The Best Hotels in San Francisco (2023)

Look no further than this list of the best hotels in San Francisco. From hilltop luxury hotels to waterfront getaways, this is your definitive list of the digs in the city.

Whether you’re looking for great food or a deep dive into local history, San Francisco is one of the most iconic cities in California for a reason. SF truly has something for every kind of traveler, and there is so much to see and do. If you are looking for the best San Francisco hotels across the city, this list will help you plan your time there.

That said, where you stay can really affect your trip. For example, if you’re hoping to see all of the most popular attractions and hotspots, you’ll definitely want to stay downtown. If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, the Ritz or Four Seasons will probably be at the top of your list. It’s important to consider if you’ll want to be near public transportation or plan to use a car as well.

Since San Francisco is such a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, there are tons of hotel options. Thankfully, this comprehensive guide on where to stay in San Francisco has you covered!

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for Best Hotels in San Francisco:

1. 1 Hotel, for the best design hotel
2. Fairmont San Francisco, for the best Nob Hill hotel
3. Hotel Kabuki, for the best neighborhood hotel

For a more in-depth guide to San Francisco, read my local guide to the city.

Where to Stay in San Francisco: The Best Hotels

The Best Downtown San Francisco Hotels 

1. Fairmont Hotel

The Fairmont San Francisco is an elegant and timeless accommodation that boasts awesome views of the city and bay. Best of all, it is only a 13-minute walk from Union Square and a 20-minute walk from the famous Lombard Street. The suites are very spacious and if you book on one of the top floors, you will get unparalleled views of the city. The on-site restaurant at the Fairmont Hotel is upscale and serves a classy afternoon tea throughout the week. You’ll want to pop in as well during the holidays to take a look at the famous gingerbread house that you can actually walk through as well. One other highlight is the iconic Tong Room tiki bar, so definitely plan to have a cocktail there. Book the best rates here.

Address: 950 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA, 94108

2. Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

You can always count on having a luxurious experience at The Ritz, and the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco is no exception. Pier 39 is only a 10-minute drive away as are most major downtown attractions. The rooms are designed with modern tones and luxury amenities. And the views here are unbeatable. The onsite restaurant, Parallel 37, is a super sleek and somewhat sultry spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat without having to leave the property. Book the best rates here.

Address: 600 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA, 94108

3. Four Seasons San Francisco

The Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco keeps things sleek and clean when it comes to decor. The rooms follow a neutral color palette that matches the surrounding city views. One of the best amenities is the 24-hour room service. However, Downtown SF’s vibrant food scene is sure to keep you well-fed before returning to your hotel room. The lobby lounge is perfect for enjoying a glass of wine while getting some work done. Book the best rates here.

Address: 757 Market St, San Francisco, CA, 94103

4. W San Francisco

Travelers seeking something more modern and hip will love the W San Francisco. Guests are greeted by neon lights in the on-site restaurant and bar, as well as pops of color throughout the hotel. It’s one of the more “party” style hotels in the city, in line with most W Hotels. The fitness center is one of the coolest areas of the property, boasting a modern and open ceiling and circular set-up. The rooms themselves are contemporary yet simple and all of the beds feature premium bedding and Egyptian cotton sheets. Book the best rates here.

Address: 181 3rd St, San Francisco, CA, 94103

5. The St. Regis San Francisco

If you like to stick with the classics when traveling to a big city, you can’t go wrong with a St. Regis. The St. Regis San Francisco has everything from epic views to designer toiletries to a chic European-inspired restaurant and bar. Like most San Francisco hotels in the downtown area, St. Regis is within walking distance of plenty of popular attractions. You’re close to Union Square, the MOMA, and could even stroll further down to the Ferry Building. Book the best rates here.

Address: 125 3rd St, San Francisco, CA, 94103

The Best-Designed San Francisco Hotels 

6. 1 Hotel

I just had the pleasure of staying at the 1 Hotel San Francisco, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Being able to start my day with a sunrise view of the Bay Bridge was truly special. We could easily pop out and stroll down to the Ferry Building, have lunch, and enjoy the weekend farmer’s market. Though we spent a lot of time out and about during our most recent trip, being able to come back to the hotel, order some room service, and unwind was exactly what I needed. The modern decor and luxe furniture made us feel right at home. Plus, staying somewhere that prioritizes sustainability in every element is a wonderful thing to be a part of. Book the best rates here.

Address: 8 Mission St, San Francisco, CA, 94105

7. San Francisco Proper

Every Proper Hotel I’ve ever stayed at has been designed to the nines…and the San Francisco Proper is no exception. The Proper is a wonderful option for those seeking a hip and trendy hotel that is also timeless. You’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips, including an incredible rooftop bar. There are also three restaurants on-site, a swimming pool, an awesome gym, and two lounges. One thing that is worth considering, you’ll want to park your car right on the property as the parking is limited in this neighborhood. Book the best rates here.

