
San Francisco/The Castro Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Walk down Castro Street, where the rhythm of life pulses in rainbow hues. This vibrant corridor is more than a neighborhood—it’s the heartbeat of LGBTQ+ history, art, and fearless self-expression, where every mural and storefront whispers a tale of courage and identity.

This legendary luxury hotel in downtown San Francisco seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern elegance. Enjoy exceptional service including a professional concierge, valet parking, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with a glass-enclosed heated pool. The beautifully decorated rooms offer in-room dining with stunning city views. The hotel features two award-winning restaurants with unique ambiance. Its prime location is steps away from Union Square, cable cars, and Chinatown, making it perfect for exploring the city. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay.

This luxurious hotel in the heart of San Francisco features a stunning 32-story glass tower with panoramic city views, overlooking the vibrant South of Market district. Perfect for both business and leisure, it offers comprehensive amenities including meeting rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool, along with tailored services for Chinese guests. With convenient access to Moscone Convention Center, Union Square, and Chinatown, it's an ideal base for exploring the city.

This Forbes-listed luxury gem in San Francisco’s SoMa district puts you steps away from culture, sports, and dining hotspots. Redesigned rooms and suites blend modern elegance with comfort, while amenities like the pool and fitness center ensure relaxation. Perfect for business trips or family getaways, with thoughtful touches like kids’ meals and laundry services. Unwind at the bar after exploring nearby attractions. With stellar service and prime location, it’s a stay you’ll remember.

This luxury hotel is perfectly located in the heart of San Francisco, just a 4-minute walk to Union Square. Enjoy top-notch amenities like the indoor pool, sauna, and spa, plus a fitness center to stay active. With Chinese-friendly services, you'll feel right at home. Dine at one of the two on-site restaurants or unwind at the bar. Business travelers will appreciate the well-equipped meeting rooms and business center. Rooms feature premium toiletries and plush duvets for a comfortable stay.

This hotel is the perfect spot in San Francisco! Just steps away from Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown, it’s super convenient for exploring. The stylish lobby and versatile meeting spaces make it ideal for both business and social events. Unwind at the outdoor heated pool or whirlpool spa. Dine on Angus burgers at Knuckles at the Wharf or savor authentic Californian cuisine at Enoteca Musto. Rooms feature Hyatt Grand Beds and free Wi-Fi for ultimate comfort.











