Cornell Hotel
About Cornell Hotel
Discover the charm and elegance of France in the heart of San Francisco at this family-owned and operated hotel. Originally built in 1910, Cornell Hotel combines old-world charm with modern amenities such free WiFi. Admire prints of masterpieces from famous artists throughout the hotel. Union Square is just 5 minutes’ walk away. Individually decorated, each charming room is equipped with a cable TV and a telephone with private voice mail. Cornell Hotel features an exceptional location close to many of the city's main points of interest such as the Theater District. San Francisco’s legendary Chinatown is 10 minutes’ walk from the hotel. The city's historic cable car system is also easily accessible and the Powell Street cable car stop is 7 minutes’ walk away.
Amenities
- On-site parking
- 24-hour front desk
- Meeting space
- Café / coffee shop
- Business center
- Express check-in / check-out
- Luggage storage
- Multilingual staff
- In-room microwave
- Spa / sauna
- Family friendly
- Smoke-free property
- Elevator
- In-room safe
Reviews
The hotel is generally well-liked for its unique decoration and French theme, with friendly staff and a convenient location. However, there are consistent complaints about the old and outdated facilities, including broken elevators, small rooms, and a lack of hot water. Some guests also mention issues with parking and breakfast options.
- Unique decoration and French theme
- Friendly staff and convenient location
- Old and outdated facilities
- Inconsistent hot water and small rooms
- 4/5
The breakfast was so so but other than that we really enjoyed the hotel and its location.
- 5/5
Good location. Walkable to restaurants, big bus tours and Chinatown. Having breakfast included was nice.
- 5/5
Great hotel. Unique. Each floor had its own theme decorations. Elevator was ‘old style’ with a cage - fun to ride. Hot breakfasts from 7:30-10:30 am. Comfortable bed. Will stay here again.
- 2/5
Please don’t be fool just how I was fool. I’m surprised they have such good reviews. My room was nothing like how it was advertised in the pictures. Upon checking our room light was not working the ceiling fan did not work. We notified front desk twice and they only said will keep it in consideration for next time. The windows are dirty and the walls have cracks. Please make yourself a favor and see the Google reviews, I didn’t …I trusted booking and the reviews Never again
- 4/5
Perfect neighbourhood to start exploring the city by foot, cable car, busses. We cooked the room by dedicated pictures of the room at the attached prices for that’s room. Although in the same category, we got a other room. This was not mentioned during the booking and the personal was not able to change it. Quite disappointing!
- 4/5
It’s close to most of the tourist spots, and the breakfast. No own parking garage, and the deposit.
- 4/5
Very interesting old European vibe, like you’re staying at a museum. Location is great. Beautiful drawings all over hotel and beautiful elevator Room was not exactly like the picture but for us was not a problem
- 4.5/5
Great location, cutely themed and always willing to accommodate us so flexibly. I wish there just a few more consistent options at breakfast.
- 5/5
Clean and whimsical Bathrooms feel like death traps
- 4/5
The location is near several tourist attractions. I like the free breakfast, there are a lot of choices. The staff is also accommodating. The room is clean and neat. There’s no parking, though. On booking.com, it says the highlight is the garage; I think it's misleading. It’s an old European style and the floor I think is wood for that reason the sound whenever someone from the other rooms steps has much impact youll gonna hear it. But all in all it's good and worth the penny.
- 3/5
The images of the rooms in their website are completely different comparing to the reality!
- 5/5
My room was clean and quiet with large bottles of shampoo conditioner and lotion. I’ve stayed here before and decided to come back as it was quiet and well located
- 5/5
The location is excellent—you can easily walk to Chinatown, Pier 33, and many other popular attractions. It's also conveniently close to both BART and cable car stations, making it easy to get around the city. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and always willing to help. The breakfast was simple but satisfying, with enough variety to start the day. I also appreciated the added sense of security, as the main entrance is kept locked and guests must ring the bell for access. Another bonus is the abundance of restaurants nearby, offering plenty of dining options within walking distance. Overall, I would definitely recommend this hotel for solo travelers and anyone looking for a charming place to stay in downtown San Francisco.
- 5/5
The location is excellent—you can easily walk to Chinatown, Pier 33, and many other popular attractions. It's also conveniently close to both BART and cable car stations, making it easy to get around the city. The staff were friendly (night shift lady and overnight staff Romel who helped me with the best way to book tours), welcoming, and always willing to help. The breakfast was simple but satisfying, with enough variety to start the day. I also appreciated the added sense of security, as the main entrance is kept locked and guests must ring the bell for access. Another bonus is the abundance of restaurants nearby, offering plenty of dining options within walking distance. Overall, I would definitely recommend this hotel for solo travelers and anyone looking for a charming place to stay in downtown San Francisco.
