Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

4 Star Rating4 Star Rating4 Star Rating4 Star Rating
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401 W Ash St., San Diego, CA, 92101
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The Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton has elevated the hotel stay, offering guests unparalleled luxury with a central SD location.
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton
Prices starting at $162 / night
Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Carte Hotel Overview
Whats Nearby
Things to Know
Property Amenities
Parking
Rooms & Rates
Activities & More
Popular Activities
Similar Hotels
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Highlights

Rates
Amenities
To Do
Nearby
Rooms
Amenities
To Do
Nearby

An Overview of the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown Curio Collection By Hilton

Lobby Bar at the Carte Hotel San Diego DowntownCabanas at the Carte Hotel San Diego

Style, luxury, and comfort: this is precisely what you can expect as a guest at Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown!

Located in the heart of beautiful and culturally rich San Diego, the hotel can be found in the Core-Columbia neighborhood of the Downtown San Diego metropolitan area. You'll be surrounded by local flavor and flair, complete with amazing restaurants and more fun activities than you can possibly imagine.

There’s lots to love about the Carte Hotel, but for me, looking across the cityscape from the rooftop bar is one of my favorite memories of my stay.

Let’s dive into some of the things that really stood out to me about the hotel that might be of interest to you. I’ll start with some of their premium amenities and talk about why I personally think you should consider the hotel for your next visit.

After that, I’ll cover a bit about the rooms and rates and finally, give you some ideas of things you can do at and around the hotel!

Stick around until the end of the article and I’ll share one of my very favorite events to attend in San Diego that just so happens to be walking distance from the hotel.

Social terrace, Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection By Hilton
Social terrace, Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection By Hilton

A Premium Hilton Property

If you’re a Hilton Honors member, or fan of the brand, I did want to draw attention to the fact that the hotel is owned by Hilton.

With the Hilton brand backing the property, you can expect exceptional service, comfort, design and cleanliness that’s a standard of all Hilton properties worldwide.

Rooftop Lounge with a Huge Tv at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Rooftop Lounge with a Huge Tv at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown

Hotel Amenities

When it comes to the Carte Hotel itself, guests marvel at the numerous amenities and comforts, all of which are aimed at making their stay as memorable as possible.

The hotel has its own fitness center, so you won’t have to skip a workout even while traveling.

Between the saltwater pool and jacuzzi, I had lots of opportunities to relax and cool off without leaving the hotel grounds. The rooftop terrace is also great for lounging and taking in the marvelous views of the city and San Diego Bay.

Queen Room at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Queen Room at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown

Families, Solo Travelers, Cruisers & More

Along with accommodating families, Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown is also rated highly for those traveling on their own. It is also a great hotel to stay at before embarking on your cruise ship.

The location is amazing, with many guests claiming that this area of San Diego is by far their favorite in the city. Reserve your room today to see exactly what they mean.

Seating at Watercolors Restaurant at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Seating at Watercolors Restaurant at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown

Dining Options

When it comes to fine dining, the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown features two restaurants offering many tasty dishes. With two bars and a wine tasting lounge, you can enjoy a delicious meal and refreshing drink without ever needing to leave the property.

Guests are also welcome to enjoy the continental breakfast if they're looking for lighter fare, which is available every morning.

Comfortable Lobby Seatin at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Comfortable Lobby Seatin at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown

Additional Services

Accessing private parking is a breeze when you use the convenient valet service. If you're planning a working visit to this fair city, be sure to make use of the hotel’s business center. You can also store valuable belongings with confidence in the front desk safe.

If you have any questions or requests to make your stay more enjoyable, don't hesitate to request the concierge service.

Local Tips
Visit Little Italy!
Little Italy is a top attraction just a short walk from the Carte Hotel. This stylish, walkable area is brimming with fashionable cocktail bars, hip brewpubs, and vibrant restaurants with lively patios.

What Todd Loves about this Hotel

What makes the hotel stand out among the heavy competition of its fellow luxury options downtown? Check out these highlights from my own stay at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown.

Lobby Bar and Hotel Lobby at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Lobby Bar and Hotel Lobby at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown

The Fabulous Lobby

Looking for a cozy spot to hang out at the hotel? Look no further than the lobby!

At Carte Hotel, I couldn’t approve more of the lobby. Have a seat to destress from a day of travel, and top it off with a drink from the lobby bar and restaurant.

Rooftop Bar and Lounge at the Carte Hotel San Diego
Rooftop Bar and Lounge at the Carte Hotel San Diego

The Rooftop Bar

I’d go as far as to say that the rooftop bar, Above Ash Social, is the true highlight of Carte Hotel.

The bar has a great atmosphere and the views of downtown are to die for, whether you visit in the afternoon or in the evening when the city lights up. Make sure to set aside some time to get brunch there during your stay, or at least a drink - you won’t regret it!

Food Court with a View in Terminal 2 at San Diego International Airport
Food Court with a View in Terminal 2 at San Diego International Airport

The Overall Location

Being able to walk from the hotel to different attractions and restaurants is one of my favorite aspects of staying Downtown. It might be a necessity for you if you flew in from the San Diego International Airport (SAN)!

