent quality service across its various locations. While originally US-centric, Fairfield has expanded significantly into Europe, Japan, and other international markets, offering decently spacious rooms at very reasonable prices.

2. Property Age and Condition

The condition of the properties under these brands can vary greatly depending on their age. Older Courtyard hotels (often referred to as “Gen 1” or “Gen 2” properties) tend to be less impressive than their newer counterparts if they haven’t undergone recent renovations. Conversely, because Fairfield has expanded so rapidly in recent years, many Fairfield hotels are generally newer and often in better condition.

However, if both properties are relatively new and fall within a similar price range, Courtyard would typically provide a superior experience due to its slightly premium positioning and amenities, such as the bistro bar and larger lobbies.

3. Breakfast Offerings

One notable difference between these two brands lies in their breakfast offerings.

• Fairfield by Marriott: In hotels located in the US, Canada, and Europe, complimentary breakfasts are provided to all guests – a convenience that frequent travelers surely appreciate. However, travelers should note that at Fairfield hotels in Asia Pacific, complimentary breakfast is generally not a standard brand benefit and is often treated similarly to Courtyard (paid or status-based).
• Courtyard by Marriott: At Courtyard hotels globally, there is generally no free breakfast for standard guests. You would strictly need to book a rate inclusive of breakfast, pay separately for it at the hotel bistro/restaurant, or use your Platinum/Titanium/Ambassador elite welcome gift choice to cover it.

4. Loyalty Points Earnings

For years, there was a discrepancy in how these brands earned points in certain regions, but as of 2025, the playing field has been leveled.

Marriott Bonvoy members will be pleased to know that earning structures are now consistent:

• Points: Stays at both Courtyard and Fairfield hotels globally now earn 10 Marriott Bonvoy points per USD spent on qualifying room rates.
• Elite Nights: Stays at both brands now earn 1 Elite Night Credit for every night stayed, regardless of the region.

Note: The older rule where Fairfield properties in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa earned fewer points and half-night credits is no longer in effect. You now get full earnings at both brands worldwide.

5. Location

Fairfield hotels are usually located in suburban areas, near highway exits, or close to airports, while Courtyard hotels are often situated around city centers and business districts. However, this is a generalization; you will increasingly find new Fairfields in city centers and Courtyards in suburban business parks. Determining their locations via the map view is always recommended.

If you are saving a few bucks at a hotel but then spending double the amount on Uber to get into the city every day, it’s not worth the trade-off.

Conclusion

Courtyard by Marriott and Fairfield both provide select-service hotels catering to business travelers and tourists on a budget. Generally, newer Courtyard hotels are superior to Fairfield hotels in terms of amenities and finish. However, this may not always be the case with older Courtyard properties that are in desperate need of renovation.

The biggest differentiator for most travelers in 2025 remains breakfast: if you are traveling in the US or Europe and want a guaranteed free morning meal, Fairfield is the safer bet. If you want a more upscale lobby bar atmosphere and don’t mind paying for breakfast, Courtyard is the way to go.