- 2.5/5
Location of the hotel was perfect. Staff were very friendly Nice breakfast Room was very small, a small window looking onto an internal corridor. Very small bathroom and shower, shower was not very powerful connecting taps were broken so very difficult to adjust water temperature. Bathroom door did not close properly and also squeaked this was very annoying. Room supplied a filtered coffee machine, unfortunately nowhere to plug it in safely, not enough sockets.
- 0.5/5
After several serious hygiene issues with both the room and the breakfast, we decided to leave the hotel early. The management initially agreed to provide a refund and advised us to contact Booking.com. However, once Booking.com got involved, the hotel refused to honour the refund agreement. Very disappointing experience overall — I would avoid this hotel.
- 4.5/5
Superb
- 5/5
All good
- 4/5
Standard breakfast fare High end shops in walking distance
- 5/5
Goof More coffee, not available most of the time
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 5/5
Superb stay, comfortable room with elegant dining room and common spaces. Excellent front desk and support staff service. Scrumptious breakfast, including many gluten-free, delicious options. Thank you:)
- 5/5
Goof More coffee, not available most of the time
- 4/5
Really kind hotel staff. Breakfast is good but some days they significantly reduce the variety of food available. Clean rooms with very warm shower. This hotel is better than its sister hotel Golden Gate hotel.
- 2/5
Only staff was good
- 5/5
I really enjoyed my stay at this eccentric hotel. The staff were very friendly and the location was central
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 4.5/5
Location and character
- 0.5/5
I am deeply disappointed with my stay. My wireless charger was stolen from my room during housekeeping, and the response from management has been completely unacceptable. The manager is consistently unavailable, no one on staff has made any genuine effort to investigate the theft, and zero compensation or resolution has been offered. This is a serious breach of trust — guests should feel safe leaving their belongings in their room. I would strongly caution anyone considering this hotel to think twice. I will not be returning and will be escalating this matter further.
- 0.5/5
I am deeply disappointed with my stay. My wireless charger was stolen from my room during housekeeping, and the response from management has been completely unacceptable. The manager is consistently unavailable, no one on staff has made any genuine effort to investigate the theft, and zero compensation or resolution has been offered. This is a serious breach of trust — guests should feel safe leaving their belongings in their room. I would strongly caution anyone considering this hotel to think twice. I will not be returning and will be escalating this matter further.
- 3.5/5
Good
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 4/5
Helpful staff and reasonable value for money Airflow and bed sheets were very thin.
- 4/5
Breakfast Kind of dirty
- 4/5
Great staff, kind and professional
- 3.5/5
We liked the French art and motif very much. Our room had several Matisse paintings. The junior suite provided a separate area for sitting. The bathroom was very bright. We found very little to eat at the breakfast because we can't tolerate gluten and don't eat meat or dairy. One morning there was almond milk, which we used for cereal and coffee, but there was none the second morning; the staff simply said they were out. (Soy or oat milk are better nondairy options.) The outlets in the room were difficult to reach.
- 3.5/5
We liked the French art and motif very much. Our room had several Matisse paintings. The junior suite provided a separate area for sitting. The bathroom was very bright. We found very little to eat at the breakfast because we can't tolerate gluten and don't eat meat or dairy. One morning there was almond milk, which we used for cereal and coffee, but there was none the second morning; the staff simply said they were out. (Soy or oat milk are better nondairy options.) The outlets in the room were difficult to reach.
- 5/5
Excellent experience. We will return
- 4/5
Very good
- 5/5
Staff was nice and location very good
- 3/5
Rooms are much smaller than pictures. Staff needs training on hotel policies.
- 4/5
Very good
- 4.5/5
Superb
- 5/5
Location. Weak shower water pressure
- 4/5
Very good
- 5/5
Very nice boutique hotel with French theme and excellent breakfast. Very friendly and helpful reception. Very convenient location.
- 4/5
All perfectly fine. Room clean. Shower good. Breakfast nice. Staff really helpful. One lift which was a bit temperamental.
- 4.5/5
Breakfast is good enough very good bacon but not always available Old style elevator that did not always work. I stayed in a suite with 2 TV but only one working had to call technician three times in two days to fix the same problem of no connection
- 4.5/5
Breakfast is good enough very good bacon but not always available Old style elevator that did not always work. I stayed in a suite with 2 TV but only one working had to call technician three times in two days to fix the same problem of no connection
- 5/5
Staff went out of their way. Clean room. Breakfast was quality and somewhat varied. Egg and ham, toast, apple and orange juice, milk and two cereals. Overall great.
- 5/5
Unique property and liked the old style elevator. My room had lovely decorations and a comfortable bed.