Everything you need to know about The Castro
The Castro Hotel is a top choice, located right in the heart of Castro Street and designed with LGBTQ+ travelers in mind. It features rainbow-themed rooms and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity. Just a 5-minute walk from the Castro Street landmark and the San Francisco LGBTQ+ History Museum, the hotel offers free local event guides and curated experiences. Guests enjoy easy access to iconic gay bars, cultural events, and the vibrant spirit of one of America's most inclusive neighborhoods.
Yes, Castro Street is highly accessible via San Francisco Muni Metro. Key stops include Castro Station (N Judah line) and 17th Street/Castro Station (T Third Street line), both within a 5-minute walk. Multiple bus lines such as 28, 30, and 43 also serve the area, linking it to major attractions across the city. From SFO Airport, take the BART to Powell Street Station, then transfer to Muni for a convenient 30-minute journey. The neighborhood features wide sidewalks and bike lanes, making walking and cycling ideal for exploring the vibrant district.
Castro Street is the epicenter of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ culture. Must-visit experiences include the San Francisco LGBTQ+ History Museum, which chronicles the city’s civil rights journey. Dine at Cafe Cofa or Milk Bar for artistic ambiance and local flavor. Stroll along the Castro Street landmark at dusk to enjoy neon lights and street performances. Don’t miss the annual Pride Parade in June, drawing hundreds of thousands for a celebration of diversity and freedom. Independent bookstores, art galleries, and boutique shops throughout the district reflect a bold, creative, and countercultural spirit.
Try Roxie's Café, a hidden gem tucked in a side alley, offering LGBTQ+ themed café fare with standout artisan pastries and creative brunch dishes like the colorful "Rainbow Benedict". For authentic Mexican flavors, visit El Tejano, known for its lively atmosphere and live music. For a refined dining experience, The Ivy Room blends modern American cuisine with elegant décor, overlooking Castro Street. All are within walking distance, creating an intimate, diverse, and welcoming culinary scene perfect for every traveler.
Castro Hotel is a top choice, located in the heart of Castro Street with historic charm and modern amenities. The hotel features original 1906 earthquake-era architecture, restored with LGBTQ+ art installations, including rainbow-colored glass windows and vibrant murals. It's just a 5-minute walk from Castro Street shops and Harvey Milk Plaza, offering easy access to LGBTQ+ cultural landmarks. Multiple bus lines (e.g., 23, 28) stop nearby, making it ideal for exploring San Francisco’s most inclusive neighborhood.
Yes, Castro Street is highly accessible. Multiple Muni bus lines (23, 28, 30) run directly along the street, connecting to major destinations like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge. A short 10-minute ride from Duboce Transit Center station allows transfers to the Embarcadero and Chinatown via Muni Metro. The area is also pedestrian- and bike-friendly—riding along Market Street southward leads quickly to City Hall and shopping districts, making it an ideal base for exploring downtown San Francisco.
Castro Street is the epicenter of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ culture. Attend the annual Folsom Street Fair in summer, where the entire district transforms into a vibrant rainbow celebration. Join a historic LGBTQ+ walking tour to learn about the civil rights movement since the 1970s. Local cafes and bars like Milk Bar host live music and poetry readings. Don’t miss the Castro Theatre, which regularly screens classic films and indie productions—perfect for soaking in the area’s rich artistic heritage.
The Rainbow Flag Sculpture at the intersection of Castro and Market Streets is a must-photograph landmark. Harvey Milk Plaza features a memorial monument and colorful mosaic flooring, framed by striking red and gold public art. The Castro Theatre, with its 1920s architectural style and glowing marquee, creates dramatic nighttime shots. Even storefronts along the street often display rainbow motifs and LGBTQ+ symbols—ideal for candid, story-rich street photography.
Try tapas at Cafe Florencia, especially their ham and tomato croquettes and garlic shrimp. Bartolotta Ristorante is renowned for handmade Italian pastas—don’t miss their truffle cream fettuccine. For fusion cuisine, visit Pier 24, offering creative dishes like teriyaki salmon bowls and Korean-style spicy fried chicken. All restaurants are within walking distance, many with outdoor seating perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
Castro Street maintains strong safety standards with 24/7 surveillance cameras, well-lit sidewalks, and regular police patrols—especially during Pride Month events. Emergency call boxes are installed along the street, connected to city emergency services. Visitors are advised to stay in well-traveled areas, avoid secluded alleys, and keep belongings secure during peak times. The neighborhood remains welcoming and safe, but standard precautions apply.
See what other travelers say about The Castro

Staying at the Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel in San Francisco was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from Union Square, making it easy to explore shopping, dining, and local attractions. The hotel exudes old-world elegance with its grand European palace-inspired design, creating a truly luxurious atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The rooms are spacious, beautifully furnished, and incredibly comfortable, with high-quality bedding that made for a restful night's sleep. Staff were attentive and friendly without being overbearing, always ready to help. It’s clear this hotel takes pride in delivering exceptional service and attention to detail. For anyone visiting San Francisco, this is not just a place to stay—it’s an experience worth every penny.

Staying at the InterContinental San Francisco was a fantastic experience. The room offered breathtaking views of the bay, and waking up to that sight—especially with the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance—was absolutely unforgettable. The hotel’s location is ideal: just steps away from the Moscone Center and within walking distance of the BART station, making it super convenient for getting around town or heading to the airport. I signed up for IHG Rewards during check-in and received a few small perks—always a nice bonus. Breakfast was pricey at $40 per person, but the quality and variety made it worth it. The amenities included Byredo products, which added a luxurious touch. Overall, this is a solid five-star experience—nothing flashy, but everything executed well. If you can snag a good deal, it's definitely worth considering. Plus, the neighborhood feels safe and walkable, even late at night. A great choice for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a bit of elegance.

The St. Regis San Francisco is an exceptional choice for a stay in San Francisco. Located just steps from downtown, it’s incredibly convenient—whether you’re heading to the financial district, Union Square, or nearby attractions, everything is within easy reach. The room was spacious and elegantly designed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff went above and beyond with their attention to detail and warm hospitality. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt personalized and seamless. It’s clear this hotel values guest experience, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

Staying at Hotel Nikko San Francisco was an absolutely wonderful experience from start to finish. During breakfast, I went to grab an extra serving of fruit and noticed that the dishes left on the table had already been cleared—slightly surprising at first, but I’m sure it was just a misunderstanding since we hadn’t fully left yet. A quick verbal note like 'We’re still here' would’ve helped avoid any confusion. That said, it didn’t take away from the overall great impression. What truly stood out was the evening check-out for my late-night flight. I called an Uber, but felt uneasy about walking outside the hotel due to the area’s vibe. Thankfully, a staff member walked me all the way to the car and stayed until I was safely inside. That small gesture made me feel incredibly safe and valued. The level of hospitality throughout the entire stay was exceptional—thoughtful, attentive, and genuinely warm. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a place where you feel cared for. I’ll definitely be back.

