San Antonio was a city that totally surprised me. I’m not going to lie, I didn’t expect too much going into it but the city completely blew me away.
From its history and culture to its food and architecture – San Antonio went above and beyond my expectations. The city has a seamless blend of southern, Texan charm with a Mexican influence.
A melting pot of cultures, San Antonio is a super diverse city and it has the food to show for it. You don’t need to just take my word for it either, the city has been named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. It’s quite literally, some of the best food in the world.
With so much history to discover and food to try, you’ll need to decide where to stay in San Antonio. San Antonio has many different neighborhoods to choose from, each offering something slightly different. Deciding which area is best for you can be a difficult task.
But you’ve come to the right place! I’ve compiled the top areas to stay in San Antonio depending on your travel style and budget. Everything I learned and loved about this city is written in the lines below.
So, kick off em’ cowboy boots and make yourself comfortable as I take you through everything I know.
- Where to Stay in San Antonio
- San Antonio Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in San Antonio
- San Antonio’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in San Antonio
- What To Pack For San Antonio
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for San Antonio
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in San Antonio
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in San Antonio.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Downtown Guest House | Best Airbnb in San Antonio
This large renovated cottage sleeps eight guests and is ideal for families or groups of friends deciding where to stay in San Antonio for the first time. Interiors are chic and comfortable, with bright spaces and wooden floors throughout. Guests can enjoy coffee out on the covered porch each morning, and there’s easy access to hiking and biking trails for exploring.
Super 8 by Wyndham San Antonio Fiesta | Best Budget Hotel in San Antonio
This charming two-star motel hotel is our favorite budget hotel in San Antonio. It’s got clean rooms, comfy beds, and an onsite pool for guests to enjoy. The hotel serves up a continental breakfast each morning so you can fuel up before a day of exploring. It’s a great base for sightseeing, as top attractions are only a short drive away.
Riverwalk Plaza Hotel San Antonio | Best Hotel in San Antonio
Thanks to its excellent location and delicious on-site restaurant, this is one of our favorite hotels in the city. Designed in classic art deco style, the hotel boasts an onsite pool and a bar specialising in craft cocktails. If you’ve got a bit more to spend on accommodation, this place is worth every penny.
Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is a neighbourhood nestled at the centre of downtown San Antonio. It is one of the best places to stay in the city because it’s close to great bars and delicious restaurants.
Downtown
Downtown is a large neighbourhood set at the centre of the city. The area is brimming with businesses and leisure activities and is where you’ll find a great and varied selection of bars, clubs and restaurants.
Southtown
Southtown is a lively and vibrant neighbourhood located adjacent to downtown and the San Antonio Riverwalk. It is home to modern art galleries and exciting diners and bars and is bursting with ambience and life.
Pearl
Pearl is a small neighbourhood tucked north of the city centre. It is an old industrial area that has undergone a revamp in recent years and is now a hub for creativity, food and leisure.
Northwest
The Northwest neighbourhood is one of the most exciting and fun areas of San Antonio. Set west of the downtown core, this bustling suburb is characterized by its oak tree-line streets and its towering glass skyscrapers.
San Antonio is a sprawling city, considered to be the cradle of Texan liberty. There’s so much to see and do in this diverse city, including historical landmarks, the culinary scene, and plenty of great nightlife spots.
We highly recommend visiting each area mentioned in this guide. They’re all easily accessible by car or public transport, so you can really make the most of your stay.
If you’re visiting San Antonio for the first time, we recommend staying along the Riverwalk. Set at the center of downtown, the Riverwalk is a lively and vibrant neighborhood home to bars, restaurants, shops, and more. It also provides easy access to the other neighborhoods.
If you want to stay close to the Riverwalk but you’re traveling on a budget, stay in Downtown. You’ll find plenty of cheaper accommodation in this area.
Head north from here and you’ll arrive in Pearl. Bursting with flavors and flair, this bohemian neighborhood is one of the most unique places to stay in San Antonio.
Travel south through the city to Southtown. A hub of activity, Southtown is where you’ll find the best nightlife in San Antonio, as well as good food and fascinating sights.
Finally, the Northwest neighborhood is a massive district located west of the city center. Home to top attractions like SeaWorld and Six Flags, Northwest San Antonio is a neighborhood brimming with fun, games, animals, and excitement. This makes it our top pick for where to stay in San Antonio with family.
Still not sure where to stay in San Antonio? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with more detailed guides on each place below!
