Best hotels to stay in San Francisco

Surpassing even New York in grandeur, architecture and natural beauty, this great American city has some of the finest hotels in the world. Here are our top five

1. St. Regis

This icon stands 40 storeys tall, an emblem of urban splendour in the heart of SF near Union Square. Generously appointed with marble, African wood and Italian leather, each room reeks of posh as befits the St. Regis legacy. The food served at the Vitrine is seasonal, with only the freshest local produce; their organic beef burger is to die for. Old-world hospitality meets modern sophistication to assure that your every need is met with impeccable precision. If you want to stay at the centre of San Francisco, then St. Regis San Francisco is surely your best bet. It has all the modern amenities and ensures a fine stay for you and your family.

2. Ritz-Carlton

Built in 1909 in the neoclassical style, this multiple-award winning hotel is a landmark on Nob Hill. The rooms are all muted chic with walnut, mahogany and carefully selected artwork. Head to the Club Level to avail of the business lounge with complimentary food and beverage all day and special wine-tasting on weekends. Parallel 37, the signature restaurant, serves delicious and seasonal local cuisine. Head out into the city by the historic cable-car that starts right at the hotel doorstep. The Ritz Carlton at San Francisco offers you with world class stay option for professional travel as well as for family vacation. Book in advance if you wish to get a room of your choice and affordability.

3. Mandarin Oriental

Each of the 158 rooms are decorated in soothing colours of sea and sky, epitomising California’s great big outdoors that pours in through each window. The Mandarin Oriental Restaurant, recipient of the Forbes 5-star Award, is one of the city’s most iconic culinary destinations. Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square—everything is a walk away. Try the signature cocktails at the Brasserie S & P bar and restaurant or sample the uber-luxurious spa treatments in between forays into the city. The air conditioned rooms at Mandarin Oriental San Francisco makes you feel comfortable and at home during your stay. You can book online and even enjoy special deals and discounts on different sites.

4. Four Seasons

A stone’s throw from Union Square, the Four Seasons matches the aura of the gorgeous city it is located in. Californian artists embellish the earthy pastels of each room and suite with their paintings, sculptures and glassworks, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offer the best views possible. Unique California dishes are cooked up in the show-kitchen at Seasons, the Bar and Lounge. Try the weekend specials, like duck-fat burgers and the braised pork-belly burgers. The premium facilities at Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco make it an ideal place for family stay. Book this hotel in advance so that you do not run out of rooms during the prime time.

5. Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco

The façade and décor evokes history, old-world character, class and elegance; the amenities are high-tech and modern. It has one of the best addresses in town: right on top of Nob Hill. The views of the leafy-green and architecture-rich Bay Area are unbeatable, with winding streets, vintage shops and the city’s finest attractions a walk away. Sip a cocktail and take in a California sunset at the legendary sky-lounge, the Top of the Mark. The staff speaks 17 languages, including Punjabi! Want to experience something truly luxurious and out of this world? Then book into Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco. You can enjoy gourmet meals while getting a magnificent view of San Francisco from the Sky Lounge.

Insider Tips:

San Francisco is a walker’s city, so carry shoes. Visit the Golden Gate Park; you could spend a whole week there if you chose to. Always make dinner reservations to avoid disappointment; SF locals take their dining very seriously.