San Francisco might seem like a smaller, manageable city to explore when compared to a city like Los Angeles. In reality, it's divided into many neighborhoods that make for a diverse experience. Knowing where to stay in this colorful and historic city can mean the difference between making the most of a trip, and scrambling to see everything on one's list.
While there's not necessarily a 'bad' area, per se, there are areas of the city that are more desirable when it comes to popular attractions, food stops, and the overall landscape.
Union Square: Access To The Most Hotels
The unusual thing about Union Square is that it's the only recommended neighborhood on the list that offers little to no activities within the immediate area. So, while readers might be wondering why on earth this should even be considered when visiting San Francisco, this is why: the array of hotels available is unbeatable.
While there may not be anything of great significance in Union Square, it certainly has more lodging accommodations than any other in the city, which practically makes it a must when it comes to places to considering booking.
Where To Stay
- Most Unique: Staypineapple, $146/night
- Most Budget-Friendly: Found Hotel, $104/night
- Most Luxe: Hotel Nikko, $185/night + $34 fee/day for amenities
North Beach: Nightlife, Fisherman's Wharf Access, And Great Italian Food
North Beach is a unique San Francisco neighborhood that's worth visiting for those who don't plan on being bored. There's plenty to explore both during the day and at night, since Fisherman's Wharf is just north, and both Nob Hill and Chinatown are to the west.
Most people head to Washington Square Park on sunny days, and walking toward Pioneer Park will provide views of the San Francisco Bay. However, at night, this neighborhood is transformed; bars, clubs, and adult venues will be obvious, which may appeal to some people over others. If nothing else, the Italian food (especially the pizza - as weird as it sounds on the West Coast) is a must-try.
Where To Stay
- Most Unique: Hotel Zephyr, $219/night
- Most Budget-Friendly: Mariott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco, $142/night
- Most Luxe: Argonaut Hotel, $242/night
Hayes Valley: The Most Walkable Neighborhood In San Francisco
When most people think of San Francisco, this is the neighborhood that they're picturing. The classic, Full House-style setting with Victorian house-lined streets and charming parks. Hayes Valley does suit that image and it does have plenty to offer but, at the same time, the options for hotels are not what they are in the other neighborhoods. According to Wheatless Wanderlust, this is the best neighborhood in terms of things to do and see.
It's also the most walkable so if travelers are looking to save some bucks then they might be able to do so by avoiding public transportation or a car rental. Highlights of this neighborhood include local coffee shops, great restaurant options, and close proximity to Market Street. Of course, having the opportunity to photograph the city's most famed Victorian houses doesn't hurt, either.
Where To Stay
- Most Unique: Chateau Tivoli Bed & Breakfast, $165/night
- Most Budget-Friendly: Hayes Valley Inn, $83/night
- Most Luxe: The Grove Inn, $163/night
Bonus: The Haight
The Haight deserves an honorable mention simply because of its close proximity to all of San Francisco's major tourist attractions, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Haight Ashbury. It's also the easiest part of the city to drive around and parking is far easier than any other neighborhood in San Francisco, so that also gets it some bonus points. North of the Panhandle, which is technically part of the Haight (well, close to it) is the place to go for a diverse array of restaurants and shopping, so there's plenty to do without ever leaving this neighborhood.
Surprisingly, it's also a relatively quiet neighborhood - which may appeal to some travelers who want to see San Francisco but don't necessarily want to be in the middle of the urban action. The Haight also provides access to Buena Vista Park, which has popular hiking trails and views of the surrounding city. Haight Street is home to many restaurants and eateries so this is another area that's worth visiting for those who don't want to travel very far. The downside to booking in the Haight is the fact that hotels are few and far between. In reality, there are only two that provide walkable access to the neighborhood's features.
- Most Budget-Friendly: The Metro Hotel, $143/night
- Most Luxe: Stanyan Park Hotel, $225/night