Top San Francisco Areas for a Safe Stay (Written by a Local)

Look, I know San Francisco gets a bad rap these days, but let me set the record straight — this city is absolutely stunning. I personally grew up in the Bay Area and have lived in San Francisco for the last decade. Yet, I continue to be obsessed with our pastel-colored Victorians, the cable cars chugging along California street, and the views of the Golden Gate bridge at sunset from Crissy Field. If you ignore the overly negative image the media loves to push, then you’ll soon understand why thousands of people fall head over heels for SF every year 🌁

Yes, just like any major city, we have our rough areas, but the “doomloop” headlines don’t tell the full story.

The reality? There are just a handful of streets to avoid, and I promise I won’t send you anywhere near them.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best neighborhoods in San Francisco for a safe and enjoyable stay. From waterfront hotels along The Embarcadero to design-forward stays in The Marina, I’ve got all the information for the safest spots in San Francisco for first time visitors. Plus, a quick FAQ to answer all your burning questions about the city by the bay.

Why should you trust me? Well, I grew up here and currently live in Nob Hill. So I can guarantee that I’ve got the most up-to-date, no-BS take on where to stay for a safe, stress-free visit to San Francisco 🌉

So let’s get into it 👇

Read more on San Francisco:

• How to Spend 3 Unforgettable Days in San Francisco (w/ sample itinerary)
• 10 Exceptional Italian Restaurants in San Francisco
• The Essential Guide to San Francisco’s Polk Street

This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

San Francisco at a Glance

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in San Francisco:

• Palihotel, for an eclectic yet cozy stay in the heart of Union Square
• Hotel Kabuki, for a mix of Japanese meets modern design in Japantown
• Infinity Hotel, for easy access to the Golden Gate Bridge from The Marina
• The Jay, for a design-forward business stay in FIDI
• Fairmont San Francisco, for classic, opulent luxury with unbeatable views in Nob Hill
• 1 Hotel, for an eco-conscious yet luxurious stay along The Embarcadero

Make sure to also check out my step-by-step guide to booking the best hotels!

Breakdown of San Francisco neighborhoods

San Francisco, located on the northern tip of California’s San Francisco Peninsula, is a vibrant city known for its stunning views, classic landmarks, and rich history. Spanning just 7 miles by 7 miles, it’s also one of the most compact major cities in the U.S.

Ps. SF is literally nicknamed 7×7 because of how small our city dimensions are.

San Francisco’s neighborhoods are as diverse as the people who live here, and trust me, there’s a spot for everyone. The Marina and Pacific Heights are your go-to for stunning views and chic dining, while Nob Hill and Russian Hill serve up a little old-school charm with those iconic, sweeping panoramas. And hills 🥵

If you’re in the mood for classic tourist fun, head over to Fisherman’s Wharf for seafood, shopping, and all the sights. Union Square’s got your back for shopping and art, while the Financial District (FiDi) pulses with business energy.

Richmond and Sunset? A quieter, more laid-back vibe with cozy restaurants and parks to relax in. Whatever you’re in the mood for, SF’s neighborhoods have you covered. And the best part is that they’re all safe to stay in! So stick with me, and I’ll take you through each one — neighborhood by neighborhood!

Safest Areas to Stay in San Francisco

Now that you’ve got a feel for how big the city is and how things are laid out, let’s get into the safest areas to stay while visiting San Francisco! You won’t need a car if you’re staying in these areas, although it never hurts to rent one if you want to go beyond the city.

Aka like maybe up to wine country or down the coast for a day 🍷🌊

Staying in The Marina

I know, I know. Every guidebook and travel blog will probably tell you to stay in Union Square. But let me let you in on a little secret: the Marina District is where it’s really at.

I actually lived here for over five years before my fiancé and I made the move to Nob Hill, so I’m speaking from experience when I say it’s hands down the best neighborhood in San Francisco.

From stunning views of the Golden Gate to charming boutiques, fitness studios, and top-notch dining, it’s got the perfect mix of everything.

