Cheap Hotels in San Rafael
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Cheap Hotels in San Rafael

Villa Inn
Villa Inn
Top neighborhoods in San Rafael

Downtown San Rafael
Downtown San Rafael mixes California history and modern fun in a walkable package. The Mission San Rafael Arcángel anchors the historic district, where Victorian buildings line Fourth Street. Catch an indie film at the Rafael Film Center or browse the galleries at Art Works Downtown. Thursday nights come alive with a buzzing farmers market that fills streets with music and local flavors. You'll find everything from farm-to-table restaurants to authentic taquerias reflecting the area's Latino influence. Most shops and eateries cluster along Fourth Street, making exploration easy on foot. Golden Gate Transit buses connect downtown to San Francisco, while nearby parking lots accommodate drivers venturing into this charming Marin County hub.
Gerstle Park
Gerstle Park offers a quiet retreat where Victorian and Craftsman homes create an outdoor architectural museum. The historic neighborhood's tree-lined streets invite leisurely strolls past ornate woodwork, colorful paint schemes, and charming front porches. Its namesake park features heritage trees and peaceful walking paths that provide a welcome escape from urban bustle. Downtown San Rafael's restaurants and shops are just a 10-minute walk away. Accommodations are limited to a few historic bed & breakfasts with period furnishings and personalized service. The neighborhood's authentic local vibe makes it perfect for travelers who appreciate architectural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

Montecito-Happy Valley
Montecito-Happy Valley offers a peaceful retreat from San Rafael's busier areas, with tree-lined streets and spacious properties creating a serene atmosphere. While the neighborhood itself has no commercial attractions, you're just minutes from Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin History Museum. China Camp State Park provides nearby hiking trails with stunning bay views for nature enthusiasts. Getting around requires a car since public transit is limited, though the quiet streets make for pleasant walks. Accommodations tend toward luxury vacation rentals with private gardens and premium amenities. For dining and shopping, you'll need to venture into downtown San Rafael, where diverse options await.

Terra Linda
Terra Linda offers a peaceful retreat from the buzz of San Francisco Bay. This family-friendly neighborhood in northern San Rafael balances suburban comfort with nearby natural attractions. The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Marin County Civic Center stands as an architectural landmark, while Terra Linda Community Park provides sports fields and walking paths for outdoor enthusiasts. Dining options feature casual family restaurants with affordable meals in local strip malls. Getting around requires a car, though ride-sharing services are readily available. Most travelers choose vacation rentals in single-family homes, enjoying quiet streets and easy access to China Camp State Park's hiking trails.
Picnic Valley
San Rafael's Picnic Valley neighborhood offers attractions including San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.
Top landmarks in San Rafael

Marin County Civic Center
Marin County Civic Center is worth a visit, located 1.7 mi (2.8 km) from central San Rafael.

Mission San Rafael Arcangel
Find out about the history of San Rafael when you spend time at Mission San Rafael Arcangel. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the biking trails.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about San Rafael
Find out more about San Rafael
Exploring San Rafael on a budget
How to find the best cheap hotels in San Rafael?
✅ There are lots of cheap hotels available in San Rafael in 2025. What's more, our rewards programOpens in a new window makes San Rafael hotels an even better choice for travelers on a budget.
✅ Whether you're looking for a hostel, apart-hotel or Bed & Breakfast, there's something for every type of traveler in San Rafael on Hotels.com – use the helpful search filters to find some of the cheapest hotels in San Rafael for your budget-friendly stay.
✅ You'll find lots of cheap hotels in San Rafael – with Hotels.com. With so many choices, we recommend you use the search filter for price limits to narrow down your options.
✅ The best time of year for an affordable vacation to San Rafael is during low season. This is when fewer people visit and there is a wider range of cheap San Rafael hotels available.
✅ There are plenty of things to see and do in San Rafael on a budget! From exploring the city's iconic landmarks and museums to enjoying the great outdoors and local parks, there is something for everyone in San Rafael.
✅ If you're looking to travel to San Rafael on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save. One option is to consider booking your travel during off-peak times when prices for flights, hotels, and attractions may be lower. Another option is budget-friendly transportation, such as local public transportation like buses or trains.
✅ To find the great budget hotels in San Rafael for families, use our "Family friendly" filter under the "Travel experience" header. This will filter for family-friendly accommodation essentials.
*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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