Downtown San Francisco Hotels: Union Square, Financial District & SOMA Hotels for Every Budget

Downtown San Francisco hotels are perfect for those looking for a place close to all the action.

This area covers a few neighborhoods in the city, including the Financial District, Union Square, and part of the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood.

These hotels are centrally located and close to many of SF's top attractions. Below, you will find recommendations for hotels of different class, from two stars to five stars.

Each description also includes a little information on why it is a great place to stay, so you can choose the one that best meets your needs.

Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Two-Star Downtown Hotels

Here are a few top rated two-star downtown San Francisco hotels.

1. The Mosser in Downtown San Francisco

Address: 54 4th Street

The Mosser is one of the top-rated budget hotels in downtown San Francisco. This 3-star hotel has small but clean rooms. It's also in a great location, just a few blocks from Union Square and other downtown activities.

Many of the rooms here have shared bathrooms. This helps keep the prices lower. If you prefer, there are a few rooms with private baths, so make sure you read through your options before booking.

• Breakfast: Yes, surcharge
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, valet, surcharge
• Price Range: $127 to $220

>> Read recent guest reviews and book a room

2. Hotel Stratford

Address: 242 Powell Street

You can't beat the location of this two-star hotel in San Francisco. All you have to do is step out the front door to see the famous SF cable cars. You are also just minutes from Union Square.

Some of the rooms here are pretty small, but they are clean and cozy. It is on a busy street, so make sure you request a room in the back if you are a light sleeper.

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. This building is a little older, so the elevator is small, which makes it tough to get large luggage in at times.

• Breakfast: No
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: No
• Price Range: $145 to $177

>> Recent guest reviews, more hotel details, and booking information

3. The Grant Hotel

Address: 753 Bush Street

Another one of the top two-star downtown San Francisco hotels is the Grant Hotel. It's conveniently located just two blocks north of Union Square.

It's a low-cost option because it's an older hotel with small, basic rooms. However, they are clean and come equipped with flat-screen cable TV.

• Breakfast: Yes, free continental
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $144 - $162

>> Check for deals and find recent reviews for the Grant Hotel

4. Holiday Inn Express Union Square

Address: 235 O'Farrell Street

This is one of the newest downtown San Francisco hotels, so you can bet on fresh, modern accommodations. 

You'll find this highly rated Holiday Inn Express just one block south of Union Square. 

• Breakfast: Yes, included
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $169 - $221

>> Check availability and prices for the Holiday Inn Express Union Square

Three-Star Downtown Hotels

There are quite a few downtown San Francisco hotels with a three-star rating. Here are some of the most popular.

1. The Inn at Union Square San Francisco

Address: 440 Post Street

The Inn at Union Square is a four-star boutique hotel in downtown San Francisco. Inside the hotel, you will find a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

You are close to everything, including Union Square and Chinatown. With only 30 rooms, you will find a more personal experience here than some of the larger hotels in this neighborhood.

Most of the rooms are quite small, but you can upgrade to a suite if you need a little additional space. Some rooms do not have air conditioning, but it's usually not a problem since SF stays nice and cool most of the year.

• Breakfast: Yes, complimentary
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, valet, surcharge
• Price Range: $135 to $185

>> Book at room at the Inn at Union Square

2. The Donatello Hotel

Address: 501 Post Street

The Donatello Hotel is another of the most highly rated downtown San Francisco hotels. This 3.5-star hotel is only about a 10-minute walk to Union Square.

Guests compliment this hotel for its large and comfortable rooms. They all have air conditioning, and some have a small refrigerator and microwave.

You'll find a fitness center on the top floor with a whirlpool spa and private saunas. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar. Head to the lounge on Fridays to enjoy some wine at their in-house happy hour.

If you are a light sleeper, ask for a room in the back, as the street is noisy at night.

• Breakfast: No
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $115 to $215

>> Check current pricing and room availability for your stay

3. Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

Address: 433 Powell Street

One of the best value three-star downtown San Francisco hotels is the Chancellor. This beauty offers a great location at a more affordable price point.

