We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Destinations The Best Hotels in San Francisco You’ll love these award-winning and editor-approved properties in the Bay Area. By Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello." tabindex="0" data-inline-tooltip="true"> Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Published on May 1, 2024 Photo: Hotel Zephyr San Francisco is perhaps best known as California’s home of technology. Along its city streets you'll find the offices of Airbnb, X, Instacart, and hundreds of others — not to mention Apple just a few miles outside of town. And though it's a hub for digital commerce, it's also a city filled with so much fantastic history, art, culture, and food — along with a vibrant LGBTQIA+ community — that even if you return over and over again, you'd likely never experience the same thing twice. On a journey to Northern California's most famous city it's key to find the right accommodation to fit your travel style. Below we've rounded up 17 top-choice hotels — including plenty of World's Best Awards and It List winners — so you can find the right spot to call your NorCal home away from home. Fairmont San Francisco Hotel The Fairmont San Francisco. Book Now What We Like Incredible views and luxurious amenities come together here in one spectacular hotel. What to Consider It's a massive property with more than 600 rooms, so be prepared for crowds. Located at the very top of Nob Hill, the Fairmont San Francisco is as elegant a hotel as they come. The hotel, which consistently makes its way onto T+L's World's Best Awards list, sports stunning interior architecture and panoramic views of both the city and the bay. And, guests can indulge in superb food and drinks at the famous Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, or have an charming afternoon tea service, depending on their vacation vibe. The Details: Neighborhood: Nob HillDistance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Grace Cathedral, Cable Car Museum, Union SquareAccessibility: Offers wheelchair accessibility; additional accommodations available upon requestRates: Starting at $350 per nightParking: Garage parking; valet parking available for an additional feePet Policy: Pets welcome with a deposit The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco Marriott Book Now What We Like It's got grandeur, grace, and luxury pouring out of every corner. What to Consider The premium experience comes at premium pricing, especially if you add in dining and spa services. The Ritz-Carlton, in any city, is a good idea. But, the Ritz in San Francisco is an absolute must. The hotel, which was named in the 2022 World's Best Awards, is particularly loved by T+L readers for its personalized service. It's also a spot where travelers can find rather spacious accommodations, especially for a center city hotel, with rooms clocking in between 400- to 475-square-feet rooms and suites up to 1,980 square feet. The Details: Neighborhood: Nob HillDistance From Airport: 15 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Chinatown, Union Square, Fisherman’s WharfAccessibility: Fully accessible rooms are availableRates: Starting at $500 per nightParking: Garage and valet parking availablePet Policy: Pets are welcome with a non-refundable fee Beacon Grand, a Union Square Hotel Beacon Grand Book Now What We Like Mid-century furnishings, color, and views make this hotel a visual delight. What to Consider Its location in the bustling Union Square area can make it noisy. The Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel, is a prime example of mid-century modern renovations done right. The hotel, which made its way to T+L's 2023 It List, underwent a massive renovation during the pandemic, reopening in 2022 to significant fanfare. While the hotel is certainly gleaming with all its new refreshes — including a high-tech gym sporting several Peloton bikes — it still maintains plenty of authentic charm, including its original chandeliers, woodwork, and marble columns. The Details: Neighborhood: Union SquareDistance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Theatre District, SFMOMA, Golden Gate TheatreAccessibility: Accessible rooms are availableRates: Starting at $300 per nightParking: Valet parking service is available for an additional feePet Policy: Pets aren't just welcome here, they get their own personalized amenities at check-in too. “The property reopened as the Beacon Grand in June 2022, with 418 fully renovated rooms and suites — some done up in clean navy and white, others with a custom San Francisco wallpaper featuring a pattern of cable cars, lighthouses, sourdough, and seals. The bar-restaurant above the lobby serves classic dishes with California ingredients (Brokaw