Best Hotels in San Francisco

Located on the southern fringes of Chinatown, The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco earns high praise from recent guests, who say that the hotel makes for a convenient choice for both business and leisure travelers. The rooms here are dressed in blue and white and Frette linens, as well as a variety of high-end amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, coffee makers and high-speed internet access. Visitors to this property will also have access to the in-house Spa L'OCCITANE by the Bay and its full list of treatments, as well as the raved-about contemporary Californian cuisine served at Parallel 37. But for many guests, the highlight of staying here was the exceptional level of customer service they received. Visitors say that the employees were friendly and respectful, providing an overall feeling of being treated like royalty (though you may have to shell out like royalty to stay here). Plus, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points by choosing to stay here.

With the fresh California cuisine at MKT Restaurant – Bar and twice-daily housekeeping service, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco in downtown San Francisco deserves all of its five stars. And those aren't the only perks associated with this Four Seasons: Guests have access to the popular Equinox Sports Club, which offers a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool. The rooms are also outfitted in neutral tones with wood furnishings and come equipped with marble bathrooms (with deep-soaking tubs), down bedding and plasma TVs. The rooms' floor-to-ceiling windows afford excellent views of the city, the bay or the Yerba Buena Gardens. Overall, visitors are thoroughly pleased with their experiences here, although some balked at the bill at the end of their stay.

Only two blocks east of the Presidio, Hotel Drisco offers sightseers a convenient jumping-off point for exploring some of San Francisco's most famous sites, including the Golden Gate Bridge and the Palace of Fine Arts. Travelers say that the top-notch customer service here made them feel like royalty, adding that the intimate atmosphere made for a relaxing stay. Hotel Drisco's guest rooms feature neutral tones and luxurious amenities, such as pillow menus, gourmet honor bars and a nightly turndown service (that includes chocolate shortbread cookies). Although there is no restaurant, Hotel Drisco serves a continental breakfast every morning, as well as wine and hors d'oeuvres every evening – both included in the room rate. The property also houses a fitness center and a DVD lending library.

This modern masterpiece of a hotel in San Francisco's SoMa neighborhood features 214 guest rooms and suites, all equipped with rainforest showers, minibars and several flat-screen TVs. Accommodations here are exceptionally roomy, but if you want to spread out, book a Metropolitan Suite, which boasts about 1,000 square feet of space. Travelers rave about the digs here, but what they especially enjoy about this St. Regis property is its location (near a number of the city's most popular attractions), its modern decor and its friendly service staff. The contemporary American cuisine served at Grill also sits well with guests. Room rates here are high, but visitors believe the experience is worth the lofty price. And If you're a Marriott Bonvoy loyalty club member, you can use or redeem points by choosing to stay here.

The Palace Hotel first welcomed guests in 1875 as the world's largest and most luxurious hotel. But the earthquake of 1906 destroyed the property; the building that stands now was constructed in 1909. Still, the Palace wins guests over with its historical charm: The lobby draws attention with marble floors and high ceilings, and the guest rooms house more contemporary furnishings (alongside amenities such as high-speed internet access). But to truly experience the Palace in all its timeless glory, sit down to afternoon tea underneath the glass ceiling and crystal chandeliers of the Garden Court. (For dinner, head to the Pied Piper Restaurant, which serves traditional American fare.) There's also an indoor pool and fitness center on-site, which is perfect for those looking to recharge. Guests love the luxurious interiors and appreciate the cozy guest rooms. The staff also get a thumbs up as well for their warm, welcoming attitudes. What's more, as a member of the Luxury Collection hotel family, the Palace gladly welcomes guests looking to pay with or earn rewards through the Marriott Bonvoy program.

Formerly a Mandarin Oriental property, the Loews Regency San Francisco Hotel offers sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline from its perch in one of the city's tallest buildings. Housed in the top 11 floors of the 48-story tower, accommodations offer views of the city or the bay. Recent guests said no matter what the view, the spacious rooms offer the ultimate luxury with amenities like goose down bedding, Italian marble bathrooms with soaking tubs and complimentary Wi-Fi access. When you're not in your room, you can take advantage of the light-filled fitness center or the fully equipped business center, both open 24 hours a day. When you want to explore the city, you can make use of the house car, which is complimentary during morning commute hours. In the evenings, grab a bite at The Bear and Monarch, the on-site restaurant. Recent visitors said the quality of cuisine and exceptional customer service were worth the high price tags.

