Hotel Filters
<4.0-Rated Hotels Near Downtown
Downtown San Francisco beats like the city’s heart—skyscrapers rise above the hum of coffee shops and street musicians. Whether it’s a morning stroll past City Hall or a night climb to the financial district’s rooftop view, gazing down at a thousand twinkling lights, you’ll feel the pulse of ambition and romance. This is where San Francisco’s spirit truly lives—in the rhythm of its streets and skyline.
Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf
JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square
University Club of San Francisco
BEI San Francisco, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Hotel Union Square San Francisco
Kasa la Monarca San Francisco
Hotel Bijou
Hotel Triton
Palihotel San Francisco
Hotel Fiona
Tilden Hotel
Yotel San Francisco
SoMa House
The Pickwick Hotel
Found Hotel, San Francisco
Hotel Amari
The Mosser
Mithila San Francisco, SureStay Collection by Best Western
Hotel Garrett
Hotel Da Vinci
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Downtown
The Fairmont San Francisco is a top choice, situated just steps from Union Square and offering panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay from its elegant rooms. This historic luxury hotel features a 100-year legacy, exquisite architecture, and complimentary shuttle service to SFO Airport for added convenience.
Another excellent option is Hotel Zephyr, located near Fisherman's Wharf, with modern minimalist design and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing dynamic harbor scenes. The hotel provides 24-hour concierge services and curated local experiences, ideal for travelers seeking both style and seamless access to downtown attractions.
Hyatt Regency San Francisco is ideal for families, located steps from Union Square, San Francisco Opera House, and City Hall. It offers spacious family suites, a dedicated kids’ entertainment area, free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, fitness center, and customized services including crib rentals and child-friendly meals.
Another great option is Staybridge Suites San Francisco Downtown, featuring fully equipped suites with kitchens and laundry facilities—perfect for extended stays. Situated in the heart of the Financial District, it’s a 10-minute walk to Lombard Street and Union Square, with free breakfast and self-service laundry available, ensuring comfort and convenience for families.
Beyond visiting the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street, consider a Bay Ferry Tour departing from Fisherman’s Wharf, offering stunning views of Angel Island and the bay skyline, with light snacks served onboard.
Don’t miss the Palace of Fine Arts Night Light Show, held annually in summer, where sculptures are illuminated with dynamic light art, creating a surreal atmosphere. For food lovers, book a breakfast tour at Tartine Bakery, a Michelin-recognized spot known for its artisanal French pastries and sourdough bread, immersing you in San Francisco’s baking heritage.
Lastly, hike the Bunker Hill Steps on Nob Hill—a scenic stairway leading to panoramic city views, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
The Fairmont San Francisco is a top choice, situated just steps from Union Square and within walking distance of the City Hall and Market Street BART station, offering exceptional transit access. Its guest rooms provide panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay, combined with elegant historic interiors that reflect the city's grand legacy. The hotel also features fine dining and a luxurious spa, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Another excellent option is Hyatt Regency San Francisco, located near Market Street and the Theater District, offering modern amenities and impeccable service. Both properties are ideally positioned in the heart of Downtown San Francisco, making them ideal bases for discovering the city’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks.
Union Square is a must-visit, featuring bustling shopping streets, street performers, and stunning architectural facades—especially beautiful at night with ambient lighting. Nearby, the San Francisco Opera House boasts an ornate exterior perfect for cinematic shots. Just a 10-minute drive away, Fisherman’s Wharf offers lively atmosphere and scenic views; don’t miss the Lantern Garden, a serene Chinese-style courtyard ideal for cultural photography.
For panoramic cityscapes, head to Twin Peaks, where you can capture breathtaking views of the entire city and the Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise or sunset. All these locations are within easy reach of Downtown San Francisco, making them ideal stops for a one-day photo itinerary.
The most convenient option is taking Muni Bus Line 43 from Union Square, which runs directly to the Golden Gate Bridge South Toll Plaza in about 30 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. Alternatively, rent a bike and ride the Golden Gate Bridge Highway, a 20-kilometer route with multiple viewpoints—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
For comfort and flexibility, use Uber or Lyft, which takes around 25 minutes to reach the southern viewpoint. You can also take Muni Metro Line 30 to a nearby stop, then transfer to a shuttle bus. All options provide easy access to this iconic landmark, making it simple to enjoy a full-day trip from downtown San Francisco.
