San Francisco is the USofA's iconic Capital of Weird: haven of free-love hippies, beret-wearing revolutionaries, underground music and Beat poets. So, it makes sense that there are so many unique and cool hotels in San Francisco. Our experts have selected the zaniest, loudest, quirkiest and most idiosyncratic, from bohemian-chic stays and hipster escape pads in renovated harbourside warehouses, to luxury B&Bs in Victorian mansions and exclusive, luxury hotels hidden in private members clubs. We've done the hard work - all you have to do is choose from our list of the most unique and cool hotels in San Francisco and start planning your stay.
San Francisco (Union Square)
Trendy and central hotel near the Union Square shopping district. The modern rooms embrace repurposed vintage decor with reclaimed wood and salvaged antiques, and boast delicate mosaic-tiled baths. The communal areas are hip, colourful and lively, with a games room, restaurant and lounge bar.
San Francisco (Mid-Market)
This slick modern hotel is full of joyous works of art and design features, as well as all the latest technology. Rooms are a dizzying mix of patterns and retro furniture that somehow works perfectly. High-end inventive menus are served in the popular restaurant and bar. San Francisco cool.
San Francisco (Japantown)
This boutique hotel is nestled in San Francisco's Japantown. After a recent renovation, the hotel now offers suites inspired by Asian design, from vintage graphic prints to wooden screens. Home to a Thai restaurant and Japanese whiskey bar, this hotel offers an authentic taste of the neighbourhood.
San Francisco (North Beach)
This exclusive hotel is nestled within a private members' club in San Francisco. Housed in a former sweet factory on Jackson Square, inside, guestrooms have exposed red brick walls styled with custom and vintage pieces by Fulk. Enjoy access to the club's first-class facilities during your stay.
San Francisco (Tenderloin)
A hip little boutique situated in the Tenderloin district, just minutes from some of the city's most famed music venues. Interiors have been completely done-up - yet still maintain their motel charm. A swimming pool takes centre stage and there's a lively bar. Popular with visiting musicians.
San Francisco (Financial District)
A smart hotel located overlooking the bay in a convenient spot between the Financial District and Oracle Park. Once a YMCA - a massive renovation has turned this into a luxury stay. Rooms are small but perfectly formed with a hint of an industrial feel in the design. Ideal for city exploring.
San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
The Zephyr Hotel could not have a better location - set right by Fisherman's Wharf. This is a large hotel with a spacious central courtyard filled with all sorts of activities. The interiors are fun and vibrant with a distinctly nautical feel, Perfect for exploring the city with friends or family.
San Francisco (Union Square)
A chic boutique with luxurious interiors and a very central setting beside Union Square. Rooms have an indulgent feel with sink-into beds, fluffy towels and rain showers. The bar serves up innovative cocktails and the breakfasts (which include exceptionally good burritos) are a real pleasure.
San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
Stylish accommodation in a prime location near Fisherman's Wharf. The chic rooms have a distinctly nautical feel and the bathrooms are stocked with luxury Lather® products. The lively restaurant and bar have a laid back feel. Offered at excellent rates, this is a great city base.
San Francisco (Alamo Square)
Enjoy a slice of 19th-century splendour at this lavish San Franciscan mansion set in one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods. Ornate rooms are individually styled but expect hefty antiques, four-posters, and rich hues in each. Better yet the city's sights are in striking distance.
San Francisco (Union Square)
A grand hotel just a few blocks from Union Square. The design is vibrant and contemporary yet the building's original features remain. The Trattoria restaurant is a lively spot to spend an evening. An idyllic base for a city escape.
San Francisco (Union Square)
A stylish hotel located just one block from Union Square. Modern rooms are designed with atmospheric moody hues, contemporary art, and plush beds. Downstairs is a well-equipped games room and a trendy restaurant and bar where guests dine in leather-clad booths. A chic central stay.
San Francisco (Union Square)
A stylish hotel with a very central location, just two blocks from Union Square. The sangria on arrival sets the tone for this hip hotel. Rooms feature sink-into beds, large artworks and luxury bathrooms. The bar and games room downstairs give this hotel a convivial vibe.
San Francisco (Union Square)
Palihotel's LA cool is a perfect San Franciscan fit. Interiors mix chic sophistication with a young trendy twist. Whitewashed exposed brick walls in the rooms are adorned with modern art, there are Smeg fridges and luxurious bathrooms too. While the French restaurant and bar is a real draw.
San Francisco (Pacific Heights)
A five-star Victorian mansion offering 12 chic rooms. Interiors are period-inspired with dark-hued velvet furnishings, intricately tiled floors and antiques. Thoughtful added touches such as in-room baths (in some suites), a smart gym, and organic wines really elevate this B&B to luxury status.
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