Where To Stay In San Francisco: Best Hotels From Budget To Luxury

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Ahh Frisco, the Golden City where the Bay meets art deco buildings and steep rolling hills meet hilly, multicultural neighborhoods.

It’s a colorful mishmash of hippies, techies, and creative artists. From the steep hills to the cool sea air drifting over the bay – this is a city unlike any other.

To make the most out of any trip to San Fran, you need to know exactly where to stay in San Francisco to put you close to the action, but also be comfortable and safe.

We’ve visited San Fran several times, and have stayed in many different hotels and neighborhoods, so we think we’ve got the best of the best when it comes to the right places to stay in San Francisco.

To help you pick the perfect accommodation, we’ve selected our favorite neighborhoods down below, and suggested some top-rated, comfortable hotels for each place, so you can make choosing your accommodation a doddle.

Where is the best neighborhood to stay in San Francisco?

Before you can decide on where to stay in San Francisco, you first need to pick the right neighborhood.

There are five vibrant and popular neighborhoods we recommend for first timers, they and they couldn’t be more different from each other.

They are: Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, North Beach, The Castro, Mission District, and the Financial District.

Each neighborhood offers something different and caters to different travel styles. We think that each neighborhood is good for:

• Best neighborhood in San Francisco for families: Fisherman’s Wharf
• Best neighborhood in San Francisco for couples: North Beach
• Best neighborhood in San Francisco for backpackers/solo travelers: Mission District
• Best neighborhood in San Francisco for nightlife: Financial District (Embarcadero)
• Best neighborhood in San Francisco for shopping: Union Square
• Best neighborhood in San Francisco for LGBTQ: The Castro

Where to stay in San Francisco for families: Fisherman’s Wharf

Most tourists on their first visit to SF stay near the water – or in the Fisherman’s Wharf and Marina District.

This is the best place to stay if you want to indulge in fresh from ocean to plate seafood, and be near to the top attractions.

It puts you in easy access to the boats over to Alcatraz, amusement parks and quirky museums such as the Cartoon Art Museum, Musée Mécanique (for coin-operated arcade games), Coit Tower, and where the sea lions sit on Pier 39.

From shopping on the famous Chestnut Street to the food on the pier at Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s a bustling and fun place to spend your trip.

It’s also close to Presidio of San Francisco, one of our favorite parks in SF and the perfect place to spend a day in the city.

Some of the top hotels in Fisherman’s Wharf are…

Kimpton Alton at Fisherman’s Wharf

A stylish hotel on the block, the Kimpton Alton offers a refreshing retreat in Fisherman’s Wharf with a vintage feel.

Greenery-draped skylights and classic rock and roll set the scene for a mellow evening with friends, or watch the world go by from the patio of our all-day restaurant.

Visitors get to stay in retro-inspired guest rooms outfitted with Victrola record players, sumptuous furnishings, and bay views.

Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf

Hotel Zoe is just a short 2-block walk from the waterfront. Not only does it have an on-site restaurant that serves amazing seafood, it also has coffee and tea in the lobby every morning.

Lots of guests say they love sitting outside and having a drink or two while they listen to the sounds of nearby Fisherman’s Wharf.

Hyatt Centric 

This bricked-hotel is perfect for those wanting affordable luxury. The Hyatt Centric has both a heated outdoor pool and hot tub for those cool summer nights.

Plus, you will feel like a VIP at the lounge and restaurant.

Courtyard by Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf 

Another one of the top luxury hotels in Fisherman’s Wharf is the Courtyard by Marriott.

You can always count on top-notch customer service when you stay at a Courtyard hotel. It has a breakfast Bistro and on-site concierge for your convenience.

The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghiradelli Square

Looking for a hotel with a view? And want to feel like a celebrity?

Then you need to splurge a little and stay at these luxurious 1-3 bedroom apartments. Indulge in privacy, relaxation, and space all to yourself.

This urban resort literally sits above the Ghiradelli square, known for the chocolates.

Not only are they apartments with sitting room, dining room table, bedroom, and kitchen, but you have access to a 24-hour butler.

There are also resort-like facilities such as a fitness center and outdoor terrace, which would be the ultimate place for sunset.

Where to stay in San Francisco for couples: North Beach

You can’t miss the evolving excitement of North Beach of San Francisco.

It’s close to the Financial District and it’s a busy Italian neighborhood that overlooks the water with views of both Treasure Island and Alcatraz Island.

It’s a historic neighborhood that was once the heart of the Beat Generation and still retains its artistic and free-spirited vibe. It’s full of lively bars and iconic literary landmarks, and places to catch live music, especially jazz and blues.

Staying in North Beach can be both relaxing and romantic.

These are the best hotels in North Beach from budget to luxury…

Columbus Inn

The Columbus Motor Inn is just 1,000 feet from Lombard Street and only 1,650 feet from the famous Ghiradelli Square. You’ll enjoy tons of shopping and food all nearby.

Hotel Boheme

This is a fun and whimsical hotel that captures the bohemian flair of the 1950s and 1960s.