Plus, it’s one of the safest areas in the city. Whether you’re walking around at night or grabbing coffee in the morning, you’ll feel totally at ease. Trust me, if you’re looking for a spot to stay that’s both lively and secure, the Marina’s got you covered.

Top Hotel Recommendations in The Marina District

Ironically enough, all of the hotels in The Marina are mainly motels and/or inns. There’s only a handful of boutique hotels in this neighborhood so I’ll share my top 3 recommendations with you below.

• Infinity Hotel San Francisco, Tapestry Collection by Hilton — Definitely my top recommendation as it’s also the newest hotel in The Marina. The Infinity Hotel is a modern, stylish stay with sleek rooms, a rooftop deck, and easy access to the waterfront and Marina’s best spots. Also, the coffeeshop downstairs is delicious. I frequently grab coffee here after my morning Barry’s Bootcamp class right next door.
• La Casa Inn — A budget-friendly option with a no-frills vibe, perfect for travelers looking for a simple, convenient stay in a great location.
• Signature Inn San Francisco Marina District — A retro-style motel with updated rooms, offering an affordable and comfortable stay just steps from Marina’s restaurants and shops.

Things to do in The Marina

There’s so much to do in The Marina but I’d say the main things are to…

• Hit the parks and hangout on the lawns of Crissy Field, Marina Green, Presidio Tunnel Tops, and Fort Mason
• Go shopping on both Chestnut and Union Street
• Take in the epic views of the Golden Gate Bridge from a cruise along the ocean, Fort Point National Historic Site, and/or the Golden Gate Overlook
• Dine at top-rated restaurants like Little Original Joe’s, Mamanoko, A16, and more.
• Sip on handcrafted cocktails from Left Door, Wilder, and Balboa Café (known for their famous espressotinis)

The Marina has plenty to do, but more importantly, this is where the locals actually hang out.

Main Takeaway: The Marina is one of San Francisco’s trendiest and safest neighborhoods. Stay here for charming coffee shops, great shopping, epic Golden Gate Bridge views, and easy access to Marin and Sausalito. (It’s also one of the best areas for solo travelers visiting SF).

Staying in Union Square

Okay well obviously I’m going to talk about Union Square next since it’s a great location for a wide range of hotel types. Union Square is basically the go-to spot for first-time visitors, and honestly, I get why. It’s packed with hotels, nonstop shopping, cocktail bars, theaters, and some of the best restaurants in the city.

During the day, you can hop from designer boutiques to local shops, and by night, the area is buzzing with rooftop bars, craft cocktail spots, and top-tier dining. Plus, it’s a major transit hub, so getting around the city is a breeze. It’s also generally safe. Yes it’s technically a neighboring area to the Tenderloin which is the “sketchy” part of town but you’ll be completely fine in the center of Union Square.

In the FAQ section below, I’ll give you exactly which streets and areas to avoid in San Francisco. But believe me, Union Square is NOT one of them!

If you want to be in the middle of all the action with everything at your doorstep, Union Square is a solid choice.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Union Square

• Palihotel — One of my favorite boutique hotel brands!! I’ve stayed at the ones in Seattle, Culver City, and Melrose and loved them all. The rooms here are quirky, cozy, and full of charm. They also recently opened a brand new bar upstairs called Bar Maritime which serves delicious seafood and cocktails inspired by the sea 🌊
• Hotel Emblem — Located steps away from Union Square, Hotel Emblem is a stylish, literary-themed boutique hotel with a hip vibe, perfect for those who want to stay in the heart of SF’s cultural scene.
• Beacon Grand — Formerly known as the Sir Francis Drake hotel, the newly renovated Beacon Grand is a fantastic option for those looking for a luxurious and historic stay. There is also a rooftop bar at the top of the Beacon Grand with 360° views of the city!!

Things to do in Union Square

Since Union Square is San Francisco’s shopping, dining, and entertainment scene — that means it’s pretty much always packed with things to do year-round.

