Where to stay in San Francisco: the best areas

In short: for a first visit, stay near Union Square, central and well connected. For families, Fisherman’s Wharf, on the bay; for couples or quiet, the Marina and Cow Hollow; for local life, the Mission District. San Francisco is compact but hilly: being close to transport matters.

Understanding San Francisco in two minutes

San Francisco sits at the tip of a peninsula, between the ocean and the bay. In the centre are Union Square and the Financial District; next door, Chinatown and North Beach, the Italian quarter. To the north, on the bay, Fisherman’s Wharf and the piers for Alcatraz; further west, the Marina, the Presidio and the Golden Gate. To the south, the Mission District. The regional BART metro, light rail, buses and cable cars serve the city.

The right area for your trip

First visit: Union Square

Central, well served by BART and the cable cars, with shops, theatres and plenty of hotels. Handy for sightseeing. Some nearby streets (the Tenderloin) are less pleasant: check the exact location.

With kids: Fisherman’s Wharf

On the bay, near the Pier 39 sea lions and the piers for Alcatraz. Very touristy, but practical for families and pleasant for strolling along the water.

Calm and elegance: the Marina and Cow Hollow

Upscale residential areas near the Golden Gate, the Palace of Fine Arts and the parks, with the restaurants of Chestnut Street and Union Street. Ideal for couples.

Local life: the Mission District

Murals, Mexican food, cafés and Dolores Park: the Mission is lively and well linked to the centre by BART.

Views and charm: Nob Hill and North Beach

Nob Hill, on its hilltop, has fine historic hotels along the cable car lines. North Beach, between Chinatown and the bay, charms with its Italian cafés.

Getting to San Francisco

From San Francisco International Airport (SFO), the regional BART metro reaches downtown in about 30 minutes. A booked transfer drops you right at your hotel.

Our booking tips

1. Check parking: it’s often charged at hotels, on top of the room rate.
2. Look at the total price: taxes and service fees are sometimes added to the displayed rate.
3. Read recent reviews about the street around the hotel.
4. Pack a jacket: fog and wind keep things cool even in summer.
5. Choose free cancellation when it is offered.

Once you’re there

Book your Alcatraz visit early, as it’s in high demand. For the rest of your trip (the coast road, national parks, Los Angeles), see our guide Travel in the United States. To plan your days, see our guide Things to do in San Francisco. The areas and useful services are on our San Francisco page.