Luckily, Carte Hotel doesn’t disappoint! Not only can you pop over to Little Italy for an incredible, authentic Italian meal, you can also head to Seaport Village at the Embarcadero to do some shopping, or explore the history and nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter. Everything’s within walking distance when you stay at the hotel!

Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Prices starting at $162 / night

Modern and bright, let Todd show you why the family-friendly, 4-star Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection By Hilton in Downtown is one of the best hotels near the Cruise Port. Take a tour around the pool, lobby and more!

Stay at the Carte Hotel San Diego

What's Nearby

Embarcadero
Embarcadero
11 min Walk
Gaslamp District
Gaslamp Quarter
20 min Walk
Balboa Park
Balboa Park
23 min Walk
Petco Park
Petco Park
27 min Walk
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo
7 min Drive
Old Town San Diego
Old Town San Diego
9 min Drive
Pacific Ocean
Pacific Ocean
14 min Drive
Beach
Coronado Beach
16 min Drive
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego
16 min Drive
Belmont Park
Belmont Park
18 min Drive
Cabrillo Nat. Monument
Cabrillo National Monument
20 min Drive
Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Prices starting at $162 / night

Things to Know Before Arrival

Neighborhood Core-Columbia
The Core-Columbia area of Downtown San Diego is a beautiful mix of sky rises, restaurants, and hotels, complete with activities like music venues and museums.
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Pet Policy
Only Service Animals are Welcome
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Breakfast
Not Included
Property Size
246 Rooms

Property Amenities

Bar on Property
Bar on Property
Bellhop
Bellhop
Business Center
Business Center
City Hotel
City Hotel
Concierge Desk
Concierge Desk
Conference Center
Conference Center
Couples Friendly
Couples Friendly
EV Charger
EV Charger
Family Friendly
Family Friendly
Fitness Room
Fitness Room
Hotel Near Bay
Hotel Near Bay
Jacuzzi
Jacuzzi
Kitchenette
Kitchenette
Laundry
Laundry
Museum Nearby
Museum Nearby
Onsite Cafe
Onsite Cafe
Pool
Pool
Restaurant on Property
Restaurant on Property

Parking

Valet Parking
Valet Parking
EV Charging Station
EV Charging Station
$52 / day for Valet Parking

Room Amenities

24 Hour Room Service
24 Hour Room Service
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
Daily Maid Service
Daily Maid Service
Flat Screen TV
Flat Screen TV
Handicapped Accessible
Handicapped Accessible
Iron
Iron
Mini Fridge
Mini Fridge
No Smoking
No Smoking
Phone in Room
Phone in Room
Room Service
Room Service
Safe Deposit Box in Rooms
Safe Deposit Box in Rooms
Getting Around
SAN Airport
SAN Airport
- 32 min Walk
Trolley
Trolley Station
- 7 min Walk
Cruise Port
Cruise Port
- 9 min Walk
This Month's Forecast
53°F / 75°F
Sunny in November
Dec
48°F / 69°F
Sunny in December
Jan
48°F / 68°F
Sunny in January
Feb
49°F / 69°F
Sunny in February

Rooms & Rates

King Room at the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown

No matter what type of room you choose, you'll be treated to gorgeous views and luxurious stylings. All rooms are also equipped with flat-screen TVs for your viewing pleasure, as well as refrigerators for your convenience.

Free Wi-Fi, premium TV channels, and 24-hour front desk access are also provided, as well as daily housekeeping service to keep your living space neat and tidy. All rooms are smoke-free for your comfort.

Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Prices starting at $162 / night
King Room City View

Complete with a king-sized bed, city view king rooms offer an amazing perspective of Downtown San Diego. Mobility and hearing accessible rooms are available at your request.

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King Room Bay View

The unbeatable luxury of a king-sized bed coupled with an unbelievable view of the San Diego Bay. Both bay and city view king rooms are available on the upper level for the best possible perspective.

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Junior King Suite City View

A cozier king room experience with the same gorgeous view of beautiful San Diego. Additional seating/sleeping arrangements also available.

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Queen Room Bay View

Marvel at the San Diego Bay from your luxurious queen-sized bed. Rooms are available with one or two queen beds, depending on your needs. Mobility and hearing accessible rooms are available.

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Queen Room City View

Perhaps you prefer a city view in your queen room? Both bay and city view queen rooms are available on the upper level.

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Queen Corner Room

Queen corner rooms provide the same great comfort and amenities as bay and city queen rooms, with a cozier, more private location.

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Queen Room Panoramic View

Enjoy a breathtaking 360-view of San Diego from the comfort and convenience of your queen room.

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Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Prices starting at $162 / night

Our Favorite Nearby Activities

The Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown offers guests options of things to do onsite as well as in the surrounding neighborhoods. Let’s have a look together at some of the highlights of activities at the hotel and in the area.

Things to Do at the Carte Hotel

See the amenities and activities available directly through the hotel.

