Casa Loma Hotel

Perched atop a hill on the border between eclectic Western Addition and chic Hayes Valley, two blocks from charming Alamo Square and its famed “Painted Ladies,” the Casa Loma Hotel offers stylish digs with low rates. A newcomer to the San Francisco hotel scene, this two-star, which bills itself as a “European-style hotel,” gave us a sense of what happens when a hostel grows up.

The Casa Loma’s 48 medium-sized rooms are defined by a contemporary simplicity. Think clean lines and mod black-and-white furnishings straight out of an Ikea showroom. White walls are unadorned and burnt-orange blankets add a splash of color. All is new, fresh and impeccably clean. The rooms are air conditioned (a rarity for budget hotels in this generally breezy town), and some are equipped with a flat-screen TV and mini-fridge.

All rooms have small sinks. Six are equipped with private bathrooms and the rest share facilities. Both shared and private bathrooms are small, but new and clean, with tan tiles and sparkling fixtures. Towels are included and hair dryers are available.

The still-affordable “superior” rooms are well worth the splurge—the friendly staffer showing us around almost had to drag us away from their breathtaking panoramic views. (Golden Gate and Transamerica Building from a budget hotel window? Pinch us please!).

Though it hardly has a hostel feel in the traditional sense, the Casa Loma offers several of the convenient perks often found at hostels. Just off its minimalist lobby is a large laundry room, and a small kitchen is also available for guest use.

The location is well-placed for art-hounds, foodies and fashionistas looking to take in the galleries, boutiques and restaurants that line haute-Hayes Street and its surroundings. The miniscule Alamo Square Café, located just across the street from the hotel, is great for a morning bite. And, of course, its eponymous park is just around the corner, guarded by one of the most famous and colorful lines of Victorians in existence.

Wi-Fi is available for free. Note that the Casa Loma does not have an elevator and rooms facing the busy Fell Street can get noisy. Ask for an interior room or one on Fillmore instead. Reception is only open from 9 a.m. until 11 p.m., although there is a staff member on the premises 24 hours a day.