Book a hotel in San Francisco

Planning your stay in San Francisco can be as exciting as riding a cable car up a steep hill! From the colourful Painted Ladies to the bustling waterfront, there’s a perfect spot for every visitor, and eDreams has rounded up everything you need to know about finding the ideal accommodation for your trip.

Prepare for a cityscape unlike any other, where rolling hills meet dramatic bay views and a spirit of innovation thrives. San Francisco offers a wealth of experiences, from the mist-shrouded Golden Gate Bridge to the historic cell blocks of Alcatraz Island. Explore the bustling waterfront at Fisherman's Wharf, ride a cable car through Nob Hill, or wander through the colourful Victorian houses known as the Painted Ladies.

You will find a diverse range of districts, each with its own character, making exploring the city on foot or by public transport a joy. Consider staying in the lively downtown area for easy access to major sights, or opt for a neighbourhood like North Beach for a more bohemian feel. Whether you are looking for cultural immersion or scenic beauty, San Francisco provides an unforgettable backdrop for your next getaway.

Most visitors arriving in San Francisco choose to book their accommodation around Union Square. This central district offers a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious establishments, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. Its central location also provides easy access to public transport and major attractions.

Union Square itself is a bustling hub, famous for its high-end department stores and theatres. Just a short walk away, you can explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in North America, with its distinctive architecture and bustling markets. Further north, Fisherman's Wharf is a popular waterfront area known for Pier 39, offering views of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge, and home to the historic cable car turnaround. Hotels here often have a nautical theme, with easy access to bay cruises.

For a different experience, North Beach is San Francisco's historic Italian quarter, characterised by its European-style cafes and Beat Generation literary past. Nearby, Telegraph Hill offers panoramic views from Coit Tower. Accommodation in these areas often includes boutique hotels and guesthouses. South of Market, the SoMa district is a more contemporary area, home to numerous museums such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and the Moscone Centre. Hotels here are typically modern and cater to both business and leisure travellers.

When considering where to book your hotel, think about transport links. San Francisco's public transport system, Muni, includes buses, light rail, and the iconic cable cars, providing good connectivity across the city. Many areas are well-served, particularly those around Union Square. For airport access, hotels with good connections to Powell Street Station or Civic Centre/UN Plaza Station are convenient, as these are direct stops for the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) train from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Oakland International Airport (OAK) is also accessible via BART with a transfer.

Booking a hotel in San Francisco can be cheaper if you plan your trip outside of peak tourist seasons like summer or early autumn. Consider visiting in late winter or early spring for better rates and fewer crowds. Looking for accommodation slightly away from popular areas like Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square can also save you money. Neighbourhoods such as the Marina District or even across the Bay in Oakland often offer more affordable options, and you can easily reach the city centre via public transport, including San Francisco's historic cable car network.

Another cost-saving tip is to book a hotel that includes breakfast, or choose an option with kitchen facilities to prepare some meals yourself. Parking in San Francisco is notoriously expensive; if you do not plan on driving much, opt for a hotel without parking, or consider using ride-sharing apps or public transport to get around. These strategies help you stretch your travel budget further. Book your next San Francisco hotel stay with eDreams today for great deals.