Fit Gym Inside the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown
Fit Gym Inside the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown

The Fitness and Health

To satisfy your fitness needs, feel free to visit the onsite gym and health center called Fit Athletic Club & Gym during your stay.

Fit Athletic Club & Gym is a full service membership club that offers

  • Outdoor turf cross training area
  • Indoor cycling
  • Group fitness classes
  • Yoga
  • State of the art workout equipment
  • Sauna & steam rooms
  • Locker room with showers

The best part about this is that Fit is free to use while you stay at the Carte Hotel.

Aerial View of Coronado Central Beach
Aerial View of Coronado Central Beach

Outdoor Amenities: Beyond the Beach

While the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown is situated a comfortable distance from the beach, with the coastlines of Coronado, La Jolla, Pacific Beach and Mission Beach to name a few just a short Uber, Lyft or drive away, guests can use the luxurious saltwater pool and jacuzzi at their convenience.

I found the pools to be especially refreshing on San Diego’s hottest days.

Inside the Circuit Electric Shuttles
Inside the Circuit Electric Shuttles

Nearby Things to Do

You can really do it all in Downtown San Diego when you travel with a Go City San Diego pass! Choose either the Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass to save on prices for beach gear, attraction admission, and tour bookings all around San Diego County.

The pass is one of my insider tips to consider for anyone that wants to explore the city and do so at the best prices!

Here are a few of my favorite attractions near Carte Hotel that you can reach either by walking or public transit like the convenient and cheap Downtown FRED Electric Shuttle service.

Marines Airplane on Display at the USS Midway Museum
Marines Airplane on Display at the USS Midway Museum

Visit the USS Midway Museum

Another great destination for lovers of maritime history and memorabilia, the USS Midway Museum is located within a naval aircraft carrier. Inside the carrier is an extensive collection of historic aircraft and the museum is considered the most popular of its kind in all of the United States.

The Stern of the Star of India
The Stern of the Star of India

Go to the Maritime Museum of San Diego

Established in 1948, the Maritime Museum of San Diego features one of the U.S.'s largest collections of historic sea-faring vessels. Their current collection includes the San Salvador, which is a replica of a galleon that was first discovered in the city in 1542.

Erika Enjoying Sangria at the Meze Greek Fusion restaurant
Erika Enjoying Sangria at the Meze Greek Fusion restaurant

My Favorite Tour in the Area

There are tons of walking tours to choose from downtown. They’re a great way to get a feel for the area if this is your first time in San Diego, and even San Diegans can learn something new.

One of my favorites is the Brothels, Bites & Booze Tour, a food and drink tour in the Gaslamp Quarter that also highlights the area’s sordid history. It’s a ton of fun and a real eye-opener!

Flamingos at the San Diego Zoo
Flamingos at the San Diego Zoo

Spend an Afternoon at the San Diego Zoo

Located in the iconic Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals. This destination is great for guests traveling with their families, and a visit to the Children's Zoo is definitely encouraged, in this case.

Seaport Village in San Diego
Seaport Village in San Diego

Shop & Dine at Seaport Village

Seaport Village offers ample opportunities for shopping and dining in the city.

Depending on when you visit, there is also free live music, the outdoor speaker series, and a weekly mixer, perfect for socializing with the locals!

Exhibit Hall a at the San Diego Convention Center
Exhibit Hall a at the San Diego Convention Center

Attend an Event at the San Diego Convention Center

Located in the Embarcadero District, the San Diego Convention Center is home to many fun events and happenings. Events cover many different subjects and topics so be sure to check out the schedule during your stay.

If you’re into comics, superheroes or anime, I highly recommend checking out the annual Comic Con Convention which comes through town each summer, usually in July. It’s fun to dress up or just be around the costumes to enjoy the truly unique experience.

Popular Activities

Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
Jump onto one of the authentic trolleys, and see over 100 sights in San Diego! Listen to the tour guide and learn as you go. Create your own tour with 12 boarding areas!
Buy Now
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Spend the day at the iconic San Diego Zoo! Featuring over 3,500 animals and 650 species, this zoo is the heart of Balboa Park. There are multiple exhibits & experiences for all ages to learn about animals and their habitats.
Learn More
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
The world-famous SeaWorld San Diego is home to animal shows, roller coasters and other rides for the entire family. Enjoy encounters featuring the famed Orcas, dolphins and sea lions, or take a tour through the habitats.
Learn More
Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
When heading to the San Diego Zoo, make sure to visit to the Safari Park. The Safari Park is home to a wide array of different safaris where you can experience different animals from around the world.
Learn More
GoCar: Downtown & Gaslamp Loop
GoCar: Downtown & Gaslamp Loop
The future is here - enjoy learning about the history of downtown San Diego and the Gaslamp District from a talking GPS car! You'll wind through multiple areas such as Petco Park & Little Italy on this loop!
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San Diego 4-Hour Talking GoCar Tour
San Diego 4-Hour Talking GoCar Tour
Wind through the streets of Downtown San Diego, Balboa Park, and Old Town on a talking GPS car! This 4-hour tour for two people passes by the San Diego Zoo and through Banker Hill.
Buy Now

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