You’ll want to take some photos at the Dewey Monument and heart sculptures, then explore high-end boutiques, department stores, and local shops lining the square. Don’t miss the San Francisco cable car turnaround at the end of Powell Street, where you can hop on a $8 historic ride up to Nob Hill or Fisherman’s Wharf.

If you’re in SF during the holidays, you have to check out the Union Square ice rink. The whole square transforms into a festive wonderland with a giant skating rink and an even bigger Christmas tree. Oh, and they recently added Let’s Glow SF, a pretty cool light show that projects massive art displays onto downtown buildings every night during the holiday season.

One of the best things you can do is hit up a food tour in Chinatown. It’s so close and totally worth it. I always tell my friends visiting for the first time to check out this particular one because I think they stop at all the best places. Like the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory 🥠🥠🥠

For my favorite hidden gem, head inside The Westin St. Francis and check out the Chateau Montelena Tasting Room, where you can sip world-class Napa Valley wines without ever leaving the city.

Main Takeaway: If you want to be in the heart of San Francisco’s action, Union Square is the place to stay. With endless shopping, top-tier restaurants, and easy access to public transit (including the iconic cable cars), it’s a prime spot for first-time visitors.

Staying in Nob Hill

Alright, you might start to think this article’s a little biased towards neighborhoods I’ve lived in or currently live in…and you’d be right!

But hey, I like to live in nice, clean, and safe parts of San Francisco, which is exactly why I’m all about Nob Hill.

Whether it’s your first time or your 7th time visiting, this neighborhood is perfect for anyone who wants a blend of history, charm, and luxury. Or for anyone who enjoys getting their a** kicked by all of the crazy hills.

My favorite part about Nob Hill is that you’ll get stunning views of the city, plus a mix of high-end hotels, cozy cafes, underrated Italian restaurants, and historic landmarks like Grace Cathedral, The Masonic, The Cable Car Museum, and Huntington Park. Which just happens to be where you’ll find my dog and I almost every evening after work 🐶

It’s peaceful, central, and hands down one of the best places to stay in SF.

So yeah, maybe I’m a little biased, but Nob Hill really does have it all 😺

Top Hotel Recommendations in Nob Hill

• Nob Hill Hotel — There’s not a ton of hotel options in proper Nob Hill which is why Nob Hill Hotel holds a special place in my heart. It’s a no-frills boutique hotel with clean, modern rooms and a delicious Italian restaurant that only locals frequent called Colombini!
• Fairmont San Francisco — The OG of San Francisco luxury. Historic, elegant, and home to the legendary Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar — because who doesn’t love a tiki bar with a rainstorm inside? The Fairmont also holds a very special place in my heart as we held an intimate wedding celebration here inside the stunning Buckingham suite!
• InterContinental Mark Hopkins — Classic Nob Hill sophistication with unbeatable city views, plus Top of the Mark, the iconic rooftop lounge that’s perfect for sunset cocktails. This is more of your traditional hotel but don’t let that stop you from booking a couple nights here.

Things to do in Nob Hill

I mentioned some of the best things to do in Nob Hill already but definitely want to hi-light both Grace Cathedral and The Cable Car Museum. Grace Cathedral is a stunning Gothic-style cathedral known for its beautiful stained glass, labyrinth walks, and breathtaking interior. Sometimes they even hold “yoga by candlelight” inside the church and it’s seriously a transformational experience.

Then there’s The Cable Car Museum which is kinda quirky but I love it. It’s definitely a must-visit for history buffs (like myself) as it gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how SF’s cable cars work. Spoiler: they’re manual AF and I never know how the workers do it for 8+ hours a day.

