I love living in San Francisco, it’s hands down my favorite city in the world. I also love helping people plan amazing trips to the foggy city and one of the biggest questions I get is: where should I stay in San Francisco?
Despite being only 7×7 miles, San Francisco has countless neighborhoods all with different vibes and hotel options (and, each one probably has its own micro-climate which is ~fun~ to navigate as a local).
In this post I’ll be overviewing where to stay in San Francisco as a visitor, breaking down the best neighborhoods to look for a hotel in along with my personal favorite hotel recommendations. Let’s go!
Best Neighborhoods To Stay In San Francisco
San Francisco is the funkiest tapestry of neighborhoods. They’re all super unique, so where you choose to stay will definitely impact your experience!
Each of these neighborhoods has some pros and cons you should consider before booking. Beyond just the obvious travel tips like staying close to public transportation, you’ll want to consider everything from available nightlife to how many hills you’re willing to walk up.
There are so many fun things to see and do in SF that it can get overwhelming. Start by narrowing down where you’re going to stay. Here are just a few of many options!
Union Square
New York City, Times Square. San Francisco, Union Square. That’s how I explain Union Square to anyone visiting San Francisco, and I’d like to think it’s pretty accurate!
Union Square is the best place to do some shopping. It has one of the coolest Apple stores I’ve ever been to, and tons of great museums. A personal favorite is the Contemporary Jewish Museum.
The Financial District (aka downtown San Francisco) is within walking distance, and there are a million good places to eat and sights to see. Hello, Transamerica Pyramid!
Be careful when booking in Union Square to steer clear of the Tenderloin. This area is infamous for car break-ins, which makes it the top stop for where not to stay in San Francisco. The Tenderloin is somewhat close to Union Square, so just be cognizant while booking!
SOMA
SOMA (short for South of Market St) is top of the list for where to stay in San Francisco for the first time. SOMA is great for museums and restaurants.
The San Francisco Modern Museum of Art is right smack dab in the middle of SOMA, and is perfect for an artsy afternoon.
The proximity to Market St. makes SOMA one of the most accessible areas of the city. There’s buses and rail lines (called BART) on just about every block.
Nob Hill
Nob Hill is a great introduction to the ninety degree hills of San Francisco. So if you don’t mind hills, Nob Hill could be a great option!
If you’re looking for where to stay in San Francisco on a budget, Nob Hill is a great bet. There are some lovely hotels in this area, as well as some more affordable motels too.
Nob Hill is a fun area for restaurants and bars. It’s less of a club scene, more of a bar scene for sure. You’ll also be within walking distance of other awesome sections of the city including the Embarcadero and Russian Hill.
Mission District
The Mission is one of my favorite places in the entire city. If staying in an authentic area of San Francisco is important to you, then the Mission should be at the top of your list!
Food is the main draw for me. Mexican food in the US doesn’t get much better than the Mission District. This is where the term “mission burrito” comes from, so you can trust it’s legit.
The Mission is also one of the coolest places to stay in SF because of the proximity to Dolores Park. Dolores Park is the best spot in the city to hangout with friends, a charcuterie board, and a bottle of wine.
The Mission is very close to other key neighborhoods (including the Castro), so it’s a good deal!
North Beach/Marina
Consider North Beach and the Marina the mecca for young people. This is where to stay in San Francisco for nightlife, especially if you’re looking for more of a club vibe than bars.
The Marina has beautiful views of the water, and is an easy walk to Crissy Fields, Lombard Street, and the Palace of Fine Arts. All are well worth a visit. While you’ll be close to the beach, it’s not San Diego– bring a jacket!
North Beach, which is super close, is the cutest neighborhood. Centered around Washington Square Park, it’s chocked full of ridiculously good Italian restaurants.
North Beach has some ridiculously good, authentic Italian restaurants as well. There’s burrata on every street.
Presidio
The Presidio gives big Nancy Myers, coastal queen energy. This San Francisco neighborhood is super classy and full of yummy food and fun things to do.
The top activity near the Presidio is, of course, the Golden Gate Bridge. You’re within walking distance. Sausalito, an adorable beach town just across the bridge, is a super fun day trip too.
When looking for where to stay in San Francisco with family, the Presidio is a great choice. There’s not much of a going out scene, and it’s a chiller vibe than the Marina or Hayes Valley.
