Whatever your budget and traveling style, San Francisco offers a full spectrum of lodging options. At the most sophisticated (and expensive) end of the spectrum, the opulent Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Ritz, and Taj offer every possible luxury. Equally refined, but with the added cachet of an impressive 100-plus-year pedigree, are San Francisco originals like the Fairmont on Nob Hill and the Palace Hotel on Market Street.
More moderately priced chains are also prevalent downtown, as well as in Fisherman’s Wharf. Alternatively, try the small, amenities-rich boutique hotels with more definable personalities, such as literary, nautical, Tuscan, to name but a few. If you prefer cozy inns and bed and breakfasts, you’ll find them in more residential areas further from the city center.
For true budget accommodations, there is a good selection of small hotels and no-frills lodgings. The dormitory-style Hostelling International San Francisco (www.sfhostels.com) has locations downtown near Union Square, in Fisherman’s Wharf, and in Civic Center. All offer private and shared rooms, free daily breakfast and plenty of hosted activities, such as pizza and movie nights, walking tours, pub crawls, and more.
When making reservations at the larger hotels, ask about special packages and discounts, and check online booking sites to see if a better rate is available. Unless otherwise noted, all hotels are non-smoking.
Price per night for a standard double room, excluding taxes and breakfast unless noted.
$$$$ = over $350
$$$ = $225–350
$$ = $150–225
$ = below $150
Fisherman’s Wharf
Argonaut Hotel
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Argonaut Hotel
495 Jefferson Street; tel: 563-0800; www.argonauthotel.com; metro: F to Jones and Beach streets; cable-car: Powell–Hyde; $$$
The maritime-themed Argonaut sits just opposite the Hyde Street Pier. Rooms feature exposed red brick and nautical accents; suites offer sea views and tripod telescopes. Perks include a nightly wine hour and yoga mats in every room.
Best Western Plus Tuscan Inn
425 North Point Street; tel: 561-1100; www.tuscaninn.com; metro: F to Jefferson and Taylor streets; cable-car: Powell–Mason; $$
The Tuscan Inn is possibly the most pleasant of the many Fisherman’s Wharf hotels, with charming guest rooms, a cozy “Living Room” with a nightly fireside wine reception, and an on-site trattoria with traditional Tuscan favorites. Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.
Hostelling International Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel
240 Fort Mason; tel: 771-7277; www.sfhostels.com; bus: 30; $
Pleasant hostel located above the bay in a century-old army dispensary at Fort Mason, between the Marina and Fisherman’s Wharf. Shared and private rooms in a variety of sizes, some of which are gender specific. Price includes free continental breakfast and access to self-service kitchen facilities. Complimentary Wi-Fi, plus computer terminals available for rent.
San Francisco Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf
1250 Columbus Avenue; tel: 775-7555; www.marriott.com; $$
With easy access to the waterfront and North Beach (and just a short ride away from the Financial District), the Marriott is a convenient, all-in-one choice for families and business travelers, complete with a full-service business center, pet-friendly policies, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
Hotel Monaco
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
North Beach and Telegraph Hill
Hotel Boheme
444 Columbus Avenue; tel: 433-9111; www.hotelboheme.com; bus: 30, 39, 41, 45; $$
A throwback to the city’s bohemian Beat era, this 15-room North Beach fixture pops with bright orange walls, checked bedspreads, and eclectic furniture and art. Front-desk staff happily assists with hired cars, dinner reservations, and tours. Wi-Fi is free.
San Remo Hotel
2237 Mason Street; tel: 776-8688 or 800-352-7366; www.sanremohotel.com; $
Built in 1906, this North Beach hotel was a boarding house for sailors, poets, and pensioners, then a speakeasy during Prohibition. Today it’s a bargain getaway on a quiet street, with small, quaint rooms (no telephones or TVs), shared bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. The rooftop penthouse is a treat.