It’s located conveniently near some top-notch Italian restaurants and is only a short walk to Lombard Street and the famous cable cars.

Washington Square Inn

The Washington Square Inn is a boutique-style hotel that overlooks Washington Square Park.

As soon as you step into your room you’ll be welcomed into opulence from the thick bathrobes to the wood furniture.

Where to stay in San Francisco for backpackers: Mission District

The Mission is the place to be for a vibrant mix of cultures. It’s a bohemian neighborhood with an artsy vibe, known for its dive bars, trendy cocktail lounges, live music venues (from indie rock to Latin rhythms), and late-night taquerias.

It’s where you will find San Francisco’s Latino community, and has tons of Latino restaurants and clubs. It has an energetic, often crowded, atmosphere.

A highlight of this neighborhood is the art murals, it’s like an outdoor art gallery! Most of the street art is made up of poignant pieces about cultural heritage and social-political themes. The Women’s Building at 3543 18th St has a standout piece covering the entire building.

Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley are also covered in art. It’s also close to Alamo Square and the colorful Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, the birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.

Noe’s Nest Bed and Breakfast

Noe’s is a charming B&B in a Victorian house, serving a generous daily buffet breakfast each day. Rooms are uniquely decorated and a private marble bathroom with free toiletries.

It’s located halfway between the Mission District and The Castro district.

Inn San Francisco

This lovely, 3-star hotel is set inside a historic Victorian home, and offers daily breakfast buffet and 24-hour refreshments.

Each room is individually styled with authentic Victorian décor, but has modern amenities such as free WiFi, flat-screen cable TV, refrigerator, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.

There’s also a hot tub, a garden and a games room.

Where to stay in San Francisco for nightlife: Financial District

While not traditionally known for nightlife, that title belongs to the Mission District, the Financial District has seen a rise in sophisticated bars and rooftop lounges over the years which is more my kind of nightlife.

It’s often the area where the locals go for after-work drinks with a view. The Embarcadero has high-end waterfront bars with stunning views, and there’s tons of beautiful Victorian architecture tucked between skyscapers to look at.

There is something exciting and fun about staying in downtown San Francisco. From all the shops on Market Street to the nearness of Chinatown, there is so much for you to see and do.

These hotels are known for their customer care, offer fantastic value, clean rooms, and plenty of hospitality.

Hampton Inn Downtown San Francisco

The Hampton Inn is centrally located in the Theater District, right next to Nobb Hill and Union Square.

It is one of Booking.com’s Top Picks for hotel rooms in San Francisco for good reason. Breakfast is included and the luxurious rooms have superb views of the city.

Holiday Inn San Francisco – Golden Gateway

You can always rely on the Holiday Inn to offer incredible value and the best customer service.

The rooms offer either city or bay views and it’s close to the impressive Golden Gate Bridge. Dine on-site at the R-O-H where you can also experience Napa and Sonoma wines or international craft beers.

Hotel Griffon

The Hotel Griffon is really close to the Bay Trail so you can take in the outdoor scenery and get away from the traffic and business of the city.

Plus the guest rooms have 12-foot high ceilings and views of the bay that make you feel like royalty.

1 Hotel San Francisco

I bet you have never stayed at a hotel like the 1 Hotel San Francisco, formerly Hotel Vitale. The beauty is in the details.

The rooms are exquisitely designed with comfort in mind. Guests rave about the Americano Restaurant & Bar, where you can sit and take in the views of the city while enjoying the memorable food and drinks.

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel

Enjoy the rich hospitality at the Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel. Here, you can stay in rooms designed by the French architectural designer Philippe Starck.

When you aren’t relaxing in one of the custom-made sleigh beds, nibble on some breakfast in the Velvet Room. Then later that night sip some drinks in either the Living Room or the Redwood Room.

If you love art, take a look at the original art pieces in the lobby by Salvador Dali and Charles Eames.

Axiom Hotel 

They say a stay at the Axiom is like a step into the future. The lightning-fast fiber-optic WiFi is free for guests.

Plus the lobby and guest rooms are all designed with a flair for the modern. While you are staying here, walk the .6 miles to Chinatown, it’s unforgettable.

Hotel Zelos San Francisco 

Hotel Zelos is a conveniently-located hotel with a focus on eco-friendliness.

While you are here, take advantage of the in-room spa services. Then spend some time at the restaurant and bar, Dirty Habit, that has a heated outdoor patio.

Huntington Hotel 

You will never forget how pampered you felt when you stayed at the Huntington Hotel.

The rooms are luxuriously spacious and filled with overstuffed, comfy furniture. It also has an award-winning spa, the Nob Hill Spa and an adults-only indoor hot tub.

Club Quarters Hotel 

Staying at the Club Quarters Hotel makes you feel like you are entering a private club made just for you.

The Embarcadaro Station – BART – is only a 5-minute walk from the hotel, and the Wi-Fi is free and fast. Grocery delivery and room service are some of the amenities people love best about this place.

Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero

The Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero is a boutique hotel. It stands out from the rest because of the breathtaking city views from every single guest room.

