San Francisco captivates visitors worldwide with its unique blend of natural beauty, pioneering spirit, and cultural sophistication. Before doing travel, You can choose from a wide range of top hotels in San Francisco, all located in the city center.
Whether you prefer stately elegance, sleek sophistication, or vibrant energy, these hotels offer exquisite service and luxurious amenities.
Book something downtown near the best attractions or the North Beach neighborhood near the touristy Fisherman’s Wharf. Or, try a neighborhood outside the center that feels less crowded.
No matter your decision, you’ll check out the best places in San Francisco from a comfy base in one of the best hotels in San Francisco.
Here’s our list of the best hotels in San Francisco, considering everything from linens to the lobby:
1. Grand Hyatt
2. 1 Hotel
3. Four Seasons
5. Fairmont
7. Beacon Grand
8. Hotel Emblem
10. Argonaut Hotel
11. Hotel Zoe
12. RIU
1. Grand Hyatt at SFO
5-Star
Step off the AirTrain and into the lobby of Grand Hyatt at SFO. You will enjoy luxurious rooms with stunning bay views and the airport through soundproof floor-to-ceiling windows. Grand Hyatt SFO is one of the best hotels in San Francisco.
Enjoy culinary delights or drink with friends in our bar without leaving the airport. You can also take a train to San Francisco in half an hour.
Grand Hyatt SFO has a fitness center and a bar. It has a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free WiFi.
All hotel units are equipped with flat-screen TVs. All rooms come with a private bathroom with a hairdryer. The teams will provide guests with fridges.
Continental breakfast is served daily. An AirTrain station stop at the property offers connections to San Francisco International Airport.
2. 1 Hotel in San Francisco
5-Star
San Francisco has no shortage of hotels. But, truth be told, none get high marks across the board. 1 Hotel San Francisco is the unicorn of this city’s needs. It has a great location overlooking the Bay. It has eco-ethos at the core of its brand.
The location could not be better. 1 hotel is on the corner of Mission Street, which slices diagonally through the city. It is also on the Embarcadero, with the waterfront west of the Bay Bridge to Fisherman’s Wharf.
Besides that, there are lots of potted plants and living walls throughout the 1 Hotel, and its distinctive scent-delicious and woodsy without being overpowering. This room is very relaxing because of the mellow lighting, the color scheme, the organic design, and the natural materials.
One of the best things about San Francisco is its access to amazing produce and proximity to ethically-run ranches and dairies. The dinner menu spotlights the local bounty and skews the Mediterranean with standouts such as laffa with baba ganoush or a spicy carrot harissa dip. It also features lamb sliders with mango jam and a shallot pickle.
3. Four Seasons in San Francisco
5-Star
One skyscraper amidst a sea of them, the Four Seasons San Francisco at Embarcadero blends in with its surroundings. Stepping inside, you’ll notice that the spherical space practically radiates light. There’s a rhythmic, polished Guy Dill sculpture in the lobby and a Guggenheim-esque staircase, like a modern art museum you can stay in.
Since the Four Seasons took over this property last year, it has undergone a total renovation, including the lobby, guest rooms, suites, and fitness center. Transamerica Pyramid seems tactile; the Coit Tower glows faintly in the distance.
The rooms pay homage to San Francisco with gray-and-eggshell tones, midcentury furniture, and a hand-tufted rug that echoes the city outside. The soaking tub is perfectly positioned to see glittering city lights. Smartphone charging pads and thermostats that tell indoor and outdoor temperatures to make life easier.
As Four Seasons expect, the service is white-glove. Staff are eager to help with anything you need. They’ll even deliver room service to you anywhere on the property.
4. The Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco
5-Star
The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco is just a 5-minute drive from Oracle Park and Pier 39. You can eat at the restaurant after working out in the fitness center. There are also 2 bars/lounges where you can unwind. This luxurious hotel is also just a 5-minute drive from Moscone Convention Center and Lombard Street.
Guests at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco, have access to a flat-screen TV. Luxury soap, shampoo, bathrobes, and slippers are provided in the en-suite bathrooms. In-room dining is available 24/7.
