The following pages will give you an idea of what each part of the city is like, with the pros and cons of staying there. Browse around and once you find an area you like, you can go to our lists of the best hotels in that area.
Tips About Where to Stay
- Resist the urge to stay outside the city because of lower hotel prices. You'll have to fight traffic and find a parking place once you get in town, and even if you save a few dollars, you'll lose your temper.
- Street parking is impossible in most areas and many San Francisco hotels charge from $20 to $50 a day for parking. You can get around most of the tourist area without an automobile, so consider skipping the rental car and applying the money toward a nice, more convenient hotel.
- Learn about hidden hotel costs and how to avoid them
- Rent a car for the day when you want to drive around outside the city and return it in the evening. Most car rental companies have pick up locations in the city.
San Francisco's Victorian bed and breakfasts cluster around Alamo Square and Golden Gate Park. They're charming, but because they're not centrally located, you'll have to hassle with a car or take a bus or taxi. Any other area in San Francisco besides the ones we mention is much less convenient, including the airport, so be sure you have a good reason for staying there.
