San Francisco Vacation Rentals
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San Francisco Travel Guide
San Francisco is the 13th largest city in the U.S. and the 4th largest in the state of California. Ranking as the 7th most-visited city in America in 2017, it's the preferred destination for those looking to check Northern California and its wide range of activities and wonders. San Francisco's culture is distinct. From its bright houses built into the hills to its cable cars to its iconic bridges, the city is unlike any other. The population is extremely diverse, with large Hispanic and Asian populations coming from a long list of countries. Locals are friendly, accustomed to tourist crowds and generally happy to help with directions.
Getting There
By Air
San Francisco has its own airport (SFO), although Oakland International Airport, and San Jose International Airport are alternatives to access the city. BART is the Bay Area Rapid Transit system that links the International Airport to downtown.By Bus
There’s a Greyhound bus terminal on Folsom Street that connects to a large number of West Coast cities, as well as long-haul journeys to other states.By Train
The Amtrak Coast Starlight Line goes to Oakland via the San Francisco Bay, or the CalTrain runs from San Jose.Weather & Climate
Although located on California’s coast, San Fran has a climate that fluctuates very quickly. January and December are the only two months that drop below 60 degrees, while September and October peak in the 70s. December through to March are the rainiest months, although the downpour is rarely extreme; the fog however is one of San Fran’s most famous weather elements.
Best Time to Visit
The city's weather is notoriously strange and can often be chilly in the summer with thick layers of fog. We recommend the fall as the time to visit in order to catch great weather and dodge the thick crowds. Alternatively, spring is another good time to visit as there is less rainfall than the rest of the year.
Things to Do & Attractions
Popular neighborhoods include Fisherman's Wharf for its view of Alcatraz and endless waterfront attractions, the vibrant Haight-Ashbury section for its painted homes and eccentric shops, and the Marin Headlands just across the Golden Gate for the breathtaking views of the bay.
No trip to San Francisco is complete without taking in the views of Golden Gate Bridge but vacationers should also plan to spend a day in Golden Gate Park or one of the regional parks and beaches in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The parks in San Fran see more than 13 million visitors a year.
Shopping
Take a trip to Pier 39 for shops, restaurants, a video arcade, street performances, the Aquarium of the Bay, virtual 3D rides, and views of California sea lions.A popular spot for tourists is the Fisherman’s Wharf, which is on the northern waterfront. There’s everything from food stalls selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls as well as souvenir shops and postcards. There are also sea lions to spot and historic ships in the water.
History
A visit to the notorious Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay with the former prison on-site has to be on every vacationer’s must-do list. Visitors can be “locked in” to experience the full feeling of the prison and what it must have been like for past prisoners.Outdoors & Adventure
For adventurous travelers, there really is nothing better than climbing up to Twin Peaks. Named after the 922-foot-high summits, this residential neighborhood with modern homes includes a 64-acre hilltop park which has hiking trails leading up to 360-degree views of the Bay Area.Elsewhere, take a walk through Downtown San Francisco to stare up at the tower blocks of the financial districts as well as having a meal at the Tadich Grill, the city’s oldest restaurant.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of rentals in San Francisco to choose from and they are available year-round. The city isn’t known for being a very hot resort and is more suited to travelers that enjoy sightseeing or museum-hopping rather than sun-seekers looking for a beach.
Events
Whatever time of the year, there’s always something creating a buzz in San Francisco. From live music, street parades, fairs or conferences, the city’s event calendar is more than impressive. One of the largest events in San Francisco is Gay Pride, which takes place at the end of June and attracts visitors from around the world to celebrate equality. New Year’s Eve is equally spectacular, when a colorful display of fireworks lights up the bay area. Other important events to watch out for include:
- Chinese New Year (February)
- The Cherry Blossom Festival (mid April)
- St. Patrick’s Day (March)
- Outside Lands Festival (August)
- Oktoberfest (October)
Nightlife
In true Californian form, San Francisco knows how to party. Clubs and bars like Audio Discotech, Monarch, Vertigo, Delirium, and Starlight Room are some of the local favorites. When the sun goes down in SF, everything from electronic, funk, pop, and R&B, and more takes over the dancefloors. There are also a number of gay-friendly spots, including Badlands, Powerhouse, Q Bar, Moby Dick, and Edge.
Food & Drink
San Francisco is home to a plethora of cuisines, restaurants, and street food. If you’re a foodie traveler - prepare to be full all the time.
Mission Burrito
Located in a Central-American neighborhood, this eatery is famous for its huge burritos, stuffed with meats, vegetables, spices, and sauces.Fog Harbor Fish House
Over on Fisherman’s Wharf, this restaurant in a San Fran classic. Serving up award-winning clam chowder (presented in a bread bowl), as well as other fresh seafood, its entire menu is utterly mouthwatering.Anchor Steam Bar
The first ever American brewery, this spot is a timeless classic. With a range of brews on offer, plus a friendly atmosphere, it’s a must for every SF itinerary.Tartine Bakery
Everything at this popular bakery is deserving of a spot on your plate. Come for breakfast, lunch, dinner or all three - the treats are all freshly baked and unforgettable.Art & Culture
Stay in San Francisco to discover the history, culture and stunning views of this west coast resort. The northern California destination is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. It’s known for the foggy climate and steep streets which give Instagrammers all over the world tons of amazing snaps.
Art-lovers should check out the Asian Art Museum which has one of the most comprehensive Asian art collections in the world, with more than 18,000 works of art in its permanent collection, some as much as 6,000 years old.
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is also worth checking out for the internationally recognized collection of modern and contemporary art.
Family Activities
San Francisco is extremely family-friendly and has a whole array of things to do with kids. From the bustling nature of Golden Gate Park, the Exploratorium Museum, Ocean beach, and Lombard Street, to Coit Tower, the Marin Headlands, and of course, Fisherman’s Wharf - you’ll never be bored in this city with little ones.
The Weather in San Francisco
This climate histogram shows you the weather patterns in San Francisco. The hottest month in San Francisco is July, when temperatures peak at 97 ˚F. The coolest month is November, when temperatures drop to 40 ˚F. The wettest month in San Francisco is November with 7.94 inches of rain, while the driest month is September with 0.35 inches of rain.
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Vacation Rentals in San Francisco
Browse rentals from all the best providers including Airbnb, Agoda, Priceline and many more at AllTheRooms.com. We have 5,144 vacation rentals, hotels and other accommodation types in San Francisco ranging from budget options to luxury places to stay. For those traveling on a budget, the most economical place to stay in San Francisco is available at $10 per night. The average price of a rental is $311 per night.
Those needing to get some work done during their trip to San Francisco can choose from 2,836 places to stay that provide WiFi. 224 of our accommodations come with breakfast in the price. You can keep up with your workout regime by staying at one of 204 accommodations that provide gym facilities. If you are driving to San Francisco, you'll want to pick from 2,017 places to stay that provide parking. We track 51 hotels and vacation rentals that have a pool or jacuzzi.
AllTheRooms has 265 pet-friendly places to stay in San Francisco, so if you're traveling with your pet you won't have any problems.
In San Francisco AllTheRooms currently compares hotels, vacation rentals, hostels from more than 5 providers, including 2,798 places to stay from Airbnb, 41 accommodations from Agoda and 41 places to stay from Priceline.
3,853 accommodations in San Francisco have been reviewed; 89% are rated excellent or good. You can instantly book any of 912 places to stay right now.