Where to Stay in San Francisco: 8 Stylish Hotels by Neighborhood (2025)
San Francisco isn’t just a city, it’s a mosaic of hills, harbor views, and wildly different neighborhoods that each feel like their own destination. Whether you're sipping a cocktail near the Ferry Building or climbing a hill to watch the fog roll over the Golden Gate, where you stay shapes your experience. I’ve walked the wharf, stayed near the buzz of Union Square, and ducked into boutique lobbies in SoMa and Pacific Heights, all so you don’t have to guess.
This hotel guide breaks the city into four distinct areas, each with two standout stays that offer a mix of location, personality, and design. No filler. No fluff. Just places actually worth checking into. Want tips on what to see, eat, and do while you're here? Check out my full San Francisco Travel Guide for a curated look at the city's top attractions, hidden gems, and design inspiration.
Downtown & Union Square
For classic SF energy, retail therapy, and walkable access to transit.
Downtown San Francisco is fast-paced, centrally located, and ideal if you're planning to hit major landmarks or use public transit to get around. Union Square is the city’s shopping core—surrounded by department stores, art galleries, and theaters—with easy BART access for hopping across the Bay. It’s a convenient home base, especially if you’re visiting for the first time or attending a conference.
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
đź“Ť Union Square | Check rates
Yes, it’s massive. Yes, it's a Hilton. But location-wise, it’s hard to beat, especially for a first-time visitor who wants to cover a lot of ground. Union Square is just outside the door, and the BART station’s close for day trips to the East Bay.
1 Hotel San Francisco
đź“Ť Embarcadero | Check rates
This eco-luxury hotel brings natural textures and sustainable design to the edge of the Bay. Think reclaimed wood, stone sinks, and soft neutral tones that feel more spa sanctuary than city hotel. It’s steps from the Ferry Building and offers electric bikes, in-room yoga mats, and a dreamy rooftop spa.
Fisherman’s Wharf
For harbor views, iconic sights, and tourist-friendly fun.
Fisherman’s Wharf is the city’s most visited neighborhood for a reason—it’s playful, scenic, and packed with things to do. You’re steps from Pier 39, the sea lions, Ghirardelli Square, ferry rides to Alcatraz, and the cable car turnaround. While it leans touristy, the right hotel here gives you the waterfront magic without sacrificing comfort or quiet.
Hotel Zephyr
đź“Ť Beach Street | Check rates
Playful and bold, Hotel Zephyr leans fully into its nautical theme with porthole windows, shipyard décor, and a firepit-filled courtyard that feels more SoCal than NorCal. It's ideal for families or anyone wanting to be in the thick of the Wharf action. Bonus: you're a block from the water, Ghirardelli Square, and sea lions at Pier 39.
Argonaut Hotel
đź“Ť Jefferson Street | Check rates
Tucked inside a historic brick warehouse, the Argonaut oozes coastal charm with a touch of luxury. Navy-and-white interiors, exposed beams, and Golden Gate views make it a romantic pick too. It’s got a boutique feel but all the perks of a top-tier hotel—including room service and on-site spa options.
Presidio & Pacific Heights
For serene mornings, trails and views, and neighborhood elegance.
Presidio and Pacific Heights feel like a different world—quiet, green, and filled with beautiful homes, trails, and boutique experiences. The Presidio is a former military base turned national park, home to museums, walking paths, and stunning Golden Gate views. Just uphill, Pacific Heights is all about charm and affluence, with leafy streets and historic mansions. You’re farther from the bustle, but you’ll sleep well and wake up to eucalyptus-scented air.
The Laurel Inn
đź“Ť Presidio Heights | Check rates
This reimagined motor-lodge turned boutique hideaway balances mid-century bones with modern style. Think wood-accented rooms, plush bedding, and on-site coffee bar—and it’s just a six-minute walk from the Presidio with easy access to Golden Gate Park and scenic trails.
Hotel Drisco
đź“Ť Pacific Heights | Check rates
This hilltop hideaway feels like staying at your impossibly chic friend’s mansion. With buttery-soft linens, thoughtful concierge service, and breakfast that’s actually worth waking up for, Hotel Drisco is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Ideal if you want elegance without crowds.
SoMa & Design District
For gallery-hopping, sleek spaces, and a more modern side of SF.
South of Market (SoMa) is where tech meets culture. It’s home to SFMOMA, contemporary architecture, and a quieter scene than Union Square—plus easy access to the Giants’ ballpark and ferry routes. The vibe here is more lofts than Victorians, and the hotels tend to skew modern, artsy, and business-forward.
The Clancy
đź“Ť SoMa | Check rates
This Marriott offshoot nails the “creative professional meets modern traveler” aesthetic. Expect bold art, industrial finishes, and a vibrant lobby that could double as a startup’s HQ. It’s an easy walk to SFMOMA, the Yerba Buena Gardens, and the Moscone Center.
The Donatello
đź“Ť Near Union Square/SoMa | Check rates
Spacious suites, velvet touches, and a European vibe make this a go-to if you want a little more room to spread out. There’s a rooftop lounge with city views, plus a sauna and gym for longer stays. It leans more classic than trend-forward, but the service is on point and rates are often lower than nearby boutique options.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Francisco Hotels
What’s the best area to stay in San Francisco for first-time visitors?
Downtown and Union Square are ideal for first-timers. They’re central, transit-accessible, and close to shops, theaters, and major landmarks. Hotels like Hilton Union Square and Hotel G are great for easy access to everything.
Are there any stylish hotels near Fisherman’s Wharf?
Yes—Hotel Zephyr offers a playful, nautical vibe, while the Argonaut Hotel brings luxury with a historic twist. Both are steps from Pier 39 and the waterfront.
What’s a good cheap hotel in San Francisco?
Hotel G and The Donatello offer affordable rates without sacrificing location or style. If you're looking for budget downtown hotels, Handlery Union Square and citizenM are also solid picks.
Which San Francisco hotels have Golden Gate Bridge views?
Lodge at the Presidio offers some of the best Golden Gate views right from the windows. Argonaut Hotel and select rooms at the Fairmont San Francisco also have ic
Final Thoughts
San Francisco isn’t a one-size-fits-all city, and your hotel shouldn’t be either. Whether you're after foggy Golden Gate mornings or walk-to-brunch access in SoMa, these stays offer location and atmosphere in equal measure. I’ll keep updating this guide as I explore more of the city—but for now, these eight are tried, tested, and worth booking.