Located just a 10-minute walk from Fisherman’s Wharf, this hotel offers an unbeatable location—perfect for exploring the waterfront, dining, and shopping without needing to rely on transportation. The convenience of being steps away from all the action is truly a highlight. That said, parking is expensive at $75 per night plus tax, which is definitely a downside. However, given the recent increase in window-breaking incidents across San Francisco, I felt much safer staying onsite despite the cost. Two nights here were well worth it for peace of mind and location alone. If you value proximity to attractions and security, this is a solid choice—especially if you're planning to explore the area extensively.

The staff here were incredibly welcoming and genuinely kind—always ready to help with a smile. Even though San Francisco has had some safety concerns lately, this hotel felt secure, clean, and well-maintained. It’s a real oasis in the city, offering peace of mind from the moment you step inside. The location is excellent for exploring downtown or nearby attractions, and the overall experience was outstanding. Highly recommend staying here if you're visiting the area.

The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of downtown San Francisco, steps away from shopping, dining, and transit. I was pleasantly surprised when my room was ready early upon arrival, which made the whole check-in process smooth and stress-free. One of the biggest perks? The Big Bus tour picks up and drops off right at the hotel entrance—no need to worry about transfers or timing. The only minor note is that the bathroom design felt a bit unusual: the floor has a slight slope, and the sink has an odd shape, but it didn’t affect functionality. Overall, the staff were friendly, the room was clean and well-maintained, and the convenience of being centrally located makes this a top choice for any traveler visiting San Francisco.

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.

Staying at this hotel was incredibly convenient. Just a 10-minute walk to Fisherman's Wharf’s Pier 39 and the cable car terminus—perfect for exploring the area without needing to rely on transportation. Along the way, you’ll pass an In-N-Out Burger, which is a nice bonus if you’re craving a quick bite. Right next to the cable car station, there’s a CVS for any last-minute essentials. We took a short taxi ride from the hotel to Fort Point National Historic Site at the Golden Gate Bridge—only about $15 and under 15 minutes. The location truly offers the best of both worlds: easy access to major sights and all the amenities you’d want right outside your door. If you're visiting San Francisco, this is definitely a top choice for comfort and convenience.

Staying at the Holiday Inn San Francisco-Golden Gateway was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is excellent—situated in a safe and convenient neighborhood, just a short walk from Chinatown and the Financial District. Public transit options are plentiful, making it easy to explore the city. There's a grocery store and pharmacy right downstairs, which is super handy for last-minute needs. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to help. Plus, the hotel offers free access to a well-maintained fitness center and indoor pool—no extra fees at all. It’s rare to find such a high-quality stay without the added costs. Overall, this place delivers exceptional value and comfort. I’d definitely book here again and recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.

Staying at the Handlery Union Square Hotel was an absolute delight. We arrived early in the morning and, based on the reviews, decided to request early check-in—luckily, they accommodated us right away without any hassle. The location couldn’t be better: right next to Union Square, with everything—from dining options to public transit—just steps away. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and cleaned promptly whenever needed. I especially appreciated the thoughtful reminder about the end of Daylight Saving Time; it’s these little touches that make a big difference. The staff were friendly, efficient, and genuinely attentive. For such a central location and top-tier service, this hotel offers excellent value. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco—this is definitely a place I’ll come back to.

I stayed for two nights at this unique little motel and absolutely loved it. The vibe is cool and funky—definitely not your average hotel. The pool area and outdoor patio are beautifully designed, offering a peaceful retreat right in the heart of San Francisco. I especially appreciated the friendly and attentive staff who made my stay feel welcoming. That said, it's located right in the Tenderloin district, so it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. However, as long as you're cautious and aware, it’s not a major issue. Overall, I had a fantastic time and would definitely recommend this place to travelers looking for character, comfort, and a great value. It’s an underrated gem with a lot to offer.
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