Qinghai Lake in the near distance on the Qinghai-Tibet train

©Nellie Huang/Lonely Planet

Marina Inn

The Marina, Fisherman’s Wharf & the Piers


Good value in the Marina, this vintage 1920s hotel has small, clean rooms with outdated decor, but it's a cozier alternative to a cheap motel. Single-pane glass means street noise; bring earplugs. Best for no-fuss travelers. Close to Union St shopping and bars.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Marina, Fisherman’s Wharf & the Piers attractions

1. Portsmouth Square

1.38 MILES

Chinatown's unofficial living room is named after John B Montgomery's sloop, which staked the US claim on San Francisco in 1846. SF's first city hall…