A winding road in a hilly area with a prominent tower and a distant cityscape.

Palo Alto Cheap Hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Palo Alto Cheap Hotels

Tonight
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Tomorrow
19 Sept - 20 Sept
This weekend
18 Sept - 20 Sept
Next weekend
25 Sept - 27 Sept

Our top choices for Palo Alto cheap hotels

1. The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto
Green Acres
United States
Christopher
HK$934
HK$1,080 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

2. Comfort Inn Palo Alto

Comfort Inn Palo Alto
Ventura
United States
Kelli
HK$671
HK$775 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Comfort Inn Palo Alto

3. Hilton Garden Inn Sunnyvale

Hilton Garden Inn Sunnyvale
Sunnyvale
United States
Reza
HK$766
HK$863 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Sept - 26 Sept
Hilton Garden Inn Sunnyvale

4. The Nest Hotel Palo Alto

The Nest Hotel Palo Alto
Ventura
United States
Allison
HK$953
HK$1,103 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
The Nest Hotel Palo Alto

5. Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Sunnyvale

Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Sunnyvale
Sunnyvale
United States
Erika
HK$848
HK$956 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Sept - 26 Sept
Larkspur Landing Extended Stay Suites Sunnyvale

6. Residence Inn Marriott Palo Alto Los Altos

Residence Inn Marriott Palo Alto Los Altos
North Los Altos
Canada
Marie-Anne
HK$1,127
HK$1,288 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Sept - 26 Sept
Residence Inn Marriott Palo Alto Los Altos

7. Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto

Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto
Charleston Meadows
United States
John
HK$1,115
HK$1,298 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Oct - 11 Oct
Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto

8. Creekside Inn

Creekside Inn
Barron Park
United States
Laryssa
HK$988
HK$1,144 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Creekside Inn

9. AC Hotel by Marriott Palo Alto

AC Hotel by Marriott Palo Alto
Charleston Gardens
United States
kenneth
HK$1,122
HK$1,300 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Sept - 26 Sept
AC Hotel by Marriott Palo Alto

10. The Palo Alto Inn

The Palo Alto Inn
Palo Alto Orchards
United States
Joseph
HK$864
HK$998 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Sept - 26 Sept
The Palo Alto Inn
View all properties

Find out more about Palo Alto

Discover cheap things to do in Palo Alto

Palo Alto, California, offers a delightful mix of culture and nature that budget-conscious travellers will appreciate. Start your adventure at the stunning Stanford University campus, where you can stroll through the beautiful gardens and admire iconic architecture, all for free. Just a short walk away, the Cantor Arts Center hosts a diverse collection of artwork, including pieces by Rodin, and entry is complimentary. For a taste of local nature, head to the Baylands Nature Preserve, where miles of trails wind through wetlands, providing an excellent opportunity for hiking or birdwatching without spending a penny. If you’re travelling with children, the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is a fantastic option, offering affordable admission and a chance to engage with interactive exhibits and friendly animals. In terms of dining, the area is home to a variety of food trucks and casual eateries that serve delicious meals without breaking the bank, such as the popular Oren's Hummus and the local favourite, The Counter Burger. For accommodation, consider booking a hotel in the downtown area where you’ll find a range of budget-friendly options that provide easy access to these attractions. Exploring downtown, with its vibrant atmosphere and variety of shops, adds to the experience, making it a perfect base for your Palo Alto escape.

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Zen Hotel Palo Alto is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travellers, with an impressive traveler review rating of 9.2. This hotel offers complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and self-parking, ensuring travelers enjoy a relaxing stay without breaking the bank. The inviting atmosphere and thoughtful amenities create a serene retreat in the Green Acres neighbourhood.
  • Other amenities: In addition to the budget-friendly perks, travelers can also take advantage of features such as a kitchenette, premium bedding, and daily housekeeping. The hotel is equipped with a fitness centre for those looking to stay active during their travels. Nearby, travelers can explore local wineries and golf courses, making it an ideal spot for leisure and exploration.
  • Neighborhood: Green Acres
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 2.1 km, Stanford University - 3.8 km

Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto is a stellar choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking a home-like environment, with an excellent traveler review rating of 9.2. This hotel stands out with complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and self-parking, ensuring travelers can enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay. The spacious suites come equipped with kitchen facilities, perfect for those preferring to cook during their travels.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly amenities, the hotel features a swimming pool, accessible parking, and grocery shopping service for added convenience. Guests can also enjoy fitness facilities and premium bedding in premium rooms. Other highlights include a separate living room in suites, making it ideal for longer stays or families.
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 1.3 km, Los Altos History Museum - 3.1 km

The Palo Alto Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Palo Alto Inn combines affordability with comfort, making it a great pick for budget travelers with a solid review rating of 8.8. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and toiletries, alongside self-parking at no extra charge. The hotel’s contactless check-in service adds convenience, ensuring a smooth start to every stay.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include a terrace for enjoying the outdoors, a snack bar for quick bites, and climate control options to enhance guest comfort. Families will appreciate the free cribs and rollaway beds available, while daily housekeeping keeps the rooms tidy. The hotel also features premium bedding to ensure a restful night’s sleep.
  • Neighborhood: Palo Alto Orchards
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 1.5 km, Los Altos History Museum - 3.4 km

Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto is another excellent option for budget-minded travellers, offering a solid review rating of 8.6. Guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi, making it easy to stay connected, along with essential toiletries. This hotel features an indoor and outdoor pool, providing relaxing options for unwinding during downtime.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include accessible van parking for convenience, a fitness centre for those looking to keep up their exercise routine, and a snack bar for quick refreshments. The hotel also boasts climate control in rooms, a terrace for outdoor enjoyment, and connecting rooms for families or groups travelling together.
  • Neighborhood: Charleston Meadows
  • Nearby attractions: San Antonio Shopping Center - 1.7 km, Los Altos History Museum - 3.6 km

Top Palo Alto Hotel Reviews

Creekside Inn

Creekside Inn

10/10 Excellent
"24 hours in Palo Alto that felt like a whole vacation 🌿 We checked into Creekside Inn and honestly did not expect the scenery. Towering trees, birds everywhere, landscaping that looks straight out of a retreat — not your average hotel stay. The kids were in heaven just wandering the grounds. Dinner never even required getting back in the car. Show de Carnes, the Brazilian steakhouse right on site, is the real deal — wagyu carved table-side while the kids watched wide-eyed. The food was outstanding. Afterward we took a slow walk around the property and went straight to bed. That kind of convenience is priceless when you're traveling with little ones. Next morning: breakfast at Yutori, a modern Japanese garden café that is unlike any breakfast spot around here. The matcha and pastries — so, so good. The space alone is worth the stop. Then off to the Junior Museum & Zoo, minutes away. Perfect little itinerary, zero stress. Highly recommend this one. Save it for your next Bay Area staycation 💚 📍 Palo Alto, CA #PaloAlto #BayAreaStaycation #CreeksideInn #ShowDeCarnes #YutoriCafe #JuniorMuseumAndZoo #FamilyTravel #TravelWithKids #SiliconValley #NorCalTravel #StaycationIdeas #BayAreaEats #MatchaLover #WeekendGetaway"
Portia 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Creekside Inn
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

10/10 Excellent
"This was my second stay at the Zen Hotel. It is conveniently located, the rooms are comfortable and clean, and the staff is welcoming and helpful. The breakfast is excellent, and the complimentary parking is a wonderful convenience. I will definitely be back!"
shahrzad 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto
Dinah's Garden Hotel

Dinah's Garden Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Loved it and the staff was all very friendly"
Carrie 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Dinah's Garden Hotel
Leland Hotel Palo Alto

Leland Hotel Palo Alto

10/10 Excellent
"plenty of guest parking! Property & room was VERY clean. A/C was terrific and welcomed during the mini-heatwave. Staff was very nice. A bit weird you had to write yr email on a rando piece of paper but meh. I felt very safe. It's a cozy room, perfect for single traveler just looking for clean bed & safe place for the evening without breaking the bank."
Martha 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Leland Hotel Palo Alto
el PRADO

el PRADO

10/10 Excellent
"Nice room and grounds. Balcony w bistro table/chairs a nice touch. Restaurant was in renovation so not much on premises food but located in heart of restaurants and coffee shops so not a problem. Beautiful hotel."
Nelson 1-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
el PRADO
The Westin Palo Alto

The Westin Palo Alto

10/10 Excellent
"My experience was good."
Ying 1-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
The Westin Palo Alto
Comfort Inn Palo Alto

Comfort Inn Palo Alto

10/10 Excellent
"Great"
Chandrakala 2-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Comfort Inn Palo Alto

Frequently asked questions

What is Palo Alto like for travellers on a budget?
Palo Alto has a variety of cheap accommodation options and places to visit, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway. In addition to its well-known attractions such as San Francisco Bay, this destination is home to Silicon Valley and Elizabeth Gamble Garden Center, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in Palo Alto?
Based on reviews, Creekside Inn is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour fitness centre. Other choices to stay on the cheap include The Zen Hotel Palo Alto and The Palo Alto Inn.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Palo Alto?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Palo Alto, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually August and July, with an average temperature of 20°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 12°C. Average annual precipitation for Palo Alto is 460 mm.
What is there to see and do in Palo Alto?
Palo Alto attracts visitors with its major shopping area and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the popular local attractions that are highest on your list, such as Levi's Stadium and SAP Center at San Jose, and choose other low-cost activities to fill your itinerary. Explore and snap photos of landmarks like Stanford Theatre and Hoover Tower, or hunt for bargains with some shopping at Stanford Shopping Center.
How can I get to Palo Alto and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Palo Alto is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is 7.8 mi (12.5 km) from the centre in San Carlos, CA (SQL). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.), which is 12.7 mi (20.5 km) away. To venture out into the surrounding area, hop aboard a train at California Ave Station or Palo Alto Station.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia