Hotels in San Francisco

Top locations to stay in San Francisco

When visiting San Francisco, California, great areas to stay in include Union Square, Downtown San Francisco, and Fisherman's Wharf. Union Square offers vibrant shopping and nightlife, while Downtown boasts impressive architecture and museums. Fisherman's Wharf is perfect for scenic waterfront views and attractions like Alcatraz. For first-time visitors, Union Square is the best choice, providing easy access to key sites and experiences.

1. Union SquareOpens in a new window: Union Square is the heart of San Francisco, making it a fantastic place to stay for those who love vibrant city life. Known for its stunning architecture and cultural attractions, this area is home to the famous Union Square Park, where you can relax after a day of shopping at high-end stores and boutiques. You'll be close to must-see spots like Lombard Street and Pier 39, and the nearby cultural venues, including the Orpheum Theatre and Louise Davies Symphony Hall, offer a range of performances and shows. With its lively atmosphere, Union Square is perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the city’s art and entertainment scene.
2. Downtown San FranciscoOpens in a new window: Downtown San Francisco is a dynamic area filled with architectural marvels and engaging museums. It's an ideal base for exploring the city's rich history and culture, with attractions like the Ferry Building and the iconic Lombard Street within easy reach. The area is also fantastic for shopping, with options ranging from Ghirardelli Square to Stonestown Galleria. You can unwind after a day of sightseeing by catching a show at the War Memorial Opera House or enjoying a cultural event at the nearby Louise Davies Symphony Hall. Downtown San Francisco offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and cultural experiences.
3. Fisherman's WharfOpens in a new window: Fisherman's Wharf is a lively waterfront destination that captures the essence of San Francisco's maritime charm. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be near iconic attractions like Alcatraz Island and Pier 39, where you can enjoy street performances and delicious seafood. The area’s museums add an educational twist, making it suitable for families and history buffs alike. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Tennessee Valley Trailhead for a refreshing outdoor experience. With its vibrant atmosphere and scenic views, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a unique blend of fun and relaxation.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in San Francisco

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to explore San Francisco on a budget, the best time to visit is in February, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. Staying for at least 2 to 3 days allows you to discover the city's rich history and culture, including its renowned museums, impressive architecture, vibrant Chinatown, and significant monuments. This budget-friendly approach provides great value for money, giving you the opportunity to experience the city’s key landmarks without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to San Francisco, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales, helping you find great savings on hotels. Additionally, use the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app to compare room rates and amenities, ensuring you get the best hotel deal. You’re more likely to be notified of price drops or availability changes, making it easier to book a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a San Francisco hotel. For those seeking unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we may suggest alternative dates that could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with higher costs. For more budget-friendly options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between price and accessibility to the sights you want to see. You might also look into independent hotels a bit further out, which can offer a more authentic experience at a more affordable rate.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in San Francisco. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

San Francisco hotels: Visiting the Golden City 

Steep streets, cable cars, and top hotels in SF 

San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge, iconic steep streets, and old-fashioned cable cars are sights famous the world over. From the very cool Mission and Castro districts to the serene Marina District, discover a wide selection of San Francisco hotels. For top-notch views and easy access to the piers the boats to Alcatraz Island depart from, stay at a hotel in Fisherman's Wharf. Book rooms in Chinatown to dive into the multicultural side of the city. All this beauty does come at a premium: San Francisco is not the cheapest of cities. Stay flexible with your travel dates if you're looking for cheap hotels in SF in 2025 and plan at least 3 days for your stay to get the most out of it. 

Find some of the trendiest hotels in San Francisco in 2025 

Designer hotels in Downtown San Francisco, gorgeous hotels with private pools steps away from bustling Union Square, 4-star hotels with rooftop terraces on Nob Hill: Find your dream hotel in SF with Hotels.com. Powerful filters help you to refine your search results, as well as making it easier to find hotels in exclusive neighborhoods. Make the most of flexible cancellation policies and rewards in most hotels.

When to visit to enjoy SF hotels with a balcony 

The summer is one of the best times to book your hotels in San Fran. San Francisco averages 265 sunny days per year, many of which land during the summer months. The weather is typically fabulous, which means great views from SF hotels with a balcony. Stay in Richmond to be within walking distance of Ocean Beach, one of the most popular beaches in San Francisco. 

When to find deals for cheap hotels in SF 

San Francisco is not a particularly cheap city. Finding cheap hotels in SF is very much about being flexible with your travel dates. Outside of the busy summer season, you can sometimes find good deals for rooms in some of the best hotels in SF. Prices are usually at their lowest between January and March.