Where to stay in San Francisco
 

My husband and I are planning a 3 day trip to San Francisco. What are the must sees and which area would be most convinient to stay in? I've looked at hotels near Union Square, Fishermans Wharf, and South of the Market but honestly, I don't have a clue. Please advise

Check out this recent thread. We prefer the Union Square area but it is really a matter of personal preference.

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35147401

Are you bringing a car? Have you been to SF before? What is your hotel "budget"?

We've been to SF on average once a year since I was about 5 years old. That's what, about, uh 50 trips. In the olden days (ha!) we stayed either downtown or the Fisherman's wharf area. We've stayed in places from the Mark Hopkins to the Fairmont to the Hilton in the downtown area, the Marriott at Fisherman's wharf.

Since 1985, except for the one or two times when we had to stay downtown due to meetings or conventions, we have stayed exclusively in the Marina (not to be confused with Fisherman's Wharf). Why? Because, IMO it's really one of the most evening walkable areas of town with a very good vibe. It's the motel row (along Lombard Street) of SF, but what I would really call "motor inns" (as the phrase is used in England), because they are generally really nice, good value, and free parking. Further, this area is very mass transit oriented. It's great fun to leave your car parked, pay the $1.50 (or around that) to catch Bus 30 on Chestnut Street, which takes you to Fisherman's Wharf, Columbus Street, North Beach, China Town, etc.

The 2 great walking streets in the area are Chestnut and Union. Close to the Golden Gate Bridge and Crissy Field, one of those places you find on one of your walks, jogs, or drives in the Marina that is a hidden treasure and great photo op of the Golden Gate & Alcatraz! Really nice wildlife reserve as well.

>>walks, jogs, or drives in the Marina that is a hidden treasure<<

Hidden from tourists perhaps, but certainly not hidden from locals.

Stu Dudley

We liked the Hotel Rex a lot. It's a nicely done boutique hotel in Union Square area. It's a Joie de Vivre property, so go to their website and check it out, along with their others in S.F.

Enjoy your trip!

I stayed in Union Square at the Hilton once and got a great rate. A bus driver said it was not as safe but I had no problems. It is closer to the shopping district if that's what you're after but a bit of a hike to Fisherman's Wharf. If you don't mind walking Union Square is fine.

The Hilton sits squarely between Union Square and the Tenderloin. So, if you go out and head TOWARD Union Square, the neighborhood is fine. If you head in the wrong direction, the neighborhood is a little dicey. That's why people always recommend Priceline-users opt for "Union Square EAST".

I second Hotel Rex. Great location. Also, the Clift Hotel is two blocks from Union Square and is also very nice. It's a little spendy though. :) Would depend on your budget.

For must sees...I agree with Alcatraz. Really is an interesting tour. I would also suggest having dim sum in Chinatown. Have lunch at the top of the Neiman Marcus.

It really is a beautiful city. You should have a wonderful time.