I thought I had narrowed my search for hotels to 2 areas, Fisherman's Wharf or Union Sq area and tonight I read recommendations for Cow Hill and North Beach. We will be staying 3 days and not have a car. I was considering The Omni SF, Grand Hyatt SF and The Westin(cheapest room!)in the downtown area. the Argonaut and Sheraton in the Fisherman's Wharf area. They seem to start under $200. Any ideas or better suggestions?
We know nothing about SF so any info will be helpful.
Thanks

The downtown area will put you closer to a wide choice of restaurants.

Hi Peggy, what plans to you have for SF? This would possibly make a difference as to which area would be the most convenient for you.

Sorry I didn't give enough info. We're planning on the typical first time touristy things... Palace of Fine Arts/Explroatorium, Yerba Buena, Golden Gate Park, Cliff House, Fisherman's Wharf, cruise to Angel Island, just wandering aimlessly. Don't forget eating! After several days in SF, we'll rent a car to go up the coast. I understand we can rent a car at Fisherman's Wharf.
Peggy
PS Judging from your screen name, maybe you can help me on my next travel plans which will probably be to Italy.

Hi Peggy, from reading what you want to do I would strongly suggest that you stay in the Union Square area. You will be close to a lot of places (and walking distant to others) plus all the transportation options will be there also. And as Underhill stated the Union Square area will give you such a choice of restaurants.

I assume you have gotten a map of SF? If not I would do that.

You mentioned the Grand Hyatt. That is a great location and personally I would chose that over The Westin (The St.Francis Hotel). Some of the St. Francis Hotel rooms are pretty pathetic, especially if you book one of the least expensive ones.

Please post back here on this thread if you have any other questions. You will get a ton of answers I am sure.

Also, when you get ready to prepare to go to Italy post on the Europe Board. You will receive more informatioin then you know what to do with, LOL. You will love Italy too.

And sure hope you love SF. I am sure you will. And don't forget to visit North Beach, especially for eating! It is walking distant from Union Square btw. You just walk through ChinaTown and you will be in North Beach. Don't forget to buy that map! Best wishes.