- 3/5
Pleasant
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 5/5
Clean room, perfect location. French theme all around. Comfortable beds. We loved it
- 4/5
Very good
- 4.5/5
Unique Boutique Hotel with wonderful staff This is an older boutique hotel and it is over due for some maintenance like new flooring, windows (our were cracked & only 1 opened) , & paint. We understand from meeting & talking with long time guests that it is under new ownership. The “breakfast” is basic and uninspired for such a unique property. Sadly they don’t seem interested in reviving the French restaurant & appear to only be doing the bare minimum for maintaining this historic property.
- 4.5/5
Unique Boutique Hotel with wonderful staff This is an older boutique hotel and it is over due for some maintenance like new flooring, windows (our were cracked & only 1 opened) , & paint. We understand from meeting & talking with long time guests that it is under new ownership. The “breakfast” is basic and uninspired for such a unique property. Sadly they don’t seem interested in reviving the French restaurant & appear to only be doing the bare minimum for maintaining this historic property.
- 4/5
Great location!
- 5/5
Good location, nice breakfast, and room cleaning/towel change every day without having to ask.
- 4/5
Overall our stay was good. We had a room that was very warm. We were unable to open the windows because of the pigeons that were living on both of our windowsills. Pigeon poop everywhere. The hotel was old and in need of some updating.
- 4/5
Kind staff, decent hot breakfast. Good value for $
- 4.5/5
The location was great with so many quality restaurants nearby and easy walking distance to sites or trolley stations to get anywhere. The entire hotel was so quaint and authentic. The room was comfortable and the breakfast was very satisfying with a lot of different options.
- 4/5
Breakfast was good for a buffet.
- 2/5
Hotel had surge pricing during my stay. Hotel had an old cooking grease smell throughout. Room furnished similar to a hostel. Very sparse, no fan, no air- designed more as a rooming house than a hotel room although there are lots of rooms on every floor. Good location and walkable. Would not return to this property. Staff was helpful, but not overly gracious.
- 1.5/5
The location was good. It was 96 degrees and they had no air conditioning. The sheets were like sandpaper. The breakfast was awful. The nice restaurant in the basement closed some time ago. The stairs are criminal--and the elevator was only able to be run by staff. I stayed here 26 years ago when it was wonderful. Make a different choice.
- 4/5
Great location and breakfast. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Wonderful stay!
- 2/5
I didn’t really like how the plates in the restaurant were dirty, and the air’s scent wasn’t very pleasant. Also in the pictures on the app showed that the room was larger than the actual room. Over all the bathroom was neat, and the shower was ok.
- 1/5
Moreover, there was a large, srinking pile of dirty linens/towels in the hall near my room. The staff admitted that they've been after management to "update" the photos on the website, but this was undeniably a bait and switch.
- 5/5
The continental breakfast is more like a brunch! Bacon, eggs, breads, fruits. Far and above what we expected.
- 3.5/5
Noises downtown no place to park not my kind of pkace
- 3/5
Good location. Felt relatively safe for the big city. Parking was difficult. Room was nice but a little dusty other than that no complaints. Tv was extremely staticy. Couldn’t really watch or see what was on the tv. Shower had nice hot water. Hotel was very cute inside. I wouldn’t mind staying again.
- 4/5
It was a fine stay for what I needed, though the photos they use should definitely be updated to show the reality of the rooms. Very cramped room, large gap under the door, and homier details that are to be expected from a boutique hotel (mounted tv with wires hanging, confusing light/fan switches, stiff bed, an elevator that gets stuck if someone in the 6th floor doesn’t shut the door all the way) but ultimately it reflected the budget price I had paid. Very sweet and helpful staff, decent breakfast provided downstairs, just needs some cosmetic/quality updates that would make guests feel more like they were staying at a quality hotel and not their friend’s “landlord special”ed apartment.
- 4/5
Charming small European hotel. Rooms have lovely painted ceilings and bathroom walls. Great location and friendly staff. Nothing.
- 3/5
Yes
- 5/5
It was a great place to stay. I
- 5/5
All great!!!
- 4/5
Great location. Beautiful decorations.
- 4.5/5
The room is a bit smaller than I was expecting.
- 3/5
The staff was great, location is optimal, rooms are clean and maintained. You need to have mini fridges in your hotel. It’s the biggest disappointment on any trip I take when I am unable to save a meal or store a cold drink.
- 4/5
I love the Cornell Hotel de France. It is like a small hotel in France. The daily breakfast is good, similar, but a step above American complementary breakfasts. During this stay the hot water would not get hot in the late afternoon. It was fine in the morning.
- 1/5
Room - 3/10, staff - 7/10
- 4/5
Everythinlg was good
- 4/5
Breakfast room was cold.
- 5/5
Good stay
- 5/5
Staff was mostly nice, except for one of the breakfast room attendees, she was a bit snippy.
- 3/5
Good for the price. Very basic. A brick of cold bacon was served on the first morning. Tried to cancel the last of 3 nights with 48 hours notice but the were not flexible. Shared fridge with all other guests. Small things like umbrellas would have been nice. That said, very reasonable price.
- 5/5
Great location. Great rates to upgrade room. Reasonable breakfast. Comfortable for the price but not a luxury hotel. Staff very friendly and helpful.
- 3/5
Friendly staff, felt safe and secure, and rooms were clean enough. It is an older building/elevator, but we only had to use the stairs once while the elevator wasn’t working. They also give just one physical key
- 4/5
Clean room. Old property. Great location. Funky and safe little elevator. Door lock was not adequate. Breakfast was excellent by American standards.
- 5/5
Tiny and Mighty. Everything you need, conveniently located. Friendly and respectful staff
- 3/5
My shower did not have hot water both mornings. I let the staff know after the first. The sink had hot water but after running the shower for a while it never got beyond even mildly warm.
- 3/5
The photos of the rooms online was not what our room looked like. We specifically chose this hotel for the charm and ambience, which the lobby & hallways had, but our room had a bed that was too big and brown laminate office furniture (2 big night tables and a large office chair). It overpowred the small room and made me feel like I was in a motel 6 - very disappointing.
- 3/5
The room was ok, but there were some pigeons nesting outside the window and they made a lot of noise at night. The bathroom was disappointing. There was no exhaust fan so it was very humid after a shower, and there was mould in some places. Also, the shower drain was clogged. We complained on the first day but it was never resolved. We even removed a lot of hair ourselves (which was gross) but it made no difference. Cleaning of the bathroom could be way better. To close it off, the shower water was cold 3 days in a row. We had to take cold showers in the winter, which was not nice. Breakfast was good though, and staff was kind.
- 5/5
clean room
- 3.5/5
Smelly carpet
- 5/5
Rooms very clean and cozy. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. Will be coming back !
- 0.5/5
I liked the location. Close to Powell Street. Dirty bedsheets, covered in long black hair. Hallways full with piles of dirty towels that weren't removed but only grew in size for 3 days. No hot water. Rooms not remotely as pictured on their website. No frontdesk staff for 80% of the time. Etc. Etc etc.
- 3.5/5
Location is great and affordable.
- 5/5
Better than I expected. Lobby staff very Nice. Hotel & Room Nice & Clean. Very Cute hotel, quiet no street noise. I definitely will stay at this hotel Again Excellent Location. Parking lot across the street. Our room included a Bottle of wine very tasty. Thank you
- 4.5/5
Great breakfast, helpful staff, great location, cute , French vibe, nice decorations. All good
- 4.5/5
The breakfast could be benefit from a wider selection
- 3.5/5
It was clean and the location was good. The elevator was fascinating as an antique cage pulled by a single wire rope works so efficiently . Very kind staff. The breakfast room was neat. Liked the soap they use in the shower and the shower got nice and hot ( takes a minute) with decent pressure. I wanted to stay here because of the antique furniture and cottage like decor. My room wasn’t ready and the room I ended up in was decorated with furniture that was more second hand motel vibe. Bummed me out. Coffee was the worst I ever had and no bacon at breakfast (ran out) despite smelling it from my room.
- 2/5
We had plan to stay three nights but check out after one night. This was not the room I booked! Very disappointed!
- 0.5/5
Noting The hotel room was not clean and had hygiene issues. I was given a lower-category, uncomfortable room than what I booked. The room was cold, the heating didn’t work, and there was an unpleasant odor. Basic essentials like a toothbrush and enough towels were missing. Overall, my stay was very disappointing.
- 2.5/5
The unique elements like artwork and elevator. The bathroom had a window that was impossible to lock.
- 2/5
It's a cute place, older amenities. Problem was no heat in the room. Has old radiator type system but was turned off. Room was ice cold. This is January. Complained and they turned the heat on, but was shut off again during the night. Asked for a space heater which never came.
- 3/5
Not as nice as the pictures present. Feels a bit run down, and in need of an upgrade to the bathrooms, bedrooms etc. The beds were comfy and fine. Overall its about what you would expect for staying in downtown SF.
- 1/5
They did not have any available rooms and informed us that our room was under renovation and not ready. As a result, we were transferred to another hotel in an unsafe location. We were dissatisfied with this arrangement, and no effort was made to address our concerns.
- 5/5
We enjoy this hotel with European flair. Great breakfast included.
- 3.5/5
The staff were friendly and the location was great! There were a few issues but the staff did help with the heater and the hot water worked the second night. The elevator was cool and the French medieval decor was unique. The bed was comfortable enough and the bathtub was nice. I appreciated the kindness of the staff. The room didn't match the blue Queen Deluxe one I booked and I had specifically chosen this hotel for the nice room (also paying more for it). The first night the hot water didn't work (so no bath :( ) and the heater was broken. The breakfast was not at the quality I'd expect. I think for the price, the value was not there for me as it was expensive.
