Hotels in Saratoga

Saratoga: Where Mountains Embrace Gardens and Rivers Sing

Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Saratoga, California, is a serene escape that beautifully blends nature and culture. Famous for its stunning gardens and vibrant flower displays, visitors can explore the enchanting Hakone Gardens or unwind by the picturesque Saratoga Creek. The charming downtown area offers boutique shopping and fine dining, while the nearby wineries provide exquisite tastings. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking trails lead to breathtaking mountain views. With its romantic ambiance and artistic spirit, Saratoga is a hidden gem perfect for a peaceful getaway or a leisurely day trip. For the best hotel rates in Saratoga and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Saratoga

Some of the best places to stay in Saratoga are Downtown San Jose, Stanford and South San Jose. Saratoga, California, is a fantastic base for exploring nearby attractions. Downtown San Jose offers vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences, while Stanford boasts beautiful campus scenery and museums. South San Jose provides a more residential vibe with parks and local dining. Hotel accommodations range from budget-friendly inns to upscale hotels, catering to various preferences. For first-time visitors, Downtown San Jose is ideal due to its accessibility and attractions. Enjoy your stay in this charming area! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Saratoga:

1. Downtown San JoseOpens in a new window: Downtown San Jose is a vibrant area perfect for families and business travelers alike. With attractions like the SAP Center at San Jose and the San Jose Convention Center, there’s something for everyone. The district is rich in entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences. Notable hotels include The Westin San JoseOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering business amenities and family-friendly services. San Jose MarriottOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, provides adventure sports and pet-friendly options, making it ideal for active visitors. Additionally, Hotel De Anza, a Destination by Hyatt HotelOpens in a new window focuses on business travelers with its city-center location and pet accommodations.
2. StanfordOpens in a new window: Stanford is renowned for its cultural offerings, highlighted by Stanford University and the Stanford Shopping Center. This area is perfect for families and those interested in academic tourism. Luxury hotels like Rosewood Sand HillOpens in a new window and Clement Palo Alto – All-Inclusive Urban ResortOpens in a new window offer excellent amenities for business and family travelers, including meeting spaces and childcare services, while Nobu Hotel Palo AltoOpens in a new window provides a luxurious experience with multiple meeting rooms for corporate guests.
3. South San JoseOpens in a new window: South San Jose is an ideal destination for families, featuring attractions like Santana Row Shopping Center and SAP Center. This area combines entertainment and business conveniences. For accommodations, CordeValleOpens in a new window is a luxurious option with adventure activities, while Hayes Mansion, San Jose - Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window offers pet-friendly amenities and business facilities. La Hacienda San Jose Silicon ValleyOpens in a new window is a solid choice for business travelers, offering essential services like a 24-hour business center.

Things to do in Saratoga for first time

Three days in Saratoga offers a delightful escape into stunning gardens, majestic mountains, and serene rivers. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, along with vibrant experiences such as dancing, shopping, and live music, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Saratoga:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Winchester Mystery House, an architectural wonder filled with bizarre rooms and secret passageways that will intrigue you. After exploring this unique mansion, take a short drive to the nearby Heritage Rose Garden, where you can enjoy the beauty of hundreds of rose varieties and relax amidst the lush greenery. Conclude your day at the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, a serene spot perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picturesque picnic while surrounded by blooming flowers.
• Day 2: Your day starts at the Santa Clara Convention Center, where you can check for any local events or exhibitions happening during your visit. Following that, visit Our Lady of Peace Church and Shrine, a tranquil space that offers spiritual reflection and beautiful architecture. End the day by wandering through Historic Murphy Avenue, filled with charming shops and delightful eateries—the perfect place to grab dinner and enjoy the local ambiance.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at San Pedro Square, an inviting area with a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for grabbing a coffee or breakfast. Next, head to McClellan Ranch Park for a peaceful hike and to explore the natural beauty of the area. Wrap up your day with a visit to Castle Rock State Park, where you can hike through stunning landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views—an ideal way to connect with nature before concluding your trip.

5 tips to find a great Saratoga hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to visit Saratoga on a budget, the most affordable months are January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're traveling from abroad, it's best to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure the best rates. To truly experience the charm of Saratoga, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days, allowing ample time to explore its beautiful gardens and scenic river. This approach ensures a great value for money, making your trip both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Saratoga, Hotels.com is a great resource. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider signing up for email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you capitalize on potential savings without missing out. With good availability and flexible booking options, your perfect getaway may be just a click away!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Saratoga.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Saratoga and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Saratoga

Here are a few popular dining spots in Saratoga, California, United States of America:

• Saratoga Bagels: Famous for its freshly baked bagels, this beloved eatery offers a variety of unique spreads and toppings that celebrate local ingredients. Their commitment to quality and creativity makes for a delightful breakfast or lunch experience, showcasing the best of Saratoga’s culinary scene.
• La Fondue: A unique dining experience where guests can enjoy the art of fondue with a twist. This restaurant emphasizes seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, allowing diners to customize their meals while savoring a blend of flavors that highlight the region's culinary diversity.
• Plumed Horse: An upscale dining establishment known for its innovative approach to classic dishes, Plumed Horse focuses on seasonal ingredients and artisanal techniques. The menu is a celebration of California's rich agricultural bounty, providing a truly exceptional culinary experience that reflects the local flavors of Saratoga.

Best time to go to Saratoga

Saratoga experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 50.7°F (10.4°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.9°F (20.5°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Saratoga are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Saratoga Travel Information