View across Golden Gate Bridge and downtown San Francisco
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San Francisco: our favorite places to stay

Updated by Pat Dorri on March 1 2024

Often called the 'The City by the Bay', San Francisco stands out with its mix of cultural neighborhoods, historic landmarks and stunning views. You can enjoy adventure or relaxation in this world-renowned sunshine haven.

There are plenty of iconic sites to explore in San Francisco, including Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate Park and Fishermans Wharf. Make sure to stay a night or two to soak in this incredible city.

Read on for our favorite places to stay from each category below, or click the links to skip to the hotel type you're looking for:

Where should I stay in San Francisco?

Our favorite hotels in San Francisco are all shown on the map below.

Click the icons to see each hotel's name, its category, and a quick link that takes you straight to more information further down the page.

Our favorite luxury hotel in San Francisco

If you are searching for an extra special San Francisco trip, then consider staying at one of the city's top luxury accommodations. Continue reading to discover our top pick for an exceptional stay.

The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

'The Sophisticated One'

📍 600 Stockton at California Street, Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Found in San Francisco's prestigious Nob Hill neighborhood, The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco is a luxury hotel set in a historic 1909 Neoclassical landmark, with incredible surroundings and service to match.

A low angle of the Ritz-Carlton hotel in San Francisco, California against a blue sky
Prepare to be impressed when you arrive at the grand, luxurious, The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco.
Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock.com

READ MORE - Click here for booking options and prices

Why we love staying at The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, embodies the city's charm, and is an incredible base to head back to after exploring the city. Here are some reasons why we think this hotel is great.

  • The luxury suites, hotel rooms, and Club Lounge are a welcoming retreat.
  • Soak in the Italian marble bathtub, then enjoy complimentary plush bathrobes and slippers.
  • Start each day with a classic American breakfast at on-site Parallel 37.
  • Experience delicious Coastal California dining and artisanal cocktails in the lively Lounge.

What is there to do close to The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco?

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco sits at the crossroads of the city's most desirable destinations, and you are super close to many top sites. Here are some favorites.

  1. Union Square - A bustling plaza surrounded by shops, theaters, and restaurants.
  2. Transamerica Building - An iconic symbol of the city's skyline, representing innovation and modern design.
  3. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art - A renowned center with contemporary art from around the world.
  4. Pier 39 - A bustling waterfront attraction offering shopping, dining, entertainment, and stunning views.
  5. Alcatraz - A historic landmark known for its former federal prison and offers guided tours.

Click here for more information about The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

Our favorite boutique hotel in San Francisco

Elevate your San Francisco experience by choosing one of the city's more unique hotel offerings for your stay. Expect an unforgettable visit with a twist on the ordinary! Here are our favorite places.

Mansion on Sutter

'The Historic One'

📍 1409 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Mansion on Sutter, is a luxury boutique hotel in San Francisco's heart, blending period art with modern comforts.

Brightly lit impressive exterior of Mansion on Sutter during twilight
The elegant and luxurious Mansion on Sutter is the ideal retreat to head back to after a day exploring San Francisco.
© Mansion on Sutter

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Why we love staying at Mansion on Sutter

The Mansion on Sutter in San Francisco combines luxurious accommodation with historic elegance, offering a refined and inviting experience. Here is why we love this hotel.

  • Enjoy a comfortable stay at this intimate accommodation.
  • Deluxe rooms with pillowtop bed, down comforters and Frette Italian sheets.
  • Every guest room boasts unique décor, with marble imported from Italy and Spain.
  • In the lobby lounge, enjoy listening to the baby grand piano while sipping a cappuccino or a glass of wine.

What is there to do close to Mansion on Sutter?

Within a 20-minute stroll from Mansion on Sutter, you'll reach the heart of San Francisco and many top attractions to explore.

  1. Asian Art Museum - Houses a vast collection of artistic treasures from across Asia.
  2. Union Square - A bustling plaza surrounded by shops, theaters, and restaurants.
  3. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art - A renowned cultural institution showcasing contemporary art from around the world.
  4. Coit Tower - Offers panoramic views of the city and bay, peppered with historic murals.
  5. Alcatraz - A historic landmark known for its former federal prison and captivating views.

Click here for more information about Mansion on Sutter

Hotel Zelos San Francisco

'The Chic One'

📍 12 Fourth Street, Union Square, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Hotel Zelos blends contemporary design with cutting-edge technology, for a memorable stay in the heart of San Francisco.