Washington Square Inn
1660 Stockton Street; tel: 981-4220; www.wsisf.com; bus: 30, 39, 41; $$$
This European-style bed-and-breakfast offers a great location for an extended exploration of North Beach’s legendary dining and nightlife scenes. Rates include breakfast for two, an evening welcome reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres, and wireless internet.
Hotel Bijou
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Union Square and Financial District
Andrews Hotel
624 Post Street; tel: 563-6877; www.andrewshotel.com; bus: 2, 3, 27, 38, 76; $
A bargain two blocks west of Union Square, this 1905 Victorian offers decidedly small rooms and baths, but makes up for it with historic charm, an intimate Italian restaurant, complimentary Continental breakfasts, evening wine receptions, and Wi-Fi.
Chancellor Hotel
433 Powell Street; tel: 362-2004; www.chancellorhotel.com; bus: 2, 3, 27, 38, 71; $$
Family-owned and managed since 1917, this charming, comfortably furnished hotel is a stone’s throw from Union Square, and was once the tallest building in San Francisco. Backside rooms are quieter; rooms in the front offer views of the cable cars. Wireless internet is complimentary.
The Redwood Room at the Clift Hotel
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Clift Hotel
495 Geary Street; tel: 775-4700; www.clifthotel.com; bus: 2, 4, 27, 38, 76; $$$
Redesigned by Philippe Starck, this historic hotel is now a fusion of old-world elegance and modern style. Rooms feel light and fresh, decorated in a creamy palette with lavender accents. For less serenity and more buzz, the legendary Redwood Room is just downstairs.
Four Seasons
757 Market Street; tel: 633-3000; www.fourseasons.com; metro: all lines to Montgomery; cable-car: Powell–Hyde, Powell–Mason; $$$$
The Four Seasons knows how to cater to its sophisticated and fairly exclusive clientele, boasting an ultra-convenient downtown location, an in-house tech-center, high-end stores, and a two-story health club with an indoor pool and Jacuzzi.
Golden Gate Hotel
775 Bush Street; tel: 392-3702; www.goldengatehotel.com; $$
A vintage elevator connects the 4 floors of this lovingly maintained 25-room Edwardian inn with highly rated service. Rooms feature traditional decor and antique furniture are some have claw-foot bathtubs. A continental breakfast is included and there is free Wi-Fi.
Grand Hyatt
345 Stockton Street; tel: 398-1234 www.hyatt.com; $$$
High style and high-tech features attract business travelers to this newly renovated tower hovering over Union Square. Sumptuous facilities include an on-site restaurant, coffee bar, and gym, as well as conference and event spaces.
Handlery Union Square Hotel
351 Geary Street; tel: 781-7800; http://sf.handlery.com; bus: 2, 4, 27, 38, 71; $$
This historic, family-owned hotel is a good family choice, with an outdoor heated pool, babysitting services, same-day laundry service, a business center, pet-friendly policies, and morning and evening room service. Larger club rooms in an adjacent building offer fresh decor, dressing areas, and newspapers.
Hilton and Tower San Francisco
333 O’Farrell Street; tel: 771-1400 or 800-445-8667; www.hilton.com; $$
With 1,685 rooms on the edge of Union Square, this is one of the largest hotels in the city, complete with a pool, exercise room, and five restaurants. The popular Urban Tavern restaurant serves gastro-pub cuisine.
Hostelling International Downtown Hostel
312 Mason Street; tel: 788-5604; www.sfhostels.com; bus: 38, 38L; $
This large hostel has both shared rooms (maximum 4 beds per room) and private rooms, some with ensuite bathrooms. Price includes a free continental breakfast and access to self-service kitchen facilities. Complimentary Wi-Fi, plus computer terminals available for rent.
Hotel Bijou
111 Mason Street; tel: 771-1200 or 800-771-1022; www.hotelbijou.com; $$
Black-and-white images of old cinema marquees cover the walls of this 65-room hotel for cinephiles, where each room spotlights a different film integral to California cinema − from The Birds to Dirty Harry, American Graffiti to Joy Luck Club. Nightly viewings in the mini-theater with vintage cinema seating and free popcorn are a quirky bonus. $
Hotel des Arts
447 Bush Street; tel: 956-3232 or 800-956-4322; www.sfhoteldesarts.com; $
Near Chinatown, this bastion of hipness promises an unforgettable and inexpensive stay. Each of the modest “painted” rooms is a unique canvas created by a local artist. The hotel is a gallery of underground urban art; there is a French brasserie on the street level.