As for restaurants and dining, there’s SO MANY good hidden gems. There’s Nob Hill Cafe which is an iconic Italian restaurant, Key Klub which serves natural wine, and Liholiho Yacht Club. Where aloha meets San Francisco at this popular dinner spot that serves Hawaiian, Californian, and Asian-inspired dishes. 🍙

Ps. If you’re craving a bomb burrito but don’t feel like making the trek to the Mission District, head to El Super Burrito on Polk Street in Nob Hill. It’s a total hidden gem. Known for its massive portions and authentic flavors, this spot will satisfy your burrito cravings without the tourists 🌯

Main Takeaway: Nob Hill is where history, luxury, and stunning views come together. If you want a safe, elegant neighborhood with renowned hotels, classic San Francisco charm, and easy access to the rest of the city, this is the place to stay.

Staying in Russian Hill

Just down the hill from Nob Hill (and up another — because, well, welcome to San Francisco), Russian Hill is a mostly residential neighborhood packed with scenic streets, charming cafes, and, of course, the iconic Lombard Street, aka the world’s most famous crooked road.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Russian Hill

• Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square — There’s really only one true hotel in Russian Hill and that’s the Fairmont Heritage Place. Located right next to Ghiradelli Square, this hotel is definitely considered a luxury stay. All of the rooms are suites with waterfront views and easy access to Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s perfect if you want a high-end stay with home-like comfort. Plus, you’re literally steps away from endless chocolate.

Things to do in Russian Hill

Given that it’s mostly a residential area, there’s not a ton of major attractions besides Lombard Street. Which is why you know that it’s definitely a safe place to stay since a lot of locals live nearby. However, there’s Francisco Park, which is a huge bi-level park that overlooks the bay, that’s worth checking out.

There’s also some of my favorite places to eat such as Elephant Sushi, Seven Hills, Saru Handroll Bar, and Leopold’s. You also can’t miss Swensen’s for a sweet treat after dinner 🍦

Main Takeaway: Russian Hill is a safe, scenic neighborhood with classic San Francisco charm, offering stunning views, quiet residential streets, and easy access to Lombard Street, North Beach, and the waterfront. If you’re looking for a picturesque and walkable area with a more local feel, this is the perfect place to stay.

Staying in Pacific Heights (Pac Heights)

Alright, I promise. This is the last of the hills. Pacific Heights aka Pac Heights is one of SF’s most picturesque (and upscale) neighborhoods, stretching from the edge of Japantown all the way down to the Richmond District.

Think grand mansions, tree-lined streets, and some of the best views in the city. Especially from Lafayette Park (my dog’s 2nd home) and the famous Lyon Street Steps.

While it’s mostly residential, it’s home to some fantastic boutique shopping and dining along Fillmore Street, plus it puts you within easy reach of both downtown and the quieter western neighborhoods.

If you want a beautiful, safe, and peaceful place to stay with a mix of historic charm and local vibes, Pacific Heights is a solid choice.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Pacific Heights (Pac Heights)

• Hotel Kabuki — Although it’s technically located in Japantown which is still Pac Heights in my opinion, Hotel Kabuki features minimalist Japanese-inspired design with modern touches. This is one of my favorite hotels in the city as they have spacious rooms and a fun photobooth in the lobby!
• Hotel Majestic — Also located a little bit closer to Japantown, Hotel Majestic is an under-the-radar property with fantastic reviews. All the rooms are clean, spacious, and according to the reviews — the service here is impeccable.
• Queen Anne Hotel — Situated near the Pac Heights and Nob Hill border, Queen Anne Hotel offers Victorian elegance with period furnishings and an intimate vibe. You’ll kinda feel like you’re stepping into your Grandma’s house here but I think that’s part of the charm!
• Hotel Drisco — Easily one of the most luxurious hotels in the city (which makes sense considering the wealthiest of the wealthy all live in Pac Heights). Hotel Drisco is definitely a 5-star property with panoramic views of the bridge and an onsite spa. Tbh, I always thought famous people would stay here but most of them end up staying at The Fairmont in Nob Hill. But you can’t go wrong with any of these hotels.

Things to do in Pacific Heights (Pac Heights)

Since Pac Heights is pretty spread out, I’d suggest spending more time near Japantown and closer to Fillmore Street. The rest mostly residential.