Visit Caffe Trieste in North Beach, a century-old coffeehouse renowned for authentic Italian espresso and freshly baked pastries, offering a cozy, artistic ambiance. Another hidden gem is 85 Caffe in Chinatown, famous for innovative desserts and fusion drinks loved by younger travelers.
For a local market vibe, check out Philz Coffee’s pop-up stalls at Union Square on weekends, serving limited-edition pour-over coffees and artisanal baked goods. Don’t miss Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can watch fresh sourdough bread with butter-filled centers being made on-site—its aroma alone is unforgettable.
All these culinary experiences are within walking distance of Downtown San Francisco, perfect for pairing with sightseeing.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Downtown
Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf
The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk to Fisherman’s Wharf and super convenient for exploring downtown San Francisco. Even though the resort fee is included, the daily complimentary coffee in the morning was a nice touch and really made the day start right. The room was spotlessly clean, and while the showerhead is mounted from the ceiling (which takes some getting used to), everything else about the stay was excellent. Great value for the price, and I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting the area.
JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square
Stayed at the JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square and found the service to be decent overall. However, the soundproofing was disappointing—noise from the hallway and neighboring rooms carried through easily, which disrupted sleep quality. What really frustrated me was that I accidentally booked an extra night and wanted to check out a day early. Unfortunately, the cancellation policy didn’t allow it—even one day in advance—and I ended up losing nearly $2,000. It felt like a big waste, especially since no warning was given about the strict policy. A more flexible cancellation option would have made a big difference for unexpected changes. Would’ve appreciated better communication or options for guests facing minor schedule adjustments.
University Club of San Francisco
I was a bit nervous going in, having read mixed reviews online, but I couldn’t have been more impressed. This historic building has been thoughtfully restored with elegant, timeless decor that feels both classy and welcoming. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep—and our room was surprisingly quiet despite being in the heart of downtown. The shower pressure was outstanding, and the bathroom felt spacious and well-designed. The staff were exceptional, especially the team at the on-site restaurant who went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Right outside the door is a cable car stop, and there are multiple bus routes just steps away—getting around the city is effortless. Overall, this was a standout stay, and I’d absolutely book again without hesitation.
BEI San Francisco, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Staying at the BEI San Francisco, Trademark Collection by Wyndham was a fantastic experience. Located right in the heart of downtown, it’s incredibly convenient for both sightseeing and business trips—everything is just a short walk away. The room was spotless, modern, and designed with a clean, minimalist aesthetic that feels both professional and comfortable. Housekeeping was thorough, and I appreciated the courier pickup service, which made handling packages during my trip super easy. The hotel has strong security measures in place, which added peace of mind throughout my stay. One thing to note: the area around the hotel can get busy at night, especially with people experiencing homelessness. While the hotel itself is safe, I’d recommend avoiding long walks outside after dark, particularly if you're traveling solo. Overall, this is a top-tier mid-range option in a prime location—excellent value, great convenience, and very well-run. Definitely a solid choice for travelers looking for comfort and accessibility in San Francisco.
Hotel Union Square San Francisco
Staying at Hotel Union Square San Francisco was a great experience overall. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Union Square, making it super easy to explore shops, restaurants, and the iconic cable cars on foot. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and spotlessly clean, with all the essentials like a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a coffee maker—perfect for both business travelers and tourists. While there’s no on-site restaurant, the rooftop bar more than makes up for it—amazing views, especially at night when the city lights sparkle below. There’s also a small convenience store nearby where you can grab water, sandwiches, soft drinks, pizza, and snacks—very convenient for late-night cravings or quick bites. The staff were consistently friendly and helpful, always ready to assist. The only minor downside is that there are a few people experiencing homelessness on the sidewalk directly outside the hotel, which is something worth noting but doesn’t detract much from the overall stay. All in all, this is a solid choice for anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a central location in San Francisco.
