Best Budget Hotels in San Francisco
Looking for charm and amenities without the hefty room rate? Check out these top picks for budget lodgings. All offer rooms under $150 per night.
1. Hotel San Remo
In the heart of happening North Beach, the San Remo has long been a favorite for travelers on a budget. Offering cozy, if basic, accommodations, the hotel is in a three-story Italianate Victorian building built immediately after the 1906 earthquake. Rooms feature brass beds and quilts; some have sinks; bathrooms are shared. There are no TVs or phones in the rooms, but guests can borrow a laptop and Internet service is available. The popular Flor d’Italia restaurant is on the ground level.
2. Petit Auberge
With its romantic, Provencal-style decor, the Petit Auberge exudes European charm. The lobby parlor and guest rooms are decorated with soft-toned floral fabrics and wallpaper. Complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres are served in front of a crackling fire each afternoon in the parlor; continental breakfast is included in the room rate. Rooms feature nice extras like bathrobes, hairdryers, and wi-fi and cable; many have fireplaces. The central location just north of Union Square makes this a convenient choice for shoppers and theater-goers.
3. Hotel des Arts
This funky, centrally-located hotel has garnered wide praise for its innovative decor featuring rooms painted by up and coming local artists. The small, windowless “painted rooms” are curated by a San Francisco gallery; bathrooms are shared and rates begin at just $59. If you have something more roomy in mind, opt for the more conventionally designed deluxe queen room or two room suites with private baths. Hotel des Arts sits in San Francisco’s mini French Quarter, which features authentic Gallic cafes and restaurants nestled along the charming alleys just off Union Square.
4. Cornell Hotel de France
Reminiscent of a small Parisian hotel, the Cornell Hotel de France has been family-run for more than 40 years. Built in 1910, the building’s period decor features gilded mirrors, chandeliers, and original moldings. Rooms are done in a single color scheme and feature traditional decor with matching bedspreads and curtains. Full breakfast is included. The location near Union Square is convenient for shopping, theater-going, and public transportation.
5. Andrews Hotel
Beautiful arched windows define the gracious feel of this hotel housed in an Italianate Victorian building. The lobby features book-lined walls and clubby chairs; complimentary wine is served here in the evenings. Rooms are traditionally decorated with leather chairs and matching bedspreads and curtains; all feature convenient bedside lamps, flat screen TVs and private baths. The staff is happy to book theater tickets or make restaurant reservations; continental breakfast is included.
6. Monte Cristo
The Monte Cristo has an appealing, though out-of-the-way location between two lovely residential neighborhoods known for grand houses and elegant shopping. A former saloon and bordello, the Monte Cristo has preserved its Victorian atmosphere with authentic antiques and fabrics. The antiques-filled rooms also feature wallpaper and oriental rugs as well as modernized baths and flat screen TVs; some have downtown views.
7. Hotel Diva
This ultra modern hotel has a stylish, high-tech feel, with monochromatic rooms done in greys and blues and black leather furnishings. Edgy art and glass paneled doors define the look of the lobby; rooms are spacious and clean lined, with down comforters and designer lighting. This centrally located hotel near Union Square is a good choice for business travelers; the hotel’s business center is open 24/7, and the restaurant provides room service.
8. Cow Hollow Motor Inn
A good choice for families, the Cow Hollow Motor inn offers clean, generic rooms at excellent rates. A few steps from Chrissy Field and convenient to Ghiradelli Square and Fisherman’s Wharf, this no-frills lodging offers conveniences like free parking, individually controlled heat and air conditioning, and free Internet access. Rooms come in many configurations to suit those traveling with children.