Where To Stay in San Antonio [5 BEST Neighborhoods!]

Vibrant, interesting, and sometimes perplexing, San Antonio is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. It’s also one of the biggest cities in Texas and an epicenter for the famous Texan culture. If you like the busy-ness and convenience of big cities, along with amazing places to eat, stay, and see, then you’ll love San Antonio.

This city is truly massive, so you might have trouble finding the best neighborhoods to stay in San Antonio for your first time or even on a return trip. The city has good transport links, so this isn’t a huge problem, but it’s still better to use this easy guide to make your task simpler!

So, it’s time to head to Texas!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in San Antonio

Where to Stay in San Antonio

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in San Antonio.

Best Airbnb in San Antonio – Private Contemporary Suite

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio for couples, this is the perfect location. Set in a traditional country setting, you can see deer from the porch of this small, private property. It has its own private entrance and clean, modern decorations with all the usual amenities you’ll need for your stay.

 

Best High End Airbnb in San Antonio – Stay and Relax 1 Bedroom

This beautifully finished apartment is fully finished and boasts an open-plan living area with a full kitchen and bathroom. There are facilities in the building that you can use – such as a parking space and gym – and the apartment is close to local shops and restaurants.

 

Best Hotel in San Antonio – Hotel Contessa

If you like a touch of luxury, this hotel is for you. Located right in the center of the city, near the Riverwalk, it’s a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in San Antonio close to everything. The hotel has a rooftop pool, spacious rooms, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant. It offers an elegant experience in the heart of the city.

 

San Antonio Neighborhood Guide

San Antonio is huge and has an extensive range of tourist attractions spread throughout the city. Almost anywhere you stay, you’ll find things to do and see, but it’s still best to choose your neighborhood carefully, so you don’t waste too much time on public transport.

The best neighborhood to stay in San Antonio for your first time is the Downtown area. This spot gives you the best mix of attractions, restaurants, shops, and easy transport links throughout the city.

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio on a budget, try West San Antonio. This is where you’ll find more budget hotels and a more local feel.

The next area to look at is the Northwest, with its wide variety of activities to keep your whole family happy and occupied during your trip. It also has some fantastic places to eat and a collection of cheaper hotels.

Southtown is the best neighborhood in San Antonio for nightlife. There are cool bars and clubs everywhere in this area, as well as some great restaurants where you can get some food in your stomach before your night on the town.

The final area to look at is Midtown; it has good connections to the rest of the city and boasts the Pearl Factory, arguably the best attraction in the city with its amazing food options!

San Antonio’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in:

There are many great neighborhoods in San Antonio, but here are some of the best for tourists.

Neighborhood#1 - Downtown

(Where to stay in San Antonio first time)

COOLEST thing to do in Downtown – Head down to the Riverwalk.

BEST place to visit in Downtown – Check out the Alamo Plaza for a touch of the past.

Downtown is the best neighborhood to stay in San Antonio for your first time. It’s close to everything and packed with great shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. Basically, whatever you want to do in this city, you’ll find it in this area. And if you don’t, the plentiful public transport links will help you out.

Downtown also has a good mix of art galleries and museums for travelers who want more than food, drink, and shopping. There are also theaters where you can have a more cultural night on the town and historical sites to learn more about the city’s long history.

More awesome things to see and do in Downtown:

• Check out the exhibits at the San Antonio Museum of Art or the Briscoe Western Art Museum.
• Eat at historical or just cool places like The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum, Biga on the Banks, or Bella on Houston.
• See a show at the famous Majestic Theater.
• Explore the food and stalls at the Historic Market Square, the biggest Mexican market in the city.
• Take the kids to play in the Yanaguana Garden and explore the local area for shops and cafes.

Where to Stay in Downtown

Best Airbnb in Downtown – Downtown Studio Apartment

Ideal if you’re on a budget, this apartment is simple but offers all the comforts of home right in the heart of the city. Just blocks away from the Pearl and other local attractions, it has one bedroom and bathroom and all the usual amenities you’ll need for your stay.

 

Best High End Airbnb in Downtown – Relax in Comfort

Bright, spacious, and very clean. This apartment is located in the best neighborhood for couples – and for every other type of traveler. Suitable for up to two guests, the apartment is beautifully finished and close to the River Walk and all the attractions around it. It’s fully furnished and has everything you’ll need during your stay.

 

Editor’s Note: Get to know the San Antonio from these great hotels near St. Mary’s University!

Best Budget Hotel in Downtown – Hampton Inn & Suites

This hotel is within walking distance of downtown attractions like the Riverwalk and all the city’s best restaurants and shops. It’s perfect for travelers of all types who want a little luxury and a quiet oasis in the city. The hotel is located amongst cypress-lined paths and stone bridges and offers free hot breakfast, a fitness center, and a heated outdoor pool. The rooms are large and comfortable and decorated with modern restraint.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown – San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter

Located in the best neighborhood in San Antonio and close to everything, this hotel is newly renovated. It boasts an indoor-outdoor pool, on-site coffee house, bar with handcrafted cocktails and craft beer, and a restaurant. The hotel is close to the Riverwalk and all the fun and excitement of Downtown.