Want to save money on accommodation?
Enjoy 20% OFF on stays ALL around the world.
San Antonio’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In this next section, we’ll take a look at the five best neighborhoods to stay in San Antonio in more detail. Each offers something a little different to visitors, so be sure to read each section carefully and pick the neighborhood that’s right for you.
1. Riverwalk – Where to Stay in San Antonio for the First Time
The Riverwalk is a neighborhood nestled at the center of downtown San Antonio. It’s one of the best places to stay in the city because it’s close to top attractions, great bars, and delicious restaurants.
Bursting with life and color, the Riverwalk is a lively neighborhood day and night. Whether you head for a stroll along the waterways, pop over to the famous Alamo, or opt for a rowdy night on the town, you’ll be in for a treat.
Downtown Guest House | Best Airbnb in Riverwalk
This large renovated cottage sleeps eight guests and is ideal for families or groups of friends deciding where to stay in San Antonio for the first time. Interiors are chic and comfortable, with bright spaces and wooden floors throughout. Guests can enjoy coffee out on the covered porch each morning, and there’s easy access to hiking and biking trails for exploring.
O’Brien Riverwalk Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Riverwalk
The O’Brien Boutique Hotel is perfect for couples staying in Riverwalk. Rooms are furnished traditionally, and there’s a terrace and garden area for relaxing after a day of exploring. There are loads of attractions within walking distance, including museums, theatres, and the Historic Arts Village.
Hotel Havana San Antonio | Best Hotel in Riverwalk
This charming hotel gets our vote for the best place to stay on the Riverwalk because of its great location and thoughtful amenities. It’s beautifully decorated both in and outside, featuring a sun terrace and well-known bar. It’s just five minutes from the Riverwalk and top sights, making it great value for money.
Riverwalk Plaza Hotel San Antonio | Best Hotel in Riverwalk
This is another top pick designed in art deco style. Whether you want to cool off in the pool or relax with a craft cocktail in hand, this is the place to go. It’s got an excellent location and stunning furnishings. If you’ve got a bit more to spend on accommodation, this place is worth every penny.
Things to See and Do in Riverwalk:
- Admire the decoration and architecture of the ornate Majestic Theatre.
- Dine on delicious local cuisine at The Esquire Tavern.
- Enjoy great works of art at the Briscoe Western Art Museum.
- Explore the hallowed grounds of the Alamo.
- Have your mind blown at the Guinness World Records Museum.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Mi Tierra Café & Bakery.
- Sink your teeth into a tasty burger at Zinc Bistro & Wine Bar.
- Take in the panoramic views from the Tower of the Americas.
- Visit The Buckhorn Saloon & Texas Ranger Museum.
- Wander throughout the La Villita Historic Arts Village.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey2. Downtown – Where to Stay in San Antonio on a Budget
Downtown is a large neighborhood set at the center of the city. Split by the San Antonio River, it’s the perfect place to explore if you’re keen to get sit back, see the sights, or enjoy a few pints.
This neighborhood is also home to a high concentration of budget accommodation options. Although there aren’t any hostels in San Antonio, this area does boast a vast array of good-value hotels and vacation rentals. So, if you’re traveling on a budget, you can still enjoy all the perks of the city.
Affordable Tiny House in Downtown | Best Airbnb in Downtown
This tiny and cozy cottage is perfect for those visiting San Antonio on a budget. It’s got all the essentials for a homely stay and is ideal for two guests. Located less than a mile away from Downtown, you’ll be just a stone’s throw away from the center, but far enough to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Hampton Inn & Suites San Antonio-Downtown Market Square | Best Hotel in Downtown
The Hampton Inn & Suites is one of our favorite San Antonio hotels. It boasts a fantastic central location and popular in-house restaurant, as well as modern amenities. Rooms are spacious and comfortably furnished, providing a relaxing space to kick back in after a day of exploring. Top attractions including the Alamo and Main Plaza are less than a mile away.
BEST WESTERN Plus Sunset Suites – Riverwalk | Best Hotel in Downtown
This charming three-star hotel offers good-value accommodation in the heart of the city. It’s located in the main shopping and sightseeing area and is close to lively bars, so you won’t have to splash on public transport. Rooms are well-equipped, and a buffet breakfast is served each morning.
