Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in Berkeley, particularly for visitors, is Downtown Berkeley.

This area is the heart of the city's commercial and cultural life, centred around Shattuck Avenue and University Avenue. It's very walkable and offers a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. You'll find the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, the UC Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, and the city's main public library here. The Downtown Berkeley BART station provides direct access to San Francisco and Oakland.

Couples looking for a convenient and engaging stay will find Downtown Berkeley ideal. You're within easy walking distance of quality dining options, various live music venues, and the campus of the University of California, Berkeley, known for its beautiful architecture and academic pursuits.

For those prioritising a quieter, more residential experience while still being close to amenities, the area around the North Shattuck Avenue neighbourhood, sometimes called the "Gourmet Ghetto", is an excellent choice. It's known for its high-end food shops, bakeries, and renowned restaurants.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Berkeley that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in Berkeley that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are the Claremont Resort & Club and the Hotel Shattuck Plaza.

The 5-star Claremont Resort & Club, with an 8.8 rating, is a luxurious option offering amenities such as on-site tennis facilities, Egyptian cotton sheets, and valet parking. Guests frequently praise the comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and fantastic spa and pool facilities. It is conveniently located near the University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley and Memorial Stadium.

Another highly recommended option is the 4-star Hotel Shattuck Plaza, which has an 8.8 rating. This hotel provides premium bedding and designer toiletries, and offers early check-in options. Travellers often highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, the friendly and professional staff, and the convenient location. It is close to Memorial Stadium and the Essig Museum of Entomology.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

For families travelling to Berkeley, the Claremont Resort & Club and the Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley are highly recommended.

The 5-star Claremont Resort & Club, with an 8.8 rating, is an excellent choice for families. It offers a wide array of amenities specifically designed for children, including free rollaway extra beds and cribs, on-site babysitting and childcare services, a children's club, and supervised childcare. Families will also appreciate the kids' meals, bed guards, highchairs, and a playground. The hotel also features connecting rooms and a pool with a pool gate for added safety. Guests frequently praise the comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and fantastic SPA and pool facilities. Nearby points of interest include the University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley and Memorial Stadium.

Another top option is the 4-star Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley, boasting an impressive 9.2 rating. This hotel provides free cribs and sofa beds, making it convenient for families. Guests can also enjoy complimentary breakfast, including a continental breakfast, which is a great start to the day. Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly staff, amazing breakfast, and perfect, clean rooms. Its location is also considered excellent, with proximity to Memorial Stadium and the Gourmet Ghetto. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Berkeley

Question 4

What are the best 5-star hotels in Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

For a highly-rated 5-star hotel in Berkeley, the Claremont Resort & Club is an excellent choice.

This 5-star hotel, with an 8.8 rating, offers a luxurious experience with amenities such as Egyptian cotton sheets and designer toiletries. Guests can enjoy the convenience of valet parking and on-site tennis facilities, including outdoor courts. The hotel also features a restaurant with garden views. It is located near several points of interest, including the University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley, Memorial Stadium, and People's Park, all within 1.9 km. Guests frequently praise the comfortable and lovely rooms, the friendly and great staff, and the fantastic spa and pool. Find more luxury hotels in Berkeley

Question 5

What are the best spa hotels in Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

For an outstanding spa experience in Berkeley, the Claremont Resort & Club is an exceptional choice.

This 5-star hotel, with an impressive 8.8 rating, offers a fantastic spa with a wide array of treatments including deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, and reflexology. Guests can also enjoy facial treatments, couples' treatment rooms, and a steam room. The spa is accessible and advance notice for massages is available. Customers frequently highlight the fantastic spa, comfortable rooms, great amenities, and friendly staff. See all spa hotels in Berkeley

Question 6

What hotels in Berkeley offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Berkeley that offer complimentary breakfast, consider the Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Berkeley by IHG, Berkeley City Club, and Sather Berkeley, SureStay Collection by Best Western.

The 4-star Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley, with a 9.2 rating, provides a free continental breakfast daily and free WiFi. Guests frequently mention the friendly staff and the perfect, clean rooms. It is conveniently located near the UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall, just 0.3 km away.

Another excellent option is the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Berkeley by IHG, which holds a 9.0 rating. This hotel offers a free buffet breakfast daily, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests often praise the hot, good breakfast and the comfortable, clean rooms.

The Berkeley City Club, rated 8.8, also includes a free continental breakfast daily and free WiFi. Reviewers often highlight the friendly, attentive staff and the great, walkable location. It is situated 0.8 km from the Chickering American River Reserve.

Finally, the Sather Berkeley, SureStay Collection by Best Western, with a 7.8 rating, provides a free breakfast and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the newly remodelled, clean rooms and the friendly, helpful staff. This hotel is located 0.4 km from the UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall. Find more hotels with breakfast in Berkeley

Question 7

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in Berkeley, consider the Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley, Hotel Shattuck Plaza, Graduate by Hilton Berkeley, Claremont Resort & Club, and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina.

The 4-star Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley, with an excellent 9.2 rating, permits pets and offers complimentary continental breakfast, which guests often praise as amazing. Its location is also frequently described as perfect.

Another great option is the 4-star Hotel Shattuck Plaza, rated 8.8. This hotel welcomes both dogs and cats, providing food and water bowls, and offers suites. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the convenient location and delicious food.

