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Our top choices for San Mateo cheap hotels

The Catrina Hotel

The Catrina Hotel
2.5 star property
South San Mateo
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"The room was clean, amenities excellent, staff attentive"
United States
Donald
The price is £72
includes taxes & fees
29 Mar - 30 Mar
The Catrina Hotel

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,085 reviews)
"The breakfast was great, close to all the good food."
United States
JOHN DUNG
The price is £82
includes taxes & fees
6 Mar - 7 Mar
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG

Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO

Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO
2.5 star property
East San Mateo
7.2 out of 10, Good, (966 reviews)
"Front desk was very nice and the rooms were clean and mostly quiet"
United States
Sarah
The price is £84
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (911 reviews)
"Breakfast served every morning and staff was extremely friendly."
United States
Richard
The price is £100
includes taxes & fees
21 Mar - 22 Mar
Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport
2.5 star property
East San Mateo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,330 reviews)
"The staff is friendly, the room was clean, and the breakfast was wonderful. Would stay there again."
United States
Steven
The price is £78
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

Mid Century Garden View Home Parking

Mid Century Garden View Home Parking
2.0 star property
East San Mateo
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (4 reviews)
"This is a very clean comfortable property! "
United States
Serena
The price is £296
includes taxes & fees
6 Mar - 7 Mar
Mid Century Garden View Home Parking

Inn@Bayshore

Inn@Bayshore
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,003 reviews)
"Good service very clean "
United States
Aroldo
The price is £80
includes taxes & fees
10 Mar - 11 Mar
Inn@Bayshore

Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo

Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Enjoy the stay"
United States
Thaw
The price is £108
includes taxes & fees
20 Mar - 21 Mar
Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Great place clean awesome breakfast. "
United States
Amy
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
20 Mar - 21 Mar
Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

LakeFront Lavender House

LakeFront Lavender House
2.0 star property
East San Mateo
The price is £287
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
LakeFront Lavender House
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Find out more about San Mateo

Discover cheap things to do in San Mateo

San Mateo, California, offers a delightful mix of budget-friendly activities that cater to adventurous families. Start your exploration at Coyote Point Recreation Area, where you can enjoy scenic views, picnic spots, and free access to nature trails perfect for hiking. The San Mateo Central Park is another great stop, featuring playgrounds for children and the serene Japanese Tea Garden, where entry is free, allowing a peaceful retreat. For a taste of local culture, wander through the San Mateo County History Museum, which often has free admission days and showcases the rich heritage of the region. Food lovers will appreciate the diverse yet affordable dining options in the downtown area, from casual eateries offering delicious tacos to local cafés serving up fresh pastries. If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the hotels around El Camino Real; they often provide great deals while being conveniently located near these attractions. After a day of exploring, unwind at a nearby park or take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, with an array of shops and family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. San Mateo's charm lies in its ability to offer both value and memorable experiences, making it a perfect base for your next adventure.

Find the best cheap hotels in San Mateo

For budget-conscious travellers visiting San Mateo, these hotels offer excellent value without compromising on comfort. Each hotel features essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay while keeping costs down.

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With an impressive review rating of 9.4, the Hampton Inn & Suites is a top choice for budget-conscious travellers. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast offered daily and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected and fuel up for the day ahead. The hotel also provides free self-parking, adding to the convenience of this excellent hotel.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a fitness centre accessible around the clock and daily housekeeping services to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests can relax in comfort with air conditioning and enjoy a sofa bed for extra sleeping arrangements. The hotel is known for its friendly service and comfortable atmosphere, making it a welcoming spot for all.
  • Neighborhood: East San Mateo
  • Nearby attractions: Lakeshore Park Beach - 1.1 km, Leo J. Ryan Park - 1.9 km, Los Prados Park - 0.3 km

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Offering a 9.0 review rating, the Residence Inn by Marriott is perfect for budget travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Guests can take advantage of complimentary breakfast on weekends and free Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for those looking to save while enjoying their stay. The hotel also features a grocery shopping service, allowing guests to prepare meals in their fully equipped kitchen.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the budget amenities, this hotel boasts an outdoor pool, accessible parking, and a rooftop garden for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the convenience of an in-room oven and dishwasher, making longer stays more manageable. The hotel is located near the beach and windsurfing spots, providing opportunities for nearby adventures, while the fitness centre ensures guests can maintain their routines.
  • Neighborhood: East San Mateo
  • Nearby attractions: Lakeshore Park Beach - 2.2 km, Leo J. Ryan Park - 1.4 km, Edgewater Park - 1.8 km

