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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 Zoe Fishermans Wharf
San Francisco Marriott Fisherman's Wharf
Warwick San Francisco
The Laurel Inn, Part of Jdv by Hyatt
Hotel Abri Union Square
Washington Square Inn
Pacific Studio South Holiday
Cornell Hotel de France
HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel
Best Western Red Coach Inn
Francisco Bay Inn
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco
Buena Vista Motor Inn
Inn on Broadway
Nob Hill Motor Inn -Newly Updated Rooms!
Columbus Residence
The Annex at Hayes Valley
Hotel Carlton
Orange Village Hostel
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 Zoe Fishermans Wharf
Staying at Hotel Zoe Fishermans Wharf was a delightful experience. Compared to Union Square, I felt significantly safer—especially during evening walks around the neighborhood. The hotel itself is well-maintained, clean, and modern, with a cozy, welcoming vibe. One unexpected highlight? The little plush toy in the lobby—it’s adorable and totally worth the purchase! Even though it’s not free, you’ll want one just for the cuteness factor. Great location, excellent comfort, and fantastic value. Definitely planning to come back.
San Francisco Marriott Fisherman's Wharf
Staying at the San Francisco Marriott Fisherman's Wharf was a fantastic experience. The room was spacious and well-appointed, offering plenty of comfort after a day exploring the city. Its location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf, making it super convenient for dining, shopping, and enjoying the waterfront views. The only minor downside is the lack of luggage storage, but the staff were very helpful—they assisted with transferring our bags to the car and allowed us to retrieve them later, which worked out smoothly. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value and convenience, especially for travelers who want to be right in the heart of the action. I’d definitely stay here again.
Warwick San Francisco
Staying at the Warwick San Francisco was an absolute delight from start to finish. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming—some of them even had that charming, handsome vibe that made check-in a real pleasure. The location is perfect: just a short walk from the subway entrance, making it super convenient for getting around the city. Security is top-notch too—doors are locked at night, which gives you peace of mind. The room is on the smaller side, but everything else more than makes up for it. One thing to note: like most US hotels, they don’t provide toothbrushes or toothpaste, so be sure to bring your own (I’m glad I did!). Early one morning, I wandered downstairs around 5 AM and was surprised—and reassured—to see a strong, confident Black female security guard patrolling the lobby. Her presence instantly gave me a huge sense of safety. Plus, the hotel has its own restaurant and bar right on-site, so grabbing a bite or a drink in the evening is effortless and hassle-free. Overall, it’s a fantastic blend of comfort, convenience, and security—definitely a place I’d stay again.
The Laurel Inn, Part of Jdv by Hyatt
Our stay at The Laurel Inn was absolutely wonderful—quiet, comfortable, and incredibly well-located. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, professional service; every interaction felt genuine and helpful. We booked a room with a small kitchenette, which made a big difference—having space to prepare light meals and enjoy coffee in the room added so much convenience and comfort. The neighborhood felt safe both during the day and at night, which made walking around easy and stress-free. It’s clear the hotel prioritizes guest wellbeing and experience. A standout choice for anyone looking for a peaceful, stylish stay in San Francisco. Would definitely return.
Hotel Abri Union Square
Staying at Hotel Abri Union Square was an excellent experience overall. The staff went above and beyond—when I noticed the air conditioning wasn’t working properly upon arrival, I mentioned it to the front desk, and within minutes, a technician came up to fix it. They resolved the issue quickly and efficiently, which really impressed me. One of the little touches I appreciated was the availability of travel adapters—so convenient for international guests like myself. I also received a welcome gift upon check-in, which added a nice personal touch. Even though there was a brief HVAC hiccup, the prompt response made all the difference. The hotel’s location is fantastic—just a short walk from public transit and major attractions in San Francisco. It’s a great value for the quality and service. I’d definitely stay here again.
