Top reasons to visit San Francisco
- Iconic Landmarks: Visit famous sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, capturing stunning views and rich history.
- Cultural Diversity: Experience the vibrant mix of cultures through unique neighbourhoods, local cuisine, and art scenes.
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore urban parks like Golden Gate Park, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities.
- Shopping and Dining: Discover lively shopping areas and indulge in diverse dining options that showcase the city's character.
- Scenic Bay Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay Area, ideal for creating lasting memories of your trip.
Find great hotels in San Francisco
Discover an array of hotel accommodation options in San Francisco, catering to every traveller's needs. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly motels, you'll find a variety of choices that offer excellent services for business trips, shopping excursions, and even pet-friendly stays. Whether you're seeking a top hotel or a charming boutique experience, San Francisco has something to suit your preferences for an unforgettable holiday.
- Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Nestled in the vibrant Fisherman's Wharf area, Hotel Riu Plaza is a 4-star hotel that embodies the spirit of adventure and coastal charm. Rated 9.0 out of 10 by guests, this property offers direct beach access and a variety of adventure sports nearby, including hiking and biking rentals. The hotel’s modern design complements its beach-themed experience, making it ideal for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor activities. Its central location allows easy exploration of San Francisco's attractions, ensuring a memorable stay for travellers looking to embrace the city and its scenic surroundings.
- Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG: Situated in the heart of San Francisco, Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG is a 3.5-star accommodation rated 9.0 out of 10 by guests. This hotel caters to business travellers and city explorers alike, providing a seamless blend of comfort and convenience. With its central location, guests can easily access key business districts and popular tourist sites. The hotel features modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those seeking efficient service and a relaxed stay during their business or leisure trip.
- Travelodge by Wyndham San Francisco Airport North: For budget-conscious travellers, Travelodge by Wyndham San Francisco Airport North offers a practical and comfortable stay. This motel, ideally situated near the airport, is perfect for those on business trips or looking for a convenient stopover. While it maintains a focus on affordability, guests appreciate the property's straightforward amenities and accessibility to the city’s key points. It's a solid choice for those seeking value without compromising on comfort during their San Francisco visit.
Where to stay in San Francisco
San Francisco offers an unforgettable blend of urban excitement and stunning scenery for all types of travellers. Explore the vibrant downtown, where California Street buzzes with energy, or take in breathtaking city views from iconic landmarks. Nearby, the Bay Area invites you to discover charming neighbourhoods and friendly locals, perfect for family-friendly adventures or outdoor escapades. Experience the unique vibes of this metropolis and create lasting memories in the heart of California.
- South San Francisco: Nestled just south of San Francisco, this city offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South San Francisco comes alive with visitors primarily between March to April and July. It boasts attractions like the impressive sports stadium and beautiful urban parks, perfect for a day out. The local shopping mall and arena entertainment facilities cater to various interests, making it a well-rounded destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Union Square: Located at the heart of San Francisco, Union Square is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its bustling shopping scene and cultural experiences. Drawing visitors throughout the year, with peaks in April and June to July, this area is ideal for families and business travellers. The famous shopping area and nearby theatres make it a hub for retail therapy and entertainment. With landmarks like event conference venues and sports facilities within easy reach, Union Square is a must-visit for those looking to experience the city's dynamic spirit.
- Fisherman's Wharf: This iconic neighbourhood along the waterfront is a feast for the senses, attracting families and city explorers alike. Visitors flock to Fisherman's Wharf, especially during the warmer months of April and June to July. The area is rich in attractions, including bustling shopping centres and scenic piers. As you stroll along the waterfront, take in the lively atmosphere and enjoy some of the best seafood the city has to offer. With tourist precincts and sports facilities nearby, it’s a lively locale that captures the essence of San Francisco.
Things to do near San Francisco
Shopping
In San Francisco, visit the iconic Westfield San Francisco Centre, featuring a mix of international brands and local boutiques. For a unique experience, explore the Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can find artisanal goods and local produce, providing a taste of the city’s vibrant culture.
Recreation
Explore the serene surroundings of the Golden Gate Park, featuring tranquil gardens and peaceful walking trails. For relaxation, visit the Kabuki Springs & Spa, where you can indulge in traditional Japanese baths and soothing treatments that rejuvenate the mind and body.
Experience yoga with stunning bay views at Yoga Tree, where classes cater to various levels. For a unique hike, venture to Lands End, offering scenic coastal trails and breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for invigorating your spirit.
Adventure
At Sonoma Raceway, thrill-seekers can immerse themselves in high-speed motor racing, located 41.8km from San Francisco. Experience the adrenaline rush of racing events and test your skills at the Simraceway Performance Driving Center, also 41.8km away, where adventure and sports collide in an exhilarating atmosphere.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Francisco at the iconic Mission District, known for its lively bars and restaurants. For a lively club scene, visit the famous Castro Theatre or check out local music venues like The Fillmore for live performances.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Francisco
San Francisco offers a wealth of free activities like exploring Golden Gate Park, Pier 39, and the Presidio. For public transport, consider using buses, trains, and streetcars to save on travel costs. The best time to visit is during February and November to December when accommodation rates are lower, with Fridays being the cheapest stay. Use Expedia's search tool to find great hotel deals, especially by combining bookings for flights and activities, and filter for eco-friendly options to find sustainable stays.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Francisco are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Francisco is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in San Francisco is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your San Francisco hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in San Francisco
San Francisco is perfect for family and outdoor adventures, offering a mix of urban parks, vibrant streets, and art museums. With a rich cultural scene and plenty of outdoor experiences, it's an ideal destination for travellers seeking both city life and nature. Don't miss out on visiting local attractions and exploring nearby resorts to enhance your holiday in this iconic Californian city.
- Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic suspension bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County. Its striking Art Deco design and vibrant International Orange colour provide a stunning backdrop for photographs, especially at sunrise and sunset. The bridge's walkways offer a unique perspective of the bay and city skyline.
- Pier 39: A bustling waterfront marketplace, Pier 39 features shops, eateries, and sea lion sightings. Enjoy live entertainment and stunning views of Alcatraz Island and the bay. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals add to the charm, making it a must-visit for a taste of urban life by the sea.
- Golden Gate Park: This expansive urban park is a haven for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With beautiful gardens, walking trails, and recreational activities, it offers a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Explore the park's museums, lakes, and stunning landscapes for a leisurely day out.
Best time to go to San Francisco
The best time to visit San Francisco can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Francisco falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in San Francisco falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to San Francisco
Flying into San Francisco is convenient with several major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located 19.3km from the city, with luxurious hotel options like the Fairmont San Francisco and Palace Hotel, both offering transfer services to the airport. San Jose International Airport (SJC), 62.8km away, features hotels such as the 5-star Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto and the 4.5-star Santa Clara Marriott, both easily accessible. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is further afield at 123.9km, with comfortable stays like the DoubleTree by Hilton Sacramento. Each airport provides a range of transport options for seamless travel to your destination.