- 5/5
Good location. Nice hotel.
- 3/5
Close to Union Square
- 1/5
The only reason could be because I am black , but my Christmas Eve was ruined by his smelly behavior . It was until I raised my voice and yelled that he decided to change my room after lying they had no other room to move me too because he thinks I am deserving of the room by the road . I paid for a premier queen room and I didn’t get that , didn’t get the complimentary free bottle of wine that comes with each room .
- 3/5
Delicious hot breakfast My room looks nothing like the picture on booking.com. My room was very old outdated.
- 5/5
Close to Union Square, Chinatown, cable cars, other transit. Easy to get to Embarcadero, good walking. Hotel is lovely, quaint touches, feels French. Breakfast daily, simple but ample and good coffee. Will definitely return.
- 4/5
A unique hotel in a good location, nice touches, coffee available on return from a day out, nice breakfast...
- 3/5
All in all, clean, comfortable hotel but no bells or whistles - just well located at the top of a hill but close to metro and walking distance to great restaurants/shopping.
- 5/5
Beautifully designed, maintained with a great theme of art work. Definitely take advantage of the “real breakfast.” Staff is very nice and helpful and most importantly, the location is perfect.
- 5/5
My room was very quiet and comfortable, and I barely heard any street noise despite the hotel being located in a very busy area near Union Square. Breakfast was delicious, and definitely a step above a basic continental breakfast. The price was amazingly reasonable, especially for such a nice place in such a central location. There is also a beautiful old original elevator, which is a fun experience all by itself. It reminded me of several European hotels I’ve stayed in. I’ll definitely be staying here the next time I visit San Francisco!
- 5/5
Room was clean and comfortable, staff was friendly. Overall great stay.
- 5/5
Easy walk from bart
- 5/5
The staff were friendly and accommodating.
- 4/5
Very cute, hotel located
- 3/5
Asked front desk about parking gave us a roundabout poor directions
- 5/5
Cute!
- 5/5
Wonderful breakfast! Great staff!!!!
- 5/5
Clean room, staff friendly, no parking though
- 3/5
Room was musty. It’s very old school, actual key for room. Small room but good location.
- 4/5
Water temperature was good, comfortable bed, amenities worked as promised.
- 4/5
Really enjoyed its location!
- 1/5
When I checked in, I immediately noticed an unpleasant odor throughout the hotel. The room assigned to me was very small, dated, and not clean. Additionally, there was no air conditioning, which made the room uncomfortable. When I raised my concerns with the front desk, I asked if another room was available, but I was informed that the entire building does not have air conditioning. At that point, I requested a refund. The young man at the front desk explained that since I booked through Expedia, he could not process the refund directly, but assured me that his manager would approve the refund once Expedia initiated the request. However, I have since been informed by Expedia that the hotel is denying the refund. I absolutely would not stay there would not recommend it to anyone. Update: we have sent the hotel multiple emails because they have denied our refund even though we did not spend any time in the hotel. They have not responded to any of our request and have also stopped responding to Expedia.
- 4/5
Lovers of French art and convenience on a budget, look no further.
- 2/5
This is not a 9+ hotel. It’s old. Loud. No AC in my room. Linens look old and terribly off white. Can hear everything from hallway. Bad decision.
- 1/5
Smells funky, broken shower, no fridge, etc.
- 5/5
Wonderful, unique,nice room, comfortable beds, nice breakfast, freindly staff,
- 5/5
Food was fresh. Close to a lot of Transit. Lovely Service. Beautiful rooms.
- 1/5
Carpet was dirty, heat didn't work, shower hot water was hot, no refrigerator in the room
- 5/5
Great location. Quiet room. Great service
- 4/5
Cute, quaint, European style hotel in downtown SF. It’s about 1.5 blocks from Chinatown. This hotel does not have AC, so fans are definitely needed in warmer weather. Our room was very small (cozy Queen) with a tiny bathroom, which was a challenge for two adults. Breakfast was included and was great. Would stay again but just in a larger room!
- 3/5
After seeing that the hotel has earned a 9.0 rating from previous guests, we were quite surprised by what we found. Our room was spacious, but little else was positive. The hotel is in sore need of love. Many things in our room were broken--door to bathroom wouldn't close, soap dispenser ripped from wall, torn curtains, bed frame sticking out such that we banged our shins on it several times, etc. Free breakfast buffet was pathetic. Front desk staff was kind and helpful, but breakfast staff not at all. Definitely would not stay there again.
- 4/5
The hotel is very nicely decorated and fits the old French-style aesthetic pretty nicely. It even has an old-fashioned elevator, although this does prove to be inconvenient during busy hours as it is quite slow. The hotel itself isn't super large, but the room and bathroom were very clean and spacious. The included breakfast was also tasty, although it didn't have a huge amount of variety. The front door is protected with a lock that guests use a key fob to enter, so the hotel feels quite safe. However, I noticed that the receptionist is not always present, so sometimes I do have to wait a few minutes for someone to help me.