The Ritz-Carlton guests can enjoy exclusive amenities on the Club Level. It features all-day food and beverage services and a full-service concierge to assist with requests.
The Lounge offers a large collection of single-malt Scotch. Contemporary American cuisine is served at Parallel 37, located in the hotel lobby. In-room dining is also available.
5. Fairmont at Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco
5-Star
Experience one of San Francisco’s most famous national historic waterfront landmarks with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay. It is located above Ghirardelli Square. You will enjoy a spacious elevated terrace with firepits and lounge areas with private guest entrances from Ghirardelli Square.
Each spacious apartment at The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square has a fireplace. All bedrooms are designed with en-suite bathrooms with an enclosed glass shower.
Exposed the brick walls in all apartments offer natural soundproofing and preserve the original Ghirardelli Square facade. An in-unit washer and dryer are housed in a closet for guests’ use.
Room service is offered daily from Palet, San Francisco Brewing Company, and McCormick & Culletto’s Seafood Restaurant. The Fairmont Heritage elevators open directly to Ghirardelli’s Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, local San Francisco boutiques, and restaurants in Ghirardelli Square. All elevators and entrances are accessible with a Guest Access Card only.
6. The St. Regis in San Francisco
5-Star
The St. Regis San Francisco is a premier luxury hotel in the San Francisco financial district. With excellence at the forefront, our Forbes Five-Star Hotel features newly redesigned rooms and suites, accompanied by a renowned level of service. The St Regis San Francisco is across from Yerba Buena Gardens.
It is located in the SOMA District of San Francisco. Flat-screen TVs are included in each guest room. Union Square is an 8-minute walk away. The 5-star St Regis San Francisco Hotel includes 260 rooms with downtown views. The hotel is within walking distance of SoMa and offers an onsite seasonal restaurant and infinity pool.
All guest rooms feature a soaking tub and a TV. Elegantly decorated rooms boast minibars. Guests or visitors can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the restaurant. They have their signature cocktails and a bar menu is offered at The St. Regis Bar.
7. Beacon Grand in San Francisco
5-Star
The Beacon Grand is where San Francisco’s legacy meets tomorrow’s ambitions. Oak floors, high ceilings, and ornate fixtures are a grand stage for curated cocktails. It is one of the top hotels in San Francisco
Beacon Lounge is the hotel’s heart, a communal living room during the day and a lively gathering spot at night. A destination for visitors and locals alike, opportunities to mix and mingle abound.
Original architectural details and artisan craftsmanship combine with modern comforts and flourishes throughout. Old-world iron, stone, and plaster craftsmanship befits the landmark, and the purposeful updates never compromise the timeless feel of climbing our grand staircase or searching the gilded ceiling for Prohibition-era bullet holes.
Hotel has recently renovated all of its guestrooms and suites with modern touches that complement its timeless craftsmanship. The rooms feature high ceilings, European oak floors, and eco-luxury amenities. The classic guestrooms provide cozy comfort and signature design, while the Grand guestrooms and suites offer extra amenities and stunning views of the city.
8. Hotel Emblem in San Francisco
5-Star
Hotel Emblem is located in downtown San Francisco, at the intersection of Nob Hill, Union Square, and the Theater District. It is a retreat for those who embrace bold thinking. It will all leave you with a dynamic and fresh outlook.
The hotel is designed to inspire creativity, with unique features such as bottled cocktails delivered to your room and a Writer’s Alcove filled with books in the lobby. The guestrooms are eclectic and vibrant, with playful patterns and an expressive atmosphere.
Their menu has multiple dishes, including both original creations and popular favorites from renowned chef Michael Mina‘s various restaurants. Make sure to try the tuna tartare—it’s a must-try.
If you’re there for brunch, don’t miss out on the Tokyo Hot Chicken, which has a delightfully smooth texture and comes with a delicious sweet and spicy dipping sauce. It’s so good, you might find it addictive!
The staff here really love what they do, and it shows! They are above and beyond to ensure guests have all they need.
9. Staypineapple in San Francisco
5-Star
Staypineapple is a historic 1913 hotel just a 5-minute walk from vibrant Union Square. The hotel offers a coffee and treats reception at check-in and free WiFi in all of its rooms.