You know the Tony Bennett song, "I Left my Heart in San Francisco"? Well, he first sang it at this Nob Hill Fairmont property in 1962. Guests who opt to stay at the Fairmont San Francisco quickly realize how leaving one's heart here can be an easy thing to do. The hotel's lobby – with its towering columns, velvet furnishings and gilded accents – provides the backdrop to many a family photo op, and the customer service staff earns constant praise from recent visitors who say they were treated like royalty. The guest rooms here aren't quite as opulent, but they do offer excellent views of the San Francisco Bay and amenities such as pillow-top beds, Frette linens and Keurig coffee makers. Guests of the Fairmont are also welcome to take advantage of the on-site spa and health club before sitting down to dinner at the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar (for Asian cuisine) or the Laurel Court Restaurant & Bar (for fresh seafood). Visitors can also get around downtown San Francisco easily during their vacations here, as a trolley stops right outside the property.

Recent guests described The Inn Above Tide as "dreamy," "magical" and "romantic," and it's easy to see why. Situated on the waterfront in Sausalito, California, every accommodation in this 33-room hotel offers views of the San Francisco Bay, the city skyline, Alcatraz and Angel Island. But the unforgettable vantage point isn't all The Inn Above Tide offers guests: Accommodations are equipped with binoculars, upscale toiletries, iPod docking stations and, in select rooms and suites, fireplaces and private decks (a worthy splurge, according to past lodgers). No matter which room type you choose, you'll have access to the inn's wide range of amenities, including a daily continental breakfast, an evening wine and cheese reception and loaner bicycles. You can also arrange for in-room spa services (for an additional fee). Though the inn doesn't have a fitness center, pool or restaurant on-site, its convenient waterfront location means Sausalito's eateries and shops are just steps away, a major plus for recent visitors. What's more, the ferry terminal is within walking distance of the property, making trips across the bay a cinch.

Sitting about a block northeast of Union Square, Taj Campton Place San Francisco bills itself as "one of San Francisco's most prominent landmarks," and it has welcomed guests for more than 100 years. However, those who visited recently aren't quite sure what to make of this historic 110-room property. Travelers are quick to praise Taj Campton Place's location at the heart of the city, saying that getting to and from major attractions was a piece of cake. On the other hand, some guests claim that Taj Campton Place is starting to show its age, especially in the guest rooms. Although each accommodation comes equipped with amenities like flat-screen LCD televisions, iHome radios and Nespresso machines, visitors say that the beige and white decor feels tired. If you're not happy with your room's appearance, head to the open-air fitness center to take in the city views, or seek out a change of scenery and some fine California cuisine at the Michelin-starred Campton Place Restaurant.

Guests of this hotel in Fisherman's Wharf will feel as if they've just stepped aboard a cruise ship, even though the Argonaut Hotel sits firmly on solid ground. Guest rooms – which are decked out with nautical artifacts – offer spectacular views of San Francisco Bay. (Just note that these vistas don't come cheap, according to some travelers.) Meanwhile, common areas like the lobby and the in-house seafood restaurant, Blue Mermaid Restaurant, feature vibrant colors and fun, quirky furnishings. Visitors especially appreciate the excellent customer service and variety of amenities available, including a fitness center, spa and business center. Other guests, however, lamented the high price for parking. However, it's close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and Lombard Street earn high marks among travelers.

Housed in a former bank building that dates back to the 1920s, the Omni San Francisco Hotel has held on to aspects of its history: The lobby impresses guests with crystal chandeliers, wood paneling and a marble staircase. But the Omni's 362 rooms and suites are also lavish, as they are outfitted in warm red, gold and brown hues, and accommodations include amenities, such as flat-screen TVs and Keurig coffee makers. The majority of travelers who choose to stay at this Omni property leave feeling more than satisfied. The hotel's location at the intersection of Chinatown and the Financial District is a huge selling point, while the competitive room rates pleased guests who like a good value (though parking costs extra and is not covered by the daily $25 destination fee). Visitors are also quick to praise the prime cuts served up at Bob's Steak & Chop House. What's more, members of the Omni Select Guest program can cash in or accrue points for choosing to stay here.