You can take a stroll through Lafayette Park for some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay, or explore the beautiful Alamo Square for classic photo ops with the famous Painted Ladies.

For shopping and dining, you’ll want to head down to Fillmore Street. It’s a big, long street filled with a mix of brand names (Lululemon, Sezane, Kiehl’s, etc) and smaller boutiques. My favorite places to eat/drink on Fillmore are The Tailor’s Son, The Snug, and State Bird Provisions (super casual 1 Michelin Star restaurant).

You can check out my full review of The Tailor’s Son in my list of Top 10 Italian restaurants in San Francisco!

Main Takeaway: I’d say staying in Pac Heights is pretty similar to staying in Russian Hill. It’s safe, peaceful, and more upscale with easy access to some notable sights, beautiful parks, and boutique shops.

Staying in Fisherman’s Wharf

If you’re staying in Fisherman’s Wharf, get ready for tourist-central vibes. Think tons of souvenir shops, big-chain stores, and seafood stalls where you can grab a quick bite from the bay. They do make bread bowls here in the shape of animals so that’s a plus at least.

Fisherman’s Wharf is obviously not where the locals hang, but it’s the best spot if you want to be close to Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and the adorable sea lions at Aquatic Park.

Just be warned that it’s a bit chaotic but there’s a great selection of hotels and no shortage of things to do and see if you’re into the full SF tourist experience.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Fisherman’s Wharf

• Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf — A modern, spacious hotel just steps from Pier 39 and the waterfront, offering comfy rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and free breakfast — because sightseeing on an empty stomach is not the move.
• Hotel Zephyr — Funky, nautical-themed and packed with personality, this boutique hotel puts you right in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf with a fun outdoor lounge, fire pits, and even a game room for some post-sightseeing chill time. This is usually my recommended hotel for folks who are set on staying in Fisherman’s Wharf!
• Argonaut Hotel — A stylish, maritime-inspired stay inside a historic brick warehouse, featuring waterfront views, cozy nautical decor, and some of the best seafood at their onsite Blue Mermaid Restaurant. All while being right next to Aquatic Park and Ghirardelli Square. Plus, this is where the cast of Vanderpump stayed when they came to visit SF. So like, all the more reason to stay here 😂

Things to do in Fisherman’s Wharf

Like I mentioned earlier, Fisherman’s Wharf is all about the touristy fun so you can’t be mad about it if you’re planning to stay here.

You’ve got the classic Pier 39 with its candy shops and sea lions. Yes, the sea lions are a must-see. And a bunch of fresh seafood joints to hit up (get that clam chowder in a turtle-shaped sourdough bowl).

Don’t forget Ghirardelli Square for chocolate and a make-your-own ice cream sundae, or hop on a boat to check out Alcatraz. Even as a local, I’ll head to Alcatraz at least once every couple years when I’m showing people around. It’s touristy but also the history is fascinating.

There’s also a really fun night tour of Alcatraz where you get to visit the prison at night. It’s a bit creepy but totally worth it. Plus, the views of the city from across the way are STUNNING.

Main Takeaway: Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to stay if you don’t mind being in tourist central. It’s known to be safe, and the area is packed with souvenir shops, local attractions, and top-rated seafood 🦀

Staying in Financial District (FIDI)

This area’s mostly for my business travelers and/or conference folks but there are some incredible hotels in downtown San Francisco that I would totally stay in even if you’re not traveling for work. FIDI is San Francisco’s main financial district but it also extends into parts of Soma (south of Market street) and The Embarcadero (the main road along the water).

