A trolley on a street with buildings and a clock tower.

Budget Hotels in Downtown San Francisco, San Francisco

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Check availability on Downtown San Francisco Budget Hotels

This weekend
Oct 9 - Oct 11
Next weekend
Oct 16 - Oct 18

Our top choices for Downtown San Francisco cheap hotels

A lobby with seating, a reception desk, and large windows.

1. Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

Chancellor Hotel on Union Square
3.5 star property
Union Square
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (3,500 reviews)
"Great location, nice hotel"
United States
eric
The price is P7,483
P8,824 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square
A rooftop terrace with a table and chairs, a potted plant, and a view of tall buildings.

2. Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero, San Francisco

Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero, San Francisco
4.0 star property
Downtown San Francisco
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3,501 reviews)
"Will stay again!"
United States
itzel
The price is P7,951
P9,357 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero, San Francisco
A rooftop pool area with blue seating and a pool.

3. Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
3.5 star property
Downtown San Francisco
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (6,380 reviews)
"Clean room Staff great Amazing location"
United States
John
The price is P9,338
P10,990 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
An indoor swimming pool with multiple lounge chairs and a high ceiling with skylights.

4. Hotel Nikko San Francisco

Hotel Nikko San Francisco
4.5 star property
Union Square
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (3,114 reviews)
"Great hotel!"
United States
Isaac
The price is P9,807
P14,423 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 17 - Oct 18
Hotel Nikko San Francisco
A restaurant interior with wicker pendant lighting, wooden paneling, and large green plants.

5. Hotel Stratford San Francisco - Handwritten Collection

Hotel Stratford San Francisco - Handwritten Collection
3.0 star property
Union Square
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,332 reviews)
"It was really clean, staff were friendly & the hotel is right in the middle of everything. It was a great hotel"
United States
Denise
The price is P7,345
P8,630 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Hotel Stratford San Francisco - Handwritten Collection
A hotel reception area with a polished marble floor, wooden paneling, and a reception desk with a computer and a telephone.

6. The Pickwick Hotel

The Pickwick Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown San Francisco
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,575 reviews)
"Great stay."
United States
Jesus
The price is P6,788
P7,976 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 6 - Nov 7
The Pickwick Hotel
A living room with a fireplace, a television, a painting, and a dining area with chairs and a table.

7. Grant Hotel

Grant Hotel
2.0 star property
Union Square
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,006 reviews)
"Great location, staff is very nice"
United States
RITA
The price is P5,074
P5,962 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Grant Hotel
A modern living room with a leather sofa, a coffee table, and a green armchair. A clock is mounted on the wall, and a window offers a view of the street outside.

8. Grant Plaza Hotel

Grant Plaza Hotel
2.0 star property
Downtown San Francisco
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,040 reviews)
"Loved the area..easy to travel round..the hotel was really lovely..staff very helpful and friendly..will deffinatly stay again."
United Kingdom
Tracy Elizabeth
The price is P5,556
P6,539 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Grant Plaza Hotel
A bridge over water with a beach in the foreground.

9. Executive Hotel Vintage Court

Executive Hotel Vintage Court
3.0 star property
Downtown San Francisco
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,007 reviews)
"Location is great. Few blocks from BART stations and just one block from cable cars. Plenty of restaurants close by"
United States
dolores
The price is P7,219
P10,105 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Executive Hotel Vintage Court
A multi-story hotel with a prominent sign reading "The Handlebar Union Square Hotel."

10. Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel
3.5 star property
Union Square
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3,629 reviews)
"Excellent location for a friendly hotel"
United Kingdom
Stephen Noel
The price is P10,311
P12,135 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 6 - Nov 7
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Downtown San Francisco

Discover cheap things to do in Downtown San Francisco

Downtown San Francisco offers budget-conscious travelers a wealth of experiences without breaking the bank. Start your day with a stroll through the iconic Union Square, where you can enjoy people-watching and window shopping at high-end boutiques and art galleries. Just a short walk away, you'll find the historic Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can sample delicious local fare from artisan vendors—many of whom offer affordable bites perfect for lunch on the go. The stunning Embarcadero waterfront is also nearby, where you can enjoy a scenic walk along the bay, taking in views of the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz Island, all without spending a dime. For a cultural fix, visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) on a free admission day, or explore the nearby Yerba Buena Gardens, perfect for a leisurely afternoon with the family. When it comes to accommodations, you'll find a variety of cheap hotels that provide comfort and convenience; many are just steps away from these attractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant city life. Enjoy the unique features of these downtown hotels, such as rooftop lounges with stunning views or cozy lobbies that invite you to unwind after a day of exploration. With attentive service and a focus on quality, your stay in Downtown San Francisco will be both enjoyable and affordable.