Hotel Diva
440 Geary Street; tel: 885-0200 or 800-553-1900; www.hoteldiva.com; $$$
Steely modern decor, artist-designed lounges, a 24-hour fitness center, and Starbucks coffee shop located just off the lobby are some of the draws of this boutique hotel in the Theater District.
Hotel Metropolis
25 Mason Street; tel: 775-4600 or 877-775-4600; www.hotelmetropolis.com; $$
Simple rooms are decorated in earth tones or water-themed blues in this ten-story eco-friendly hotel with a “four elements” theme. Complimentary tea and coffee service and free Wi-Fi.
The Beaux Arts staircase at Hotel Monaco
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Hotel Monaco
501 Geary Street; tel: 292-0100; www.monaco-sf.com; bus: 2, 3, 27, 38, 76; $$$
This renovated Beaux Arts building evokes glamorous from the get-go, with hand-painted ceiling domes and grand Art Nouveau murals in golden-hued common areas. Rooms boldly play with colors and patterns, and amenities include whirlpool tubs in most suites, yoga accessories, and 24-hour room service. Rates include morning coffee and evening wine receptions. Pets are allowed for no extra charge.
Hotel Nikko
222 Mason Street; tel: 394-1111; www.hotelnikkosf.com; metro: all lines to Powell; cable-car: Powell–Mason, Powell–Hyde; $$$
Close to Union Square, this elegant Japanese offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms, a heated indoor poor, steam room, sauna, and 24-hour fitness center. The on-site ANZU restaurant serves Californian cuisine with Asian influences and also features a sushi bar.
Hotel Rex
562 Sutter Street; tel: 433-4434; www.jdvhospitality.com; cable-car: Powell–Hyde, Powell–Mason; $
Inspired by the San Francisco literary salons of the 1920s and 30s, the Rex is a treat for bibliophiles. Complimentary Wi-Fi, morning coffee and newspaper, and an evening wine hour are offered, and you can enjoy live jazz on Fridays in the library bar.
Hotel Triton
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Well-staffed reception desk
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Hotel Triton
342 Grant Street; tel: 394-0500; www.hoteltriton.com; bus: 2, 30, 45, 76; $$
Across from Chinatown Gate, the eco-friendly Triton is a green hotel pioneer, employing a sophisticated recycling program, energy-efficient systems, and other environmentallyconscious practices. The lobby’s wild designs and mod furniture are amusing, though the bedrooms are tiny.
Mandarin Oriental
222 Sansome Street; tel: 800-622-0404; www.mandarinoriental.com; metro: all lines to Montgomery; cable-car: California Street; $$$$
This luxury hotel offers jaw-dropping views and the most decadent service. Binoculars are provided in each room, and some of the rooms have glass bathtubs situated near the windows.
Omni San Francisco Hotel
500 California Street; tel: 677-9494; www.omnihotels.com; cable-car: California Street; $$$
Built as a bank in 1926, the refined Omni welcomes guests off California Street cable-cars into a lobby adorned with Italian marble, rich fabrics and Austrian crystal chandeliers. The 362 guest rooms exude classic sophistication and comfort, with marble bathrooms and 9ft (2.7m) -high ceilings with crown moldings. Downstairs is Bob’s Steak & Chop House.
Powell Hotel
28 Cyril Magnin; tel: 398-3200; www.thepowellhotel.com; $$
Ornate 20ft (6m) ceilings and marble floors greet guests in the grand lobby, and with the clang of the cable car and the carnival of Market Street below, the small but affordable rooms ensure a classic San Francisco experience in the middle of the action. The deluxe rooms and suites are a good option for families or those who need a little more space.