- 5/5
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Cornell. I was staying solo in the city and wanted a convenient and reasonably priced hotel that I could walk to my son's apartment. Cornell was perfect. The full breakfast was an added perk. I would definitely stay here again. Thank you!
- 4/5
Quaint French hotel with vintage vibes, attentive staff, good breakfast, and excellent location for trolley and Chinatown access.
- 3/5
The hotel had a terrible smell. I am sensitive to smell. I bought Febreeze and it made it tolerable. On the plus side, excellent location. Shopping, dining and the cable cars close by. Also had a room with a nice large vanity in the bathroom which made getting ready so much easier.
- 5/5
Friendly staff. Walkable to Chinatown. About a 30 minute walk to Oracle Park. Several dining options located near by. Would definitely stay again.
- 3/5
Breakfast area was busy and all empty tables were not bussed/dirty. So I opted to make a plate and take it up to my room, no problem I thought. BIG problem, some kitchen staff woman came over and barked at me to only eat in the dining room. So I sat and ate on a dirty table as fast as I could. Maybe clean the tables so people dont get yelled at?? other than that its an OK place to stay.
- 4/5
Old style hotel. Feels like an apartment building with key fob and metal door key. Very boutique. Good for a night or two.
- 4/5
Clean safe great beds
- 5/5
The Cornell Hotel de France is a must stay for frequent visitors to SF. It is like being in an old hotel in France. The wall prints of famous French painters along with hand painted details on the walls was amazing. The complementary breakfast was in a beautiful room in the basement where the high end French restaurant used to be. I loved the old elevator with the metal grate.
- 2/5
Avoid here
- 5/5
We mostly walked and took public transit all over San Francisco. But one night, we did take advantage of Waymo self driving cars and we highly recommend it. Waymo is a very good driver and gets you safely to your destination.
- 5/5
Is it a bright shiny new hotel? No. Is it a charming San Francisco gem yes! The rooms are typical San Francisco Victorian. The bathrooms have been updated. The amenities are lovely. The included breakfast is wonderful. My only suggestion was to update the mattress it was fine but not fabulous. I would definitely stay again and recommend this hotel to anyone that wants San Francisco charm with out the corporate vibe.
- 4/5
The location was good, not far from china town and market street. Small rooms with no extras, not even a kettle, but good for the price. The breakfast was ok with a selection of items, eggs always cold and bacon overcooked, tepid water if you want tea but the coffee was ok. They advertise a discount at the next door japanese restaurant but there isnt one anymore so they should update this. Wifi is good but annoying to keep logging into every so often. If you want cheap but basic, more private than a YMCA but comparable price then this place is great.
- 4/5
The staff was very kind and energetic
- 4/5
Staff was nice and there were good breakfast options. Parking was a headache and made me anxious but overall we were good! The hotel itself is so cute and definitely worth staying at!
- 5/5
Design and decor and overall condition of the hotel make this the most interesting hotel I've stayed at in SF.
- 5/5
My son really likes the breakfast.
- 5/5
Lovely place.
- 3/5
The deal was great
- 3/5
We have stayed at many hotels in SF, so for the price of this hotel, we knew it would be on the older side. My only complaint would be the shower. It was covered in black mold. Pretty gross! I will say the breakfast was pleasantly good and especially for the price that it was included in the hotel cost.
- 3/5
I’d say this hotel is “okay” for its price range. The place is very very very old and it looks like it. The sheets clearly have been used significantly and it shows/feels. There’s lots more they can do to renovate or just upgrade the place but for the price range it’s kind of expected. Friendly service at check-in/front desk.
- 5/5
Very nice and comfortable room. Staff was excellent. Great location near downtown and cable car. Enjoyed my stay there.
- 4/5
The room was incredibly comfortable with a lovely bed, and it was well maintained through the whole stay. A very clean hotel. The style is charming, as is the old lift/elevator. The staff are lovely and helpful. It has good facilities. It’s in a really lovely location- which is super important.
- 2/5
There was construction the entire day our whole stay. From like 8am until at least 5pm. There was nothing about it on the website.
- 3/5
The location is great. The hotel itself is very old. The rooms are extremely small. Facilities in the room are old and not functioning very well.
- 5/5
Good service
- 5/5
This place was amazing! I would stay there again
- 5/5
Free wine and Breakfast was great except that waffle machine did not work. Bath was not cleaned completely upon arrival.
- 5/5
Beautiful hotel. Very comfortable. The breakfast was wonderful, as was the staff. Very close to public transportation & restaurants.
- 5/5
Great little cozy hotel in perfect location. Would stay again if in the area!