Find the best cheap hotels in Downtown San Francisco

Exploring Downtown San Francisco on a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Here are some top hotels that offer great value without compromising on quality.

Castle Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Castle Inn is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for quality accommodation in Downtown San Francisco. With an excellent guest review rating of 9.2, this inn provides essential amenities like free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, making it a straightforward stay for guests.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy daily housekeeping, access to nearby fitness facilities, and the convenience of connecting rooms for larger groups. The in-room microwaves and a concierge service cater to additional needs, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience throughout their stay.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown San Francisco
  • Nearby attractions: Bill Graham Civic Auditorium - 1.29 miles, Ghirardelli Square - 0.77 miles, Lombard Street - 0.65 miles

FOUND Hotel Carlton, Nob Hill

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: FOUND Hotel Carlton is a stylish budget option with a review rating of 8.6, located in a historic district. Travelers will enjoy free WiFi, making it easy to plan their San Francisco adventures without additional costs.
  • Other amenities: The hotel’s prime location offers a unique experience, with access to local historical sites. The friendly atmosphere and attentive staff contribute to a welcoming place for guests looking to explore the city on a budget.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown San Francisco
  • Nearby attractions: Union Square - 0.79 miles, Bill Graham Civic Auditorium - 0.86 miles, Lombard Street - 1.11 miles

Best Western Red Coach Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Budget travelers will appreciate the Best Western Red Coach Inn, which boasts a solid review rating of 8.2. This hotel offers a variety of complimentary amenities including free WiFi, a daily breakfast, and self-parking, providing excellent value in the heart of the city.
  • Other amenities: Guests can relax on the patio, and enjoy features like air conditioning and a sofa bed for added comfort. The hotel also provides a self-serve breakfast option, electric car charging stations, and convenient housekeeping services to enhance the overall stay.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown San Francisco
  • Nearby attractions: Palace Hotel - 1.28 miles, Union Square - 0.94 miles, Bill Graham Civic Auditorium - 0.36 miles

Grant Plaza Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Grant Plaza Hotel is a budget-friendly option with a review rating of 7.6, ideal for travelers seeking comfort without breaking the bank. This hotel offers free WiFi and complimentary toiletries to ensure a convenient stay in Downtown San Francisco.
  • Other amenities: Guests can benefit from daily housekeeping, cribs for families, and access to nearby parking. The hotel also features a concierge service to assist with local attractions and shopping, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious visitors.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown San Francisco
  • Nearby attractions: Palace Hotel - 0.55 miles, Union Square - 0.46 miles, Embarcadero Center - 0.56 miles

Top Downtown San Francisco Hotel Reviews

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Clean and good location!"
Elly 1-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Frequently asked questions

What is Downtown San Francisco like for travelers on a budget?
Downtown San Francisco has a variety of cheap accommodations and places to visit, making it a great getaway spot for budget travelers. In addition to its well-known attractions like Oracle Park and Chase Center, this destination is home to Yerba Buena Gardens and Transamerica Redwood Park, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Downtown San Francisco?
Based on reviews, Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free WiFi and a 24-hour fitness center. Other choices to stay on the cheap include The Marker Union Square San Francisco and Chancellor Hotel on Union Square.
How many inexpensive hotels can I expect to find in Downtown San Francisco?
Choose a hotel that suits your wallet among Expedia's 35 budget hotels in Downtown San Francisco.
What is there to see and do in Downtown San Francisco?
Downtown San Francisco attracts visitors with its top museums and acclaimed art galleries, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions on your list, such as Oracle Park and Chase Center, and then make time for other wallet-friendly activities. Enjoy the outdoors at San Francisco Bay and Yerba Buena Gardens, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Union Square.
How can I get to Downtown San Francisco and get around on a budget?
Checking out these ways to get around Downtown San Francisco can help keep you on budget. The nearest airport is 11.7 mi (18.9 km) away from the center in San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO). If that doesn't suit your budget, you can book a flight to Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK), located 11.9 mi (19.1 km) away. You can access metro transit at Market St & 5th St Stop, Market St & Taylor St Stop, and Powell St & Market St Stop.