The lobby is magnificent and the rooms are well-kept however the room I was assigned was on the small side without a view (I overlooked the rooftop and the tower meaning my only view was other hotel rooms).

It's very close to China Town and North Beach however it isn't as convenient as a hotel in Union Square and is at the top of a very steep hill which seems insurmountable at the end of a long day exploring the city. The California Cable car stops outside the hotel and there is also the Powell St line one block away for when the walk is just too much.

It's a lovely hotel and I enjoyed my stay however I think I will seek something cheaper when I return to SF.

The Fairmont is a very old-fashioned hotel - not a bad thing in itself and the lobby in particular is magnificent. The room was not big but was comfortable enough although I was woken a couple of times at 2am by noise in the corridor. The location is very central but walkers be warned it's at the top of a succession of very steep hills.

Other pros: Pleasant staff. Good if overpriced food in the Laurel Court restaurant.
Other cons: Expensive for what you get. Terrible and overpriced food in the amusingly kitschy Tonga bar.

Overall it's a good hotel and I enjoyed my stay but would possibly seek something cheaper if I were to stay in SF again - I think there may be better value for money to be found.

I stayed at the Fairmont for around four days earlier this month. I enjoyed the stay immensely and was able relax and rest despite a busy conference schedule. The room was gorgeous and provided a partial view of the bay. The bed was comfortable and I sleep like a log. The only complaint I have is that it is a very noisy hotel because of the activity level (but this may reflect activities occurring at the time of my stay). The hotel is a visual feast and contains a variety of stores within its walls. The staff were friendly and festive as my stay concluded on Halloween. I'd definitely stay there again.

Arrived and told that we had booked a room without an outside view. After we complained, we were upgraded to a garden/city view (Beware of this when booking special offers!!!). Free gym membership and wifi for loyalty club members. Look out for Amex 3 nights for the price of 2 deals! Very good location, close to China Town, North Beach. Good transport links and very good cleaning staff (paid attention to detail). Staying in such a nice place made our trip even more memorable.