Most of the hotels in this area are boutique, which is kind of perfect for the vibes of the Presidio.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf gets the people going. Seriously, people go crazy for this place! It’s got shopping, nationwide known restaurants, access to one of the city’s famed cable car, and tanning seals on just about every pier.
While Fisherman’s Wharf isn’t the best place to stay in San Francisco for relaxation, it certainly is ideal if you’re looking to be close to the tourist action. This just may very well be the best area to stay in San Francisco for tourists.
Beyond just the Wharf itself, you’ll be close to some other very cool spots. Check out Buena Vista Café for the best Irish coffee you’ve ever had in your life. Or over to the secret Chamber of Secrets door.
The Castro / Upper Market
The San Francisco experience is incomplete without The Castro. The Castro is SF’s queer neighborhood, and it’s one of the best places to stay in San Francisco for how much fun you’ll have.
The going out scene in The Castro is the huge draw here. Toad’s Hall, Twin Peaks, Moby Dick, and Harvey’s are all very fun and inclusive.
The historical value of The Castro lends its way to some cool day time exploring, too. Plus, the location of this neighborhood makes it very accessible via public transportation. This is definitely where to stay in San Francisco without a car.
The Castro is near another neighborhood, Upper Market. The vibe of Upper Market is cute café, vintage book store, family-friendly, and wonderfully cozy. Plus, it’s super close to public transportation as well.
Hayes Valley
Hayes Valley is a blast. They get an A+ for bars, restaurants, shopping, walkability, and sight-seeing. Not much is missing. I really think this is the best neighborhood to stay in San Francisco, but I could just be biased towards Alamo Square!
Alamo Square Park sits atop a hill overlooking Hayes Valley, as well as the gorgeous Painted Ladies (think Full House, fun Victorian houses all painted in funky colors). It’s one of many great spots to watch the sunset.
Hayes Valley, for all its fantastic qualities, is not the most accessible via public transportation. Keep that in mind while booking.
Near Oracle Park
One of the best travel tips a friend ever gave me was to try and visit a city’s baseball stadium whenever possible. She claimed the baseball team was the beating heart of the city.
That couldn’t be more true when it comes to San Francisco travel. A California road trip would be incomplete without stopping by Oracle Park. The Giants are a religion around here, and Oracle Park is the cathedral.
Staying near the park is super smart, especially if a game is going to be the highlight of your trip. This area has tons of cool sports bars and restaurants. There’s also a gorgeous ocean view of the Bay from just about every block.
18 Best San Francisco Hotels For Your Next Trip
Stars: 4-star
The Low-down:
If you're looking for luxury hotels, The Fairmont Hotel is always a good idea. This hotel tucked between Nob Hill and Chinatown has a luxurious feel right within walking distance of all the best parts of the city.
The views at the Fairmont are gorgeous, and you will be able to see everything from Coit Tower to Alcatraz. While the Fairmont is perhaps a little bougier and more expensive than other hotels on this list, it’s well worth every penny.
What else!
- Super historic. It’s been around over 100 years!
- Tonga Room tiki bar in the basement of the hotel is one of the must-hit attractions of the city
Stars: 5-star
The Low-down:
The 1 Hotel in the FiDi is as close to perfection as you’ll get in terms of a San Francisco hotel. It has everything from gorgeous design, to a fantastic location.
The 1 is known for their high level of hospitality and the woodsy vibes of the place. You’ll feel like you stepped into an extremely high class, five star hotel Hundred Acre Woods.
While you’ll be in one of the best locations in the city for food and drink, don’t overlook the hotel bar and restaurant. Both are delicious, and you can be served on a water-facing patio overlooking the Bay.
What else!
- Super eco friendly– all room keys are made of wood!
- The in-house spa is one of the best in the city
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
When thinking boutique, think The LINE. This is such a cozy, homey vibe smack dab in the center of the city.
Gorgeous local art displayed throughout the hotel and breathtaking floor to ceiling windows are just the visual appeal. The LINE also has a fantastic rooftop bar overlooking the city, and a super yummy restaurant in the lobby.
The LINE is right outside Oracle Park, so if watching The Giants dominate is on your list of to-dos, consider booking here.
What else!
- Super cool flatiron shape makes for good photo ops
- Pets are welcome with no additional fee
Stars: 4-star
The Low-down:
There’s no secret that San Francisco, besides being the best city in the world (biased take), is also home to the tech bro. Hotel Zetta is a prime tech bro spot, but is so cool that I can’t help but recommend it!
