Originally built in 1910, Cornell Hotel de France has been owned and operated by the Lambert Family for fifty years. In that time the Lamberts have created, in San Francisco, the kind of small three star hotel that may be found on the rive gauche in Paris. For a moderate price, customers can have the personal comfort of a bed and breakfast.
Completely renovated, mixing the charm of the past and modern amenities, the Cornell Hotel is unique and distinctly European, easy going, and profuse with art and history. Individually decorated, each room is equipped with cable television and telephone with private voice mail. On the lower floor cold drinks are available (additional charge) and an ice machine is at the disposal of our guests.
Completely renovated, mixing the charm of the past and modern amenities, the Cornell Hotel is unique and distinctly European, easy going, and profuse with art and history. Individually decorated, each room is equipped with cable television and telephone with private voice mail. On the lower floor cold drinks are available (additional charge) and an ice machine is at the disposal of our guests.
Services
Probably the most iconic landmark of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge completed construction in 1937 and is recognized world-wide for its beauty. For the best views of the bridge in the city, take a stroll through Crissy field. You can cross the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito by car, bike, or foot.
Looking to make your stay in San Francisco extra memorable? Do you want to surprise a loved one who is staying with us by offering them something special? Our gift shop is the perfect place to buy a gift certificate or a special surprise to be waiting in the room. Offer a gift certificate for a memorable stay at our French boutique hotel to your family, friends, or loved ones.
Our French Boutique hotel, built in 1910 by the architect A.W. Pattiani is registered at the National Register of Historic Places as part of the 'Lower Nob Hill Apartment Hotel District. Like many San Franciscan buildings from that era, our hotel is of Victorian architecture.
We have done renovations over the years to provide greater accessibility and modern comfort to the hotel, while keeping intact the classic San Francisco architecture that defines the building.Some of these aspects that we had to keep intact in our hotel and restaurant are not technically feasible to update in order to entirely accommodate our prospective guests who use wheelchairs or are otherwise limited in their mobility.
We have done renovations over the years to provide greater accessibility and modern comfort to the hotel, while keeping intact the classic San Francisco architecture that defines the building.Some of these aspects that we had to keep intact in our hotel and restaurant are not technically feasible to update in order to entirely accommodate our prospective guests who use wheelchairs or are otherwise limited in their mobility.
Reviews (28)
Tim McCaffrey
Feb 04, 2022
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I made a quick trip to San Francisco to see some friends play live music. Franck was extremely helpful with all the information I could need, and the woman at the front desk was marvelous. Considering my stay was during Covid, I felt safe the entire time with everyone taking the necessary measures and precautions. It was a wonderful surprise to know the parking was part of my stay, breakfast was perfect, and the coffee was outstanding. The location couldn't be better for shopping and dining. Only a block from Union Square. The room was quaint, bathrooms nicely updated and the view was perfect.
Heather H.
Jan 01, 2022
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Will absolutely be back here! Staff was amazing and kept in contact as our flights were delayed and we had to checkin quite late, then very understanding when we had to leave a day early due to injury. Breakfast was waiting for us in personal boxes downstairs since we booked directly through the hotel, we got the claw foot tub we requested, room was spotless and gorgeous. Heater worked efficiently, hot water and good shower pressure. Toilet handle does need fixed. Location was amazing, very quick walk to Union Square and all the surrounding restaurants.
(COVID) If you do not want daily sanitizing
(COVID) If you do not want daily sanitizing
Jomarie Farrell
Dec 29, 2021
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Carlos Reyes
Dec 27, 2021
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Me and my wife had an amazing time in San Francisco and largely due to our great experience at the Cornell Hotel de France. The hotel is very comfortable and clean and they really outdid themselves with decorating for the holidays. We were treated and helped extremely well, all thanks to Franck and the rest of the staff. We had a great breakfast prepared for us in the early morning to start our days. I would definitely stay again if I ever visit again.
Michelle R.
Dec 19, 2021
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Book your hotel directly with them and get the parking package if you have a car. Parking is a premium and if you're going to try for street parking just realize it is on a steep hill. The garage is now open 24/7, and located across the street. They're not the friendliest and you get one in/out privilege per day.
Being said that, the hotel is what matters. It's centrally located, near the cable cars, union square and 4 minutes walk to the 15 bus that takes you to the Chase Center.
It's very secure and you need to get buzzed in on your first visit. From there, you'll
Being said that, the hotel is what matters. It's centrally located, near the cable cars, union square and 4 minutes walk to the 15 bus that takes you to the Chase Center.
It's very secure and you need to get buzzed in on your first visit. From there, you'll
Amira R.
Dec 09, 2021
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Very much enjoyed our stay at Cornell Hotel de France during a long weekend sisters trip for my little sister's birthday. The value is fantastic, and with a very comfortable room, charming decor, and friendly staff. Perfect location to numerous delicious restaurants, cafes, & transportation. During our stay in October 2021- just a note that the breakfast restaurant was not open during that time due to COVID. Also we had requested no cleaning, but the staff still came to clean the first night, so if that's the option you take, just double-confirm it with the front desk.
