HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel Reviews

HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel is a fantastic budget-friendly option for travelers looking to stay in the heart of the city. The location is unbeatable, just a short walk from Union Square, public transit, and major attractions like Chinatown and the Ferry Building. The hostel is clean, secure, and well-maintained, with both dormitory and private room options. Guests often praise the friendly staff, organized activities, and free or low-cost breakfast. The communal kitchen and lounge areas encourage social interaction, making it ideal for solo travelers. Overall, it’s a lively, comfortable, and convenient place to stay in San Francisco.

The elevator was out of use, which made me feel bad. The stair is narrow. But the location is pretty good.

Honestly not sure where to start - WOULD NOT RECOMMEND - staff: poor experience in checkin, the man at the desk couldnt understand that there is two people on the booking and wasn't excited that there was only a single payment - staff: lady working at desk hard to communicate - failed to even understand the idea of extending the room, honestly get someone more efficient/experienced - building: elevator not working (despite the fact that was supposed to be fixed by the end of may) - room: stuffy room with windows covered from outside - no light no air - room: not allowed to open window to get fresh air - bathroom: no public sinks to wash hands after using toilet - just the weird idea that poorly flowing recycled water from toilet is sufficient to rinse hands (eeek dirty) - bathroom: toilet paper all over toilets  - kitchen: electric stove and oven poor quality, taking forever to heat up. utensils dirty - kitchen: water machine broken - kitchen: discontinued breakfast due to budget savings - location: sketchy area - would not recommend!

Location is great. Breakfast is great. However, shower and toilet facilities should be added.

It’s in a good location. I stayed there for one night with no trouble at all. The only problem is that there’s no elevator, but since I was on the fourth floor, it wasn’t a big deal for me.

First time at 66 years old in a hostel and amazed by how friendly everyone is and good the rooms are. We had an en-suite room with white towels, clean white bedding on a very comfortable bed, room serviced every day, just round the corner from Union Square, and all the transport links. Fabulous location, and excellent value for money. Thank you to the lovely helpers at the check in desk.

Pretty good hostel. Ended up staying an extra night and was able to keep the same bed. Location is great. It’s near a lot of bus stops and Powell station.

Very nice hostel for young traveller, everything is ead

Very clean hostel with friendly staffs! Definitely will go back! Thank you so much.

Nice!

The cleaning staff was friendly and very tidy, so the kitchen was always clean. The shower had great water pressure, but it was a bit disappointing that it was only lukewarm in the cold mornings and evenings in San Francisco. There were a fair number of toilets and shower rooms, so no one would overlap.

It exceeded my expectations. Although it is a bit old, the hygiene is good and the location is also very good. In short, I am quite satisfied

It smells musty and is too old, but the sheets and mattresses are clean, the breakfast meets general needs, and it is rich in cultural atmosphere. It is suitable for young people to stay temporarily, but I also saw many elderly tourists in the hotel

Wonderful experience