Hotel Gibbs Junior Suite | Best Hotel in Downtown
This boutique hotel offers great value for money. Situated close to Riverwalk and the Alamo, the suite is within walking distance of all the best sights in town. Rooms are clean and stylish, with original hardwood flooring and large bathrooms. Up to four guests can stay here, and breakfast is provided each morning.
Things to See and Do in Downtown:
- Catch a performance at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.
- Dive deep into history at the San Antonio Fire Museum.
- Eat delicious tacos and Mexican fare at Pete’s Tako House.
- Enjoy a night of cocktails and jazz at SoHo Wine and Martini Bar.
- Excite your senses at Oasis Mexican Café.
- Go for a stroll through Travis Park.
- Grab a pint at Drink Texas Bar.
- Sip sophisticated cocktails at The Brooklynite.
- Take a walk along the colourful Riverwalk.
3. Southtown – Best Area to Stay in San Antonio for Nightlife
Southtown is a lively and vibrant neighborhood located adjacent to downtown and the San Antonio Riverwalk. Some of the coolest places to visit in San Antonio, like modern art galleries and excellent diners.
Southtown is also the best place to stay if you’re looking for nightlife. There is a vast array of speakeasies and nightclubs dotted throughout the neighborhood, as well as some of San Antonio’s best bars.
Stylish Cosy Suite in the Historic District | Best Airbnb in Southtown
This contemporary San Antonio Airbnb is ideal for those who want to be in the middle of the action. Located only a short walk from Riverwalk, it’s ideal to explore San Antonio’s sights during the day. There’s a beautiful porch to relax on in the evenings if you decide to have a night in.
Cityview Inn & Suites Downtown RiverCenter Area | Best Hotel in Southtown
Located at the heart of the city, this three-star hotel is an excellent base for your time in San Antonio. It provides comfortable and spacious rooms with modern amenities and a variety of features. There’s also an on-site restaurant that offers a tasty selection of local and international dishes.
Inn on the Riverwalk | Best Bed and Breakfast in Southtown
The Inn on the Riverwalk is our top recommendation for where to stay in Southtown San Antonio. It’s conveniently located in the city center and is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, bars, and landmarks. Each room is individually decorated and comes complete with a fridge, private bathroom, and free wifi.
The Madison | Best Hotel in Southtown
If you want the comforts of home and the conveniences of a hotel, check out this modern aparthotel! Larger apartments can sleep six guests, and each comes with a kitchen and basic essentials. Guests can also enjoy the onsite gym, garden, bar, and bicycle hire.
Things to See and Do in Southtown:
- Dine on fresh and delicious local fare at Feast.
- Don’t miss happy hour at Bar America.
- Eat tasty quintessential American dishes at La Tuna.
- Enjoy seriously mouthwatering food at Liberty Bar.
- Excite your taste buds at Rosario’s Mexican Café Y Cantina.
- Grab a bite to eat at the Filling Station.
- See a wonderful collection of art at the San Antonio Art League and Museum.
- Sink your teeth into delicious contemporary American cuisine at Bliss.
- Sip cocktails at ultra-cool Bar 1919.
- Spend an afternoon eating, drinking and chatting at the Friendly Spot Ice House.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Pearl – Coolest Place to Stay in San Antonio
Pearl is a small neighborhood tucked north of the city centre. It’s an old industrial area that has undergone a revamp in recent years, and today is a hub for creativity, food and leisure. The bohemian and cultural hub of San Antonio, Pearl is a neighborhood brimming with excitement and energy.
If you love to eat then you’re going to want to stay in Pearl. Although the district is small, it’s bursting with delicious restaurants, cosy cafés, and electrifying eateries where you try local cuisine and dishes from around the world.
You’ll also find a good selection of breweries in Pearl, making it the perfect destination for a laid-back afternoon.
La Villa By The Riverwalk | Best Vacation Home in Pearl
La Villa By The Riverwalk is a charming vacation home in central San Antonio. It is a short drive from the Riverwalk and is within walking distance of the San Antonio Museum of Art. This delightful property offers unique and comfortable accommodation, with a large garden to relax in and all the amenities you’ll need for a memorable stay.
Pearl Palace | Best Hotel in Pearl
Pearl Palace combines contemporary design with rustic charm. This holiday home comes fully equipped with a kitchen, dining area, and laundry facilities, making this an ideal base for families staying in San Antonio. The home is within walking distance of top attractions, and bicycle hire is available.
