Renowned as the home of Stanford University, Palo Alto has developed from a sleepy college town to a thriving business and cultural centre, home to many of Silicon Valley's sharpest minds. Popular with well-heeled business or leisure travellers visiting the University as well as outdoorsy travellers, the city offers a whole host of accommodation options, including simple B&Bs and chic city boltholes. Whilst many of the best places to stay in Palo Alto are clustered around the city centre and the Stanford Campus, one of our top spots is a gorgeous, resort escape on the outskirts of town, perfect for soaking up the region's natural beauty.
The illustrious University is one of Palo Alto's biggest draws. You can spend almost a whole day exploring the beautiful grounds of Stanford Campus, as well as strolling downtown along University Avenue. Pop into quirky shops, sample delectable dishes at trendy eateries, and savour fresh produce from local growers and makers at the farmers' market.
Palo Alto's abundance of successful residents means that its neighbourhoods are filled with impressive houses, and that there is a burgeoning foodie and cultural scene to discover. Catch a classic film at the Stanford Theatre, or hike into the foothills to admire the 150-foot-wide Dish, a radio telescope built in 1965. For an insight into the area's famed tech focus, venture to the Computer History Museum, in nearby Mountain View. Hikers, cyclists and birdwatchers will adore the 1,940 acres of the Baylands Nature Preserve, where there's a huge array of wildlife to spot.
Whether you're in town for a conference or a weekend of sightseeing, the best places to stay in Palo Alto promise a top-notch base from which to experience this innovative city's many fabulous bars, eateries and cultural delights. With San Jose and San Francisco nearby, too, there's plenty to see and do!
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Palo Alto
A luxury modern Mediterranean-style villa hotel in the heart of downtown Palo Alto. Rooms are spacious and bright with blue colour tones, sit-out balconies and large grey marble bathrooms. Complete with a noteworthy Italian restaurant and indulgent in-room massages. A perfect city crashpad.
Palo Alto
A sophisticated boutique hotel in the heart of Silicon Valley. Rooms are light and spacious with perfect minimalist style that includes plenty of pale wood and glass, while the bathrooms are indulgent. Home to the world-renowned Japanese restaurant Nobu - this is a foodie destination.
Palo Alto
Luxury hotel with ideal amenities in the heart of Silicon Valley. Decor blends high-tech industrial-chic with contemporary glam touches. Designed for executives but can be enjoyed by everyone with event space, outdoor pool, gardens, fab dining, gym and city views. Cool but cosy downtown hub.
Palo Alto
An independent luxury hotel situated just by Stanford University. Traditionally styled rooms are spacious and elegant, some with fireplaces and huge floor-to-ceiling windows. Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail at the bar followed by delicious seasonal Californian fare at the bistro. A superb stay!
Palo Alto
Exquisite boutique hotel modelled on a French-style chateau. Luxe rooms perfectly combine traditional period interiors (chandeliers, fireplaces and antiques) with modern comforts and spoiling Carrera marble bathrooms. French/American bistro and fireside library. Fab for grown-up romantic getaways.
Palo Alto (California)
Combine luxury and sustainability at this boutique hotel in Palo Alto. Rooms bathed in soft colours and sustainable materials, offer comfort with a conscience. Bistro Wild Onion delights with farm-to-table cuisine, while the outdoor pool and state-of-the-art gym provide relaxation and rejuvenation.
Palo Alto (EAST PALO ALTO)
A luxury five-star set in East Palo Alto. Rooms are sleek and contemporary with simple white style, large desks and indulgent bathrooms with L’Occitane products. Dining options consist of high-end Italian and a more casual option. A rooftop pool and bar is a hit and the service is on point.
Palo Alto (Menlo Park)
A ranch-style countryside escape just outside of Palo Alto. Rooms are grand and stylish with large marble baths, original artworks and enviable views of the San Francisco Bay Area and Santa Cruz Mountains. Relax by the dramatic pool and gardens and eat at the exquisite Michelin starred Restaurant.
Palo Alto (California)
All-inclusive urban luxury retreat in the heart of Silicon Valley. 23 one- and two-bedroom suites provide all the high-end amenities a tech titan or visiting Stanford professor might want, plus you can expect seasonal Californian cuisine, a 24-hour pantry for snacks, and a panoramic rooftop pool.