Address: 1100 Market Street, San Francisco, CA, 94102

8. The LINE San Francisco

The LINE San Francisco is another modern gem that keeps decor and designs simple and sleek. Even the architecture of The LINE is one-of-a-kind. This pet-friendly hotel is a true oasis for design lovers, and the rooftop terrace is perfect for watching the city sunset. Between the hypo-allergenic bedding, rainfall showerheads, and top-notch toiletries, The LINE San Francisco has everything you need for a comfy weekend away. Book the best rates here.

Address: 33 Turk St, San Francisco, CA, 94102

9. Hotel Kabuki

The Hotel Kabuki is an iconic hotel in San Francisco located in the heart of Japantown. Its connection to the Japanese community in SF makes it truly special. You can pop right out and experience the plethora of Japanese restaurants and shops right there. Though it was built in 1968, Hotel Kabuki has since been renovated. The lobby has a maximalist vibe that is super cozy, but the outdoor garden is for sure the best spot to enjoy a nightcap after a long day. Book the best rates here.

Address: 1625 Post St, San Francisco, CA, 94115

10. Inn at the Presidio

As the name suggests, the Inn at the Presidio is located in the heart of the Presidio (which is a former U.S. Army post). The building is timeless and classic, built in the Georgian Revival style. Since there are only 22 guest rooms, and 17 of them are suites, the Inn at the Presidio definitely boasts an exclusive experience. It is super close to Golden Gate Park, so if you’re planning on doing lots of walking and exploring on foot. Book the best rates here.

Address: 42 Moraga Ave, San Francisco, CA 94129

The Best Hotels Under the Radar

11. Kimpton Alton Hotel

The Kimpton Alton Hotel is located right on Fisherman’s Wharf, placing guests right in front of the water. The rooms are simple but comfortable and contemporary. You’ll find lots of abstract art both in the rooms and common areas, giving this hotel an artsy and sort of hipster feel. The restaurant features a stunning marble bar that you’ll definitely want to snap a photo at, and the Filipino food they serve is pretty tasty. The hotel partners with the nearby Soothe Spa to bring guests massages & facials to their rooms and when you book, you can receive 20% off. Book the best rates here.

Address: 2700 Jones Street, San Francisco, CA, 94133

12. Phoenix Hotel

If you’re looking for something a bit retro and budget, look no further than the Phoenix Hotel. All of the rooms at this motel-style accommodation revolve around an oval-shaped pool, making you feel like you’re in Palm Springs rather than San Francisco. The bathrooms are a bit dated but the rooms themselves have a special charm. The dim-lit and swanky restaurant allow you to enjoy views of the heated pool while sipping on cocktails surrounded by walls of vintage records. It’s good to note that you are near the Tenderloin, so take caution when exploring. Book the best rates here.

Address: 601 Eddy St, San Francisco, CA, 94109

13. Hotel G San Francisco

Hotel G makes guests feel right at home with cozy accommodations, an in-room espresso maker, and a workspace. The Benjamin Cooper bar is perfect for getting drinks or fresh oysters in the evening. Though this hotel isn’t super luxurious, it gets the job done with all of the standard amenities. Plus, it’s in a great location in Union Square. Book the best rates here.

Address: 386 Geary Street, San Francisco, CA, 94102

14. Hotel Zetta San Francisco

The sultry vibe at Hotel Zetta makes it ideal for couples looking to get away from it all and immerse themselves in cool and laid-back accommodations. The hotel restaurant serves a solid happy hour along with dinner. The plush red booths match the swanky vibe found throughout the property, and the menu features lots of elevated American classics. The lobby has an especially unique setup, and there is even a sports facility where you can play pool and lounge around. Book the best rates here.

Address: 55 5th St, San Francisco, CA, 94103

15. 1906 Mission

The 1906 Mission Hotel lets guests set up shop in a classic San Francisco-style townhouse. The rooms are small but full of personality, and there are only 30 accommodations across the building. The rooms make good use of the space and even have a workstation and reading nook. Though there is not an on-site restaurant, there is a garden area that has grills so you can whip up your own food while sipping on some brewskies or wine from a nearby market. Book the best rates here.

Address: 1906 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA, 94103

FAQ: Where to Stay in San Francisco

What are the best luxury hotels in San Francisco?

You can never go wrong with the The Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Hotel, or The Proper. All of these are very upscale and offer high-end amenities and services. It’s good to consider which one will best fit your needs for your time in San Francisco when it comes to location as well.

Where should I stay in San Francisco for the first time?

I would recommend staying as centrally close to the center. Somewhere like Nob Hill, near to Union Square, SoMa, or along the Embarcadero.

What is the safest area of San Francisco to stay in?

Nob Hill – it’s away from the crowds and in a really nice neighborhood elevated up on a hill. It has less foot traffic making it a bit quieter during the day and night. The best part is you are still near downtown and other neighborhoods.

Which hotels in San Francisco are good for families?

The Lodge at Presidio, 1 Hotel, and The Fairmont are all family-friendly options. All of these hotels are equipped with what you’ll need for your stay.

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