If you are planning a tour of California, you will surely be looking for information on the best area to stay in San Francisco. And that's exactly what we're going to talk about in this guide.
San Francisco is a wonderful city with a unique charm, but it is essential to choose the right place to stay, to enjoy the city to the fullest, optimize travel and not risk ending up in less safe areas.
Where to Stay in San Francisco
Let's say right away that the usually most popular neighborhoods in San Francisco are Union Square, in the center, e Fisherman’s Wharfs, the most touristic area of ​​the city. Even the Navy and in particular Lombard Street it's a great choice. Then there are other characteristic neighborhoods such as the beautiful Nob Hill of Castro.
Unfortunately there are also areas that should be avoided, especially at night,in particular some neighborhoods on the outskirts and in the more disreputable and not well frequented areas of the center, such as the Tenderloin, SOMA and the area west of Union Square.
In all probability nothing will happen to you but it is good to know the areas to avoid, always pay attention and in any case do not flaunt wealth.
Before seeing in detail the best areas to sleep in San Francisco, I remind you that the city is good for public transport, so it would be better not to have a car, also for the problem of parking. If you are really driving, make sure that the structure where you will stay overnight has a parking space
Union Square
Union Square is in the center and it is the most convenient area for getting around by public transport and visit the main attractions of San Francisco.
During the day the neighborhood is lively, with many shops, bars and surrounded by skyscrapers and it is pleasant to walk through the streets of the center.
In the evening the area around Union Square is less lively and some spots are frequented by homeless (not dangerous) and by disreputable people.
However, as an area it is not dangerous, but it is better to avoid the area that borders the Tenderloin district.
I personally stayed at The Cartwright Hotel, just a few steps from Union Square, in an excellent position, I walked around quietly even in the evening without any problem.
If, on the other hand, you are looking for a more touristic place, the Fisherman's Wharf is better, always lively by day and by night.
Fisherman’s Wharfs.
From a tourist point of view Fisherman's Wharf is certainly the best area to stay in San Francisco, there are always a lot of people around, the location is convenient for reaching other areas of the city and the neighborhood is safe.
You can therefore easily turn around at any time, of course, it is the most touristic and least authentic point of the city, but during the day you can reach the center and other well-known neighborhoods of San Francisco, such as Mission, Castro or Chinatown.
It must be said that the area is also the most expensive, if you are looking for something cheaper, a good solution is near the Marina, where there are some motels at cheaper prices.
Marina / Lombard Street
The Marina area is also a great option for those with a car, as there are several hotels with parking, especially on Lombard Street.
The neighborhood is lively, with many clubs, restaurants and shops, it is a few minutes walk from Fisherman's Wharf and the center can be easily reached by public transport.
Nob Hill
Nob Hil is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in San Francisco, an exclusive and safe area. It is located on the highest hill in the city and is characterized by beautiful houses and offers several luxury hotels. From here you can admire breathtaking views of the bay and the city. We move with the characteristics Cable Car, the classic open trams that take you from the hill to the center.
Oakland
If you really look for it a low cost solution and you are by car you might consider the city of Oakland, which is across the bay and the Bay Bridge. Many hotels offer free parking and the presence of the BART metro allows you to reach downtown San Francisco in about 20 minutes.
However, consider the area where you choose the hotel because some Oakland neighborhoods are not really recommended. Of course, make sure you are within walking distance of the metro station.
Tips and practical information to better plan a trip to California
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