Cheap Hotels in San Rafael, CA from $137

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Our top choices for San Rafael cheap hotels

Villa Inn

Villa Inn
2.0 star property
Lincoln
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1001)
"Yes Everyone was fantastic "
United States
Don
$122 nightly
The price is $137
Jan 5 - Jan 6
Total with taxes and fees
Villa Inn

Marin Hilltop Hotel

Marin Hilltop Hotel
3.5 star property
North San Rafael Town Center
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1276)
"Check in and restaurant staff were professional and friendly. I would recommend this property and stay here again. "
Canada
Oscar
$127 nightly
The price is $142
Jan 11 - Jan 12
Total with taxes and fees
Marin Hilltop Hotel

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael Marin County

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael Marin County
3.5 star property
Civic Center
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1010)
"Staff, comfortable room. Very pleasant and would definitely stay again."
United States
mary
$152 nightly
The price is $171
Jan 7 - Jan 8
Total with taxes and fees
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael Marin County

Motel 6 San Rafael, CA

Motel 6 San Rafael, CA
2.0 star property
Canal
6.4 out of 10, (124)
"Perfect location, good value for money in the area. "
United States
Estefania
Motel 6 San Rafael, CA

Extended Stay America Suites San Rafael Francisco Blvd East

Extended Stay America Suites San Rafael Francisco Blvd East
2.5 star property
Southeast San Rafael
6.8 out of 10, (1001)
"The room was clean! And the service was great!"
United States
Ana Lorena
$126 nightly
The price is $142
Jan 11 - Jan 12
Total with taxes and fees
Extended Stay America Suites San Rafael Francisco Blvd East

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown

AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown
4.0 star property
Downtown San Rafael
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (208)
"Room was spotless, housekeeping accommodating, nice facilities, excellent bar in lobby"
United States
Ethan
$159 nightly
The price is $178
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Total with taxes and fees
AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown
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.

Find out more about San Rafael

Discover cheap things to do in San Rafael

In San Rafael, California, budget-conscious travelers can delight in a variety of affordable experiences without sacrificing quality. Start your adventure at the Marin History Museum, where entry is often free or donation-based, allowing you to delve into the local heritage without spending a dime. For nature lovers, the China Camp State Park offers stunning hiking trails and scenic views, where you can enjoy a leisurely day outdoors for just the cost of parking. Explore the vibrant downtown area, where you can find unique shops and local markets; don’t miss the San Rafael Farmer's Market on Thursdays for fresh produce and artisan goods, all at affordable prices. Foodies will appreciate the diverse dining options, including budget-friendly eateries like the popular Nick's Cove, known for its delicious clam chowder and waterfront views. For a comfortable stay, consider the hotels around the vibrant downtown area, where you can relax in top hotels while being just steps away from these attractions. The convenient location makes it easy to explore the city’s charm, enjoy local cuisine, and experience San Rafael like a local, all while keeping your budget intact.

Find the best cheap hotels in San Rafael

Travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodations in San Rafael will find these top hotels offering great value without compromising comfort. Each option provides essential amenities at an affordable price, making them perfect for a cost-effective stay.

Marin Lodge

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marin Lodge is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers, a remarkable guest review rating of 9.6. This hotel offers free WiFi and essential toiletries, ensuring that guests have a comfortable and convenient stay without breaking the bank.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly features, Marin Lodge provides daily housekeeping, free self-parking, and a microwave in each room. The child-friendly window design adds a layer of safety for families, while the free crib ensures that little ones have a cozy place to sleep. Guests can also enjoy the spacious and welcoming atmosphere throughout the hotel, making it an ideal spot for relaxation after exploring San Rafael.
  • Nearby attractions: Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market - 1.15 miles, Dominican University of California - 0.76 miles, Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 1.12 miles