Similar to most cities, this area is commonly referred to as “downtown SF” 🙂

Top Hotel Recommendations in Financial District (FIDI)

• Club Quarters Hotel — A cost-effective, business-friendly stay in San Francisco’s Financial District, offering modern rooms, a 24/7 fitness center, and an unbeatable location for those who want to be close to downtown without the steep price tag. The rooms are small here but the value for money is fantastic.
• Galleria Park — A chic boutique hotel blending historic charm with contemporary style, featuring a lush rooftop terrace, a daily🍷 hour, and a prime location between Union Square and the Financial District.
• The Jay, Autograph Collection — One of my absolute favorite design-forward stays in the city. The Jay is a super chic, industrial-style hotel with a panoramic rooftop bar and easy access to the city’s best dining and nightlife. They’re also famous for Third Floor, which is their modern take on the classic hotel lobby restaurant and bar, offering a light-filled, upscale environment for locals and travelers alike to gather over brunch, breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and a contemporary twist on traditional seasonal afternoon tea 🫖
• 1 Hotel San Francisco — A luxe, eco-conscious retreat on the Embarcadero, offering nature-inspired design, stunning Bay views, and a serene spa. 1 Hotel is perfect for travelers who want comfort with a sustainable touch. Their indoor/outdoor restaurant is also a great spot for happy hour and/or dinner by the firepits.

Find out everything you need to know about staying at The Jay Hotel in my review here.

Things to do in Financial District (FIDI)

Surprisingly FIDI isn’t just for business travelers. It’s got some serious personality and some beautiful cityscapes once you find the right spots. You’ve got the Transamerica Pyramid looming overhead, which is one of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks.

Completed in 1972, this triangle-shaped building was once the tallest in the city and still stands as a symbol of modern architecture. While you can’t exactly wander up to the top (unless you’re lucky enough to work there), the building’s unique shape and striking presence make it a must-see from almost every corner of downtown.

Just down the road, you’ve got the SFMOMA museum and the historic Ferry Building for delicious eats.

The Ferry Building is a foodie paradise and one of San Francisco’s best spots for local eats, waterfront views, and a little history. Originally built in 1898 as the city’s main transportation hub, it’s now home to the Ferry Building Marketplace, where you’ll find everything from artisanal cheese at Cowgirl Creamery to fresh oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co 🦪

And hey, if you’re feeling fancy, you can always hit up Verjus or San Francisco Wine Society — two of my favorite wine bars downtown 🍷

Main Takeaway: If you’re looking for a central, well-connected place to stay in San Francisco, the Financial District is a solid pick. Especially for business travelers or those who love being near top restaurants, the Ferry Building, and easy transit options like BART and MUNI. It’s not the most “neighborhood-y” area, but it’s clean, safe, and puts you within walking distance of Union Square, Chinatown, and the Embarcadero.

Staying in The Richmond District

Annndddd last but not least — the beautiful, lovely, and oh so quiet San Francisco’s Richmond District!

This neighborhood is where fog meets flavor, packed with some of the city’s best dim sum, cozy cafes, and shockingly good Russian bakeries (yes, you need a piroshki).

You’re a short stroll from Golden Gate Park, the Presidio, and Ocean Beach, so whether you’re into museums, scenic hikes, or just staring dramatically at the Pacific, you’re covered.

Bonus: it’s waaaaay quieter than downtown, and you won’t have to dodge a million pigeons or robot taxis getting stuck on the streets.

Top Hotel Recommendations in The Richmond

There truly aren’t any hotels in The Richmond — that’s how residential it is. But there are some amazing gems on Airbnb and VRBO so I definitely recommend checking out both platforms for a quiet stay in a lovely Victorian.

Things to do in The Richmond

The Richmond District is like your local San Francisco secret, packed with a little something for everyone.

Start with a buttery croissant from Arsicault Bakery, voted #1 croissant in San Francisco 🥐

After that, head over to Golden Gate Park to get your nature fix. Whether it’s wandering through the Japanese Tea Garden, geeking out at the California Academy of Sciences, or soaking in art at the de Young Museum.

Not enough fresh air? Hit up the Presidio for killer views of the Golden Gate Bridge or chill at Baker Beach. Oh, and the food scene? From next-level dim sum to Russian pastries, your taste buds are in for a treat.