Prescott Hotel
545 Post Street; tel: 563-0303; www.prescotthotel.com; $$
Rooms decorated in calming neutrals set a timeless scene; but complimentary Wi-Fi, yoga mats in every room, and a friendly hosted wine hour are all very modern. In-room spa treatments featuring organic beauty products are available.
Renaissance Parc 55
55 Cyril Magnin; tel: 392-8000 or 800-595-0507; www.parc55hotel.com; $$
This four-diamond, luxury hotel in a convenient downtown location has a 24-hour fitness center, mounds of comfy pillows, and great views from the upper floors. Dining options include an on-site Thai restaurant and the Cityhouse bar and steakhouse.
Doorman at the Ritz-Carlton
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Ritz-Carlton
600 Stockton Street; tel: 296-7465; www.ritzcarlton.com; cable-car: California Street; $$$$
Once a giant neoclassical corporate headquarters, this luxury landmark hotel lives up to expectations. It boasts 336 rooms and facilities include an indoor spa with gym, swimming pool, whirlpool, and sauna, and an award-winning French restaurant on the premises.
Serrano
405 Taylor Street; tel: 885-2500; www.serranohotel.com; bus: 27, 38; cable-car: Powell–Hyde, Powell–Mason; $$
This Spanish-Moroccan-styled hotel in the heart of the Theater District features lavish lobby furnishings and 236 guest rooms decked out in dark woods, saffron yellow walls, and red-and-white striped curtains. A 24-hour fitness center is on site, as is the Jasper’s Corner Tap and Kitchen.
Sir Francis Drake
450 Powell Street; tel: 392-7755; www.sirfrancisdrake.com; bus: 2, 3, 27, 38, 74; $$$
This 1928 landmark is known for its doormen decked out in Beefeater costumes, and its spectacular views. Rooms are styled as if from an English country home, which is perfect for the traveling Anglophile. There’s also a small fitness room, nightclub.
Taj Campton Place
340 Stockton Street; tel: 781-5555; www.tajhotels.com; bus: 2, 4, 30, 45, 76; cable-car: Powell–Mason, Hyde–Mason; $$$$
Elegant, and intimate, this refined hotel is perfect for the sophisticated and discreet traveler, offering excellent service, top-notch amenities, a consistently highly rated restaurant, and a spa.
The Touchstone
480 Geary Street; tel: 771-1600; https://thetouchstone.com; $
This 42-room budget option is small all around − including the rooms and elevator − but at two blocks west of Union Square, it’s extremely convenient. Free wireless internet is available in rooms, and the business center offers free internet and printing services.
The marble floor entrance at the Westin St Francis
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Westin St Francis
335 Powell Street; tel: 397-7000; www.westinstfrancis.com; cable-car: Powell–Hyde, Powell–Mason; $$$
A San Francisco institution since 1903, this Union Square hotel is rich in history and elegance. Meeting beneath the hand-carved grandfather clock in the lobby has long been a favorite rendezvous for locals. If the historic aspects interest you, reserve a room in the original building: the baths are small and rooms rather dark, but they are furnished with handsome reproductions and chandeliers. Chef Michael Mina’s acclaimed Bourbon Steak restaurant is on site.
SoMa and Civic Center
Adagio Hotel
550 Geary Street; tel: 775-5000; www.thehoteladagio.com; bus: 27, 38; $$$
The Adagio is comfortable and chic, with Aveda bath products and a room decor scheme that pairs greys, apple green, and deep burgundy to a sophisticated effect. Ask for a room with a view.
Harbor Court Hotel
165 Steuart Street; tel: 882-1300; www.harborcourthotel.com; metro: F to Don Chee Way and Steuart Street; $$$
Elegant boutique hotel in a 1907 building that offers comfortable rooms, luxury amenities, bay views, and complimentary access to the state-of-the-art fitness center next door.
