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The best hostels in San Francisco

Some of the best backpacker spots in San Francisco

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Superb: 9+ Very good: 8+ Good: 7+ Pleasant: 6+
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Located within 2.6 km of Crissy Field East Beach and less than 1 km of Ghirardelli Square, Samesun San Francisco provides rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in San Francisco. This 2-star hostel offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. The property is non-smoking and is set 1.9 km from Coit Tower.

Rooms were clean and comfy. Every bed had a couple of sockets and usb connections plus a light. And also an individual curtain Bathrooms clean

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8.4
Very good
3,217 reviews
Price from
€ 40
per night

Overlooking San Francisco Bay, this Fisherman’s Wharf hostel features free WiFi throughout the property. A 24-hour reception welcomes guests and daily activities are offered.

Shared bathroom facilities are offered for both dormitory-style guest rooms and private guest rooms at HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel. Towels and linens are provided.

good stuffs, not expensive, nice atmosphere.

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8.3
Very good
1,709 reviews
Price from
€ 33
per night

Each room at HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel showcases large windows. All rooms are decorated in cool tones and modern furnishings. Select rooms include an en suite bathroom, a sink and a mirror.

HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel is 7 minutes’ walk from the Chinatown Gates. Shopping at Westfield Mall on Market Street is 5 minutes’ walk away.

perfect location, safe neighborhood, less than 5 min walk to union square, big and well organized kitchen, breakfast, purified water dispenser, free coffee 24/7, great common space, so closed to public transportation, I just loved it here, I think it’s the best place to stay to live the city

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8.4
Very good
3,775 reviews
Price from
€ 37
per night

Located in San Francisco and within 1.4 km of San Francisco City Hall, Chapter San Francisco features a shared lounge, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFi. The property is around 1.8 km from Union Square, 2.7 km from Ghirardelli Square and 3.1 km from Moscone Center. The accommodation provides a concierge service, and luggage storage for guests.

At the hostel each room includes a shared bathroom and bed linen.

Amazing Hostel in good location. Close to everything Helpful for late Check in

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8.9
Fabulous
549 reviews
Price from
€ 41
per night

Boasting a shared lounge and free WiFi, ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Hostel is situated in San Francisco, 1 km from Union Square and 1.1 km from Coit Tower. The property is located 1.5 km from Moscone Center, 2 km from Pier 39 and 2.4 km from Ghirardelli Square. The accommodation features karaoke and a shared kitchen.

Oh man, this is by far my best ever hostel experience! The best location, the best staff, the best comfort, the best roommates, they have it all. Apart from the usual things like cleanliness, amenities and all where the hostel checks all marks, there were a few things I was concerned about before booking - => I've 3 bags will it be comfortable or not. While I was staying only 2 - 5 beds out of 8 in my room were occupied, so there was plenty of room for me. Even when full it has huge lockers that can have your backpacks inside and you can keep your trolley bag besides your bed. => There are too many stairs. The quiet dorm is on the third floor (second floor for me as I am used to having the ground floor as floor zero back home) which wasn't too many stairs at all. There are also chairs placed on every floor in case you need a breather before heading up. => Being an introvert will I be able to talk to people and spend good time in the city since I know no one there. A great aspect of this hostel is that most of the staff are volunteers and they are world travelers themselves. Which brings about a totally different perspective and it makes it so easier to have conversations with them. => What do I do in the city The hostel folks have so many interesting activities planned for each day of the week, that you'll definitely find something to do. They have an answer to almost all your touristy queries. => I'm traveling in Thanksgiving week and I don't have friends here. What would I do? The hostel manager (who's a gem of a person himself) and the staff arranged an amazing Thanksgiving dinner for us all. Made me feel like I was sitting among friends that I've known for so long and made my stay memorable. If people at the hostel are reading this, thank you so much for all that you do! Hoping to run into you amazing folks someday somewhere soon!

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8.8
Fabulous
278 reviews
Price from
€ 44
per night

Music-themed, boutique lifestyle hotel & hostel, now with onsite bar & restaurant and newly renovated common areas. Stay comfortably in a private or shared room and take advantage of our capsule sleeping pods. Sleep with the stars in the home of the San Francisco Music Hall of Fame! Guests get access to free live entertainment six nights a week in our multiple music venues.