- 5/5
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- 5/5
This hotel is charming and unique. It’s not fancy but it’s clean and the staff were all helpful. We would stay here again.
- 4/5
Very clean hotel. Central location. Tiny bathroom and small room (no A/C but not ready needed ). Daily room service and very friendly staff. Overall not a bad place to stay. There is no hotel parking but a parking garage is across the street for $40/day.
- 4/5
Cute hotel but I didn’t like that it didn’t have air conditioning.
- 5/5
Excellent maintained place. Lot of places in the vicinity,
- 3/5
Great for an overnight. Loved the vibe of the hotel but would need a larger room for a longer stay.
- 5/5
We had 3 nights at this charming B&B. Friendly and helpful staff and a clean, comfortable bedroom. A continental breakfast is served, plus scrambled eggs and either sausage or bacon. Parking is available across the road in a parking garage at $40 per night and you can take the car out once a day. The cable car stop is literally at the end of the block and is great for getting to Fisherman’s Wharf. A short walk to China Town. The area felt safe around the hotel. We enjoyed our stay.
- 4/5
Surprisingly well appointed rooms. It’s a very old building, but I loved the Steines of all the furniture and the cute old-fashioned. Caged elevator was a hoot. Very clean and comfortable.
- 4/5
Good cost x benefit and great location. Very close to the transports.
- 4/5
Good coffee in lobby
- 5/5
Quaint simple room with a window to let in the cool San Francisco air. Loved the history of the building. Located near many great places to explore just by walking. Staff was friendly and very helpful. Breakfast was good.
- 3/5
This property is in a good location, the furniture old, no parking for this property,Overall is ok place to spend 2-3 night
- 5/5
Absolutely perfect, quaint, adorable stay!
- 5/5
We enjoyed our stay! Staff were very friendly! Location was great!
- 5/5
Great staff, secure, sweet rooms!
- 4/5
I stayed at the Cornell Hotel de France in San Francisco and overall had a nice experience. The room was comfortable and had a lot of charm — definitely a unique, boutique feel. However, it wasn’t quite what I expected in terms of amenities. It’s more old-school, so if you’re looking for modern extras or luxury touches, this might not be the place. That said, the location is decent and the atmosphere is cozy and quiet, which I appreciated. It’s a good spot if you value character over flash.
- 2/5
Dirty bathroom. Plus no air conditioning. The fan we were told that would work was extremely dusty.
- 5/5
Great hotel with breakfast included
- 5/5
The entire ambiance was very nice and the breakfast was good although we had to wait for the bagels for a while maybe more staff in the morning
- 3/5
We had a few teething problems when we arrived but were resolved quickly. Feel that the hotel needs rooms to be updated and maybe more information provided by hotel.
- 5/5
Love the vintage vibe.
- 4/5
Cool elevator. Great location. Can get a little loud with guests above. Older property but well maintained for its age.
- 4/5
There was some charming decor about the property. Breakfast was some of the best in our travels.
- 5/5
Staff was very friendly, courteous and polite. I enjoyed my stay and will return in the near future.
- 2/5
Extremely old hotel, rooms smell and showers are very low pressure
- 3/5
This place is pretty old and cheaply finished. Everything about the room felt outdated, cheap, and well used. The decor was terrible as well as it wanted to be “cute French” but need tremendous updates to be that.
- 4/5
I arrived 1 and a half hours prior to checking - 1:30pm for 3:00pm checkin. My VIP benefit stated early checkin. When checking in the attendant said that the room was ready but to get the room early I had to pay $58. I have been to several other hotels in SF, across the country & in several other countries and have never had to pay an early entry fee. I asked to speak to the manager who was not on site. I paid the fee since I had an event to get ready for. The next morning the attendant told me he reimbursed the $58 which I was thankful for. The room was fine, quiet - which I liked and convenient. However, I will not be staying there in the future as there are several other hotels in the area similar to this one who do not charge an early access fee.
- 2/5
They use traditional keys, not electronic door access, that may make some people feel less safe. The location is fine and close to Union Square.
- 3/5
I arrived bed room is clean but the drawer has chocolate wrapper. TV channels blurry
- 5/5
The hotel was very cute and clean, and in a convenient location. I loved the decor and the price was great!
- 1/5
Breakfast not as advertised. Everything out and not replenished promptly. No management on property. Rooms noisy.
- 3/5
Room wasn’t very clean, good location
- 5/5
Perfect location and breakfast is a plus!!! We’ll definitely recommend.
- 4/5
Location was perfect, walked everywhere from Union Square, Chinatown, North Beach, Ferry Building, Caltrain and even to Fisherman’s Wharf. You need your key fob to enter hotel which made me feel safe. Staff were lovely and hotel was cute. It’s old so don’t expect posh and high tech. Breakfast was decent and enough to get you through to lunch. Bread, eggs, cereal, occasionally bacon and ham, coffee and tea. Elevator was old school. Loved it. I would stay again.