Hostelling International City Center Hostel
685 Ellis Street; tel: 474-5721; www.sfhostels.com; bus: 38, 38L; $
Centrally located budget option, with both shared rooms, with 4 or 5 beds, and private rooms. Price includes a free continental breakfast and access to self-service kitchen facilities. Complimentary Wi-Fi, plus computer terminals available for rent.
Hotel Palomar
12 4th Street; tel: 866-373-4941; www.hotelpalomar-sf.com; $$$
Enjoy cheerful, casually elegant rooms, a complimentary wine tasting each night, and close proximity to all the Union Square shopping action. Corner King rooms offer good views of the street cars on Market Street.
Hotel Vitale
8 Mission Street; tel: 278-3700; www.hotelvitale.com; metro: all lines to Embarcadero; $$$
This waterfront hotel features earthy, subdued tones and with 180-degree views of the Embarcadero, Bay Bridge, and Ferry Building. Complimentary yoga classes in the morning, private soaking tubs, and secret gardens. Treatments also available at Spa Vitale.
Hotel Zetta
55 5th Street; tel: 543-8555; www.viceroyhotelgroup.com; $$$
Sleek and hi-tech in a playful way, the new downtown Hotel Zetta is a fun take on ultra-modern luxury. Facilities include a games room and brasserie-style restaurant.
InterContinental San Francisco
888 Howard Street; tel: 888-811-4273; www.intercontinentalsanfrancisco.com; bus: 14, 27; $$$
This blue-glass tower is sexy, technologically sophisticated, and earned the highest certification for green practices. Guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and plenty of amenities. A luxurious spa, Bar 888, and Luce restaurant are on the premises.
Mosser
54 4th Street; tel: 986-4400; www.themosser.com; metro: all lines to Powell; $−$$
An ornate stained-glass window in the lobby, antique phone booths, and an incredibly slow elevator are quirky reminders of this hotel’s past, but the good linens, latest gadgets, prime SoMa location, and good rates make it an affordable choice for young sophisticates.
Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery Street; tel: 512-1111; www.sfpalace.com; metro: all lines to Montgomery; $$$$
This opulent historical landmark just south of Market is home to the magnificent Garden Court Restaurant. Enjoy cocktails under the Maxfield Parrish mural in the Pied Piper bar.
W Hotel
181 3rd Street; tel: 777-5300; www.whotels.com; bus: 9, 14, 30, 45, 76; $$$$
Vibrantly modern and trendy, the high-design W offers both an urban refuge for travelers (check out the Bliss spa menu) and a lively nightlife scene for those who want to mingle.
Nob Hill
Fairmont Hotel and Tower
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Luxury hotel room
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Fairmont Hotel and Tower
950 Mason Street; tel: 772-5013; www.fairmont.com; cable-car: California Street; $$$
A favorite set location for film-makers, the opulent Fairmont on the crest of Nob Hill has been accommodating guests since 1907. Today, the spacious rooms and impeccable service attract a loyal clientele. The penthouse suite takes up the entire eighth floor, and has an Art Deco motif that will leave you breathless.
Huntington Hotel
1075 California Street; tel: 474-5400; www.huntingtonhotel.com; cable-car: California; $$$$
Plush, elegant, and still family owned, the Huntington is one of the city’s small, luxury gems. Each room and suite is uniquely decorated, the service is flawless, and it’s home to one of the city’s best spas. For the best views, book a room above the 8th floor.
The ornate exterior of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
InterContinental Mark Hopkins
1 Nob Hill; tel: 392-3434; www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental; cable-car: California Street; $$$
Situated where Mark Hopkins’s mansion once stood, this hotel offers luxury rooms, grand views in all directions, and an atmosphere of quiet refinement. The “Top of the Mark” restaurant and bar remains a must-do on any trip to San Francisco, while the rooms never fail to satisfy.
Petite Auberge
863 Bush Street; tel: 928-6000; www.petitieaubergesf.com; cable-car: Powell–Hyde, Powell−Mason; $
A small, cozy, French-style inn that offers a pretty parlor for afternoon wine and a gourmet breakfast included in the price. A good value option near Union Square.
