Hotels in San Francisco

Unveiling the Soul of San Francisco: A Journey Through Culture, Color, and Coastal Charm

Discover the enchanting charm of San Francisco, where iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island meet vibrant neighborhoods. Wander through the bustling streets of Chinatown, the oldest and largest in North America, and marvel at the stunning architecture of Victorian homes. Explore world-class museums, including the de Young and the California Academy of Sciences, and savor the city's diverse culinary scene. With its stunning bay views and rich cultural tapestry, San Francisco promises a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in San Francisco and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in San Francisco

Some of the best places to stay in San Francisco are Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf and South of Market. Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, and South of Market offer diverse experiences for travelers. Downtown is vibrant and central, ideal for shopping and dining. Fisherman's Wharf is famous for its waterfront attractions and seafood. South of Market is known for its art scene and nightlife. Accommodations in these areas range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, catering to all types of visitors. For first-time travelers, Fisherman’s Wharf is the best choice, offering iconic sights and easy access to attractions. Here are some of the best hotels in San Francisco that our travelers love:

1. Downtown San FranciscoOpens in a new window: Downtown San Francisco is a vibrant hub perfect for families and business travelers alike, with attractions like Pier 39, the Chase Center, and the Moscone Convention Center nearby. This area offers a mix of adventure and business opportunities, making it ideal for all types of travelers. For accommodations, consider Taj Campton PlaceOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that caters to adventure and business needs with facilities like a conference center and various outdoor activities. Another excellent option is 1 Hotel San FranciscoOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that provides a family-friendly atmosphere and essential business amenities, including meeting rooms. Lastly, Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at EmbarcaderoOpens in a new window is a luxurious choice that offers top-notch business services along with family-friendly features, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
2. Fisherman's WharfOpens in a new window: Fisherman's Wharf is a family-friendly destination known for its stunning waterfront views and proximity to attractions such as Pier 39 and the Moscone Convention Center. This area is bustling with entertainment, dining, and shopping options. For a memorable stay, consider Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli SquareOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that offers direct beach access and a variety of family amenities. Another great choice is Kimpton Alton Fisherman's Wharf, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel located in the shopping district, perfect for those who enjoy a blend of luxury and pet-friendly accommodations. Lastly, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts CollectionOpens in a new window, while a bit farther away, features business facilities and romantic packages, making it a unique option for couples.
3. South of MarketOpens in a new window: South of Market is a dynamic neighborhood that combines business and leisure, making it a great choice for families and business travelers. With attractions like the Moscone Convention Center and Chase Center, it’s a lively area for both work and play. For budget-friendly options, Home2 Suites by Hilton Alameda Oakland AirportOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel suited for business travelers and pet owners, offering essential amenities like a business center. Holiday Inn & Suites Oakland Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is another 3.0-star option that caters to families and business needs, featuring meeting rooms and cribs for children. Finally, Hilton Garden Inn Oakland / San LeandroOpens in a new window is a well-rounded hotel providing multiple business facilities and family-friendly amenities, ensuring a convenient stay in the heart of the city.

What to do in San Francisco

Three days in San Francisco offers a captivating mix of stunning coastal vistas, rolling hills, and lush parks. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and boating, alongside vibrant arts, shopping, and cultural experiences. The city's unique charm and diverse landscapes make it a must-visit destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to San Francisco:

• Day 1: Begin your San Francisco journey by taking in the iconic views from the Golden Gate Bridge, where you can walk or bike across this engineering marvel. After capturing some memorable photos, make your way to Hawk Hill, which offers stunning panoramic vistas of the bridge and the city beyond. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Kirby Beach, where you can relax by the shore, take in the scenic beauty, and perhaps even have a picnic while watching the waves crash against the rocks.
• Day 2: Kick off your exploration with a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island, the infamous former prison. Spend some time touring the island and learning about its history. Afterward, head to Point Bonita Lighthouse, where you can enjoy a short hike and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. As the day winds down, drive over the Bay Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering that lights up beautifully at night, providing a perfect backdrop for your evening.
• Day 3: Start your day by enjoying the serene beauty of San Francisco Bay, taking in the sights of sailboats and the surrounding hills. Next, unwind at Ocean Beach, where you can stroll along the sandy shore or simply breathe in the fresh ocean air. Wrap up your adventure at Jack London Square, a vibrant waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it an ideal spot to relax and reflect on your San Francisco experience.

5 tips to find a great San Francisco hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit San Francisco are February, November, and December, as hotel prices tend to be lower during this time. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least two months in advance for the best deals. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the city's highlights, which include its famous architecture and vibrant Chinatown. This way, you can experience all that San Francisco has to offer while keeping your trip affordable and great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to San Francisco, Hotels.com offers a great way to snag discounts on accommodations. Head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay in the loop about flash sales and special last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, which may help you capitalize on savings opportunities.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in San Francisco.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in San Francisco and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in San Francisco

Here are a few top restaurants to try in San Francisco, California, United States of America:

• Ferry Building Marketplace: This iconic spot is a culinary hub that showcases the best of San Francisco's artisanal food scene. Featuring a variety of local vendors, you can indulge in fresh seafood, gourmet cheeses, and handcrafted chocolates, all while enjoying seasonal and sustainable ingredients that reflect the region's bounty.
• Spark Social SF: A vibrant outdoor food truck park that captures the essence of street food culture in San Francisco. With a rotating selection of food trucks, diners can savor diverse flavors from around the world, all crafted with a local twist, making it a perfect spot for foodies to experience innovative dishes in a lively atmosphere.
• Marufuku Ramen: Renowned for its authentic tonkotsu ramen, this eatery elevates traditional Japanese cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Their rich, creamy broth and handmade noodles provide a comforting and flavorful experience that pays homage to the art of ramen-making.

Best time to go to San Francisco

San Francisco experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 51.3°F (10.7°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.9°F (18.3°C). December is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in San Francisco, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.