10 Best Hotels in San Francisco: REVEALED

Last updated on October 5th, 2025

From the historic grandeur of Nob Hill to the modern chic of SoMa, San Francisco offers some of the finest luxury accommodations in America. Whether you seek panoramic bay views, Michelin-starred dining, or world-class spa experiences, these 5-star San Francisco hotels blend California cool with global sophistication. Here are the best hotels in San Francisco for an unforgettable stay in the City by the Bay.

Discover where to experience the pinnacle of hospitality in one of America’s most beautiful cities.

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Why Stay at San Francisco’s Luxury Hotels?

San Francisco’s finest hotels offer:
🏨 Rooftop terraces with Golden Gate Bridge views
🍽️ Michelin-starred dining and wine country tours
🚤 Luxury car services for exploring the Bay Area
💆 Award-winning spas with innovative treatments
🌆 Prime locations near landmarks, shopping, and tech hubs

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Best Hotels in San Francisco

1. Fairmont Heritage Place – Ghirardelli Square

The iconic Fairmont Heritage Place combines historic charm with residential luxury in the famous Ghirardelli Square. My evening watching the sunset over Alcatraz from the private terrace was unforgettable. The fully-equipped kitchens and personalized concierge service make this ideal for extended stays.

• Area: Fisherman’s Wharf
• Highlights: Chocolate-themed spa treatments, waterfront location, residential suites
• Perfect for: Families and travelers seeking apartment-style luxury

2. The St. Regis San Francisco

The St. Regis San Francisco redefines urban luxury with its sleek SoMa location and legendary butler service. My Remède Spa experience featuring local seaweed extracts was transformative, and the art collection rivals local museums.

• Area: SoMa
• Highlights: 24-hour butler service, Ame Restaurant, tech-forward rooms
• Perfect for: Discerning business travelers and luxury purists

3. Taj Campton Place

The Michelin-starred Taj Campton Place offers refined luxury near Union Square. My tasting menu at their celebrated restaurant, featuring California-Indian fusion cuisine, was a culinary revelation. The personalized service makes this one of the best hotels in San Francisco for foodies.

• Area: Union Square
• Highlights: Michelin-starred dining, personalized butlers, chic urban retreat
• Perfect for: Gourmet travelers and culture seekers

4. Cavallo Point Lodge

Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Cavallo Point Lodge offers a peaceful retreat with postcard-perfect views. My morning yoga session overlooking the bridge was magical, and their Healing Arts Center offers unique sound therapy treatments.

• Area: Sausalito
• Highlights: Golden Gate views, sustainable design, cooking school
• Perfect for: Romantic getaways and wellness retreats

5. Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero

Occupying the top 11 floors of a financial district tower, the Four Seasons offers breathtaking bay views from every room. My morning coffee watching ferries crisscross the bay was worth the stay alone.

• Area: Financial District
• Highlights: Bay Bridge views, Equinox Sports Club access, luxury shopping
• Perfect for: Business travelers and view seekers

6. The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

Housed in a 1909 neoclassical building, the Ritz-Carlton blends historic grandeur with modern luxury. My afternoon tea in the dramatic lobby beneath the crystal chandeliers transported me to the Gilded Age.

• Area: Nob Hill
• Highlights: Historic architecture, Club Level lounge, luxury shopping
• Perfect for: History lovers and traditional luxury seekers

7. Neighbourgood Sutter Mansion

This boutique gem, Neighbourgood Sutter Mansion, offers Victorian charm with modern amenities. The communal wine hours in the parlor created delightful encounters with fellow travelers.

• Area: Lower Pacific Heights
• Highlights: Historic architecture, social atmosphere, personalized service
• Perfect for: Solo travelers and social butterflies

8. Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco

The historic Palace Hotel dazzles with its stained-glass dome and legendary Garden Court restaurant. My Sunday brunch beneath the Austrian crystal chandeliers was a true San Francisco tradition.

• Area: Financial District
• Highlights: Historic architecture, indoor pool, famous brunch
• Perfect for: History enthusiasts and luxury traditionalists

9. W San Francisco

The W San Francisco brings vibrant energy to SoMa with its trendy Living Room bar and tech-inspired design. My evening cocktail with local mixologists was a highlight of my stay.

• Area: SoMa
• Highlights: Trendy nightlife, modern design, pet-friendly
• Perfect for: Young professionals and design lovers

10. Hotel Drisco Pacific Heights

This elegant boutique property in Pacific Heights, Hotel Drisco, offers refined residential-style luxury. The complimentary wine reception and gourmet breakfast made me feel like a local resident rather than a hotel guest.

• Area: Pacific Heights
• Highlights: Residential neighborhood, gourmet breakfast, personalized service
• Perfect for: Travelers seeking authentic local experiences

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FAQs About The Best Hotels in San Francisco

Final Tips for Booking the Best Hotels in San Francisco

– Waterfront hotels offer stunning views but can be foggy in summer
– Downtown hotels provide walkable access to attractions
– Book restaurant reservations well in advance at luxury properties
– Check for city pass packages that include hotel stays

Whether you choose a historic landmark or modern high-rise, the best hotels in San Francisco promise an unforgettable experience in America’s most European city. From the chocolate-themed luxury of Ghirardelli Square to the tech-inspired chic of SoMa, these properties showcase the diverse personality of the City by the Bay.