San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise from Marin County
Make sure to visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge during your San Francisco adventure.
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Why we love staying at Hotel Zelos San Francisco

Found in San Francisco's bustling hub, the modern Hotel Zelos San Francisco offers plenty of luxury and innovation, with smart rooms and modern lounges to enjoy.

  • Hotel Zelos offers a complimentary beauty consultation and personal shopping session at Bloomingdale's.
  • Each room is packed with contemporary decor and cutting-edge in-room technology.
  • Book a table at on-site Dirty Habit, serving cocktails and seasonal tapas.
  • Stay in a room from the 5th floor and above and enjoy views over the private courtyard or cityscape.
  • Want to keep on the move? Rent a bike for exploring the city!

What is there to do close to Hotel Zelos San Francisco?

Hotel Zelos San Francisco is perfectly positioned for exploring San Francisco. Here are some of our recommended local sites.

  1. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art - A cultural landmark offering visitors a thought-provoking artistic experience.
  2. Transamerica Building - An iconic skyscraper in San Francisco's skyline.
  3. Aquarium of the Bay - An immersive aquatic attraction in San Francisco, with interactive displays.
  4. Pier 39 - A bustling waterfront destination in San Francisco, with captivating sea lion colony.
  5. Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Museum - An eccentric and entertaining attraction for the whole family.

Click here for more information about Hotel Zelos San Francisco

Our favorite budget hotel in San Francisco

Eager to dedicate your time and resources to discovering the wonders of San Francisco? You'll find several affordable yet delightful accommodation choices throughout the city. Here is our top recommendation.

Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco

'The Contemporary One'

📍 2620 Jones Street, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

A stay at Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco, offers contemporary comfort, scenic city views, and a prime location for exploring.

Industrial style bedroom, with brown leather chairs, hanging bulb lights and corner sofa in Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco
You can expect a chic stay with a visit to Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco.
© Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco

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Why we love staying at Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco

Plan a stay at Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco, and you can expect a welcoming base to head back to and unwind after a busy day. Here are some of our favorite perks.

  • Relax in the outdoor courtyard, complete with a fire pit and yard games.
  • Contemporary rooms, with mini-refrigerators, complimentary Wi-Fi, and modern amenities.
  • Enjoy the rooftop lounge, offering stunning cityscape views.
  • Dine at one of the popular restaurants only a short walk form the hotel.

What is there to do close to Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco?

Nestled at the heart of San Francisco, Marriott Vacation Club Pulse serves as the ideal starting point for unforgettable adventures in the city.

  1. Pier 39 - A bustling waterfront destination in San Francisco, renowned for its lively atmosphere.
  2. Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf - Features lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and pop culture icons.
  3. Aquarium of the Bay - Showcases the rich marine life of the Bay Area through interactive exhibits and programs.
  4. Alcatraz - A historic landmark in San Francisco Bay, attracting visitors with its captivating history and stunning views of the city skyline.

Click here for more information about Marriott Vacation ClubPulse, San Francisco

Our favorite family-friendly hotel in San Francisco

Taking the whole family on a San Francisco adventure? The city is brimming with activities and family-friendly places to stay. Discover our top pick that caters to everyone in your group.

Omni San Francisco

'The Welcoming One'

📍 500 California Street, Financial District, San Francisco, CA 94104, United States

Set in a former bank building dating from 1923, this refined hotel in the Financial District is across the street from a cable car stop and close to many of the great San Francisco sights.

Aerial view over Union Square in San Francisco
Union Square is a buzzing meeting point in the heart of San Francisco.
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Why we love staying at Omni San Francisco

Choose the Omni San Francisco for its elegant charm, and central location, perfect for exploring the city's highlights. Here are some other reasons we think a stay here is great!

  • Many signature Rooms and suites enjoy stunning views of the San Francisco cityscape.
  • Blends luxurious 1920s décor with state-of-the-art amenities.
  • Monte's Restaurant and Bar serves up old-world charm, alongside delicious all-day meals.
  • Take a seat at Monte's Bar for curated cocktails.

What is there to do close to Omni San Francisco?

During a stay at Omni San Francisco you can expect easy access to the vibrant Financial District, Chinatown, and iconic cable car lines. Here are some top local places to visit.

  1. Wells Fargo History Museum - Explore the rich history of Wells Fargo and the Gold Rush.
  2. Empire Park - A serene green space offering leisure and recreational activities.
  3. Union Square - Vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural hub in the heart of San Francisco.
  4. Aquarium of the Bay - Discover marine life from the San Francisco Bay and beyond.
  5. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art - Iconic collection of modern and contemporary art in a striking space.

Click here for more information about Omni San Francisco