Washington Square Inn
Staying at Washington Square Inn was an absolute delight. The interior design is beautiful and full of character, with a cozy, welcoming vibe throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night's sleep after a long day exploring San Francisco. One of the best perks? Coffee is available 24/7—whether it’s early morning or late at night, you can grab a fresh cup without any hassle. The lobby is spacious and inviting, making it a great spot to relax, work, or just unwind. The staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful—always ready to assist with anything from local recommendations to check-in questions. Even the housekeeping team stood out; they were kind, respectful, and always went the extra mile. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully done, from the cleanliness to the little touches that make a stay feel special. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a home away from home. Highly recommend for anyone visiting San Francisco.
Cornell Hotel de France
Staying at Cornell Hotel de France was a delightful surprise. The room had a charming vintage vibe—elegant, quiet, and impeccably clean, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring. I was pleasantly surprised by the complimentary bottled water, a small but thoughtful touch. The location is unbeatable: just a 5-minute walk to Union Square and close to the cable car stop, so getting around town is super easy. Breakfast was far better than expected—abundant, fresh, and delicious, giving me plenty of energy for the day ahead. Every detail felt well thought out, and the overall value is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.
HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel
At 66, this was my first time staying at a hostel—and I’m amazed by how welcoming everyone was and how clean and comfortable the rooms are. We booked an en-suite room with crisp white towels, fresh bedding on a wonderfully comfy bed, and daily housekeeping made sure everything stayed spotless. Located just around the corner from Union Square, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring downtown San Francisco—walking distance to shops, restaurants, and all major transit options. The location is unbeatable, and the value for money is outstanding. Huge thanks to the friendly staff at check-in—they made our arrival smooth and stress-free.
Best Western Red Coach Inn
Staying at the Best Western Red Coach Inn was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right near the south entrance of the park, making it super convenient to explore downtown San Francisco and nearby attractions. The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a peaceful atmosphere that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated how close everything was—the local shops, cafes, and restaurants were just steps away. It’s a great base for both sightseeing and relaxing. With excellent value and top-notch service, this place truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
Francisco Bay Inn
This motel is perfectly located for exploring San Francisco on foot—just a short walk to the waterfront district and North Beach, and right around the corner from a bus stop that connects directly to the Mission District. My room was recently updated, spotless, and had a relaxing bathtub, which I truly appreciated after long days of sightseeing. The TV was clear and modern, adding comfort to my stay. What really stood out was the staff—they were incredibly friendly and went above and beyond by allowing me to park my car a few hours before check-in so I could make it to an early tour I’d booked. It’s rare to find such thoughtful service at this price point. If you’re visiting San Francisco with friends or just want a reliable, affordable base with convenient parking, I highly recommend this place. It’s a gem in a great neighborhood.
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco
This hotel exceeded my expectations in every way. Located just a short walk from downtown San Francisco, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring the city while still enjoying a peaceful, quiet neighborhood. The rooms were spotlessly clean, with comfortable bedding and excellent air conditioning—perfect for a good night's sleep. I appreciated the thoughtful touches like hot water upon arrival and complimentary snacks. The staff were friendly and helpful, making check-in and check-out smooth. With such great value for the price, it felt like a real bargain. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this is an ideal choice. I’ll definitely be staying here again on my next visit to San Francisco.
Buena Vista Motor Inn
Staying at Buena Vista Motor Inn was a really pleasant experience overall. The location is fantastic—quiet, safe, and just a short walk from the marina and several key attractions. The staff were consistently friendly and helpful, even late at night. They went out of their way to assist with parking when things got busy, and handled package deliveries smoothly and efficiently. The only downside was the carpet in our room, which stayed cold and damp throughout our stay due to a leaking air conditioner. We brought it up, but were told it's 'normal'—a bit disappointing, especially since the moisture spread across half the room. That said, we managed by simply wearing shoes inside, so it wasn’t a dealbreaker. For a great value, excellent service, and a peaceful setting, this place definitely earns a solid recommendation.
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