Famed for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is one of America’s most popular travel destinations. Among the towering skyscrapers, San Francisco hotels downtown offer easy access to the city’s top art galleries, Michelin-starred restaurants and shopping areas. The Financial District (or “FiDi”, as locals call it) also offers a bevvy of hidden gems, from a fortune cookie factory and a museum dedicated to ice cream to fun nightlife options.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve handpicked the best San Francisco hotels downtown. These centrally located hotels not only offer a prime location in the city centre but boast luxurious on-site perks such as gourmet restaurants, chic bars and stylish rooms with downtown skyline views.
Hilton Parc 55 San Francisco
Within walking distance to Union Square, Hilton Parc 55 San Francisco is one of the top San Francisco hotels downtown. Perfect for solo travellers, the 1 King Bed Corner Room offers expansive views of the downtown area, while couples will love the 1 King Bed with Golden Gate Bridge vistas. Upgrade to a Bayview Suite for panoramic views from multiple Bay-style windows or the Residence 55 Apartment with a fully equipped kitchen and washer/dryer.
Keep up your fitness at the modern gym or dine in style at Cable 55, which serves a range of American classics. Craving something exotic? Sample unique flavours in the authentic Thai dishes at Kin Khao. Travelling with your furry friend? There are pet-friendly rooms available.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- Locally inspired dishes and California wines at Cable 55.
- A central downtown San Francisco location, with views of the city and bay.
- Walking distance to Union Square and Moscone Convention Center.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 171 – USD 775
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 55 Cyril Magnin Street, Union Square, San Francisco, United States
Omni San Francisco
Distinguished as one of the best San Francisco hotels downtown, Omni San Francisco is a short walk to Chinatown and the Ferry Building. Chic rooms and suites exude modern luxury with plush beds, expansive ceilings and crown moulding, as well as LED HDTVs with in-room movies.
Located on the third floor, the modern fitness centre offers state-of-the-art equipment for working up a sweat. Alternatively, you can get pampered with an in-room massage. Tempt your taste buds with corn-fed Midwestern prime beef and gigantic shrimp at Bob’s Steak & Chop House, or enjoy afternoon tea or a glass of wine along with city views at Bob’s Bar.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- Award-winning cuisine and take-home meals at the renowned on-site steakhouse.
- Premier Rooms with upper-floor city views and posh California Suites with separate living rooms.
- A San Francisco institution since 1953, City Lights bookstore is 650 metres away.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 229 – USD 831
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 500 California Street, Financial District, San Francisco, United States
The Westin St Francis San Francisco On Union Square
Offering picture-perfect Golden Gate views, The Westin St Francis San Francisco On Union Square is a two-minute walk from Union Square. Sleek rooms and suites offer turn-of-the-century charm with crystal chandeliers and modern comforts including Heavenly Beds and signature Westin brand bath products. Some rooms feature Union Square views.
Take a step back in time at the on-site Clock Bar, where seasonal menus are inspired by a specific era, from 1904 San Francisco to 1920s Paris. Once a Men’s Bar in 1913, The Oak Room Restaurant features beautiful wood-panelled decor and innovative menu of American dishes.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- Multiple on-site dining options and chic lounges.
- The casual ENO wine bar with wines by the glass, cheese, charcuterie and chocolates.
- Love sweet treats? It’s a five-minute walk from the Museum of Ice Cream.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 199 – USD 2,271
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 335 Powell Street, Union Square, San Francisco, United States
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
With a premier waterfront location, Hyatt Regency San Francisco is one of the best San Francisco hotels downtown. Step into the world’s largest hotel lobby, then escape into elegance in one of the stylish rooms with sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay or Embarcadero District from private balconies. Select a Water Room for the best views of the San Francisco waterfront.
Celebrate the day’s end with classic San Francisco cuisine at Eclipse Kitchen & Bar. HotelsCombined visitors highly-praise the sleek Eclipse Bar, which serves signature cocktails and hand-selected flights of California wines, while The Market offers grab-and-go options for busy travellers.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- All-day dining options as well as an on-site market with to-go meals and sweets.
- In-room amenities such as waterfront views, private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Less than a five-minute walk from the Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market and the Autodesk Gallery.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 308 – USD 611
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 5 Embarcadero Center, Financial District, San Francisco, United States
San Francisco Marriott Marquis Union Square
Offering a convenient downtown location, San Francisco Marriott Marquis Union Square caters to both business and leisure travellers with its exceptional facilities. Contemporary rooms boast Smart TVs, mini fridges and workstations, as well as soundproof windows and impressive city views. Got the kids in tow? Stay in a spacious suite with a large living room.