The beautifully decorate lobby of the Renaissance Stanford Court
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
The street outside the Renaissance Stanford Court
Nowitz Photography/Apa Publications
Renaissance Stanford Court
905 California Street; tel: 989-3500; www.mariott.com; cable-car: California Street; $$$
A fine renovation here set the standard for San Francisco grand hotel revivals. Enjoy great views and the quintessential San Francisco sound of cable-cars ding-dinging outside your window.
White Swan Inn
845 Bush Street; tel: 775-1755; www.whiteswaninnsf.com; cable-car: Powell–Hyde, Powell−Mason; $$
The romantic rooms and suites at this cozy, English-style bed-and-breakfast feature characterful fireplaces and comfortable sitting areas. Enjoy gourmet breakfast buffets, afternoon tea with home-baked cookies, and evening wine and hors d’oeuvres served fireside in the parlor. An English-style bed and breakfast inn, the White Swan has gas fireplaces in all 26 rooms – quaintly atmospheric and useful in chilly and fog-bound San Francisco.
Central Neighborhoods
Chateau Tivoli
1057 Steiner Street; tel: 776-5462; www.chateautivoli.com; bus: 21, 22; $
A plush Victorian bed-and-breakfast inn on picturesque Alamo Square brimming with antiques and curios. Some of the 22 attractive rooms feature fireplaces and Jacuzzis.
Hotel Del Sol
3100 Webster Street; tel: 921-5520; www.jdvhospitality.com; bus: 22, 43, 76; $
Once an ordinary motel, the Del Sol’s radical makeover splashed color on walls, fabrics, and mosaic tiles decorating tabletops and walkways. Comfortable rooms surround a heated swimming pool, small lawn, and hammock. Suites are available.
Hotel Majestic
1500 Sutter Street; tel: 441-1100; www.thehotelmajestic.com; bus: 2, 3, 4, 38; $$
An old-world atmosphere prevails at the Majestic, which was constructed in 1902 and claims to be the oldest still-operating hotel in the city. Rooms are cozy and festooned with swags and draperies. Good-value special rates.
Haight-Ashbury and Golden Gate Park
Inn 1890
1890 Page Street; tel: 386-0486; bus: 7, 33, 37, 43, 71; $
This beautiful bed-and-breakfast built in 1890 is located just one block from Golden Gate Park and one block from colorful Haight Street. Some of the 18 rooms feature fireplaces.
Red Victorian
1665 Haight Street; tel: 864-1978; www.redvic.com $
The Red Victorian is perfect for the budget traveler. Located in the heart of the Haight- Ashbury district, this small hotel is friendly, with each room reflecting a different theme, like the “Flower Child Room” or the “Playground,” all commemorating the Summer of Love in Golden Gate Park. The Red Vic is also home to the Peace Arts gallery, gift shop, and café, which aims to inspire conversations about peace.
Stanyan Park Hotel
750 Stanyan Street; tel: 751-1000; www.stanyanpark.com; bus: 7, 33, 43, 66, 71; $
Elegant and affordable, this early-20th-century boutique hotel is steps from Golden Gate Park and Haight Street. Suites are large and ideal for families; a continental breakfast is included.
The Mission and Castro
24 Henry Guesthouse
24 Henry Street; tel: 864-5686; www.24henry.com; metro: K, L, M, T to Church; $
This late-1800s house in the Castro has been refurbished and turned into a guesthouse with a parlor and five bedrooms. The owners also have another Victorian guesthouse, Village House, just five blocks away.
Inn on Castro
321 Castro Street; tel: 861-0321; http://innoncastro.com; $
The perks of this humble 8-room B&B? A full breakfast, fresh flowers, a back patio, and an unbeatable location for enjoying the Castro.
Parker Guesthouse
520 Church Street; tel: 621-3222; www.parkerguestouse.com; metro: J to Church Street and 18th Street; $
A relaxed and welcoming Castro guesthouse with 21 rooms (two with shared bathrooms), a garden, steam room, and terrycloth robes for every guest.