I probably Doordash Asian food from the Richmond at least once a week. My absolute favorites are B-Star (Burmese), Mamahuhu (Chinese), and Kowloon Tong Dessert Cafe (HK style dessert).

Main Takeaway: Staying in the Richmond means getting the perfect mix of local charm and easy access to nature. Think quiet streets, cozy spots, and quick trips to Golden Gate Park and the coast. It’s the ideal base for those who want to explore San Francisco without the tourist crowds.

San Francisco FAQ

Here are some commonly asked questions for first time visitors to San Francisco, California ☀️

What areas should I avoid?

San Francisco is an incredible city, but like any major metro, there are a few areas you’ll want to steer clear of — mainly the Tenderloin and the stretch of SoMa between 6th and 10th Street.

These areas have higher crime rates, open-air drug use, and generally aren’t the best for walking around, especially at night.

The good news? SF is mostly made up of safe, walkable neighborhoods, and my guide won’t put you anywhere near the spots you should avoid.

Do I need to rent a car in San Francisco?

Renting a car in San Francisco can sometimes be more of a hassle than a help. So I think it depends on whether or not you are visiting areas outside of the city. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re wanting to spend a couple days in wine country or drive down the coast to Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur, etc.

Then yes! Definitely rent a car 🚘

But if you’re only planning on visiting San Francisco and/or seeing its immediate surrounding areas, then NO. I don’t think you will need or should rent a car. Since between expensive parking, confusing street signs, and the city’s (in)famous hills, you’re usually better off using public transit or uber/lyft/waymo.

But if you do rent a car, just remember one golden rule: never leave anything in the car.

Car break-ins are unfortunately common, and thieves don’t discriminate. If they see a bag, jacket, or even an empty box, they’ll smash and grab.

So, if you must drive, keep the car completely empty when parked.

What’s the best way to get around San Francisco?

Getting around San Francisco is a breeze if you know your options. And luckily for us, we have so many different methods of public transportation to get around. Including driver-less vehicles 🤖🚘

I guess we are at the forefront of technology so it makes sense.

• Walking – SF is a super walkable city (minus the hills), and most major attractions are within a few miles of each other
• Muni (Buses & Light Rail) – The cheapest way to get around, Muni covers the entire city with buses and streetcars. Just download the MuniMobile app for easy payment
• Rideshares (Uber/Lyft/Waymo) – Great for avoiding hills and late-night travel when public transit is less frequent
• Biking & Scooters – Rent a Bay Wheels bike or Lime scooter to cruise along the waterfront or through Golden Gate Park
• Cable Cars – A must-do at least once! The Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines are the most scenic
• Ferries – Heading to Sausalito or Alcatraz? The ferry is the way to go, with stunning views of the bay
• BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) – Best for getting to/from the airport or hopping between SF and the East Bay

How long do you recommend staying in San Francisco?

I think 3-4 days is the perfect amount of time to experience most of what San Francisco has to offer. For a complete itinerary, check out my guide on how to spend 3 unforgettable days in San Francisco (w/ sample itinerary).

I also created this local’s 3-day guide on Thatch that has all of my favorite spots pinned on a map 🗺️

Safest Areas to Stay in San Francisco: Final Thoughts

So, here’s the deal: San Francisco is a total gem, and there’s no reason to let the mainstream media scare you off. The city has a ton of safe, vibrant, and fun neighborhoods!

Whether you’re crashing in Union Square, soaking in the Marina girlie (or guy) vibes, or living your best life in Nob Hill. There’s always something to do, from exploring Fort Mason to checking out iconic spots like the Golden Gate Bridge, or indulging in insane food🍴

Sure, no place is perfect, but with a little insider knowledge, you’ll find that San Francisco is full of welcoming areas to stay, play, and eat your heart out.

Don’t overthink it. San Francisco is a fabulous, safe area to visit, and you’re going to love it 🌁

Visiting other parts of California?

Check out my other travel guides on California here.

Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?

Check out all my international travel guides here!