For an ultra-luxurious stay in the City, save up for a room at The Argonaut (495 Jefferson St., 866/415-0704, www.argonauthotel.com, $350). With stunning bay views from its prime Fisherman’s Wharf location, in-room spa services, and a yoga channel. The Argonaut is all San Francisco, all the time. Bold patterns in blues, golds, and black and white dominate guest room decor. Rooms range from cozy standards up to posh suites with separate bedrooms and whirlpool tubs. The hotel is located steps from the Maritime Museum and Ghirardelli Square.

It may be part of a chain, but the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf (555 North Point St., 415/563-1234, www.fishermanswharf.hyatt.com, $300) still merits a visit. The unusual-for-San Francisco brick facade hides an ultra-modern lobby and matching guest rooms. Though not too big, rooms are elegantly appointed with lots of decadent white linens. Many packages aim at both business travelers and visiting families. Perhaps the best of these is the “Summer Parking Package,” which includes overnight valet parking with the room rate.

Another great upscale hotel in the heart of San Francisco’s visitors’ district is the Best Western Tuscan Inn (425 North Point St., 415/561-1100, www.tuscaninn.com, $275–725). This luxurious Italian-inspired hotel offers great amenities and prime access to Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, Alcatraz, and all local shopping and dining.

The attractive and very modern exterior gives way to earth tones and country-style charm in the common areas. The guest rooms boast bright colors and up-to-date furnishings—much fancier than you might be accustomed to from a Best Western. All rooms have private baths. They’ve also got Internet access, cable TV, and limo service to the Financial District three times daily. Check online for discount rates if you’re coming during the middle of the week or booking more than two weeks in advance.