This is because the rooms are all located on the top 11 floors of a 48-story building. It also has gourmet on-site dining and in-room massage services too.

Where to stay in San Francisco for shopping: Union Square

Union Square is the central shopping and theater district. You are within walking distance of a variety of restaurants, stores, and entertainment venues.

It’s considered the strongest downtown retail district in the country, and has many of the city’s finest shops and boutiques, set in Victorian buildings and flanked by tree-lined sidewalks.

It’s close to Chinatown, and also the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Moscone Center, The Curran Theatre, and SF Masonic Auditorium.

Be warned, the Tenderloin district is next door, which is considered the most unsafe part of San Fran with a high number of homeless people around – so be mindful of this when walking around at night.

Some of the best places to stay in Union Square, from budget to luxury are:

Executive Hotel Vintage Court

The Executive Hotel Vintage Court is an incredible place to stay on a budget. They offer wine tastings to their guests and it is located just 5 minutes from The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

Couples rates this hotel 9.0 as a perfect getaway.

Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel Union Square

This hotel is located in a stunning historical building that’s just a 5-minute walk from Union Square.

There are so many things to love about Marines’ Memorial Club. From the breathtaking rooftop restaurant with awe-inspiring views to the 564-seat on-site theater, you might not want to leave.

San Francisco Marriott Marquis

Marriott Marquis San Francisco is a fantastic hotel centrally located in the SoMa district not far from Union Square.

You will love the surprisingly large rooms, and San Francisco views. I loved my stay here. Breakfast buffeet is pretty impressive (although pricey)

Do not miss cocktails from The View lounge – the views are sensational. You can read more in my post on one day in San Francisco

Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel

Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel is decorated stunningly with elaborate ceilings and ornate furniture. It’s also just a few steps away from the subway and the Powell Street cable car.

If you stay here, experience the hosted wine hour from 17:00-18:00 every day.

And if your’e researching where to stay in San Francisco with kids, check out their joining family rooms!

Hotel Nikko San Francisco 

Experience supreme customer service at the Hotel Nikko. It’s a modern Asian-inspired hotel with an indoor pool and expansive city views. The Golden Gate Park is just a short 20-minute drive away.

Club Donatello

Club Donatello is centrally located just a block from Union Square.

Right on the roof is Donatello’s Club 1500 with panoramic views of the city. And when you stay here, you are a very short drive or walk from A.C.T.’s Geary Theater, AT&T Park (home of the San Francisco Giants), and the Ferry Building Marketplace.

Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco

You will never forget your stay at the Four Seasons, it’s one of the top hotels in San Francisco.

When you stay here, take advantage of the full-service spa or take a swim in the indoor lap pool. Plus, the MKT Restaurant – Bar on-site has a delightfully urban-chic atmosphere with small plates for sharing.

Taj Campton Place

The Taj Campton Place is an updated historic hotel with European charm.

It has a rooftop gym with breathtaking views of San Francisco. It’s really close to lots of popular San Francisco attractions such as Fisherman’s Wharf, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Where to stay in San Francisco for LGBTQ culture: The Castro

The Castro is vibrant neighborhood famous for being one of the first and most prominent gay neighborhoods in the United States, so if you’re looking for LGBTQ culture, this is the place to go!

It’s been a hub for LGBTQ+ communities for decades, and played a crucial role in LGBTQ+ activism and fighting for gay rights.

You’ll see rainbow flags, LGBTQ+ businesses, and LGBTQ inspired landmarks like the Castro Theatre and the Rainbow Honor Walk.  

Even if you’re not LGBTQ+, The Castro has a lively and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where people can be themselves, and there’s a strong sense of community here.

The Hotel Castro San Francisco

This stylish hotel has individually styled rooms with a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries. Each room has a mural to a famous artist on the walls, from The Runaways to David Bowie.

It’s located right in The Castro neighborhood and has clean and quiet rooms.

Beck’s Motor Lodge

Beck’s Motor Lodge is a 3-star motel, with free WiFi and free parking included. Rooms come with a small refrigerator and cable TV, private bathroom and sundeck.

Criteria for choosing the best hotels in San Francisco

You might be wondering how we picked these hotels and suites in San Francisco. In which case, the criteria we used to find each place are as follows:

• Location Score 8+
• Review Score 8+
• Free WiFi
• Air Conditioning
• Family friendly (amenities and family rooms available)

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, this is the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in San Francisco. There are tons to choose from, but don’t let it get overwhelming for you.

In fact, there are so many things to do in San Fran that you might have to take a few different trips just to see and experience it all.

More San Francisco Travel Tips

Here are more tips on visiting San Francisco to help you plan your trip:

• Hidden gems in San Francisco
• Must do San Francisco attractions
• Fun things to do in San Francisco with kids
• Things To Know Before You Go To San Francisco
• San Francisco in a Day: A Solo Mother’s Relaxed Adventures
• Things to do in San Francisco with a teen
• A WNBA night at the Chase Center: taking my teen to see the Dallas Wings

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