The 10 Best Hotels in San Francisco

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San Francisco has several world-renowned landmarks, a thriving arts community, beautiful beaches, iconic cable cars, and exceptional eateries. However, after a long day of photographing the Golden Gate Bridge, admiring the historic mansions of Nob Hill, and soaking up the atmosphere of San Francisco Bay, you’ll need the perfect place to stay. 

This city offers endless comfortable, elegant, and chic hotels, so we’ve rounded up the top 10 hotels in San Francisco across different price points and areas. We’ve found the best budget, boutique, and luxury options to suit every kind of traveler. 

The Ritz-Carlton 

Located in the beautiful neighborhood of Nob Hill, only a stone’s throw away from Union Square, Chinatown, and the historic cable cars, sits The Ritz Carlton. Upon arrival, you are met with an impressive, neo-classical style, white building before experiencing the pure luxury of the lobby. Covered in marble and dotted with chandeliers and fresh flowers, there is no better welcome! In addition, both the guest rooms and suites are designed with the comfort of guests in mind and mostly decorated in hues of calming blues, whites, and grays, which provide a peaceful oasis in such a buzzing city.

Regarding facilities, the hotel has a fitness center, concierge service, and plenty of dining options. At the JCB tasting lounge, you can savor the tastes of quality wines from Jean-Charles Boisset and enjoy hand-crafted cocktails in The Lounge, where you can soak up a stunning view of the city. Moreover, for a delicious American breakfast, you can go to Parallel 37, with tasty dishes made from local ingredients. 

Palace Hotel

This historic, centrally-located, 4-star hotel embodies luxury and extravagance. This luxury option has a design reminiscent of the Gilded Age, including marble floors, columns, and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. The attentive staff is on hand to help you feel welcome. The rooms have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and designer toiletries in the bathroom. 

Guests can swim in the pool, work out at the fitness center and dine under a glass dome in The Garden Court Restaurant. The hall itself looks as if it’s golden and feels like somewhere that iconic Hollywood starlets would have gone for a glamorous dining experience. There is also the GC Lounge, where you can enjoy a few nibbles, and the Pied Piper Bar and Lounge, where you can sip cocktails and taste top-quality food.

Hotel Zeppelin

Located in downtown San Francisco, the Hotel Zeppelin is a brilliant mid-range, boutique, 4-star hotel option. It differs significantly from the opulent and imposing decor of many luxury hotels. Instead, it opts for a bold, relaxed, rock-n-roll vibe, reflecting the musical and artistic culture of San Francisco. However, it doesn’t skimp on hospitality, with complimentary Sangria offered at the lobby. 

You can enjoy a games room, a fitness center, a fireplace in the lobby, and a café for the necessary pick-me-ups throughout the day. Also, furry friends are welcome here for a small surcharge, so you don’t have to travel without your beloved pets!

Inn At Union Square

This charming, 3-star hotel is the perfect choice for those wanting to be centrally located without breaking the bank (especially during the low season for tourism). The rooms have a cozy and homely feel thanks to the premium bedding, neutral color palette, and bathrooms that feel like a spa. There may not be a restaurant within the hotel; however, a free continental breakfast is available, and the friendly staff will be on hand to give you some recommendations for tasting some of the best culinary creations San Francisco offers. 

Hotel Del Sol

Another 3-star, budget-friendly option that is fun, funky, and fresh. Originally a 1950s motel, it has been renovated into something truly one-of-a-kind. The hotel’s decor is unique and bright, mirroring the lively culture of San Francisco itself, and the rooms are decorated in a vibrant, retro style to the rest of the hotel. From the orange walls and electric blue cushions to quirky wall art, the rooms are nothing short of eccentric and unorthodox in the best way. 

It is located in the Marina District, near the Palace of Fine Arts and the De Young Museum, as well as many fantastic restaurants and cafés. 

The Phoenix Hotel

The Phoenix Hotel is brimming with character, from its 1950s motor lodge style and use of neon lights to the palm trees surrounding the heated pool. You’ll find very intentional and eclectic design choices in the rooms, such as pillar-box red, old-fashioned phones, vintage-inspired items, and brightly colored curtains. 

Enjoy a glass of wine on the poolside patio or get a bite to eat in the lounge at Chambers Eat + Drink, the on-site restaurant. 

Hotel VIA

Hotel VIA is located on South Beach and stands out due to its high-tech touches. You will find a sleek tablet in your room for ordering room service and customizing your stay. There is also high-speed Wi-Fi and keyless entry systems to the room, creating a more contemporary feel to your visit.

The hotel’s design has a minimalist and modern style prioritizing comfort and elegance. There is a rooftop terrace where you can see the city’s skyline and a bar with impressive views of Oracle Park, in which you can enjoy a range of culinary delights, from small plates to tasty cocktails.

Hotel Nikko

This contemporary hotel located in Union Square has sophisticated interiors inspired by Japanese styles. Upon arriving, you are greeted with a spacious lobby with high ceilings, gilded details, and upscale lighting features. The rooms harmonize with the rest of the decor with plush cushion covers, comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and more.

If you would like to have a rejuvenating swim, guests can enjoy a 15-meter pool under a glass cover and a health club with gym equipment. The hotel’s on-site eatery called Restaurant ANZU for Japanese-inspired cuisine; go to KANPAI Lounge for cocktails and light bites or Feinstein’s for a cabaret nightclub feel. 

LUMA Hotel

LUMA Hotel allows guests to stay in the notoriously safe neighborhood of Mission Bay, on the doorstep of the Chase Center arena and an array of peaceful parks. Its design incorporates neutral colors with blue touches that create a relaxing environment for visitors. The rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, a smart TV, comfortable bedding, and motorized window shades.

You can use the Fitness Center (without an amenity fee) and Henry The Robot, who will deliver the room service you ordered. In addition, there is a Pan-Latin restaurant with views of the skyline called Cavaña serving fresh and flavorsome food, the Twyne Coffee Bar selling quality coffee and sweet pastries, and the Trevino Wine Bar. 

Fairmont San Francisco

The famous Fairmont Hotel is nothing short of palatial. In the lobby, you will find marble columns, velvet upholstery, golden ceiling, and wall details contributing to a regal design. Guests can book the more basic guest rooms, suites, accessible rooms, and suites from their Legacy Collection, which take luxury to a whole new level. All rooms include designer bath products, a Smart TV, bathrobes, and great views of the San Francisco Bay, Nob Hill, or the city’s skyline.

The hotel has a fitness center, a spa, and a variety of options for eating and drinking. The Laurel Court Restaurant & Bar cooks dishes from local Californian produce; the Cirque Bar allows you to sip on coffee surrounded by the vibrant, yellow decor, and the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar provides guests with drinks and dinner service alongside entertainment in a Tiki-inspired setting. 

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