Situated within walking distance of Union Square and Chinatown in San Francisco, Hotel Spero is ideally located for both business and leisure travelers. Originally opened as the Hotel Californian in 1923, the hotel changed hands several times, operating at one point as the city's only temperance hotel (or one that does not serve alcohol) from 1935 to 1978. Today, the historic hotel once again serves libations at its on-site restaurant and bar, Jasper's Corner Tap & Kitchen. Recent guests had high praise for the eatery's "excellent" food, but some mentioned that the service was a bit slow. Others said that the 236 guest rooms were on the smaller side – standard rooms start at 240 square feet – but all come with flat-panel TVs, stocked minibars, iHome docking stations, Frette linens and double, queen-sized or king-sized beds, depending on the room. There's also a 24-hour fitness center and 3,000 square feet of meeting and event space. While many visitors appreciated the complimentary coffee served in the Italian-styled lobby, others warned to watch for hidden fees, especially the additional nightly "urban fee," which covers the lobby's coffee service, as well as Wi-Fi access and weekday town car transfers to the Financial District.

San Francisco Proper Hotel is a 4 star hotel located at 1100 Market Street Entrance at 45 McAllister in San Francisco. It has a 4.5 overall guest rating based on 443 reviews.

Sitting on the Embarcadero across from the Ferry Building Marketplace, this Joie de Vivre property caters to both business and leisure travelers looking to be at the center of it all without sacrificing watery views. Hotel Vitale's guest rooms come stocked with amenities like minifridges, Bose sound systems and LCD televisions. But what guests especially love is the soothing atmosphere in the accommodations, created by the rich blues and earthy, neutral tones. If this sea-like decor doesn't do the trick, seek a little extra relaxation at the on-site Spa Vitale, which offers a variety of relaxing treatments to help you unwind. After a long day of sightseeing or pampering, satiate your appetite with Italian fare at Americano Restaurant & Bar.

When you check in at the Huntington Hotel, you'll be be amazed at its opulent lobby. And according to recent lodgers, this five-star treatment extends to the hotel's customer service. Visitors say the hotel staff made them feel as if they were the only people there. And this property's elegance extends from check-in to one of the best spas (if not the best spa) in San Francisco, the Nob Hill Spa, named for the Huntington's trendy location. When you're not out on the town, you can kick back in one of the spacious guest rooms, all of which feature flat-screen TVs, iPod-compatible stereo systems and wireless internet access. The Huntington also houses its own eatery, The Big 4 restaurant, where contemporary American cuisine is served. Should you crave different flavors, the hotel employees can help direct you to a variety of nearby restaurants. Members of the I Prefer program can earn or cash in points for bedding down here.

Housed in a circa-1900s building in downtown San Francisco, Hotel Zelos San Francisco contains 202 guest rooms and suites all outfitted with iHome stereos with iPod docking stations, down comforters and honor bars. And although the room decor may not be as quirky as it is in other San Francisco properties, visitors are complimentary of the hotel's sophisticated atmosphere. Guests especially enjoy this hotel's central location and fare dished up at the stylish Dirty Habit – just be sure to make a reservation, as this eatery is popular with visitors and locals alike. You can find this Viceroy outpost three blocks south of Union Square, exactly 14 miles north of San Francisco International Airport.

San Francisco's Galleria Park Hotel offers three accommodation styles with modern headboards, chrome light fixtures and neutral color palettes with bright artwork. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, honor bars, Illy espresso machines and desks with ergonomic chairs, while upgraded spaces feature skyline views and sofa beds. Plus, all room rates cover services like in-room Wi-Fi access and daily wine receptions. Past travelers had mixed feelings about this Joie de Vivre outpost's rooms (some described them as small, while others said they were reasonably sized given the location). Additionally, many prior guests appreciated the property's free amenities and rooftop garden, which has benches and a walking track. If you'd rather break a sweat indoors, the hotel houses a fitness center with cardio and weight-training equipment. Three event spaces and a 24-hour business center are also available on-site. When you've worked up an appetite, visit the adjacent Gaspar restaurant, which has a Parisian-inspired menu and two bars that serve Champagne and various cognac cocktails. Or, check out one of the Financial District's other eateries. Then, make your way to Union Square or Market Street, where the city's famous cable cars can be found.

At first glance, this boutique hotel near Union Square may seem more geared toward business travelers – the hotel lobby, with its wall-to-wall marble covering and sparse furnishings, exudes a more serious aura. But the guest rooms have a softer side, with a soothing blue and white color palette and expansive windows offering views of downtown San Francisco. Though they do contain large work spaces, accommodations here also cater to those simply looking to kick back and relax, with iPod docking stations, flat-screen TVs and pillow-top beds. Guests describe the digs as comfortable, but some lament the fact that there is a daily resort fee of $33. Despite this, many guests agree that the hotel's central location in the city is truly unbeatable. And though guests are within walking distance of numerous neighborhood eateries, those looking to try California cuisine with a hint of Asian flavor can grab a bite in the on-site Restaurant ANZU. Members of the I Prefer program can offset costs by cashing in points here.