avocados, Liberty duck) and an impressive list of barrel-aged batched cocktails; the dark-wood space hidden at the end of the mezzanine is now a library and whiskey tasting room. Plans for other culinary venues are in the works: the 21st-floor Starlite Room, once the glittering domain of San Francisco nightlife impresario Harry Denton, will eventually light up once again.” – Hannah Walhout, Senior Editor The Line San Francisco The LINE SF Book Now What We Like This hotel features sweeping views of the city at the swanky rooftop bar. What to Consider Its prime central location means it's on a busy block, a consideration if you’re looking for something more secluded. The Line San Francisco is as buzzy a spot as they come. The hotel lets all that SF magic in through floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the skyline, while its bright interiors celebrate the city with local works of art adorning every wall. It's also home to an exceptional — and highly local — food and beverage program that highlights Northern California cuisine, so guests never have to travel far for a taste of the city. The Details: Neighborhood: Mid-MarketDistance From Airport: 13 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Oracle ParkAccessibility: Fully accessible rooms are availableRates: Starting at $175 per nightParking: Valet parking available with an additional feePet Policy: The hotel is pet-friendly with no additional fees. “Like its predecessors, The Line’s latest location, in San Francisco’s gritty Tenderloin neighborhood, is a celebration of creative communities. Vibrant and visually striking, the journey starts from check-in, where multimedia artist Sasinun Kladpetch’s concrete, moss, and glass found-art installation spans the lobby…But it’s the evenings when the hotel truly comes to life: sample the burrata with pickled gypsy peppers and wonton chips at the signature Tenderheart restaurant (chef Joe Hou’s imaginative cuisine is eclectic and flavorful). Then, head to the rooftop Rise Over Run, a glass solarium encircled by fire pits, for cocktails from bar master Danny Louie.” – Lisa Cheng, T+L Contributor 1 Hotel San Francisco Aubrie Pick Book Now What We Like The hotel is one of the most dedicated out there to staying eco-conscious. What to Consider There is a noticeably heavy focus on sustainability here, but by no means do its sustainable practices mean you have to forgo luxury. 1 Hotel San Francisco is a testament to sustainability done right, seamlessly blending style and conservation into one epic space. The hotel prides itself on its use of local and reclaimed materials, including redwood lumber from the former San Francisco Bridge, and boasts living green elements throughout the building, helping guests get a literal breath of fresh air in every room. Guests here will sleep on organic linens, dine on local and sustainable cuisine, and unwind in its spa that specializes in – you guessed it – holistic treatments using organic ingredients. The Details: Neighborhood: EmbarcaderoDistance From Airport: 15 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Ferry Building Marketplace, Exploratorium, Coit TowerAccessibility: The hotel is committed to accessibility and includes fully accessible roomsRates: Starting at $400 per nightParking: Valet parking is available, but the hotel also offers a complimentary free parking package for one vehiclePet Policy: The hotel is pet-friendly. “This is one of the most unique hotels I've ever stayed at. Located right across from the iconic Ferry Building, it takes eco-friendliness and sustainability to the next level, with an emphasis on using clean energy and reclaimed and recycled materials. It's super vibey with wood and greenery everywhere and a natural color scheme – it creates an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city outside.” – Sophie Mendel, Commerce Editor San Francisco Proper Manolo Yllera Book Now What We Like Kelly Wearstler interiors make this a sought-after high-design space. What to Consider Its Mid-Market location puts it in a busy area, but that's part of its charm. The San Francisco Proper is another spot beloved by T+L readers, winning a place in 2023's World's Best Awards. The hotel, which got a refresh in 2017, is revered for its exquisite rooms, each designed by Kelly Wearstler. The hotel's common spaces are equally alluring, including its lobby lounge filled with eclectic furnishings, and its rooftop bar and restaurant Charmaine, where you can order a cocktail with a side of fantastic views. The Details: Neighborhood: Mid-MarketDistance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, Asian Art MuseumAccessibility: Accessible rooms availableRates: Starting at $250 per nightParking: Valet service available for an additional