 

Neighborhood#2 - West San Antonio

(Where to stay in San Antonio on a budget)

COOLEST thing to do in West San Antonio – Eat as much Tex-Mex food as humanly possible!

BEST place to visit in West San Antonio – Enjoy some outdoor activities in Woodlawn Lake Park.

West San Antonio is a cultural mix, which is why eating is one of the best things to do in this part of the city! This is also one of the best neighborhoods to stay in San Antonio if you’re on a budget – there is a wide variety of restaurants and hotels at every price point.

Just wandering around this neighborhood is a treat: it’s filled with murals and historic buildings as well as a heavy dose of authentic Texan culture. And of course, this area is well connected to others via public transport, so you can experience the difference in other parts of the city.

More awesome things to see and do in West San Antonio:

• Head a little north for the world’s largest marine park, SeaWorld San Antonio.
• Marvel at the exhibits at the Guadalupe Art Center.
• Get your camera and keep an eye out for colorful murals and historic buildings.
• Try some fantastic food at Wicho’s Mexican Deli, El Siete Mares, or the Panifico Bake Shop for sweet goods.
• Get out in nature at the Government Canyon State Natural Area.
• Escape the heat at the Aquatica San Antonio water park.

Where to Stay in West San Antonio

Best Airbnb in West San Antonio – Artist’s Mother in Law Suite

Small but with enough room for up to two guests, this quirky apartment is close to SeaWorld and all the natural areas in West San Antonio. The neighborhood is quiet and friendly, and the apartment has a full kitchen, laundry, and streaming services. There are security cameras in common areas for your safety.

 

Best High End Airbnb in West San Antonio – Luxury Stay at SeaWorld

You can’t get any closer to SeaWorld than this apartment, which makes it ideal when you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio for families. The apartment has elegant, modern decorations and enough space for up to four guests, with AC and laundry facilities. You can use the fitness center, pool, and grill area in the building and cook delicious meals in the chef’s kitchen.

 

Best Budget Hotel in West San Antonio – Best Western Ingram Park Inn

If you’re on a budget, this hotel is a good compromise that will give you more money to spend on food and shopping! It’s a short drive from local theme parks and offers a hot buffet breakfast and clean, large rooms with all the amenities. There are also great shopping and eating areas close by, so you definitely won’t go hungry or get bored!

 

Best Luxury Hotel in West San Antonio – Hilton San Antonio Hill Country

This is a luxury hotel with a difference. Boasting a Texas ranch style, it has warm wood, cozy fireplaces, and deep furnishings for extra comfort. It’s set amongst rolling hills and boasts three pools, a restaurant so good that people want to dine there all the time, and large rooms with decadent bathtubs.

 

Neighborhood#3 - North

(Best neighborhood in San Antonio for families)

COOLEST thing to do in North – Wander the streets and find local cafes and shops that only the locals know about.

BEST place to visit in North – Spend some cash at The Shops at La Cantera.

The Northwest area is the best neighborhood in San Antonio for families because of its local, relaxed feel and family atmosphere. It has amusement parks that will keep the kids occupied no matter how long you’re staying, as well as great restaurants. If you like a bit of luxury, you’ll find plenty of high-class shops and restaurants in this part of the city.

Like most neighborhoods in San Antonio, Northwest has useful transport links to other parts of the city. There are lots of trees and parks in this area, meaning you’ll be surrounded by nature – a great bonus when you’re in the middle of a big city.

More awesome things to see and do in Northwest:

• Check out the views in the Hill Country area.
• Go shopping at the Stone Oak mall.
• Take the kids to Six Flag Fiesta Texas for rides, shows, and attractions.
• Head into the Downtown for all the attractions and restaurants.

Where to Stay in North

Best Airbnb in North – Farm Living in the City

If you want a truly Southern experience in the heart of the city, make this unique offering your base. Offering farm living, it’s a newly remodeled apartment set on a farm. The kitchen is small but functional, and the farmhouse is historic and open for exploring!

 

Best High End Airbnb in North – Heart of San Antonio Condo

This condo is bright, colorful, and located in the best neighborhood in San Antonio for couples. It’s located in a friendly community where you’ll have use of the pool and grill area. There are shops close by, and you can use the laundry and the parking space while you’re there and explore the surrounding area with ease.

 

Best Budget Hotel in North – OYO Inn & Suites

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio on a budget, this is a good choice. It offers clean, comfortable furnishings and amenities at a great price. It’s right in the entertainment district in the North and close to a local shopping mall where you can grab a meal or do some shopping.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in North – Omni San Antonio Hotel

With a business center, complimentary airport shuttle, laundry service, spa, and babysitting services, this hotel is ideal for couples, solo travelers, and families who like luxury. The hotel is only a short drive from popular attractions and is surrounded by shops and restaurants. It also has conference space for business travelers.