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Best Western Inn & Suites is a fantastic choice for budget travellers, a remarkable review rating of 8.8. Guests will enjoy complimentary perks such as free breakfast, making it easy to start the day without extra costs. The hotel also offers accessible van parking and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a convenient and connected stay for all guests.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly offerings, the hotel features a terrace for relaxation, daily housekeeping service, and a nearby golf course for those looking to play a round. With options for self-parking, a microwave in rooms, and air conditioning, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay while having access to all the essentials. The hotel also includes a sofa bed for added flexibility in accommodation.
  • Neighborhood: East San Mateo
  • Nearby attractions: Coyote Point Park - 1.1 km, Poplar Creek Golf Course - 0.9 km, CuriOdyssey - 1.8 km

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites is a solid choice for budget travellers, with a review rating of 7.8. Offering free Wi-Fi and complimentary internet access, guests can stay connected easily. This hotel is perfect for those looking to maximise value while enjoying a comfortable stay in San Mateo.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a 24-hour fitness facility, making it easy for guests to maintain their workout routines. With a microwave in each room and convenient self-parking available, guests will find their stay both easy and enjoyable. The hotel also includes daily housekeeping services, ensuring a clean and welcoming environment throughout their visit.
  • Neighborhood: East San Mateo
  • Nearby attractions: Coyote Point Park - 1.1 km, Poplar Creek Golf Course - 1.2 km, CuriOdyssey - 2.1 km

How to get cheap hotels in San Mateo?

 

✅ The length of stay in San Mateo often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in San Mateo's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in San Mateo in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in San Mateo, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in San Mateo on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in San Mateo.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in San Mateo, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in San Mateo. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £72*.

✅  San Mateo offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring San Mateo on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in San Mateo is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top San Mateo Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in San Mateo as a budget traveller?
For budget-friendly accommodation in San Mateo, top choices include Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers excellent value with complimentary self-parking and free buffet breakfast. Guests frequently praise the comfortable, clean rooms and the friendly, great staff.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, rated 9.0. This hotel provides free continental breakfast, including on weekends, and a free grocery shopping service, which is a fantastic perk for budget travellers. Reviewers often highlight the big, superb rooms and the friendly, great staff.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, also provides great value with free buffet breakfast and free wired internet.
How much does a budget hotel in San Mateo cost?
Budget hotel prices in San Mateo vary, but you can find a great deal from £72 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of San Mateo is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in San Mateo, the downtown area offers the most convenient and budget-friendly options. This central location provides excellent access to public transport and a variety of affordable dining choices.

The downtown core of San Mateo is well-served by Caltrain, making it easy to explore other parts of the Bay Area without needing a car. Solo travellers will find a good selection of smaller, independent hotels and motels here, often at more competitive rates than larger chains. There are also numerous casual eateries and cafes where one can grab an inexpensive meal.

Additionally, downtown San Mateo boasts a lively option with shops and parks within easy walking distance. For those looking for free activities, the nearby Central Park offers a pleasant green space for relaxation, and the San Mateo Japanese Garden provides a tranquil escape.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in San Mateo?
For top-rated, budget-friendly hotels superb for families in San Mateo, consider the Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, with an excellent 9.0 rating, stands out for its family-friendly amenities. Families will appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast, free grocery shopping service, and the option of a free crib. Guests consistently praise the big, superb rooms and the friendly, great staff.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo, rated 8.8. This hotel offers free WiFi and wired internet, ensuring everyone stays connected. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and great staff, clean rooms, and the nice location. Free and easy parking is also a big plus for families travelling by car.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, is also a fantastic option. It provides a free buffet breakfast and free cribs, making mornings and sleeping arrangements straightforward for families.
What cheap hotels in San Mateo offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent options, including Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, rated 9.4, provides a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests often praise the clean and comfortable rooms, as well as the friendly staff. Free self-parking is another valuable amenity here.

Another superb choice is the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, with a 9.0 rating. This hotel offers a free continental breakfast daily, and guests frequently highlight the spacious rooms and helpful staff. Additionally, services like complimentary grocery shopping are available.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, also includes a complimentary buffet breakfast. Reviewers often praise the comfortable and clean rooms, the amazing breakfast, and the friendly, helpful staff. Free parking is also provided, adding to its value.

For an extended stay, Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO, rated 7.0, offers a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast.
When is the most affordable time to visit San Mateo?
The most affordable time to visit San Mateo is generally during the off-peak seasons, specifically late autumn (November) and late winter to early spring (January to March), excluding holidays. During these months, demand for accommodation and flights typically decreases, leading to lower prices.