feePet Policy: Pets welcome with additional fees Mansion on Sutter Mansion on Sutter. Book Now What We Like It's inside an old-school Victorian building, making it feel like a home away from home. What to Consider It's a boutique hotel, meaning it lacks larger property amenities. Mansion on Sutter has the ability to transport guests to a bygone era in San Francisco thanks to its meticulously preserved Victorian interiors. Here, guests can explore every ornate detail and antique in each room, all pulled from the Rosenson family's personal collection. The hotel also offers three of its rooms — The Dali Chamber, the Gallery Chamber, and the Wine Vault — for private dining and events. The Details: Neighborhood: Lower Pacific HeightsDistance From Airport: 15 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Lafayette Park, Japantown, Jefferson Square ParkAccessibility: Due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility is a bit more difficult, but the hotel does offer accessible rooms.Rates: Starting at $500 per nightParking: Limited on-site parking is available for an additional fee.Pet Policy: Pets are allowed for an additional fee. St. Regis San Francisco Jason Dewey Book Now What We Like The St. Regis San Francisco exhibits the same high level of service you'd expect at any of the brand's hotels. What to Consider All that great service does come at a higher price point. The St. Regis San Francisco is yet another beloved hotel of T+L readers, and it landed a spot on the 2023 World's Best Awards. It's known for its impeccable service, perfectly appointed rooms, and exclusive Remède Spa. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the hotel's proximity to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the area's top-notch dining establishments. However, you don't even need to leave for a great meal as The St. Regis is home to its own fine dining establishment, Astra. The Details: Neighborhood: SoMa (South of Market)Distance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), Yerba Buena Gardens, Union SquareAccessibility: The hotel is fully accessible, including accessible rooms, facilities, and assistance.Rates: Starting at $789 per nightParking: Self-parking and valet are both available.Pet Policy: Pets are welcome for an additional fee. Parker Guest House Parker Guest House. Book Now What We Like With just 21 rooms, Parker Guest House offers a cozy experience and loads of charm. What to Consider This boutique guest house's intimate nature may not suit those looking for the amenities of larger hotels. Parker Guest House is a delightful escape for anyone looking for truly personalized service and no crowds. The hotel's intimate 21 rooms make you feel like you're sleeping over at a friend's house — a friend who will also make you a delicious breakfast. Guests can also mix and mingle in its sun-drenched parlor and library, and partake in its wine social hour, too. The Details: Neighborhood: Mission DistrictDistance From Airport: 13 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Dolores Park, Castro District, Valencia Street's boutique shops and restaurantsAccessibility: Limited; guests should inquire directly with the guest house for specific accessibility needs.Rates: Starting at $219 per nightParking: Private parking is available for an additional charge.Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed Nobu Palo Alto Barbara Kraft Book Now What We Like It delivers the perfect mix of luxury hospitality and world-renowned culinary excellence in one stay. What to Consider Its remote location makes it a bit more difficult to explore San Francisco. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, this hotel is ideal for discerning travelers who want luxury accommodations and the best dining all under one roof. Here, guests will sleep in Japanese-inspired rooms that come with yukata robes and Ikaati tea before they head downstairs to dine at the Nobu restaurant, where, yes, the miso cod is on the menu. The hotel also offers private dining for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. The Details: Neighborhood: Downtown Palo AltoDistance From Airport: 18 miles from San Jose International Airport and 23 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Stanford University, Palo Alto Art Center, GoogleplexAccessibility: The hotel has fully accessible rooms.Rates: Starting at $573 per nightParking: Valet parking is available with an additional charge.Pet Policy: No pets are permitted, other than service animals. Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel Palace Hotel. Book Now What We Like Its interiors are just as grand as you'd expect from a "palace." What to Consider The traditional luxury may not appeal to those looking for more modern amenities. As a cherished landmark of San Francisco, the Palace Hotel doesn't shy away from its historic appearance. In fact, it leans all the way in. From its opulent lobby boasting massive chandeliers to oversized beds in every suite, and of course, its iconic Garden Court, it's a space that really does make every guest feel like a star. The Details: Neighborhood: Financial DistrictDistance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Union Square, SFMOMA, Ferry Building MarketplaceAccessibility: The hotel offers accessible guest rooms.Rates: Starting at $500 per nightParking: Valet parking available with an additional feePet Policy: Pets are welcome with an additional fee. Zeppelin Hotel Zeppelin Book Now What We Like It has a rebellious atmosphere with plenty of attitude. What to Consider The hotel's rock 'n' roll spirit and lively common areas may not suit those seeking a quieter environment. Hotel Zeppelin is the perfect spot for anyone looking to celebrate San Francisco's counterculture. Its design pays homage to the city's rebellious past with seductive paint colors, record players in every room, and graffitied bathrooms. Guests can start the day at Zeppelin Café for a third-wave coffee fix, and end it at PLS on Post for a bite to eat and a tasty craft cocktail. The Details: Neighborhood: Union SquareDistance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Union Square, Theatre District, San Francisco Museum of Modern ArtAccessibility: The hotel offers accessible rooms and facilitiesRates: Starting at $144 per nightParking: Valet parking available with an additional feePet Policy: Pets are welcome with an additional fee Hotel Zephyr Hotel Zephyr Book Now What We Like Hotel Zephyr will add a lighthearted energy and excellent views to your stay. What to Consider The hotel's quirky design elements may not fit those looking for a more traditional stay. Located in the midst of San Francisco's famed Fisherman's Wharf, Hotel Zephyr is a family-friendly getaway that's ready to give everyone in your crew a warm welcome. Here, guests will find adorable maritime-inspired design across both its lobby and guest rooms, along with amenities galore, from a game room to an expansive outdoor space where guests can gather around communal fire pits. The Details: Neighborhood: Fisherman's WharfDistance From Airport: 16 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Pier 39, Alcatraz Island, Ghirardelli SquareAccessibility: Accessible rooms and amenities are availableRates: Starting at $149 per nightParking: On-site parking is available with an additional feePet Policy: Pets are allowed with an additional fee Phoenix Hotel Nick Simonite Book Now What We Like The Phoenix Hotel boasts the cool-kid aesthetic that you'll only find in the Tenderloin. What to Consider The hotel's lively vibe can make it noisy during events. The Phoenix Hotel is, bluntly, cooler than cool. It's a creative, funky, free-spirited space known for its mid-century architecture and colorful interiors. Its courtyard pool surrounded by murals is as far from traditional as you can get, but that's what makes it so special. And its affordable price point doesn't hurt, either. The Details: Neighborhood: TenderloinDistance From Airport: 13 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Civic Center, Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, Asian Art MuseumAccessibility: Accessible rooms and facilities are availableRates: Starting at $159 per nightParking: On-site parking available for an additional feePet Policy: Pets are welcome with an additional fee The Parsonage The Parsonage Book Now What We Like The Parsonage offers an intimate experience in a beautiful historic building. What to Consider The traditional B&B model means you'll be closer to other guests, which might not suit those seeking extra privacy. Embrace more of the city's history at this lovingly restored Victorian home-turned-bed and breakfast. With just five guest rooms, the hotel is romantic, charming, and oh-so-quaint. Wake up each day with a gourmet breakfast made just for you and served in the formal dining room, and for winter stays, consider booking a room with a fireplace so you can curl up with a glass of wine at night. The Details: Neighborhood: Hayes ValleyDistance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Opera House, Patricia's GreenAccessibility: Due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility features are limitedRates: Starting at $600 per two-night stay (two-night minimum)Parking: Street parking; public parking options nearbyPet Policy: Not typically suited for pets, but inquiries are welcome. Hotel Kabuki, a JdV by Hyatt Hotel Courtesy of Hotel Kabuki Book Now What We Like It’s so well designed that you’ll likely want to take