Located in SOMA, you’ll be close to all the action without being overwhelmed by it. This is a very common stay for those in town on business, but there’s no reason it can’t be a vacation spot instead.
Hotel Zetta has a list of amenities longer than the Constitution, and the rooms feature cozy modern vibes. It’s got the ease of a San Francisco Marriott, but is doubly as cool.
What else!
- Touchless check-in process
- Super teched-out… keyless rooms, Amazon Alexa in every room, Illy espresso machines galore
- Amenities are super cool. You can request a room with a Peloton, or even check out a Nintendo Switch from the front desk
Stars: 3-star
The Low-down:
A minimalist’s dream is realized in the Palihotel. This boutique hotel in the middle of Union Square has a stylish mid-century modern design that will relax even the most stressed traveler.
The hotel is located a few blocks away from Chinatown, so you’re automatically within walking distance to delicious food. Plus, the proximity to Union Square means public transportation is a non-issue.
What else!
- Close and convenient parking
- Fisher Loft in-house restaurant has a top-notch breakfast and dinner
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
If you want to feel like royalty for your stay, consider the Westin St. Francis. It looks like Windsor Castle was picked up and plopped down in the middle of Union Square.
The interior is just as nice. Accommodations are clean and chic, with a beautiful view of the downtown area.
The lobby is stunning. The sky-high ceilings and marble flooring are giving prestige, and the service from hotel staff is accommodating to back it up.
What else!
- Historical! Shirley Temple, Louis Armstrong, and Ernest Hemingway are among some of the most famous guests
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
San Francisco is one of the coolest cities in the country because of its ability to blend history with modernity. We’re the tech capital of the world, but at the same time, have hotels like The InterContinental Mark Hopkins that have been around since the mid 1800s.
The interior is chocked full of historic nods in the Spanish-Renaissance style decor.
The Nob Hill location of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins makes it the perfect stay for family and friends alike. You're close to restaurants and sightseeing, but not in the thick of any major nightlife that could keep you up.
The perch from the top of the hill means a bird’s eye view of the city, too.
What else!
- Originally built on the site of a mansion from 1878\
- Appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
The Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is yet another stunning historical SF gem. You’ll feel like you’re walking through the Titanic in its heyday, the lobby is so stunning.
The Palace was renovated in 2015, so despite the old-timey feel, the rooms are very updated and current.
Plus, you’ll be in between SOMA and FiDi. You’re right in all the action.
What else!
- Every suite is equipped with fancy robo-toilets
- Heated indoor pool with floor to ceiling windows!
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
You can’t beat Argonaut’s location for touristy fun. Located in the thick of Fisherman’s Wharf, this is the perfect spot to stay for all things tourist.
The vibe of this hotel is right on brand for its location to the water. All rooms of the hotel have a nautical, beachy decor that’s super cute and fitting.
You’re less than 10 minutes away from some of the biggest sightseeing opportunities including Ghirardelli Square, Lombard St, and Pier 41.
What else!
- Super eco friendly bath products
- In-N-Out is a few steps outside the door
Stars: 3-star
The Low-Down:
One of the most unique stays in all of SF comes from the Inn at the Presidio. This is tucked in the historic and jaw-dropping Presidio, a National Historic Landmark.
The accommodations are boutique and very chic. Operating like a B&B, a lot of the food (including a decadent cheese board) are included in the price of your room.
You are super close to the Golden Gate Bridge, and the hiking options here are pretty ideal. This is less of a tourist location, and more of a view/vibes location.
What else!
- Used to be a home for US Navy soldiers based in SF
- Right next to the Walt Disney Family Museum
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
The Japanese and Californian influences are big at Hotel Kabuki. Think tons of potted plants and succulents mixed with bright patterns and wooden furniture.
The hotel gym is a standout here. It’s a massive, 4,000 square foot gym that includes its own yoga studio.
If Japanese culture holds a special place in your heart, I can’t recommend Hotel Kabuki enough. It’s right in the center of Japantown!
What else!
- Right next to AMC 8 and the Japan Center Malls
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
The Barnes is an excellent bang for your buck right downtown. Located in Union Square right near the cable cars, you will have an easy time getting to and fro all the different items on your itinerary.