Modern decor and restored 1930s Victorian elegance are featured in all rooms. Here you can find flat-screen cable TV is featured in each room. A hairdryer is included in the en-suite bathroom. A coffee machine allows guests to brew fresh coffee each morning.
You’ll notice rich yellow fabrics and golden accents in all the property’s 93 rooms. In addition, you’ll see a few touches like daily cupcakes and coffee and slippers you can take home.
Outside the guest rooms, travelers can grab a bite to eat at the on-site Pineapple Bistro & Bar before exploring San Francisco on one of the hotel’s complimentary cruiser bicycles. Though recent travelers were impressed with The Alise’s unique amenities, they credited top-notch customer service as the main reason for a successful stay.
10. Argonaut Hotel in San Francisco
5-Star
The Argonaut Hotel merits iconic status both for its past and present. Guests wake up to San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge views. They explore Ghirardelli Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, and some of the city’s best parks.
It offers beautiful views across San Francisco Bay. Also offers featuring in-room spa services and a traditional seafood restaurant. Valet parking is available.
The rooms at the Argonaut Hotel have a nautical theme, with rich blue and white furniture. They come equipped with a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar, and a coffee maker that uses coffee from San Francisco’s Vasquez Coffee Company.
At the Argonaut, you can enjoy delicious homemade chowder and fresh seafood at the Blue Mermaid restaurant, which has a casual historic ambiance. The full bar offers a selection of California wines and cocktails with ocean-themed flavors.
Guest receives a free newspaper each weekday. A fitness center, an in-room yoga channel, and free accessories are also available. A 24-hour business center is also included.
11. Hotel Zoe at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco
5-Star
Hotel Zoe is known for its unbeatable location, award-winning service, and outstanding cuisine. Still, it’s our whimsical spirit that sets us apart. Staying at our San Francisco boutique hotel near Fisherman’s Wharf grants easy access to the city’s best attractions.
It includes an easy walk to the cable cars, Ghirardelli Square, the popular North Beach neighborhood, and Pier 39‘s many attractions. It is one of the best hotels in San Francisco.
All rooms come equipped with 50-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi access, hand-held garment steamers, and minifridges. The decor is neutral with tan walls, white linens, light blue patterned carpets, and black throw pillows.
Outside the rooms, guests can use the meeting facilities or enjoy a meal at the on-site eatery, Pescatore, an Italian restaurant specializing in seafood and traditional dishes. But if you’re not craving Italian, you’ll find plenty of restaurants in the surrounding neighborhood.
While many past guests had positive things to say about this property (they praised its location and helpful staff), others were disappointed with the hotel’s small rooms and expensive parking fees.
12. RIU in San Francisco
5-Star
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf is located close to Pier 39. It offers the highest quality services to enjoy an unforgettable stay. Its facilities include free WiFi, an outdoor pool, a gym, and conference rooms.
This hotel in San Francisco has more than 500 rooms perfectly equipped to offer maximum comfort. Each has a satellite TV, a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, air conditioning, and many more amenities. Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf facilities also include a pool with sun loungers and umbrellas. This is where you can enjoy the Californian climate throughout the hot months.
You can enjoy a delicious American-style buffet breakfast in the morning to start your day full of energy. Throughout the rest of the day, you can choose products from our menu while working on your laptop.
You can also take a break in the Grab & Go area, where seating is available. The bar at the Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf has the ideal atmosphere to enjoy drinks and snacks in the afternoon.
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco has a gym so sports lovers can practice their favorite activities. If you’re in San Francisco for business, this hotel at Pier 39 provides conference rooms for meetings and events. Our staff will offer you all the services you need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, San Francisco offers many exceptional hotels that cater to its diverse needs and preferences. The city has something for everyone, from luxurious, high-end establishments to boutique gems and budget-friendly options.
The best hotels in San Francisco are renowned for their impeccable service, stunning views, and convenient locations, providing an unforgettable experience for all travelers. You can also visit nearby best places in San Francisco.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape, a charming boutique experience, or a budget-friendly stay, San Francisco offers a wealth of outstanding hotels to suit every taste and budget.
