Downtown San Mateo Hotels, San Francisco

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4682 Cheap Hotels in Downtown San Mateo - Specials, Reviews, & Last Minute Deals

Inn at Rockaway San Francisco Pacifica

2.5 star property
16 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1004)
"Beautiful location"
United States
Elena
Inn at Rockaway San Francisco Pacifica

Harbor View Inn

2.0 star property
15.4 km from Downtown San Mateo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (616)
"very clean, very friendly, close to fun areas"
United States
michael
The price is AU$193
includes taxes & fees
8 Dec - 9 Dec
Harbor View Inn

Half Moon Bay Lodge

3.0 star property
17.3 km from Downtown San Mateo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1072)
"Very nice place and conveniently located to golf courses."
United States
Ricky
The price is AU$220
includes taxes & fees
5 Jan - 6 Jan 2026
Half Moon Bay Lodge

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport N

3.0 star property
12.1 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (2005)
"Breakfast is great. Staff is great."
United States
Trina
The price is AU$172
includes taxes & fees
13 Dec - 14 Dec
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport N

Holiday Inn Express and Suites Fisherman's Wharf by IHG

3.0 star property
28.1 km from Downtown San Mateo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (2216)
"This was an ok hotel. Good location. "
Australia
Shannon
The price is AU$230
includes taxes & fees
15 Dec - 16 Dec
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Fisherman's Wharf by IHG

Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco Arpt North

3.0 star property
12.3 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1007)
"Staff, amenities, clean rooms "
United States
ROMEO JR
The price is AU$162
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco Arpt North

The Marina Inn on San Francisco Bay

2.5 star property
19 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2273)
"Great place to stay!"
United States
Dixon
The Marina Inn on San Francisco Bay

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3.5 star property
26.5 km from Downtown San Mateo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (4939)
"Rooms were great, staff was great, location was great. "
United States
Jonathan
The price is AU$211
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Express San Francisco-Airport North by IHG

2.5 star property
11.4 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1006)
"Overall stay is excellent ✨"
United States
Chloe Nicole Badajos
The price is AU$159
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Holiday Inn Express San Francisco-Airport North by IHG

Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront

4.0 star property
3.3 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2717)
"Nice airport hotel…staff was great, breakfast was amazing "
United States
Lynne
The price is AU$160
includes taxes & fees
21 Dec - 22 Dec
Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront

Mayflower Hotel

2.0 star property
26.3 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (197)
"Great hotel, would stay again. "
United States
Bernadette
The price is AU$160
includes taxes & fees
23 Dec - 24 Dec
Mayflower Hotel

FOUND Hotel Carlton, Nob Hill

2.0 star property
26.2 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1092)
"Excellent location, excellence staff"
United States
james
The price is AU$120
includes taxes & fees
7 Jan - 8 Jan 2026
FOUND Hotel Carlton, Nob Hill

Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport

4.0 star property
4.9 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1350)
"Great place to stay near the airport shuttle is very on time "
United States
Gurtaij
The price is AU$274
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Waterfront

3.5 star property
3.7 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1811)
"Great room, friendly, great breakfast"
United States
Lisa
The price is AU$231
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Waterfront

Aloft San Francisco Airport

3.0 star property
6.5 km from Downtown San Mateo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2241)
"Great hotel, great staff, good bar, noisy because of the Airport."
United States
Simon
The price is AU$200
includes taxes & fees
27 Dec - 28 Dec
Aloft San Francisco Airport

Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

4.0 star property
28.1 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1471)
"Clean and great location "
United States
Shawn
The price is AU$271
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

4.0 star property
28.1 km from Downtown San Mateo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (7174)
"Great staff, clean rooms, good breakfast buffet"
United States
Debra
The price is AU$291
includes taxes & fees
18 Dec - 19 Dec
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf

4.0 star property
28.2 km from Downtown San Mateo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (3829)
"We stay here a lot, great place and safe."
United States
Albert
The price is AU$275
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Skye SFO

3.0 star property
10.1 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1555)
"Very clean, close to SFO airport, friendly staff, and would stay again."
Hong Kong SAR China
Ryan
The price is AU$172
includes taxes & fees
8 Dec - 9 Dec
Hotel Skye SFO

Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge

3.0 star property
30.5 km from Downtown San Mateo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1166)
"Nice staff clean rooms"
United States
Kiran
The price is AU$188
includes taxes & fees
14 Dec - 15 Dec
Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Our guide on where to stay in Downtown San Mateo

Find the best Downtown San Mateo areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Union Square

Packed with a treasure trove of upmarket boutiques, designer labels and department store, shoppers will love this huge shopping plaza.