The decor features loud, modern prints and industrial lighting. After a day of exploring Union Square, mozy down to the lobby bar for one of their delicious cocktails.
What else!
- 5-minute drive from Moscone Convention Center
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
I don’t know if it’s possible to get much closer to the Golden Gate Bridge than The Lodge at Presidio. You can practically walk right up to it.
This stunning boutique hotel is situated just inside the gorgeous Presidio 1,500-acre national park. You are in prime hiking territory here.
A complimentary breakfast buffet and a wine and cheese gathering are just two of the many perks of this relaxing getaway. Definitely a must book for those looking for a relaxing, romantic getaway just outside the bustle of the city.
What else!
- The Lodge’s sister property, The Inn, is also on our list
- Despite the fact this hotel only recently open, it’s still got some history. The Lodge operates out of a renovated military barrack!
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
The Marker SF is just so hip. From the bejeweled, contemporary lobby to the effortlessly cool two-tone paint jobs in each bedroom, it’s exactly the vibe people come to San Francisco to get.
The Marker is in the thick of Union Square, right near Market Street. This makes it an ideal spot to get around via public transportation, and a good checkpoint for all the activities you’ll want to check out.
The vibe of The Marker is very upscale, city-chic. You’ll definitely feel like the main character here.
What else!
- All of the 18 meeting rooms are named after movie characters, which is a super cute touch
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
Formerly known as the Tuscan Hotel, Hotel Zoe is a great spot to stay if being close to Fisherman’s Wharf is a priority, definitely consider Hotel Zoe.
Besides the clean, modern aesthetic of this hotel, it has a pretty ideal proximity to public transit. It’s right on the F-line that can zip you down to the Ferry Building, Embarcadero, and Pier 39.
One additional advantage of Hotel Zoe– complimentary bikes to every guest!
What else!
- There’s a 24-foot metal statute in the courtyard, aptly named “Zoe”
Stars: 2.5-star
The Low-Down:
Hotel Castro is as modern as modern gets. The building itself is a sleek black rectangular design, more than matches the vibe.
Each room has a unique art selection, and it feels more like you’re staying in a very cool friend's apartment than a hotel. Most of the art is pop art, many of the images featuring LGBTQ icons including Madonna and Elton John.
Beyond the hotel itself, this is the best hotel location in San Francisco for the month of June. You have a front row seat to the pure joy that the Castro is. And during Pride month, there’s nowhere else you’d want to stay than the gayest neighborhood in San Francisco.
What else!
- Check-in is virtual and completely self-guided
- A rooftop terrace provides unbeatable views of the Castro and access to a firepit
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
LUMA is yet another hotel that is perfect for the baseball fans. It’s just a seven minute walk from Oracle Park!
There are many good things to say about LUMA besides its accessibility to baseball. LUMA only opened its doors in 2022, so you’re guaranteed for an extremely fresh experience.
The design is simple and clean, with some gorgeous art from local Bay Area artists. The views of Golden Gate and Oracle Park are spectacular, and a delicious in-house restaurant is the cherry on top.
What else?
- The gym is a special note of interest, as it is fully stocked with all the newest exercise equipment
Stars: 4-star
The Low-Down:
Okay, so technically Cavallo Point isn’t located in SF. It’s in Sausalito, the cutest little beach town to ever exist. But it’s making the list because it’s 10000% worth a stay!
This hotel is located just barely off the bridge from SF to Sausalito. You have a bird’s eye view of the city, but the benefit of a much more relaxed vibe. You are close to hiking, surfing, shopping (in Sausalito or SF), and of course, the Golden Gate bridge.
At the hotel, there are a range of activities. The hotel has THREE delicious restaurants to choose from, as well as a top-notch spa and fitness studio.
This is one of the best SF destinations for couples, so don’t forget to invite a plus one!
What else?
- Wedding spaces available for those ~looking~
- They have a HUGE emphasis on sustainability, so you can feel good about the relaxation you’re enjoying
Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, for the millionth time or the first, you deserve to treat yourself when it comes to accommodations. Any city is only as good as the area you stay in, and San Francisco is no exception.
One of the best parts of this city is all the wildly different communities and neighborhoods that it’s home to.
Regardless of where you end up staying, be sure to make time to visit as many of the neighborhoods as you can. Each one has its own special “thing” that makes SF so special.
Enjoy your travels, and don’t forget a sweater!
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