Guests who stay here rave about the excellent customer service. The only downside is that this hotel is a little older, so most of the rooms are fairly small.

They do have a restaurant and bar/lounge to kick back and enjoy a meal during your stay. You can also access their shared fitness center one block away.

This hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a business center, and room service.

• Breakfast: No
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $134 to $179

>> Find out more about the Chancellor and check for availability during your stay

4. Handlery Union Square Hotel

Address: 351 Geary Street

You will feel like you are stepping into old San Francisco when you arrive at the Handlery because of its classic design. Then, when you walk in, you'll feel like you are in the most up-to-date hotel anywhere. There is a wonderful heated outdoor pool, sauna, and fitness center on site.

The rooms are all beautifully updated and you will have more than enough room to spread out and enjoy yourself. They even have rooms with double twins or double queens in case you need beds for more than one person. There is also the Rooftop Garden Suite if you really want to splurge!

Unfortunately, the Handlery does not have a restaurant on site, however you are just a few steps to many of the amazing restaurants in this wonderful district.

• Breakfast: No
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $139 to $189

>> Find out more about the Handlery Union Square Hotel and check for availability during your stay

>> More great hotels with pools around San Francisco

5. Golden Gate Hotel

Address: 775 Bush Street

Depending on when you stay in San Francisco, the Golden Gate Hotel is going to be one of the best deals of any of the downtown San Francisco hotels. It is small and very cute, as the rooms are designed in the classic early 1900s San Francisco style.

Even though this is one of the less expensive hotels in the area, you will still get a complimentary buffet breakfast, paid parking onsite, and more. All the rooms are individually decorated and they are all beautiful and done with a very artistic flair.

This hotel is very well-known for the incredibly friendly staff and wonderful atmosphere in their lobby. Please note that this hotel is quite small and therefore you will have to share a fridge and a microwave, but everyone is helpful. Also, it does not have elevators.

• Breakfast: Yes
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $110 to $189

>> Find out more about the Golden Gate Hotel and check for availability during your stay

Four-Star Downtown Hotels

These four-star options offer you top-of-the-line in luxury. Here are a few that guests love the most.

1. Omni San Francisco Hotel

Address: 500 California Street

The Omni is the first of the top-rated four-star downtown San Francisco hotels. Guests give this hotel high marks, especially for its excellent customer service.

This is one of the best hotels in the area for business travelers. It is only steps from the Financial District, so its location is perfect for those with meetings in this area.

You will find dozens of fantastic amenities here, including a third-floor fitness center, a business center, and room service. Suites are available for those needing a little extra room.

The hotel also has both a bar and restaurant on-site. Its restaurant, Bob's Steak & Chop House, is one of the best steakhouses in the city.

• Breakfast: Yes
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $170 to $309

>> Find a room and reviews at the Omni Hotel

2. The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Address: 335 Powell Street

The Westin St. Francis is probably one of the most iconic hotels in Union Square and of all the downtown San Francisco hotels. The gorgeous landmark building is in front of the newer tower, which is attached at the back.

You will love the private label Westin-brand bath and beauty products, refrigerator, 250-count sheets, and their amazing Westin Heavenly Bed for the best night's sleep you could ever experience. There is also a fitness studio, a number of bars and restaurants, and if you want more choices, you are just steps from many great restaurants in Union Square.

If you decide to upgrade to a suite, you'll also have a large living room that is perfect for any gathering. The views from these suites are incredible! One pet per room is permitted.

• Breakfast: Yes
  
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $196 to $281

>> Find a room at The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

3. The Marker San Francisco, a Joie de Vivre Hotel

Address: 501 Geary Street

You'll find luxury and excellent customer service at this four-star hotel in downtown SF. It's conveniently located close to Union Square, the Financial District, and Chinatown.