Hotel Emma at Pearl on the Riverwalk | Best Hotel in Pearl
This luxurious hotel is one of our favorite places to stay in Pearl. It offers four-star accommodations and comfortable rooms, and is ideally located for shopping and exploring. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and BBQ area, as well as epic views over the city.
Urban Sophisticated Loft near Pearl Brewery | Best Airbnb in Pearl
Located a minute’s walk away from all the best things to do in Pearl, this modern industrial design loft comes with everything you need to have a fantastic stay in San Antonio. There’s a fully-stocked kitchen to a big smart TV with Netflix, so you can enjoy some downtime after a day out.
Things to See and Do in Pearl:
- Dine on seafood at Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery.
- Eat burgers at Tycoon Flats.
- Enjoy drinks at Sparky’s.
- Excite your taste buds at Bottling Dept Food Hall.
- Feast on mouthwatering barbecue at The Granary.
- Grab a pint at the Pearl Brewery.
- Listen to live music at Jazz, TX.
- Sample a range of flavourful tacos at Viva Tacoland.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Lick Honest Ice Creams.
- Savour local delicacies at Cured.
- Shop, snack and sample your way through the Pearl Farmers Market.
- Sip cocktails at Blue Box Bar.
- Try the catfish at Armadillos Burgers.
5. Northwest – Best Neighborhood in San Antonio for Families
The Northwest neighborhood is one of the most exciting and fun areas of San Antonio. Set west of the downtown core, this bustling suburb is characterized by its oak tree-lined streets and towering glass skyscrapers. It’s where you can enjoy a taste of old Texas and immerse yourself in the state’s unique culture and vibe.
This area of the city is best known as the home to Six Flags Fiesta Texas. This sprawling theme park is packed with games, rides, and attractions that will entertain your little ones all day long.
Spacious and Open House for Families | Best Airbnb in Northwest
Treat your family to this stunning house in San Antonio, perfectly located in the Northwest. Spacious, open, and with everything you need, it will create a comfortable home away from home. This house can accommodate up to 12 guests across four bedrooms. It’s just a 20 minute drive to Downtown from here, you so you’ll have the whole city within easy reach.
Super 8 by Wyndham San Antonio Fiesta | Best Good-Value Hotel in Northwest
This charming two-star hotel is our pick for where to stay in the Northwest because of its clean rooms and comfortable beds. There’s an outdoor pool on site, and the nearby theme park makes this a great place to stay with kids. Family rooms are available and the hotel is pet-friendly, so Fido won’t have to miss out on the family trip.
Holiday Inn San Antonio Northwest- SeaWorld Area | Best Hotel in Northwest
The Holiday Inn San Antonio is a themed hotel set in one of the most fun areas of the city. It is in close proximity to SeaWorld and is a short drive to Six Flags. Rooms are modern and feature kitchenettes, so you have the option to eat in. One of the best things about this place (other than the fact that it’s eco-friendly), is that kids eat for free!
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Northwest San Antonio | Best Hotel in Northwest
This contemporary three-star hotel provides a convenient base for travelers looking to enjoy Six Flags, San Antonio. Located in the Northwest neighborhood, this hotel is also close to shops, eateries, and bars. It features modern rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
Things to See and Do in Northwest:
- Feast on a variety of delicious local dishes at Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-BQ.
- Fly through the air and tumble round at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
- Get back to nature at Government Canyon State Natural Area.
- Shop until you drop at The Shops at La Cantera.
- Slip, slide, splash and play at Aquatica San Antonio.
- Indulge in tasty, savoury, spicy and satisfying dishes at Alamo BBQ Co.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in San Antonio
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of San Antonio and where to stay.
What To Pack For San Antonio
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for San Antonio
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in San Antonio
San Antonio is one of the most underrated cities in America. It offers delicious food, lively bars, and boasts a rich history and diverse culture. Top all of that off with thrilling theme parks and stunning natural surroundings, and San Antonio is most certainly a destination worth your travel time and dollars.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best neighborhoods to stay in San Antonio. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favorites:
Super 8 by Wyndham San Antonio Fiesta is our pick for the best budget hotel because of its great location, comfortable rooms, and unbeatable price. Situated in the Northwest area, it’s ideal if you’re looking to explore the theme parks or want a quieter location.
For something more upmarket, check out the Riverwalk Plaza. Located in the heart of the city, you’ll have all the top attractions within easy reach. It’s beautifully furnished and one of the best places to base yourself in the city.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in San Antonio instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in San Antonio to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
