The hype
The location is absolutely perfect for first-timers, but the extra fees and dated bathrooms in some rooms leave a sour taste.
The Westin St. Francis San Francisco On Union Square
$195-350/ night
Book this if You want to stay in a historic, iconic San Francisco landmark right on Union Square with easy access to shopping and cable cars.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable Union Square location right on the cable car line
- Historic charm and stunning glass elevators with panoramic views
- Spacious, updated rooms in the modern Tower building
Quick Take: It's a gorgeous historic gem, but be prepared for exorbitant hidden fees, thin walls, and a corporate Marriott vibe that nickel-and-dimes you at every turn.
Reviewed by @traveljeanieous: I stayed in the In Bloom suite at the Westin St. Francis and it was pure magic. Sleeping under a canopy of pink flowers felt like a literal fairy tale. Every corner was a photo op. Truly the most unique and romantic room I've ever booked!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You'll pay a premium for the location, but basic amenities like Wi-Fi and bottled water might cost extra if you aren't a Bonvoy member, and the destination fee feels like a cash grab.
- You love historic, grand hotels with classic architecture
- You want to be steps away from luxury shopping and cable cars
- You have Marriott Bonvoy status to waive some fees
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Generally clean, but some guests report missed spots, dusty filters, and inconsistent daily service.
- Bathroom hygiene: Hit or miss; Tower bathrooms are modern and clean, but older Landmark bathrooms have reports of peeling grout and mildew.
- Maintenance: The historic building shows its age with occasional peeling wallpaper, slow drains, and loud AC units.
- Linens & towels: Westin Heavenly Beds feature crisp, fresh linens, though a few isolated reports mention minor stains.
- Odors & scents: Mostly fresh, but some older rooms have a musty smell, and there are occasional complaints of lingering cigarette smoke in hallways.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Cable car bells and street traffic on Powell Street
- Thin walls and connecting doors in the historic Landmark building
- Loud HVAC units in some older rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- There is a mandatory daily destination fee (approx $30-$45) that includes a food/beverage credit, but it doesn't roll over.
- Valet parking is $78-$84/night; consider using a nearby public garage or rideshares instead.
- The hotel is split into two buildings: the historic Landmark building and the modern Tower building.
What to pack
- Earplugs or a white noise machine to block out street noise and thin walls.
- Layers for San Francisco's unpredictable microclimates and chilly fog.
- Comfortable walking shoes for the steep hills around Union Square.
Room Genie
Best picks
- Grand Deluxe Tower Rooms for modern amenities, better soundproofing, and stunning city views
- Corner suites in the Tower for extra space and panoramic Golden Gate Bridge views
Rooms to avoid
- Lower-floor Landmark rooms facing Powell Street due to cable car and street noise
- Rooms near the elevators which get heavy foot traffic and dinging sounds
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'm really looking forward to my stay. If possible, could I please request a quiet room in the Tower building on a higher floor, away from the elevators and street noise? A view of the city would be amazing. Thank you!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Does the hotel have a pool?
No, there is no pool on the property, but there is a large two-story fitness center.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, there is a mandatory daily 'destination fee' of around $30-$45 that includes a daily food and beverage credit and bike rentals.
How much is parking?
Valet parking is extremely expensive, costing between $78 and $84 per night plus tax, with oversized vehicles costing up to $99.
Is the hotel pet-friendly?
Yes, dogs up to 40 lbs are welcome for free (limit 1), and the hotel provides food and water bowls.
Which building is better: Landmark or Tower?
The Tower building offers more modern rooms, better soundproofing, and great views, while the Landmark building has historic charm but older bathrooms and thinner walls.
Is there free Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is included in the destination fee, or free if you are a Marriott Bonvoy member booking directly.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Take the glass elevators in the Tower building for a free, breathtaking panoramic view of San Francisco.
- ✨
Use your daily destination fee credit at Cafe Rito or the Bourbon Lounge, but remember it expires daily and doesn't roll over.
- ✨
Skip the exorbitant hotel parking and use the Sutter Stockton Garage a few blocks away for a fraction of the cost.
5 things to know before you go
💡The hotel has a small, fascinating museum area displaying its storied history dating back to 1904.
💡The destination fee credits have weird stipulations and can be hard to actually use if you're out exploring all day.
💡Some of the historic Landmark rooms still have shower-tub combos that are difficult for older adults to step into.
💡The lobby gets incredibly crowded and chaotic, especially during the holidays when they display their famous sugar castle.
💡You have to ask the concierge daily to get the Uber voucher that's supposedly included in your destination fee.
Local Playbook
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