Haley C.
Dec 04, 2021
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A. Google User
Nov 16, 2021
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Love the Cornell Hotel! The hotel has welcoming and helpful staff; rooms and common spaces that are artistically decorated in French, old world style, creating a beautiful and fun atmosphere; delicious coffee and breakfast; location that makes access to many sites and neighborhoods easy on foot or via public transportation; I have been choosing this hotel for 20 years of visiting SF and continue to be comfortable, satisfied and happy to stay there.
Susan Sano
Nov 01, 2021
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We stayed there for three nights in late July. The location of this hotel was perfect for us, even without the cable cars running! Best of all was the service at the desk: taxis, dining recommendations, general information. So personable. Our room was small but well appointed and very clean. Bathroom was roomy enough and there seemed to be an endless supply of hot water. All in all, it felt like a small hotel we would encounter in France...and we LOVE France. Merci a vous, Cornell Hotel.
ElevaTOURS Dieselducy
Oct 21, 2021
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This is an amazing hotel. I didn’t actually stay here however I did visit the property. I am an elevator enthusiast and these people let me enjoy their amazing historic elevator. While on the property I did notice that this is an amazing historic hotel. If you are ever in the area this seems to be an amazing place.
Shawn M.
Oct 09, 2021
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We wanted a smaller hotel with charm while visiting SF. We booked online after phone conversations with the hotel. Upon arrival we did not find things as expected as our room was older-not in a good way- and had some things that needed attention and it was not quite as charming as the pictures. Upon letting the manager know our concern, he quickly came up to our room. He was very prompt and attentive and showed us other room options and within 30 minutes we were moved to a room that was more suitable. The daily box breakfast of warm croissant, yogurt, fresh fruit and juice was put out each
Hii Rapozo
Sep 30, 2021
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Absolutely loved our stay here. Location was great and within walking distance of everything we wanted to do. Guest services were the best I’ve ever experienced and were very accommodating of my late date changes and early check-in. There were fresh towels and toiletries placed outside the room everyday since we opted out of room service during our stay. They provided breakfast boxes in the morning since the restaurant was closed and were kind enough to text me a reminder since we completely forgot and had it ready for us long after we probably should have grabbed it. The room was nice/clean
David K.
Sep 22, 2021
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I have never stayed at a hotel where the staff has cared about their customers so much. Everyone was super friendly and extremely helpful and very fun to talk to! The location is perfect and the hotel has this awesome charm to it. I am already betting on coming back to this place in the next couple of years. Also it was extremely clean!!
Richard M.
Sep 07, 2021
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A big thank you to the Manager, Franck and the rest of the staff at Cornell Hotel de France for making our San Francisco vacation a very enjoyable and memorable one. This boutique hotel is very charming and welcoming and we also enjoyed the daily breakfast that was prepared for us and special request fulfilled for our child. We were treated like family and we look forward to staying here again on our next visit.
Kaitlyn T.
Sep 06, 2021
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My fiancé and I stayed here for three nights over the weekend and we had a fantastic time. Not only was the hotel beautiful, but the staff was excellent and attentive. The manager Franck was incredibly nice. Each morning he personally buys all guests breakfast items and arranges them in a pastry box. Overall, the atmosphere of this hotel was pleasant and welcoming. Definitely recommend!
George Newfield
Aug 31, 2021
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We enjoyed our stay Cornell Hotel de France immensely. The location is safe and convenient, just steps away from the cable cars and walking distance to all the nearby sight. We love riding the cable car up and down the hill. The room was clean and comfortable. We felt like we were in Europe!
The staff is helpful and knows all the best places to go and dine. Great recommendation for breakfast was Mama's!
Thank you so much for helping us celebrate our 10-Year Anniversary!
The staff is helpful and knows all the best places to go and dine. Great recommendation for breakfast was Mama's!
Thank you so much for helping us celebrate our 10-Year Anniversary!
Vikki Jonas
Aug 28, 2021
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This was our 1st time staying at the Cornell Hotel De France and we absolutely loved it! I picked this hotel after finding out that the hotel where we usually stay was still closed and so glad that I did! The hotel is so quiet, clean and so adorable! The room was extremely clean and they went above and beyond following Covid-19 protocols and then some. The bed was very soft and oh so comfortable after being out all day. The bathroom was very clean with nice toiletries which were replaced every day. Franck and the rest of the staff are the absolute best! Loved all the hand-painted details throughout
Ruben V.
Aug 23, 2021
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If I could give this hotel 10 stars I most definitely would. The Cornell Hotel de France is like waking up in France every single day. My boyfriend and I stayed here for 4 days/3 nights and ABSOLUTELY enjoyed it. Staff was amazing, the rooms are always clean, and everything was just absolutely perfect. C'est très magnifique l'hôtel en San Francisco!!!!!!