Solo travellers will find that these periods offer more competitive rates on hotels and guesthouses, making a trip to San Mateo more accessible. The weather remains relatively mild, great for exploring the outdoor attractions without the summer crowds.

For families, visiting outside of school holidays can reduce overall trip costs. You'll find better deals on family-friendly accommodation and potentially cheaper airfares.
What are the best cheap hotels in San Mateo with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo featuring a pool, the Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo and the Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo are excellent options.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo, boasting a 9.0 rating, offers an inviting outdoor pool. Guests frequently praise the complimentary breakfast, which includes both continental and full options, available on weekends. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries, making for a comfortable and convenient stay. Reviews often highlight the superb and spacious rooms, as well as the friendly and great staff.

Another superb choice is the 3-star Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo, rated 8.8 by our customers. This hotel also features a refreshing outdoor pool. It provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries, ensuring a pleasant stay. Customers consistently praise the friendly and great staff, the clean rooms, and the nice location.
Are there any cheap San Mateo hotels near San Francisco Bay?
For affordable accommodation near San Francisco Bay in San Mateo, the Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport is a superb choice.

This hotel, which boasts an 8.8 review rating, offers excellent value with a range of complimentary amenities. Guests particularly appreciate the free buffet breakfast, making for a great start to the day, and free wired internet access keeps you connected. Reviewers frequently highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, the friendly and helpful staff, and the convenient location.
Is San Mateo a budget-friendly destination?
While San Mateo, California, is generally considered more expensive than many other US cities, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, look slightly outside the immediate city centre or consider booking during the off-peak season to find better rates. Travellers might also explore options in neighbouring towns that are well-connected by public transport. The Caltrain provides a convenient and relatively inexpensive way for solo travellers and couples to get around the wider Bay Area, including trips to San Francisco or San Jose, saving on car rental costs.

Couples and solo travellers can enjoy many free activities. Take advantage of the beautiful outdoor spaces like Coyote Point Recreation Area, which offers stunning bay views and walking paths, or stroll through the picturesque downtown area with its variety of shops and cafes. The San Mateo Japanese Garden in Central Park is another lovely, free spot for a relaxing afternoon. For affordable dining, explore the diverse range of casual eateries and food trucks, particularly those offering international cuisines, which can provide excellent value compared to more upscale restaurants.
What cheap hotels in San Mateo offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo with cooking facilities, the Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo and Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO are excellent options.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo, rated 9.0 by our customers, provides spacious rooms that are often described as great and large, and all come equipped with a kitchen. Guests consistently praise the complimentary breakfast, which is available daily, and the free grocery shopping service adds great convenience. The staff are frequently mentioned as friendly and great.

Another good choice is the Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO, with a 7.0 rating. This hotel also offers rooms with kitchens, and guests appreciate the clean and spacious rooms. A complimentary grab-and-go breakfast is provided, and free self-parking is available.
Which cheap hotels in San Mateo have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in San Mateo with great customer service, travellers often praise Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, with an excellent rating of 9.4, consistently receives high marks for its friendly and great staff and excellent service. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary buffet breakfast and free parking, adding to the overall value.

Another superb option is the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, rated 9.0. Customers frequently mention the great and friendly front desk staff and good service. This hotel offers a generous continental breakfast and a free grocery shopping service, which are excellent perks for budget-conscious travellers.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, is also highly regarded for its amazing customer service and friendly, helpful staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in San Mateo that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, with an 8.8 rating, often accommodates early check-ins and late check-outs. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, who can assist with these requests. This hotel also offers free breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding to its value.

Another good option is The Catrina Hotel, rated 8.2. This hotel also has flexible policies regarding early check-in and late check-out. Reviewers often mention the comfortable, clean rooms and the convenience of free self-parking.

A good tip for any hotel is to contact them directly after booking.
How can I save on a budget hotel in San Mateo with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in San Mateo. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in San Mateo?
You'll be pleased to discover that San Mateo, California, offers a wealth of free activities great for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to explore without breaking the bank. From scenic parks to bustling downtown areas, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

For a dose of nature, head to Central Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. You can wander through its beautiful Japanese Garden, admire the rose garden, or simply find a quiet spot to read. Another excellent option is Coyote Point Recreation Area, which boasts stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Bay Trail, watch the planes take off and land at the nearby airport, or simply relax by the water.

Exploring the downtown area is another fantastic free activity. Solo travellers can enjoy window shopping, people-watching, and soaking in the local atmosphere. The downtown area frequently hosts free community events, so it's worth checking the local San Mateo events calendar before your visit.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in San Mateo as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in San Mateo for you.

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