The Hotel Zeppelin draws inspiration from the rebellious history that makes San Francisco special. Sitting just west of Union Square, the hotel offers the city's visitors a hip place to hang their hats. Guest rooms here are stylish in an almost in an edgy way, with dark colors and modern patterns. Modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, minifridges and Wi-Fi access establish the hotel firmly in the 21st century. Weary travelers can also take advantage of the hotel's in-room spa services, while kids love the hotel's basement game room. Although it's rather small compared to other luxury hotels in the area, the Hotel Zeppelin does house a fitness center and classy on-site restaurant.

The Stanford Court hotel offers boutique accommodations sandwiched between Chinatown and Nob Hill. Leisure travelers will love the fact that three separate cable car lines run past this hotel, making it easy to get to San Francisco's most noteworthy sites. Stanford Court's 400 guest rooms were renovated in 2018, and now boast a white, gray and blue color palette with gold accents and wood furniture, as well as LCD flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi access (internet access is included in the daily hotel amenity fee). But some travelers say that this hotel still has some work to do, citing cold encounters with customer service employees as one of their main qualms, especially at registration. Others note that while the proximity to the cable cars was convenient, the noise from passing carriages made for a restless night.

Hotel Zoe Fisherman's Wharf, which is part of the Noble House Hotels & Resorts family, is located near San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf and offers 221 accommodations. All rooms come equipped with 50-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi access, hand-held garment steamers and minifridges; decor is neutral with tan walls, white linens, light blue patterned carpets and black throw pillows. Outside the rooms, guests can take advantage of the meeting facilities or enjoy a meal in the on-site eatery, Pescatore, an Italian restaurant that specializes in seafood and traditional dishes. But if you're not craving Italian, you'll find plenty of restaurants in the surrounding neighborhood. While a few past guests had positive things to say about this property (they praised its location and were pleasantly surprised by the rooms), others were disappointed with poor service from the staff and erroneous charges after checkout.

Parker Guest House is a 3.5 star hotel located at 520 Church Street in San Francisco. It has a 4.5 overall guest rating based on 1159 reviews.

Towering over Union Square, the mammoth Westin St. Francis can be differentiated by its history (it first opened in the early 1900s). Visitors can choose to bed down in one of two areas: the Landmark Building or the Tower Building. Rooms in the Tower Building are more modern in style while rooms in the Landmark building retain a historic feel. No matter which building you're in, you'll find your accommodations outfitted with the Westin brand's signature Heavenly beds, flat-screen TVs, minifridges and high-speed internet access (for a fee). The Westin St. Francis is also home to The Oak Room Restaurant, previously a men's bar in the early 1900s, and the Clock Bar, located near the hotel's iconic grandfather clock. Today's travelers also have access to a 24-hour fitness center and a business center. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

Like its sister property – the InterContinental Mark Hopkins – the InterContinental San Francisco is geared mostly toward corporate travelers. But that doesn't mean that it's all about business: After all, it's located in San Francisco's hip South of Market neighborhood. Guest rooms cater to business and leisure travelers alike with high-speed internet access (for a fee), LCD TVs, iPod docking stations and minibars. Recent guests said that the decor is nothing to write home about, but that the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows were breathtaking – request a room on a higher floor to truly take advantage of the scenery. Meanwhile, the contemporary American cuisine served at the hotel's Michelin-star rated restaurant garners praise as well. If you're only looking for a drink, the hotel's on-site Bar 888 keeps the grappa (its specialty) flowing.What's more, if you're a member of the IHG rewards program, you can earn or redeem points for staying here.

This boutique hotel features modern accommodations and enjoys a prime location in San Francisco. Situated just south of Union Square and on the Powell Street cable car line, Axiom Hotel San Francisco puts guests near plenty of the city's shops and restaurants. The hotel's rooms come with LED smart TVs with wireless streaming for Apple and Android products, minifridges, in-room safes and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Axiom Hotel also houses a fitness center and a business center, plus it's a pet-friendly property that welcomes animals for no additional fee. Though the hotel has limited on-site dining, it does offer The Turn Café, which has options for a quick meal or for takeaway. Previous visitors enjoyed their stays at this hotel, noting the fun touches like arcade games and the tech-savvy rooms as particular standout amenities. The only downside, according to recent guests, is that it costs between $59 and $64 per day to valet park. What's more, the parking fees are not covered by the mandatory "urban fee," which costs $25 per night.