Downtown San Francisco

Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and Chase Center are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.

Fisherman's Wharf

This waterfront location is steeped in history dating back to the days of the gold rush. Today, visitors come here for its vibrant atmosphere and great food.

South of Market

South of Market, or “SoMa” to the “SoCal” locals, is a huge, varied and exciting district in downtown “San Fran”.

Nob Hill

If you guessed that Nob Hill was one of San Francisco’s original “Seven Hills,” then you might just be a genius.

Top Downtown San Mateo Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown San Mateo

Top reasons to visit Downtown San Mateo

  • Vibrant Shopping and Dining: Downtown San Mateo features contemporary cafes and diverse dining options, perfect for food lovers.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a mix of attractions suitable for all ages, from parks to entertainment venues.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through events and historic sites nearby.
  • Scenic Outdoor Spaces: Explore beautiful urban parks and nearby beaches for relaxation and adventure.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from contemporary hotels and welcoming guesthouses tailored for various needs.

Find great hotels near Downtown San Mateo

Experience the charm of Downtown San Mateo, where a variety of accommodation options await. From contemporary hotels to welcoming guesthouses, you’ll find amenities tailored for business travellers, pet lovers, and the LGBTQIA community. Enjoy easy access to local dining, including popular spots like Diner Matteo, all while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this Californian gem.

  • Travelodge by Wyndham San Francisco Airport North: Ideal for business travellers, the Travelodge by Wyndham San Francisco Airport North offers a straightforward motel experience with essential amenities tailored for corporate needs. Located a mere 11.3km from Downtown San Mateo, this property features well-equipped meeting rooms and conference spaces, making it perfect for those attending events or meetings. Guests appreciate the convenience and practicality of the accommodations, ensuring a stress-free stay while focusing on work commitments.
  • SFO El Rancho Inn SureStay Collection by Best Western: This welcoming 3-star hotel is situated just 8.0km from Downtown San Mateo, making it an excellent choice for families and LGBTQIA travellers alike. The SFO El Rancho Inn offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including free cribs and child safety features, alongside multiple meeting rooms and conference spaces for business guests. Its inclusive atmosphere and commitment to providing a comfortable stay for all guests make it a standout option for both leisure and business trips.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport N: Located 12.9km from Downtown San Mateo, La Quinta Inn & Suites is a shopping enthusiast's haven. With its prime position in the shopping district, guests can easily explore local retail offerings. The hotel caters to LGBTQIA travellers and business guests with a 24-hour accessible business centre and a variety of meeting facilities. Guests rave about the spacious rooms and convenient amenities, making it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of work and leisure in a vibrant area.

Where to stay near Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions and urban charm. Explore contemporary cafes, enjoy delicious pizza, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere filled with friendly locals. Just a stone's throw away, nearby cities enhance your adventure with scenic views and cultural experiences. Whether you're after a relaxing getaway or a bustling city vibe, Downtown San Mateo is the perfect spot for your Californian holiday.

  • San Francisco: A vibrant metropolis renowned for its iconic landmarks, San Francisco is a must-visit during your stay in Downtown San Mateo. With its famous Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and bustling Fisherman’s Wharf, the city offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. The city's undulating hills provide stunning views, while its diverse neighbourhoods, from the Mission District to Chinatown, create a unique urban experience. Visitors flock here for family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and city-themed activities, particularly between July and September, when the weather is ideal for exploring.
  • San Mateo: Nestled in the heart of the Bay Area, San Mateo boasts a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The city is known for its beautiful parks, such as Central Park and Coyote Point, perfect for family outings and outdoor recreation. Downtown San Mateo features a variety of shopping malls, restaurants, and cultural venues, making it an excellent spot for both leisure and business travellers. With visitor numbers peaking in April, July, and September, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere year-round, enhanced by the city’s proximity to the picturesque San Francisco Bay.
  • Burlingame: Located a mere 3.2km from Downtown San Mateo, Burlingame offers a delightful mix of charm and modernity. Known for its tree-lined streets and vibrant downtown area, this city is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Enjoy shopping at various boutiques or relax in one of its scenic parks. Burlingame's close proximity to the bay allows for a range of water activities and stunning views. With peak visitor numbers in March, April, and July, you can experience its lively atmosphere and local events throughout the year.