I loved the music theme, surrounded by musicians pictures everywhere and waking up with good music on the aisle! Loved it! The room was clean, quite and the right comfort! I hope to come back one day

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8.1
Very good
855 reviews
Price from
€ 40
per night

Shared dormitory accommodation is offered by Green Tortoise Hostels San Francisco. Our Grand Ballroom is the heart of the hostel where people play music, make friends and unforgettable memories. The ballroom, where musicians are always invited to play, has a pool table, ping pong table, books, games, and complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day. We also have a new designated quiet "Digital Nomad work space" We provide free Wi-Fi. Just off of the ballroom we have a fully equipped kitchen that is open 24 hours a day for you to use. We provide a guest fridge for you to store food, liquor, whatever you want!

The location is perfect to explore exciting places in SF. Many amazing restaurants super close by. The rooms and facilities are so fun. They even have breakfast included. I just love that place, it has got such an international flair and it's cozy and the atmosphere is awesome. Great vibe. Can't wait to go back!

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8.8
Fabulous
877 reviews
Price from
€ 44
per night

Located in Central San Francisco, Orange Village Hostel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Union Square. A fully equipped kitchen and free WiFi access are featured at this hostel.

Private rooms and male and female only dormitory rooms can be found at this hostel. All rooms have hardwood flooring, and dormitory rooms have backpack-sized lockers.

Clean, good price, close to public transportation

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7.8
Good
2,451 reviews
Price from
€ 43
per night

Conveniently located just 8 minutes' walk from San Francisco’s fashionable Union Square, Amsterdam Hostel places guests in Central San Francisco. Chinatown is 13 minutes' walk away, while entertainment venue The Masonic is just 5 minutes' walk away.

The best location in SF, everything is near. Room was comfy and bathroom was clean. The staff was very nice. Check in and check out was easy.

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7.4
Good
1,236 reviews
Price from
€ 33
per night

Built in 1907, this San Francisco hotel is 10 minutes’ walk to Union Square. Free WiFi and a TV with HBO film channels are offered in all guest rooms. Ferry Building Marketplace and Fisherman’s Wharf are just 2 miles away.

Everything was great and very welcoming. Very good location, close to the bus stops. I’ll come back there for sure!

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7.5
Good
161 reviews
Price from
€ 76
per night

Looking for a hostel?

Budget travellers know that there is no better way to make the most of their trip than by staying at a hostel: save money for exploring during the day, and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening. Dorm-style bedrooms with shared bathrooms are standard hostel fare, but private rooms are also available for those willing to pay a bit more.
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  • HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel
    8.4
    Scored 8.4
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 3,775 reviews

    Centrally located in San Francisco just 5 minutes’ walk from shopping and dining in Union Square, Each bright room is practically furnished.

    Everything was great, awesome vibe, free breakfast!

  • ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Hostel
    8.8
    Scored 8.8
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 278 reviews

    Boasting a shared lounge and free WiFi, ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Hostel is situated in San Francisco, 1 km from Union Square and 1.1 km from Coit Tower.

    The guy was really helpful and considerate to my needs

  • Orange Village Hostel
    7.8
    Scored 7.8
    Good
    Rated good
     · 2,451 reviews

    Located in Central San Francisco, Orange Village Hostel is just 5 minutes’ walk from Union Square. A fully equipped kitchen and free WiFi access are featured at this hostel.

    Best relation location/clean/comfy/price

  • Perramont Hotel
    7.0
    Scored 7.0
    Good
    Rated good
     · 167 reviews

    Located 5 minutes’ walk from Duboce Park, this San Francisco hotel is located in the Castro District. The Castro Theatre, shops and cafes are 10 minutes’ walk away. Free Wi-Fi is provided in rooms.

    Friendly staff , great location, and value for the money

  • European Hostel
    Budget options available
    4.6
    Scored 4.6
    Disappointing
    Rated disappointing
     · 555 reviews

    This San Francisco hostel is located 3 blocks from cable cars and the Civic Center. The hostel features a full-service kitchen and rooftop balcony with views of downtown.

    Nick is the best host! Made the stay great! Thanks!

  • Luz Hotel
    Budget options available
    7.5
    Scored 7.5
    Good
    Rated good
     · 161 reviews

    Built in 1907, this San Francisco hotel is 10 minutes’ walk to Union Square. Free WiFi and a TV with HBO film channels are offered in all guest rooms.

    the staff. nicest staff I ever bump into!! no doubt

Great access to the city centre! Check these hostels in San Francisco

  • Green Tortoise Hostel
    8.8
    Scored 8.8
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 877 reviews

    Located in the lively North Beach Little Italy district, this San Francisco hostel is just 3 minutes’ walk to the renowned City Lights Bookstore and the entertainment district. Free WiFi is provided.

    Shared breakfast with people from all over the world

  • Samesun San Francisco
    8.4
    Scored 8.4
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 3,216 reviews

    Located within 2.6 km of Crissy Field East Beach and less than 1 km of Ghirardelli Square, Samesun San Francisco provides rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in San Francisco.