North Bay Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: North Bay Inn is a budget-friendly hotel with an excellent review rating of 8.2, catering to travelers looking for comfort without the high price tag. It provides free WiFi, toiletries, and daily newspapers, ensuring that guests stay connected and informed during their visit.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include air conditioning, a microwave in each room, and the convenience of free self-parking. Guests can relax in spacious rooms, and the hotel also offers a sofa bed for extra sleeping arrangements. With a focus on adult guests, North Bay Inn provides a tranquil atmosphere for a restful stay in San Rafael.
  • Nearby attractions: Dominican University of California - 1.92 miles, Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 2.06 miles, San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park - 2.34 miles

Villa Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Villa Inn stands out as a fantastic budget option with a solid review rating of 8.2. Guests will appreciate the array of free amenities, including WiFi and toiletries, alongside a complimentary continental breakfast that sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the essentials, Villa Inn features daily housekeeping, air conditioning, and convenient self-parking. The hotel also offers a roll-in shower for accessibility, making it an inclusive choice for all travelers. With a microwave available in each room, guests can easily prepare light meals or snacks during their stay, enhancing the overall experience of comfort and value.
  • Nearby attractions: Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market - 1.25 miles, Dominican University of California - 0.65 miles, Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 1.02 miles

SureStay Hotel by Best Western San Rafael

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: SureStay Hotel by Best Western is another excellent budget option with a review rating of 6.6, geared towards travelers looking for affordability and convenience. Guests appreciate the free WiFi and self-serve breakfast, making it easy to start the day without added costs.
  • Other amenities: Additional offerings include daily housekeeping, free self-parking, and cribs for families traveling with infants. The hotel also accommodates RVs, buses, and trucks, providing flexibility for various travel needs. With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on guest satisfaction, SureStay Hotel is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Nearby attractions: Dominican University of California - 1.87 miles, Mission San Rafael Arcangel - 1.98 miles, San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park - 2.27 miles

Extended Stay America Suites San Rafael Francisco Blvd East

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Extended Stay America offers a budget-friendly option with a review rating of 6.2, perfect for travelers seeking practicality during their stay. Guests enjoy free WiFi, toiletries, and complimentary breakfast, making it a solid choice for those looking to save on meals.
  • Other amenities: This hotel provides a range of features including a pool for relaxation, fitness facilities for active guests, and kitchen amenities such as a refrigerator, stovetop, and cookware for in-room dining. With a sofa bed available, it accommodates various group sizes comfortably. Additionally, the option for pets makes it versatile for different types of travelers.
  • Nearby attractions: San Francisco Bay - 0.85 miles, Larkspur Ferry Terminal - 2.62 miles, Marin Country Mart - 2.42 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in San Rafael?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in San Rafael

  1. If you're looking to travel to San Rafael on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as $137. Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as $178. Staying a short amount of time in San Rafael is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in San Rafael, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in San Rafael, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in San Rafael, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top San Rafael Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What is San Rafael like for travelers on a budget?
San Rafael has cheap accommodation options and a range of things to see and do, making it a budget-friendly vacation choice. In addition to its well-known attractions like San Francisco Bay, this destination is home to Gerstle Park and Field of Dogs Dog Park, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best place to stay on a budget in San Rafael?
Based on our traveler reviews, Villa Inn is a top choice for a less expensive stay.
When is the best time for a budget trip to San Rafael?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to San Rafael, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually September and August with an average temp of 63°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 51°F. Average annual precipitation for San Rafael is 21 inches.
What is there to see and do in San Rafael?
San Rafael attracts visitors with its major shopping area and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the popular local attractions that are highest on your list, such as Pier 39 and Oracle Park, and choose other low-cost activities to fill your itinerary. Head to Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market and Marin Country Mart for some bargain shopping, or hunt for deals at Hilltop Mall.
How can I get to San Rafael and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in San Rafael is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is 25 mi (40.3 km) away from the center in Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can book a flight to San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO), located 25.9 mi (41.7 km) away. San Rafael might not have many public transportation choices so a car rental could be an economical alternative to see more of the area.

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