- 5/5
Public parking is just across the street to keep your vehicle safe.
- 5/5
Great location. Staff were great.
- 5/5
Cute, quiet, great location, fry eggs breakfast is awesome , room clean, pretty decoration, friendly staff, discount for the Japanese restaurant next door which food is delicious
- 5/5
Property was very convenient and quiet, would definitely stay here again.
- 4/5
Not a bad hotel, but you can find better options.
- 5/5
That said, rooms are very old and I had to leave the window open to get rid of the dusty smell. This did not bother me at all.
- 4/5
Fun decorations & artwork. Hotel is right by cable car stop.
- 4/5
Lovely but felt more like a bed&breakfast than a hotel. Staff were friendly and helpful and breakfast was good, including eggs and sausages. Is not wheelchair friendly, otherwise is a cozy place located not too far from the main downtown shopping areas.
- 5/5
Staff, comfy, clean, quiet and good location
- 3/5
This is a convenient location, and relatively quiet. It is a good place for a budget visitor. For business people, this facility is a bit old.
- 5/5
The hotel was very charming. The staff were very polite and helpful.
- 4/5
we loved or stay at this hotel. staff is friendly, room was on top floor in back so great view and very quiet, breakfast was good, unloading loading out was easy, safe parking across the street from hotel. will book again
- 4/5
Charming hotel with lovely, French detailing, perfectly located near San Francisco's Union Square.
- 5/5
Quaint old hotel with elegance of yesteryear. Pretty French country touches with little paintings/murals in the rooms. Very comfortable room. Good location. We loved it and would stay again. They treated us nicely and upgraded us to a junior suite. An improvement they could do is make the breakfast a little more French/elegant. But overall it had good quality basics to start the day. We enjoyed this hotel.
- 2/5
Your hotel scared the heck out of us. Even once we were given a different room we considered leaving. It was only one night and an early flight so we suffered through. Breakfast was underwhelming but I did appreciate the cup of coffee. The staff member attending the breakfast station was attentive.
- 4/5
Staff very nice. Cute French theme. Walking distance to Nob Hill, Chinatown, and Financial District.
- 5/5
A quaint, cozy, comfortable, and quiet place to stay in the best city in the world.
- 5/5
Dedication to French theme
- 4/5
The only thing that really bothered me was the lingering smell of vommit in the building. At least the room didn't have that.
- 4/5
Overall we were pleased with our stay. However breakfast had a limited selection and not enough supplied for the amount of guests. Not enough staff to cope with the volume of guests. And one of our biggest gripes was the use of Single Use plastic cups and cutlery and paper bowls.
- 4/5
Location good. No A/C
- 3/5
The breakfast was very basic and the second morning was delayed by an hour and a half due to the fridge being out of order. Location was great very close to Union Square and all the high end shops.
- 4/5
My only complaint was I saw nothing in the booking process that Cornell didn't accept cash as a form of payment for the room.
- 1/5
Terrible
- 5/5
Lovedddd!
- 2/5
Internet was out of service or sporadic for entire stay. Breakfast was abominable. Advertzed restaurant was permanently closed. Staff were indifferent.
- 5/5
Great hotel, clean and awesome themed decorations
- 3/5
We loved our stay at this property BUT DID NOT HAVE INTERNET 3 out of the four days we stayed. NO TV and NO WIFI. Hotel breakfast is great and the staff is very kind but they seem frustrated they also have internet trouble.
- 5/5
A lovely, smaller, hotel with character. Great staff. Would stay again if in San Fransisco!
- 4/5
They do store baggages before check-in and after check-out. Wifi is too weak. Even cellular data also not working. There is an amenity fee of $20/day. Deposits fee need to pay individually and takes time to get it back. There was a convention recently, so no homeless nearby. But after finishing the convention, there were many homeless nearby. Breakfast was good and interior also nice.
- 5/5
From the welcome by super polite receptionist to amazing guy,who had hot breakfast under control…our stay was flawless 🙂
- 4/5
There was essentially no internet connection!
- 5/5
The hotel has a lot of character and is very clean. The staff is very helpful and friendly. The internet connection was a little bit of a problem, but everything else was great and I recommend this hotel to anyone who like to explore the City. Great location in walking distance to Union Square, China Town and financial district.
- 4/5
The property was fun and quirky. Just wish they had air conditioning in the rooms or at least allowed us to open a window. Staff was friendly and the free breakfast was good.
Frequently asked questions about Cornell Hotel
Does Cornell Hotel have free Wi-Fi?
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Does Cornell Hotel have meeting spaces, conference centers, or conference rooms?
Does Cornell Hotel have a fitness center?
Where is Cornell Hotel located, and how walkable is the area?
What's nearby
- Moscone Center 0.6 mi