    Big room, quiet at night. Friendly staff. Great value.

  • HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel
    8.3
    Scored 8.3
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 1,709 reviews

    Overlooking San Francisco Bay, this Fisherman’s Wharf hostel features free WiFi throughout the property. A 24-hour reception welcomes guests and daily activities are offered.

    Great location, very quiet at nighttime, beautiful views

  • Music City Hotel - Home of the San Francisco Music Hall of Fame
    8.1
    Scored 8.1
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 855 reviews

    Music-themed, boutique lifestyle hotel & hostel, now with onsite bar & restaurant and newly renovated common areas.

    The dorms are nice, since you get a lot of privacy.

  • Adelaide Hostel
    7.6
    Scored 7.6
    Good
    Rated good
     · 938 reviews

    This San Francisco hostel is conveniently located within 5 minutes’ walk of Union Square. Each guest room includes free Wi-Fi.

    Everything was good. Beds were comfortable and clean.

FAQ about hostels in San Francisco







Hostels that guests love in San Francisco

  • Avg. price/night: € 124.71
    7.2
    Scored 7.2
    Good
    Rated good
     · 579 reviews
    Great service, good location, super nice staff. Private parking so we felt nice and safe leaving the car. Excellent choice if you're traveling on a budget. Has everything you really need and nothing you don't. Big comfy bed, clean bathroom and kitchenette.
    Jan
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: € 195.83
    8.2
    Scored 8.2
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 1,178 reviews
    Great location. Excellent croissants for breakfast. Very friendly staff. Felt safe and homely.
    Mary
    Family with young children
  • Avg. price/night: € 95.80
    8.4
    Scored 8.4
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 3,775 reviews
    Great location, easy to walk around and really safe. The facilities are great. And the hostel was very clean. I would stay there again for sure.
    Thais
    Solo traveller
  • 8.8
    Scored 8.8
    Fabulous
    Rated fabulous
     · 278 reviews
    This place is one of the best hostels I've ever stayed at. The staff were so helpful and friendly. The location of the hostel is perfect and it’s in a nice and safe place. I would definitely be back to this place in the future.
    Shelby
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: € 81.82
    5.8
    Scored 5.8
    Above average
    Rated okay
     · 729 reviews
    Super convenient location and affordable price are the only pros. Better than a bunk bed in a shared room in the hostel, so will do for a couple of nights if you are young, on a very tight budget and NOT a light sleeper.
    Gari
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: € 85.22
    7.9
    Scored 7.9
    Good
    Rated good
     · 1,800 reviews
    This is literally the best hostel I have stayed at in over 4 months of travelling around the world. Its free amenities, fair prices for a central San Francisco area location and immaculately clean facilities make it the best budget open in San Fran.
    Jamie
    Young couple
  • Avg. price/night: € 149.30
    6.4
    Scored 6.4
    Pleasant
    Rated pleasant
     · 300 reviews
    Excellent. What a budget hotel should be. Staff was great, all 4 of them, even the security guy was nice. Room was clean, bathroom was clean despite of being shared. Great location. they kept my bags locked safely before and after check in and out for no extra charge.
    gilles
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: € 95.80
    8.4
    Scored 8.4
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 3,775 reviews
    Listen up solo travelers: this hostel is perfect for you. I felt safe all the time and had an awesome week here in San Francisco. You’ll meet so many new people in the hostel and together (or alone) you can discover the beautiful city. If you need more input HI downtown hostel also provides a lot of information about awesome activities! I loved it here and will definitely come back!
    A
    Anonymous
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: € 95.80
    8.4
    Scored 8.4
    Very good
    Rated very good
     · 3,775 reviews
    Bunk beds are great: not shaky even the top one) and équipes with USB and regular power sockets as well as a small shelf (Very convenient to put glasses, phone and other small valuables when sleeping). Great kitchen, living room, lobby. Great location. Staff helpful and friendly. Built-in laundry with good Quality machines and cheap prices. 10/10 recommend
    Michael
    Solo traveller
  • Avg. price/night: € 168.93
    7.8
    Scored 7.8
    Good
    Rated good
     · 1,011 reviews
    Old fashioned with all the pluses and minuses from that. Helpful staff, almost feels like family. Old-fashioned decor. No A/c but ceiling fan. Best shower in SF. Big safe. Continental breakfast on each floor from 7.00am. 12.00pm check-out. Happy to keep luggage before and after stay. Avis/budget across the street. And GREAT location for Union Square etc. Altogether fantastic value for the modest price.
    Candid Mark
    Solo traveller

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