Kasa la Monarca San Francisco
The property itself is a great stay overall—located right in downtown San Francisco, just steps from MUNI transit lines and surrounded by safe, walkable neighborhoods. I stayed nearly three weeks and really enjoyed the space, kitchen amenities, and cozy lounge area. It feels more like a home away from home than a typical hotel. That said, there's no on-site staff, so any issues aren’t addressed immediately. For example, late one evening around 7 PM, water started dripping from above into my closet. I reported it via text, and while they did call back to assist, the situation ended up requiring me to clean up the mess myself. They offered a room change, but with only two nights left, relocating wasn’t practical. So I had to manage it on my own. If you're looking for quick service, daily housekeeping, or immediate support, this might not be the best fit. But if you value independence, quiet comfort, and a central location without the usual hotel noise, this place delivers. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer self-sufficiency and don’t mind handling small hiccups personally.
Hotel Bijou
Staying at Hotel Bijou in San Francisco was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—right in the heart of the city, with easy access to public transit and all the major attractions nearby. The room was spacious, clean, and well-maintained, making it a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. While I found it a bit challenging to communicate in English, the check-in process was smooth, and everything else went seamlessly. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere felt welcoming and peaceful. It's rare to find such a great value in this price range, so I’d highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting San Francisco.
Hotel Triton
Hotel Triton in San Francisco offers a fantastic stay overall—great location, clean rooms, and friendly staff. While the breakfast is quite simple, it's sufficient and satisfying for a quick start to the day. What really stands out is the excellent value for money, fast Wi-Fi, and the convenient access to public transit. The entire experience felt seamless and comfortable, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. I’d definitely recommend this hotel and plan to return on my next visit to the city.
Palihotel San Francisco
Staying at Palihotel San Francisco was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The room was incredibly comfortable, with a well-balanced mattress that made for a restful night’s sleep. Located just a short walk from the subway station, it’s super convenient for getting around downtown and exploring all the city has to offer. I loved strolling around the neighborhood in the evening—great vibe, plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. The staff were welcoming and helpful, even upgraded my room without any extra charge. Clean bathroom, excellent hot water, and thoughtfully chosen toiletries added to the overall comfort. This place truly delivers great value for money. I’ll definitely be back next time I visit San Francisco!
Hotel Fiona
Hotel Fiona is an absolute must-stay whenever I visit San Francisco. This artist- and writer-themed hotel offers a unique experience with each room thoughtfully designed around a different creative theme—walking into one feels like stepping into a living art exhibit. The lobby even has heating in the summer, which brings a smile to my face (after all, Mark Twain famously said 'The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco'). Despite that quirky detail, the hotel delivers comfort, charm, and excellent value. It's perfectly located, easy to get around, and consistently exceeds expectations. For anyone seeking a distinctive, inspiring stay with a touch of literary and artistic flair, this place is truly unbeatable.
Yotel San Francisco
Staying at Yotel San Francisco was an absolute delight from start to finish. The hotel strikes the perfect balance between modern design and warm hospitality. The moment I walked in, I was greeted with a sleek, inviting atmosphere that set the tone for the whole experience. My room was spotless, well-lit, and thoughtfully designed—compact but surprisingly comfortable, with a great bed and excellent soundproofing. Located just steps away from the metro, getting around downtown San Francisco was a breeze. The breakfast spread was impressive: fresh fruit, local coffee, delicious pastries, and plenty of options for every taste. What really stood out, though, was the staff—friendly, efficient, and always ready to help. Whether it was checking in early or asking for recommendations, they went above and beyond. It’s rare to find such a welcoming vibe in a city as fast-paced as San Francisco. This place isn’t just a hotel—it’s a home away from home. I’ll definitely be back.
SoMa House
Staying at SoMa House was an absolute delight from start to finish. The hotel is immaculately clean, quiet, and offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of San Francisco. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. I appreciated how welcoming they were, making me feel right at home. Location-wise, it’s perfect: just steps away from public transit and close to all the city’s must-see spots. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place delivers comfort, convenience, and excellent value. Would 100% stay again.
Other Destinations You Might Like
Explore more amazing destinations