The really cheap hotels are near Sea-Tac Airport which is very inconvenient to Seattle. The good news is that the Bellevue area has a lot going on, and can be an easy drive to downtown Seattle. Seattle has water almost everywhere, so you're never far. Luxury Service is the watchword and comfort hits its maximum. Convenient downtown locations.
Budget Get a good nights sleep in a safe area with a comfortable room.
Seattle has a better selection than most major cities. Downtown Be close to shopping, museums, and the waterfront with downtown hotels. Bellevue Bellevue is close to Redmond, Microsoft's headquarters and a wealth of shopping, culture, and the arts. The close-in suburb has many major hotels. Hostels Pay the least and don't get a shared bathroom even.