The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in San Francisco
San Francisco is a sightseer’s dream. From the grand Victorian houses to Fisherman’s Wharf and Golden Gate Park, the City by the Bay offers magnificent views, unique architecture and trendy art at every turn. These are our picks for the best boutique hotels in San Francisco, bookable on Culture Trip.
1. Galleria Park Hotel, for an old-world feel
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2. The Donatello, for Italianate glamour
Hotel
3. The Laurel Inn, part of JdV by Hyatt, for a soothing stay
Boutique Hotel, Hotel, Apartment
5. Warwick San Francisco, for quirky Beaux-Arts touches
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The Warwick pitches it just right, with that perfect mix of old-world charm and chic modernity. Designed by the same architect as Coit Tower and City Hall, it’s housed in a beautiful Beaux Arts-style building dating back to 1913. Inside, tufted Chesterfields and Art Deco wallpaper in the European bar whisper of bygone times, and rooms have quirky, period touches like typewriters and ornate headboards. Come dinner time, BOTA serves up a menu of authentic Spanish paella and tapas dishes with a wine list the length of a novel.
6. Inn at Union Square, for a fantastic location
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In terms of location, this might be one of the best boutique hotels in San Francisco. It’s just steps from buzzing Union Square, and the surrounding streets are packed with fine-dining restaurants and rooftop cocktail bars. The compactness of the hotel allows for a more intimate feel, with staff tending to just 30 rooms and suites. A glass of champagne (or bottle of water) awaits at reception on arrival, and every floor has its own lounge with Art Nouveau fireplaces, board games and complimentary chocolate chip cookies.
7. Hotel Emblem San Francisco, a Viceroy Urban Retreat, for urban cool
Boutique Hotel, Chain Hotel, Luxury
Hotel Emblem is, quite possibly, the coolest hotel in San Francisco. It sits downtown, where Nob Hill meets Union Square and the Theatre District, and the eclectic interior reflects the trendy streets of the surrounding neighborhood. There’s a book-filled alcove in the lobby, and wall art in bedrooms is decidedly bold, brash and a touch rebellious. Bottled cocktails are delivered to your room on demand, and the Underground Concierge is ready and waiting to offer you ultra-local recommendations and walking tours of the city’s wayward and artsy side.
8. Hotel Drisco, for thoughtful gastronomic amenities
Hotel
Perched atop a hill in Pacific Heights, Hotel Drisco is a truly luxurious experience for anyone who wants to enjoy the city’s beauty away from the hustle and bustle. The plush rooms here have some of the best uninterrupted views in San Francisco. However, the best thing about Hotel Drisco may be its amenities – the hotel offers nightly wine receptions featuring local wines, artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, fresh fruit and hors d’oeuvres. There’s also a gourmet continental breakfast, and loaner bikes for those who’d like to explore the neighboring Presidio Park and Golden Gate Bridge.
9. Phoenix Hotel, for retro character
Boutique Hotel
The swanky motor court-style hotel evokes a 1950s beach vibe, and is a go-to for traveling musicians playing the nearby Bill Graham Civic Auditorium and Great American Music Hall. Describing itself as “a temporary home to musicians and other artistic vagrants,” the rooms at the Phoenix Hotel have as much retro character as the property’s exterior. The pool is just one of the many perks the hotel has to offer – the on-site Chambers Eat + Drink is also a great place for food and a cocktail (or three).
10. Hotel VIA, for proximity to Oracle Park
Boutique Hotel
Hotel VIA is the ideal accommodation for anyone traveling to San Francisco for a baseball game – the property is just across the street from Oracle Park. However, this hotel is much more than just convenient South Beach lodging. The sleek, contemporary style of Hotel VIA is a modernist’s dream, and the rooftop bar boasts spectacular city views from 12 stories above the pavement.
Looking for more options? Discover our guide to the best cheap hotels to book in San Francisco, the best hotels in San Francisco, or the best hotels with suites in San Fran, bookable with Culture Trip. If you’re after a five-star stay, check into one of the top luxury hotels in the city, or check out these hotels with cocktail bars in the city. For more options, discover our guide to the best hotels in SoMa, San Francisco, and book now on Culture Trip.
This is an updated version of an article originally by Katrina Nattress.
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