Berkeley(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For budget-conscious travelers, Berkeley Student Inn is ideal—located just steps from the University of California, Berkeley campus, offering affordable dorm-style rooms with shared kitchens and free Wi-Fi. Another great option is The Berkeley Hotel, a historic boutique property near Downtown Berkeley and People's Park, combining charm with modern comforts. Both are within walking distance of campus libraries, cafés, and local markets, perfect for students and independent explorers.

Downtown Berkeley is the top choice for visitors, nestled between UC Berkeley, Berkeley City Hall, and People's Park. This vibrant district offers easy access to art galleries, indie bookstores, and diverse dining. Stay at Hotel Shattuck Plaza or The Berkeley Inn, both featuring walkable proximity to BAMPFA (Berkeley Art Museum) and weekly farmers’ markets. The area pulses with creativity, activism, and academic energy—ideal for immersing in Berkeley’s unique spirit.

Stay in Downtown Berkeley near the BART Station (Shattuck Avenue), where hotels like Hotel Shattuck Plaza offer direct rail access to San Francisco’s Union Square in under 30 minutes. BART connects seamlessly to the Bay Area’s transit network, making it simple to explore Oakland, Silicon Valley, or Golden Gate Park. The area also boasts lively cafes, live music venues, and proximity to UC Berkeley’s main campus.

While in Berkeley, don’t miss People’s Park for its dynamic street art and historical significance in social movements. Visit BAMPFA for cutting-edge exhibitions and film screenings. Experience the Berkeley Farmers Market every Saturday on Shattuck Avenue, featuring organic produce, artisanal goods, and live performances. These events reflect Berkeley’s deep-rooted values of sustainability, equity, and community-driven creativity.

Yes, Holiday Inn Berkeley is a top pick for families, located steps from Ralph Waldo Emerson Park and near the Children’s Museum of Berkeley. It offers spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a kids’ play area. The hotel also provides stroller rentals and nearby safe walking paths. Families can enjoy weekend concerts at Berkeley Rose Garden or picnics in Tilden Regional Park, making it a well-rounded destination for all ages.

Hotels like The Berkeley Hotel and Hotel Shattuck Plaza are directly adjacent to the BART station at Shattuck Avenue, providing seamless access to San Francisco, Oakland, and Silicon Valley. Many offer free shuttle services to the station, and several are within walking distance of AC Transit bus lines. This makes Berkeley an excellent base for day trips across the Bay Area, combining urban convenience with regional exploration.

The Berkeley Hotel, built in 1920, is a landmark with original wood beams, vintage décor, and a rooftop garden. Formerly a railway inn, it now hosts art exhibits and intimate events. Another standout is Berkeley Heritage House, a restored 1880s Victorian mansion converted into a boutique hotel. Each room features themed decor inspired by local history, paired with antique furnishings and hand-painted murals—perfect for lovers of architecture and storytelling.

Explore Downtown Berkeley after dark: stroll along Shattuck Avenue past illuminated murals and cozy bars. Catch live music at Cafe du Nord, a legendary venue hosting jazz and indie acts. For a peaceful evening, head to Tilden Park’s Observatory Hill, away from city lights, to stargaze and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. These options blend safety, culture, and tranquility—ideal for solo travelers and couples alike.

Berkeley Student Inn sits directly across from UC Berkeley’s main entrance, just a 5-minute walk from the General Library and Sather Tower. It offers study lounges, printing services, and proximity to academic events. For a more upscale option, UC Berkeley Faculty Club occasionally opens to the public, providing quiet, elegant accommodations near lecture halls and research centers—perfect for visiting scholars and academic travelers.

Absolutely. Stay at The Berkeley Inn or Hotel Shattuck Plaza, both near Tilden Regional Park and Redwood Grove, where you can bike through redwood trails or hike scenic forest paths. The hotel grounds often feature native gardens and meditation spaces. Early mornings bring opportunities for sunrise runs around Sather Tower, while evenings offer tranquil walks along the San Francisco Bay shoreline—a perfect balance of nature and urban comfort.