Things to do near Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo offers a delightful mix of activities perfect for families and business travellers alike. Explore vibrant shopping centres and malls, or enjoy thrilling entertainment at the local arena. For special occasions, there are options for seated banquets, making it an ideal spot for gatherings. Whether you're after retail therapy or a fun day out, Downtown San Mateo has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Downtown San Mateo, enjoy shopping at the Hillsdale Shopping Center, just 3.2km away, offering a vibrant mix of stores. The Shops at Tanforan, located 11.3km away, also provides a great selection. If you're up for a drive, the Stanford Shopping Center is 13.2km away, featuring a variety of shops and entertainment.

Recreation

Oracle Park, located 24.1km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere with thrilling sports events. For golf enthusiasts, Half Moon Bay Golf Links, 17.7km distant, provides stunning coastal views and outdoor enjoyment. The Olympic Club, 22.5km away, boasts excellent golfing facilities amidst a picturesque setting.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of karting at GoKart Racer, only 4.8km from Downtown San Mateo, where you can race against friends in a fun-filled environment. For a scenic outdoor adventure, hike the Sawyer Camp Trail, offering stunning views and a refreshing escape into nature.

Nightlife

In Downtown San Mateo, explore the vibrant nightlife at the War Memorial Opera House and soak in the cultural performances. The Castro Theatre offers charming cinematic experiences, while the Victoria Theatre showcases captivating shows, all within a short drive, perfect for family and romance vibes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown San Mateo

To save money during your visit to Downtown San Mateo, consider travelling in February or November to December, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking on Fridays can also help you avoid higher rates found on Tuesdays. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options, including Eco-certified hotels. To maximise savings, combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal. For getting around, take advantage of the local public transport options or explore the area on foot, as Downtown San Mateo is easily walkable and offers various free activities.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown San Mateo are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown San Mateo is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown San Mateo is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To uncover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your Downtown San Mateo hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo offers a delightful mix for families and business travellers alike, featuring attractions such as scenic beaches, urban parks, and historic colleges. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying outdoor activities, making it a perfect spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. With its vibrant atmosphere, Downtown San Mateo promises memorable experiences for everyone.

  • San Francisco Bay: Immerse yourself in the vibrant city vibes of San Francisco Bay, located just 11.3km from Downtown San Mateo. Enjoy stunning waterfront views, picturesque parks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
  • Stanford University: Experience the rich culture of Stanford University, situated 20.9km away. Explore its stunning architecture, expansive gardens, and renowned art collections, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
  • San Mateo County Event Center: Just 3.2km from Downtown, the San Mateo County Event Center offers a dynamic business vibe, hosting a variety of events and exhibitions. It's a great spot to connect with local culture and community happenings.

Best time to go to Downtown San Mateo

The best time to visit Downtown San Mateo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Downtown San Mateo falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Downtown San Mateo falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown San Mateo

For your visit to Downtown San Mateo, you have several major airports to consider. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is only 8.0km away, with nearby luxury hotels like the Palace Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, both 19.3km from the airport, offering transfer services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is located 28.0km away, with high-rated options such as Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto, just 14.5km from SJC. Lastly, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 19.3km away, with notable hotels like Claremont Resort & Club, 16.1km from OAK, providing accessible transportation to the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown San Mateo?
Travellers will be sure to enjoy their time in San Mateo's Downtown San Mateo neighbourhood. Are you looking for Downtown San Mateo travel tips? Make sure that you visit The San Mateo Japanese Garden and Cinemark Century San Mateo 12 while you're in the neighbourhood.
How many hotels are there in Downtown San Mateo?
Book one of Expedia's 5 hotels and other accommodation options in Downtown San Mateo and start exploring everything San Mateo has to offer.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown San Mateo, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel reservations are refundable if you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your arrival date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and receive a refund within 24 hours of booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to get top deals in Downtown San Mateo.
What is there to do in this San Mateo neighbourhood?
A few attractions you might want to check out while you're in Downtown San Mateo are The San Mateo Japanese Garden and Cinemark Century San Mateo 12. While you're out sightseeing, Poplar Creek Golf Course and Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia are a couple of additional sights to visit in San Mateo.

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