You can also enjoy city views at the Art Deco-inspired rooftop restaurant The View Lounge, which serves shareable plates and hand-crafted cocktails, or tuck into delicious gastropub dinners and artisanal beers at B55 Craft House & Kitchen. Fitness lovers can take advantage of the cardio equipment and free weights at the 24-hour Health & Fitness Center.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- Large one-bedroom suites with ample entertaining space with separate living rooms and wet bars.
- Multiple dining options on-site, including grab-and-go options at Mission Street Pantry.
- A 24-hour health and fitness centre and 24/7 M Club Lounge.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 198 – USD 881
Guest Rating: 8.6
Address: 780 Mission Street, SoMa, San Francisco, United States
Grand Hyatt San Francisco Union Square
You can explore the city on foot while staying at Grand Hyatt San Francisco Union Square, as it offers a prime city-centre location. Cosy rooms feature residential-style amenities that will make you feel at home, while stunning city skyline, Union Square or bay views can be captured from your floor-to-ceiling windows.
Enjoy all-day dining at OneUP Restaurant, which also serves an indulgent breakfast buffet or get your caffeine pick-me-up at the laid-back coffee bar serving Starbucks coffee, tea and decadent pastries. Afterwards, you can explore top attractions nearby or visit the hotel’s 25th-floor StayFit Fitness Center for sweeping city views while you burn off calories.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- A relaxing atmosphere and American bistro classics with a San Francisco twist at OneUP.
- Upgraded luxury Suites with separate living rooms, kitchenettes and city views.
- Learn about San Francisco’s most well-known symbols at the Cable Car Museum a 15-minute walk away.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 222 – USD 1,501
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 345 Stockton Street, Union Square, San Francisco, United States
Le Meridien San Francisco
A two-minute walk from the shops at the Embarcadero Center, Le Meridien San Francisco is a luxury Mid-Century hotel with a sophisticated vibe. Pillow-top mattresses, thick down duvets and luxury bedding in every room promise a peaceful night’s sleep, while large HD TVs, stocked mini bars and floor-to-ceiling windows add to the ambience.
When hunger strikes, visit the on-site Park Grill for al fresco dining and gorgeous city views. Alternatively, the chic Bar 333 serves cocktails and Mediterranean fare. Other on-site perks include a gym and business centre.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- Each room has floor-to-ceiling windows with remarkable views of San Francisco.
- An opulent Hospitality Suite with a separate sitting area with a sofa bed and city views.
- In-room perks such as fully-stocked mini bars, plush bathrobes and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 291 – USD 1,841
Guest Rating: 8.6
Address: 333 Battery Street, Financial District, San Francisco, United States
Hotel Vitale
It’s easy to see why Hotel Vitale is one of the top San Francisco hotels downtown, as its the city’s only waterfront luxury boutique hotel. With soothing colour palettes, rooms feature spa-style limestone bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, mini fridges and work desks. For a separate living room and a private terrace with 8th-floor views, upgrade to a Landmark Terrace Suite.
The on-site restaurant Americano Restaurant & Bar is a local favourite with its sweeping views of the waterfront and soulful Italian menu, while the luxurious penthouse level Spa Vitale wows guests with its rooftop soaking tubs.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- City views, a circular cocktail lounge and outdoor patio at Americano Restaurant & Bar.
- A private bamboo garden, deep soaking tubs and massages at the penthouse-level spa.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi, mobile printing available and a Lobby Living Room area for open workspace.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 187 – USD 1,441
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Eight Mission Street, Financial District, San Francisco, United States
Hotel Nikko San Francisco
A 10-minute walk from the shops at Metreon, Hotel Nikko San Francisco is also steps from Union Square. On-site dining is highlighted by contemporary Japanese cuisine at Restaurant ANZU, while Kanpai Lounge is a sophisticated bar and lounge. Alternatively, the elegant nightclub Feinstein’s pairs cocktails with live entertainment. Refresh with a dip in the swimming pool and whirlpool spa or visit the dry sauna and steam room at the fitness centre.
A blend of European charm and boutique accommodation, the rooms boast Japanese-inspired decor as well as pillow-top beds, flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Celebrating something special? Take in spectacular views of San Francisco from chic Junior Suites located on two private, high floors.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- A fitness centre, dry sauna and steam room as well as a glass-enclosed pool with a whirlpool spa and fire pits.
- Multiple dining options, including a full-service Starbucks in the lobby.