Mana B.
Jul 24, 2021
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Sandra G.
Jul 14, 2021
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The hotel and the manager Franck were wonderful! The hotel is perfectly clean with so much attention to beautiful artwork and classic fixtures. The bathrooms have been renovated and are perfect. After spending so much time during the past year at home, I was very appreciative to have had such an old fashioned friendly experience out of town, in San Francisco.
Cayla B.
Jul 07, 2021
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I can not rate this place high enough. I recently met my dad in San Francisco after he had been traveling for a week in California. My dad had already stayed 2 nights at the Cornell Hotel de France and spoke highly of Franc, the employee who helped guide him through the city. Since my dad was staying 2 nights before I came, he didn't see the point in getting a 2 bed room and anticipated I wouldn't mind sharing the room, which I didn't care about. Franc offered and told me I could have the room across for free for the night because no one was in it and it was already clean. Absolutely
Vivian W.
Apr 30, 2021
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I cannot say enough good things about this hotel. They were absolutely wonderful. My family and I had such a fantastic stay. Franck, the manager, was incredible and so accommodating. He was kind enough to give us many different snacks and waters daily during our stay. Joe, one of the night receptionists, was also so kind and helpful when I checked in. The cleaning woman was also super friendly and nice. The room was so nice, clean and beautiful. It accommodated three people very comfortably. My favorite part was the bathroom. It was obviously newly renovated, with a rain shower and very nice sink
Tessa P.
Mar 23, 2021
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I cannot say enough great things about this boutique hotel. From the beautiful exterior to the museum like lobby, we were transported to Europe! It was a trip within a trip! All of the art and decor were spectacular. Each and every member of the staff were delightful and helpful. We loved our warm croissants for breakfast and felt safe during our stay. Everything was sparkling clean. Can't wait to return the next time we are in SF!
We booked directly through the hotel's website and received additional perks. Parking is limited so we kept our car in the garage and used Lyft or Uber to
We booked directly through the hotel's website and received additional perks. Parking is limited so we kept our car in the garage and used Lyft or Uber to
Chillindrina F.
Jan 20, 2021
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I stayed here for the first time when I attended a conference in San Francisco. All the hotels were ridiculously priced and the Cornell was the least expensive option from my short list. The hotel is near the corner of Bush and Powell and the area seemed very safe. A 5-minute walk from Union Square and an 8-minute walk to Chinatown. The hotel has a small sitting area, front desk, computer station with printer, and coffee and tea station. The rooms are small, bathroom small, but everything was very clean and that is one of the most important things for me. The bed was comfortable, there's a
Linda G.
Dec 26, 2020
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Nicole T.
Feb 13, 2020
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This is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in this neighborhood but I probably wouldn't stay here again unless I needed the location.
The good: This is one of the cleanest hotels I've EVER stayed at. And I travel a lot, at varying prices. Thanks for your attention to detail Cornell. Not a spiderweb or smear to be seen, every corner clean. Carpet clean. I wish every hotel was like this. And it didn't smell like heavy cleaners either. Beautiful historical look all over. Friendly and efficient staff.
The bad: holy crap is this place loud. You can hear soooo much - traffic noise,
The good: This is one of the cleanest hotels I've EVER stayed at. And I travel a lot, at varying prices. Thanks for your attention to detail Cornell. Not a spiderweb or smear to be seen, every corner clean. Carpet clean. I wish every hotel was like this. And it didn't smell like heavy cleaners either. Beautiful historical look all over. Friendly and efficient staff.
The bad: holy crap is this place loud. You can hear soooo much - traffic noise,
Ada C.
Apr 09, 2019
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Stayed here the night before my half marathon race and I got the queen bed room. I was a little skeptical about the size of the room and bathroom but it wasn't too shabby for San Francisco! You can't beat the location being so close to Union Square and shopping!
Check in was pretty easy. It's a pretty old building but they did a great job decorating and making it feel very European with hand painted wall decor and lots of French paintings and statues. There was only room key and a dongle for the front entrance door. The attendant showed us to our room using the old fashioned elevator
Check in was pretty easy. It's a pretty old building but they did a great job decorating and making it feel very European with hand painted wall decor and lots of French paintings and statues. There was only room key and a dongle for the front entrance door. The attendant showed us to our room using the old fashioned elevator
Jennae H.
May 29, 2018
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I booked via Hotels.com for a reasonable one-night stay during Memorial Day weekend. Check-in is at 3:00PM and check-out is at 11:00AM, ask for an extended check-out time, if needed. Bell-hop is available for luggage before or after your stay. There's no valet parking, but a parking garage is up the street at 750 Bush. 24-hour parking is $32 plus tax and you'll receive a stamp/validation from Cornell Hotel at check-out, which you'll give to the parking garage attendant(s). Free WIFI! No complimentary breakfast offered. Per GPS, it's an 11 minute walk to Union Square.
The hotel
The hotel
