The 10 best hotels & places to stay in San Francisco, United States – San Francisco hotels

An Icon of Liberalism

Home to one of America’s icons – the Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco is a liberal city where life is very much for the living.

Surrounded on 3 sides by water, it is spread over steep hills that make for great photo opportunities. None better than the zig-zag Lombard Street seen in many a film. Other movie stars are the streetcars plying the hill climbs – a little touristy, but still worth trying.

In the middle of the bay is Alcatraz island, famed for the notorious criminals once imprisoned there. Even if you don’t fancy going inside, the views towards the bridge and city are unparalleled.

Nowhere in San Francisco is life more laidback than on the Pacific beaches. Hire a bike and head out there via the huge Golden Gate Park, before returning to sample some fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf. The clam chowder served in (yes, actually in!) bread is a delight. Chinatown also has a great selection of good value restaurants.

As you fly into San Francisco Airport, look out for the exclusive homes lining the Bay Area. Whether you want to stay in apartments along those lines, luxury San Francisco hotels or cheap hostels, Booking.com has something to suit. Be careful though – you might just leave your heart here.