 

Neighborhood#4 - Southtown

(Best area to stay in San Antonio for nightlife)

COOLEST thing to do in Southtown – Head out with a group of mates for a loud night out.

BEST place to visit in Southtown – Show up at Bar American for happy hour.

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio for nightlife, Southtown is the best and only choice. Located adjacent to the Downtown area, it contains everything you’ll need for long days and even longer nights. The nightlife in this area is varied and superb and will suit every taste.

But Southtown isn’t just pubs and clubs. It also has cool diners where you can grab a meal, restaurants and cafes where you can sit and chat the night away, and speakeasies for a touch of the past. And of course, it has good transport links to other parts of the city, so you won’t miss out on the day-time activities.

More awesome things to see and do in Southtown:

• Wander down to the Riverwalk for a bit of exercise.
• Enjoy delicious meals at restaurants like La Tuna, Feast, or the Liberty Bar.
• Get a touch of culture at the San Antonio Art League and Museum.
• Have a drink with friends at Bar 1919, Southtown 101, or the Backroom Bar.
• Check out the Alamo Fort and Museum.
• Keep an eye out for unusual shops like Pulquerios or jewelry shops.

Where to Stay in Southtown

Best Airbnb in Southtown – Exquisite Apartment

This apartment is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in San Antonio for families. It has enough room for up to four guests with two bedrooms and one bathroom. You’ll have access to the facility swimming pool, a washer-dryer, free parking, a cafe, and a fitness center.

 

Best High End Airbnb in Southtown – Vibrant Downtown Bungalow

This bright home is within walking distance of all the best attractions, shops, and restaurants in the city’s Downtown area. Suitable for two guests, it’s a re-imagined historic building with touches of the modern and the old inside. There’s a shared pool space out the back where you can cool off after a long, hot day.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Southtown – La Villita Inn

If you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio on a budget, try this inn. It’s within walking distance of the RiverWalk and has a parking area and simple but comfortable rooms in various sizes with private bathrooms. The inn has a 24-hour front desk and a vending machine on-site for quick snacks late at night.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Southtown – Noble Inns

For a touch of Southern charm and luxury, try the Noble Inns. Set in a charming older home, it offers a pool, library, parking, and common areas where you can sit and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s also within walking distance of the Riverwalk and other local attractions.

 

Neighborhood#5 - Midtown

(The Coolest place to stay in San Antonio)

COOLEST thing to do in Midtown – Wander the streets and look for shops with unusual souvenirs.

BEST place to visit in Midtown – Spend as much time as possible eating, drinking, and exploring the Pearl Brewery.

Just a little north of the Downtown area, Midtown is a great choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio close to everything. It has amazing shops and great restaurants and is well connected by public transport, so you shouldn’t have any trouble exploring.

Midtown is ideal for all types of travelers. It contains the city’s Convention Center, which makes it a prime spot for business travelers. It also has the famous Pearl Brewery, the best place for food and entertainment in the city. Basically, this neighborhood can do no wrong!

More awesome things to see and do in Midtown:

• Spend time exploring the Botanical Garden.
• Take the kids to explore the exhibits at the Witt Museum.
• Go craft shopping in Midtown at stores or look out for some great souvenirs.
• Eat, go to the market, or explore the Museum Reach River Development.
• Have a meal at Main Street Pizza and Pasta, Mings, or Savor.

Where to Stay in Midtown

Best Airbnb in Midtown – Private Guest Suite

Comfortable and private, with its own bedroom, bathroom, and deck, this apartment is ideal for two guests on a tight budget. Close to the center of the city, it offers a private entrance as well as all the usual kitchen equipment.

 

Best High-End Airbnb in Midtown – The Gillespie House #2

Spacious and modern, this apartment is ideal if you’re trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio for couples. With open plan living, a private patio, and laundry facilities, it has everything you’ll need for a short or long stay. There’s free parking on-site and a fully appointed kitchen.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Midtown – Bonner Garden Bed and Breakfast

You can’t go past this B&B for a touch of home. With a complimentary breakfast, pool, and laundry services, this hotel is close to the center of the city yet offers a quiet hometown feel. The rooms are large and welcoming and contain all the amenities you’ll need during your stay.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Midtown – O’Casey’s Boutique Inn

Offering luxury at a great price, this inn is in the best neighborhood in San Antonio close to everything. It’s within walking distance of local attractions like the River Walk and offers laundry facilities, free parking, large rooms, and all the usual amenities.

 

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in San Antonio

San Antonio is a must-visit for any traveler. This city is huge, exciting, and filled with attractions to suit any travel taste. The unmistakably Texan vibe is also a big part of this city’s appeal. If you’re curious about Southern charm and sensibilities, you’ll be in the middle of them in this city. Just make sure you choose the best neighborhood in San Antonio close to everything you most want to see or do – that way, you won’t have to go far to have a great time!

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