The 4-star Graduate by Hilton Berkeley, with an 8.4 rating, is also very pet-friendly, welcoming both dogs and cats and providing food and water bowls. It offers suites and is conveniently located near Memorial Stadium, just 0.5 km away, and Zellerbach Playhouse, 0.4 km away. Guests often highlight the excellent service and helpful staff.

The 5-star Claremont Resort & Club, with an 8.8 rating, permits both dogs and cats and provides food and water bowls. This luxurious resort also boasts an extensive health club with fitness classes, a steam room, and a pool, which guests frequently describe as fantastic.

Finally, the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina, rated 8.2, permits dogs and features an indoor pool. This hotel is situated in a beautiful location just 0.5 km from Berkeley Marina and 0.4 km from McLaughlin Eastshore State Park. Guests often comment on the friendly staff and comfortable beds. See more pet-friendly hotels in Berkeley

Question 8

What are the best budget hotels in Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

For excellent budget accommodation in Berkeley, consider the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Berkeley by IHG or the Berkeley City Club.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Berkeley by IHG has a 9.0 rating. Guests consistently praise the comfortable and clean rooms, the friendly and helpful staff, and the hot, good breakfast. Free internet, free buffet breakfast, and free self-parking are also provided, which adds to the convenience. It is located just 2.1 km from Gourmet Ghetto.

Another highly-rated option is the Berkeley City Club, with an 8.8 rating. This hotel offers free WiFi, free breakfast, and free continental breakfast. Guests frequently mention the friendly and attentive staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and its great, walkable location, being only 1.4 km from Gourmet Ghetto. View all budget hotels in Berkeley

Question 9

What are the most romantic hotels in Berkeley for couples?

Accepted Answer

For couples seeking a romantic stay in Berkeley, the Claremont Resort & Club, Berkeley City Club, and Sens Hotel & Vanne Bistro Berkeley are highly recommended.

The 5-star Claremont Resort & Club, with an 8.8 rating, is an excellent choice for a luxurious romantic getaway. Guests frequently praise the comfortable and lovely rooms, the fantastic spa, and the great amenities including a health club, steam room, and yoga classes. The resort also features hot tubs and couples' treatment rooms, great for relaxation together. It is conveniently located near the University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley, just 1.9 km away.

Another wonderful option is the Berkeley City Club, also rated 8.8. This hotel is celebrated for its comfortable and clean rooms, as well as its friendly and attentive staff. Guests often highlight the gorgeous and beautiful pool, and its great, walkable location near the Gourmet Ghetto (1.4 km) and Berkeley Repertory Theater (0.8 km). Some rooms offer mountain views, adding to the romantic setting.

The Sens Hotel & Vanne Bistro Berkeley, with an 8.4 rating, offers a charming experience. Guests appreciate the clean and amazing rooms, the friendly and amazing staff, and the convenient location. It features balconies or patios, bathrobes, and air conditioning, providing a comfortable stay. The hotel is very close to the Gourmet Ghetto, just 0.1 km away, and 0.9 km from the Berkeley Repertory Theater, making it ideal for exploring local attractions.

Question 10

When is the best time to go to Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Berkeley is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months.

These periods offer the most pleasant weather, with moderate temperatures and less chance of rain, making it ideal for exploring the outdoor attractions and enjoying the city's academic and cultural events. You'll find the trees and gardens in full bloom in spring, and the autumn brings colourful foliage, particularly around the university campus.

For those planning to attend events at the University of California, Berkeley, such as commencement ceremonies or sporting events, late spring and early autumn are particularly good. The campus is less crowded with students during summer and winter breaks, which can also be a nice time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience, though some university-related facilities might have reduced hours.

Summer (July to August) can also be a good time, especially if you enjoy warmer weather, though it can get quite hot in August.

Question 11

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Berkeley.

Question 12

How can I save on a hotel booking in Berkeley with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Berkeley hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Question 13

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Berkeley?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Berkeley often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$129 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	56.5°F (13.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Search Berkeley hotels

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in Berkeley

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Our top choices for Berkeley hotels

1. Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

2. Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3. Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

4. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina

5. Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel

6. Handlery Union Square Hotel

7. Hilton San Francisco Union Square

8. Hotel Zoe Fisherman's Wharf

9. Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

10. Hilton San Francisco Financial District

11. Hotel Caza

12. Claremont Resort & Club

13. The Marker Union Square San Francisco

14. Marriott Vacation Club®, San Francisco

15. Fairmont San Francisco

16. Hyatt Regency San Francisco

17. Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

18. Hotel Shattuck Plaza

19. Hotel Nikko San Francisco

20. Stanford Court San Francisco

Our guide on where to stay in Berkeley

Downtown Berkeley

North Berkeley

South Berkeley

West Berkeley

Central Berkeley

Stay near popular Berkeley attractions

University of California, Berkeley

Learn more about Berkeley

Top Berkeley Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Berkeley

Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront

More cheap accommodation in Berkeley

Park Pointe Hotel

Find out more about Berkeley

Top reasons to visit Berkeley

Find great hotels near Berkeley

Where to stay in Berkeley

Things to do near Berkeley

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Berkeley

Find the best attractions in and around Berkeley

Best time to go to Berkeley

The nearest major airports for your trip to Berkeley

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Go further with the Expedia app