It offers spacious rooms with fun, eclectic décor. Guests can also bring their pets for an extra fee.

The hotel features an excellent restaurant, room service, a fitness center, and a business center. Other amenities include a wine reception, coffee each morning, and access to a wide variety of newspapers.

• Breakfast: Yes
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $154 - $221

>> Find a great room at a great price at The Marker San Francisco

4. Hotel Zelos San Francisco

Address: 12 Fourth Street

Another one of the top downtown San Francisco hotels is Hotel Zelos. This hotel sits on the southern side of Market Street, with excellent access to many restaurants, shops, and bars.

The great thing about this hotel is that it is really close to the BART trains, so you can easily get in and out of the city. You can also use other nearby transportation options to quickly get to other parts of the city, including Fisherman's Wharf, the Haight, and the Mission.

Guests recommend this hotel for its high level of customer service. The front desk team is lovely, and everyone does their best to make guests feel at home.

Amenities include an on-site fitness center, business center, and restaurant/bar. You will also find a pet-friendly policy, room service, and high-speed internet access.

• Breakfast: Yes
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, valet, surcharge
• Price Range: $174 to $264

>> Find out more about Hotel Zelos including recent reviews and check for availability for your stay

5. Grand Hyatt San Francisco Union Square

Address: 345 Stockton Street

One of the most respected names in all of the world regarding hotels, this amazing hotel lives up to its expectations and then some. A magnificent tower, which gives amazing views of the city and beyond, is just the starting point. 

The staff is always given rave reviews for friendliness and they'll make you feel like family. The rooms range from the standard 300-square foot room with king beds all the way up to an almost 800-square foot Luxury Suite with amazing city views.

The Grand Hyatt has a 24-hour fitness center and even an art gallery! There is also a coffee shop, bar, and full restaurant. And, if you want to venture out, you are in the middle of Union Square and will have just about everything within steps.  

• Breakfast: Yes
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $177 to $260

>> Find out more about Grand Hyatt including recent reviews and check for availability for your stay

Five-Star Downtown Hotels

There are only a few downtown San Francisco hotels with five stars. Here are the top two.

1. Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco

Address: 757 Market Street

This 17-story hotel sits right in the heart of downtown San Francisco on Market Street. A recent multi-million-dollar renovation puts this hotel at the top of the list of recommendations.

Located just two blocks from Union Square, this luxury hotel is filled with amenities. Seasons Bar & Lounge is a premier place to grab a cocktail and relax after a long day of seeing the sights. Head over to the Seasons Restaurant for one of the best meals in the city. Both are conveniently located right in the hotel.

The hotel also features a pool, spa, laundry service, babysitting, and more.

Plush bathrooms round out your stay with marble décor, separate showers, soaker tubs, and designer toiletries. Staying at the Four Seasons San Francisco during your visit will make it a trip to remember!

• Breakfast: Yes, surcharge
• Internet: Yes, free Wi-Fi
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $415 to $1,000+

>> More details about the Four Season and booking information

2. The St. Regis San Francisco

Address: 125 Third Street

Another one of the best downtown hotels is the St. Regis San Francisco. The luxury, personal service, and great location draw visitors to this five-star hotel at Third and Mission Streets, next door to the renowned SF Museum of Modern Art.

Almost every room in this 40-story building has a great view of the city. In addition, the hotel offers spa services, a pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a restaurant, a bar, and room service.

Rooms are spacious and modern with neutral colors and luxurious beds and bedding. The bathroom is also a dream, with a rainfall shower head and soaker tub to help you unwind after a long day.

• Breakfast: Yes, surcharge
• Internet: Yes, surcharge
• Parking: Yes, surcharge
• Price Range: $460 to $1,000+

>> More about the St. Regis including recent guest reviews

*A price range per night is listed since hotel rates vary based on a number of factors. Before you book, please confirm the current pricing for accuracy based on your requested days and amenities. Prices do not include taxes or other hotel fees.

Other Great San Francisco Lodging Options

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