- Upgraded Imperial Club rooms offer exclusive access to the Imperial Club Lounge with breakfast and wine and beer receptions.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 181 – USD 662
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 222 Mason Street, Tenderloin, San Francisco, United States
Axiom Hotel
Set in Union Square, Axiom Hotel features contemporary furnishings, minimalist decor and modern amenities. Pet-friendly rooms and suites feature smart TVs, mini fridges and Kube Bluetooth Radios as well as smartphone charging. For extra space, upgrade to an E-King for a plush king-size bed and separate sofa bed.
Grab a bite to eat at The Turn Cafe, which also serves espresso drinks, hand-crafted cocktails and grab-and-go options, then let off some steam in the Arcade Games room or visit the 24-hour fitness centre. You can also dine on your own time with in-room dining or organise a meeting in the Mezzanine-level event space.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- Organic juices, artisan sandwiches and a signature Axion Burger served at The Turn Cafe.
- Business travellers are well-catered for with high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour business centre and in-room coffee.
- Pet-friendly rooms with in-room technology and contemporary furnishings.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 203 – USD 735
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 28 Cyril Magnin Street, Union Square, San Francisco, United States
Fairmont San Francisco
Fairmont San Francisco is a world-renowned hotel and one of the most popular San Francisco hotels downtown. With turn-of-the-20th-century decor, chic rooms and suites offer some of the city’s best skyline and Bay views. Looking for the ultimate luxury experience? Book the ritzy Presidential Suite with 270-degree wraparound views of the city and bay.
Foodie lovers rejoice, as you’re spoilt for choice with on-site dining. Indulge in California coastal-inspired cuisine at the upscale Laurel Court Restaurant & Bar, or enjoy the lively atmosphere at the legendary Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, which serves exotic Polynesian-fusion cuisine and tasty Mai Tai’s.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- Spacious suites with panoramic city and bay views as well as private balconies and separate living rooms.
- Family-style cuisine, a tropical setting and live entertainment at Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar.
- A short walk from the famous Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 254 – USD 1,283
Guest Rating: 9
Address: 950 Mason Street, Nob Hill, San Francisco, United States
Palace Hotel a Luxury Collection Hotel San Francisco
Palace Hotel a Luxury Collection Hotel San Francisco offers the luxury of the Gilded Age with historic architecture and world-class service. Every room offers full or partial views of downtown San Francisco, as well as flat-screen TVs and mini fridges. Upgrade to a suite for a separate living room and floor-to-ceiling windows, or stay in the opulent Presidential Suite with a media room, jetted spa tub and living room with a baby grand piano.
After a long day of sightseeing, enjoy a swim in the heated, indoor pool with a sky-lit ceiling or soak in the whirlpool spa. Enjoy fine dining underneath ornate chandeliers at The Garden Court Restaurant or sip signature cocktails in the Pied Piper lounge, which boasts a famous Maxfield Parrish painting behind the bar.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- A heated, indoor pool and renowned on-site dining options.
- One of the best San Franciso hotels downtown, just blocks from Union Square, Chinatown and the cable cars.
- A five-minute walk from the exhibits at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 209 – USD 931
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 2 New Montgomery Street, SoMa, San Francisco, United States
Chancellor Hotel On Union Square
Once the tallest building in San Francisco, Chancellor Hotel On Union Square has been a fixture on Union Square for over 100 years. Start your day with the multi-station American Breakfast Buffet, which includes a pancake making machine, then explore the city’s top attractions on foot or take a short walk to the Powell Street cable car line.
Budget-conscious couples can choose from front side rooms with views of Union Square and the cable cars or one of the quieter back side rooms. Each is equipped with flat-screen TVs with HBO, mini fridges and oversized bathtubs. There’s also a complimentary Pillow Menu with 12 different pillows choices.
Luxury Hotel Highlights
- One of the most budget-friendly San Francisco hotels downtown.
- Spacious rooms with Two Double Beds that can accommodate up to four people.
- Hearty breakfast options, including breads and pastries and a pancake making machine.
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 99 – USD 509
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 433 Powell Street, Union Square, San Francisco, United States
Hotel Location
Stay in the Heart of San Francisco at These Top Hotels Downtown
Downtown San Francisco offers a wealth of things to do and see, from museums and theatre performances to upscale restaurants. The Financial District is the perfect place to base yourself within the city, with local transportation making it easy to visit popular attractions and neighbourhoods nearby. These top San Francisco hotels downtown offer modern luxuries, such as on-site eateries and spacious suites with city views.
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Which are your favourite San Francisco hotels downtown? Let us know in the comments below.