every single piece of furniture home with you. What to Consider The hotel comes with a tranquil atmosphere, which may not be a great fit for those looking for a more lively stay. Hotel Kabuki is a peaceful retreat that perfectly reflects its Japantown surroundings. Here, guests can immerse themselves in the Japanese garden, complete with a koi pond, and minimalist rooms. Though the coolest space here may be its massive gym, which comes with state-of-the-art equipment and 24/7 access. The Details: Neighborhood: JapantownDistance From Airport: 14 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Japantown Peace Plaza, Fillmore Street, The Presidio, Palace of Fine ArtsAccessibility: Accessible guest rooms are available.Rates: Starting at $250 per nightParking: On-site parking available with an additional feePet Policy: Pets are welcome for an additional fee Hotel Drisco Travis Watts / Hotel Drisco. Book Now What We Like Hotel Drisco's turndown service is better than any we've ever seen. What to Consider The hotel's buttoned-up style may not fit every San Francisco traveler's desires. Hotel Drisco is a sophisticated stay unlike any other. Here, guests can expect the finest in service throughout the day, but especially during its famed turndown service. That's when guests can request not only their linens turned down but also fresh chocolate-covered shortbread cookies delivered to their bedside, along with their choice of pillows from the pillow menu. There are even sound machines for those who need a little help getting to sleep. The Details: Neighborhood: Pacific HeightsDistance From Airport: About 15 miles from San Francisco International AirportNearby Attractions: Lafayette Park, Presidio of San Francisco, Crissy FieldAccessibility: Accessible rooms are availableRates: Starting at $500 per nightParking: Complimentary street parking is availablePet Policy: Pets are not permitted except for service animals Know Before You Go San Francisco can be very expensive San Francisco is well known for being one of the most expensive places in the world to live in and visit. If budgets are a concern, be sure to do a bit of planning ahead of your travels to pick the activities you want to splurge on and which you want to save on. Luckily, there are also plenty of free things to do in the city (like having a picnic in Mission Dolores Park), and many of the museums offer free entry days. Pack layers and good walking shoes San Francisco has year-round mild temperatures and is also famous for its fog — even in the middle of summer. Be sure to pack layers so you can stay comfortable throughout the day and make certain to pack a raincoat, just in case. While the city is big and sprawling, it’s also quite walkable, so be prepared to get your steps in. Packing a pair of great walking shoes is a must. Make reservations everywhere San Francisco's best restaurants fill up fast. If you have a particular spot in mind, make sure to book a table as early as possible. Many of the area's best restaurants take reservations right on their websites or through sites like Resy and OpenTable. Don't leave anything valuable in your car San Francisco is, unfortunately, experiencing heightened crime, and car break-ins are frequent. Do not leave any valuables in your car or leave anything — especially cash – visible in your vehicle while you’re out and about. Don't skip public transit San Francisco's nearly 150-year-old cable cars are most certainly a must-see and a must-ride. Get a full-day pass and ride as much as you want for just $13. Just look for the brown-and-white cable car sign posts to board, or board at the cable car turntables at the beginning and end of each route. How We Chose These Hotels Many of the hotels chosen for this story have earned T+L awards, including It List and World's Best Awards mentions. Several are also personal favorites of our editors. Writer Stacey Leasca also chose additional hotels based on research of top-ranked spots and her own personal experience. Stacey lived in California for more than a decade, traveling throughout the state as a journalist to showcase its best destinations. She also consulted family and friends living in and around San Francisco for their input. And finally, as with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values. Edited by Sophie Mendel Sophie Mendel Sophie Mendel is a Commerce Editor at Travel + Leisure with Dotdash Meredith where she assigns, edits and publishes the product reviews and recommendations that help guide travelers toward the best shoes, apparel and accessories for their needs. Sophie has traveled to 50 countries and has lived in five, and is bilingual in English and Spanish. She has more than five years of experience as a writer, editor and copywriter. learn more