Budget Hotels in Palo Alto, California

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Our top choices for Palo Alto cheap hotels

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto
3.0 star property
Green Acres
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1284)
"Room was great, plenty of room & the breakfast was very good & tasty"
United States
ALFRED
The price is P4,968
P5,747 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 23 - Dec 24
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

The Palo Alto Inn

The Palo Alto Inn
3.0 star property
Palo Alto Orchards
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (978)
"Great stay! Thanks!"
United States
Michael
The price is P3,567
P4,120 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 23 - Dec 24
The Palo Alto Inn

Creekside Inn

Creekside Inn
3.5 star property
Barron Park
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1641)
"A lovely spot in Palo Alto - good value and location. Will stay there again!"
United States
Martha
The price is P4,991
P6,793 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 25 - Dec 26
Creekside Inn

Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto

Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto
2.5 star property
Ventura
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (508)
"Great"
United States
Frank
The price is P8,720
P10,072 total
includes taxes & fees
Jan 2 - Jan 3, 2026
Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto

Dinah's Garden Hotel

Dinah's Garden Hotel
3.5 star property
Palo Alto
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1003)
"Every thing and all of the staff were just perfect. Love th w holidaydecorations!"
United States
Michael
The price is P7,936
P9,182 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 23 - Dec 24
Dinah's Garden Hotel

The Nest Hotel Palo Alto

The Nest Hotel Palo Alto
3.5 star property
Ventura
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1005)
"Breakfast was great!!"
United States
Sheila
The price is P4,933
P5,697 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 29 - Dec 30
The Nest Hotel Palo Alto

Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto

Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto
3.0 star property
Charleston Meadows
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1004)
"Clean Rooms, Easy Check in, friendly front staff, overall an excellent experience. "
United States
Yesenia
The price is P5,889
P6,872 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 25 - Dec 26
Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto

Crowne Plaza Cabana, Palo Alto by IHG

Crowne Plaza Cabana, Palo Alto by IHG
3.5 star property
Palo Alto Orchards
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1005)
"Nice front desk staff and plentiful coffee in the AM!"
United States
Melissa
The price is P6,401
P7,393 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 25 - Dec 26
Crowne Plaza Cabana, Palo Alto by IHG

Hotel Keen

Hotel Keen
3.0 star property
Downtown Palo Alto
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (690)
"Great place to visit "
United States
Ernest
The price is P7,262
P8,388 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 28 - Dec 29
Hotel Keen

Hotel Citrine, Palo Alto, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Hotel Citrine, Palo Alto, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
3.5 star property
Charleston Gardens
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (221)
"Loved the room and bathroom The bed was very comfortable The staff were friendly and the vale drivers were very helpful"
United States
Farideh
The price is P7,936
P9,182 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 26 - Dec 27
Hotel Citrine, Palo Alto, a Tribute Portfolio 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.

Find out more about Palo Alto

Discover cheap things to do in Palo Alto

Palo Alto, California, offers a mix of budget-friendly experiences that cater to travelers seeking quality without breaking the bank. Start your exploration at the iconic Stanford University, where you can stroll through the stunning campus and visit the free Stanford University Museum of Art, featuring an impressive collection of works from around the world. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve is perfect for a scenic hike or a leisurely bike ride, with picturesque views and abundant wildlife—best of all, it’s completely free! Families will love the interactive exhibits at the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, where admission is very affordable, making it a great spot for kids to learn and play. Don't miss taking a walk through the historic downtown area, where you can enjoy window shopping and grab a bite at one of the many casual eateries offering delicious, budget-friendly meals. For a great place to stay, consider hotels near California Avenue; this area provides easy access to local shops, eateries, and parks, making it convenient for families to explore while enjoying top hotels. With thoughtful service and comfortable settings, you can relax knowing you’re getting good value as you immerse yourself in the vibrant community of Palo Alto.

Find the best cheap hotels in Palo Alto

For travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodations in Palo Alto, here are some excellent hotel options that provide great value without compromising on quality.

Country Inn Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Country Inn Motel stands out as a budget-friendly gem in Palo Alto, a remarkable review rating of 9.4. With complimentary Wi-Fi and toiletries, guests can enjoy essential amenities without breaking the bank. The motel also offers free self-parking, making it a convenient choice for travelers with vehicles.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the basics, guests can take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or unwind under the sun on the poolside loungers. The hotel features air-conditioned rooms for added comfort, and kitchen amenities like a refrigerator and microwave make it easy for guests to enjoy snacks or meals in their rooms. The motel’s contactless check-in service ensures a smooth arrival experience.
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 0.73 miles, Los Altos History Museum - 1.87 miles

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Zen Hotel Palo Alto is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for comfort and a serene atmosphere. With an impressive review rating of 9.2, guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant start to their day without any added costs. The hotel also offers free self-parking, making it easy for guests to explore the area at their leisure.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly amenities, The Zen Hotel features a kitchenette in select rooms, perfect for those who prefer to prepare their own meals. Guests can enjoy a beautiful garden on-site, adding a touch of nature to their stay. The hotel also provides early check-in and late check-out options, catering to the needs of travelers. For those looking for leisure activities, nearby golf lessons and winery tours are available, allowing guests to experience the local attractions.
  • Neighborhood: Green Acres
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 1.29 miles, Stanford University - 2.35 miles

Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto is a superb option for budget-minded travelers seeking spacious rooms. With an excellent review rating of 9.2, the hotel offers complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, allowing guests to enjoy a hearty meal each morning and stay connected easily. Free self-parking is also available, adding to the convenience of this hotel.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and kitchenettes in rooms, perfect for longer stays. Guests can enjoy grocery shopping services for easy meal prep during their visit. The hotel also provides cribs and has pet-friendly options, accommodating travelers with diverse needs.
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 0.8 miles, Los Altos History Museum - 1.95 miles

The Palo Alto Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Palo Alto Inn is an ideal choice for budget travelers seeking quality and convenience, with a solid review rating of 8.8. Guests can take advantage of complimentary Wi-Fi and toiletries, ensuring a comfortable stay without extra expenses. The hotel also offers free self-parking, which is a great perk for those driving in.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget amenities, the inn features a terrace where guests can relax and enjoy the surroundings. With daily housekeeping and a snack bar on-site, convenience is prioritized. The rooms are equipped with premium bedding, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Guests can also enjoy free entry for children and have access to cribs for families traveling with infants.
  • Neighborhood: Palo Alto Orchards
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 0.94 miles, Los Altos History Museum - 2.09 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto offers a budget-friendly experience with a focus on comfort and quality, reflected in its review rating of 8.6. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and toiletries, ensuring a straightforward stay. The hotel also provides self-parking, making it easy for travelers to access the surrounding areas.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its essential amenities, the hotel boasts an indoor pool, perfect for a refreshing swim regardless of the weather. The fitness center allows guests to maintain their workout routines while away from home. With spacious rooms featuring premium bedding and climate control for a comfortable environment, guests can unwind after a busy day exploring Palo Alto.
  • Neighborhood: Charleston Meadows
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 1.07 miles, Los Altos History Museum - 2.21 miles

Top Palo Alto Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What is Palo Alto like for travelers on a budget?
Palo Alto has cheap accommodation options and a variety of places to visit, making it a budget-friendly vacation choice. In addition to its well-known attractions like San Francisco Bay, this destination is home to Silicon Valley and Baylands Nature Preserve, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best place to stay on a budget in Palo Alto?
Based on reviews, Creekside Inn is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free breakfast and free WiFi. Other choices to stay on the cheap include The Zen Hotel Palo Alto and The Palo Alto Inn.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Palo Alto?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Palo Alto, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually August and July with an average temp of 69°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 53°F. Average annual precipitation for Palo Alto is 18 inches.
What is there to see and do in Palo Alto?
Palo Alto attracts visitors with its major shopping area and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the popular local attractions that are highest on your list, such as Levi's Stadium and San Francisco Bay, and choose other low-cost activities to fill your itinerary. If you're looking to enjoy the area's natural beauty, you can get outdoors at Silicon Valley, Baylands Nature Preserve, or Elizabeth Gamble Garden Center.
How can I get to Palo Alto and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Palo Alto is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The most convenient airport is 7.8 mi (12.5 km) from the center in San Carlos, CA (SQL). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC), which is 12.7 mi (20.5 km) away. To explore the surrounding area, hop aboard a train at California Ave Station or Palo Alto Station.