San Francisco Vacation Rentals

Also known as the Golden Gate City, San Francisco is the second-most densely populated city in the United States. From the Golden Gate Park to Nob Hill, the city's 46 square miles are packed with must-see attractions. San Francisco vacation rentals include modest apartments and larger candy-colour Victorian homes, some of which are beachfront properties. Staying in a San Francisco vacation rental will help you make the most your time in this hilly peninsula.

Travelling to San Francisco

With two international airports nearby, getting to San Francisco is easy. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) hosts many flights to and from Asia and Europe, making it an ideal choice for travellers from abroad. Another option is Oakland International Airport (OAK), which serves many budget airlines as well. Both airports are located about 13 miles outside of downtown San Francisco. Car rental services are available in both locations. Driving time from the airports to the city center is about 20 to 30 minutes.

If you prefer public transportation, you can also access the regional rail service from either airport. A trip on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system is a hassle-free way to get to and from the airport to your San Francisco vacation home.

Indulge in the culinary tours of San Francisco

San Francisco, the city of sourdough bread and Dungeness crab, offers culinary delights for every taste. Start your day with a sip of Irish coffee at The Buena Vista as you watch intriguing magic tricks. Later, stop at Ghirardelli near Fisherman's Wharf for a taste of the world’s best chocolate, and complete your day at with a romantic dinner at Atelier Crenn, a two-star Michelin restaurant.

San Francisco's entertainment and performing arts

San Francisco is famed for its live performance venues and theatres. The War Memorial & Performing Arts Center is home to some of the country's biggest performance troupes, and the Fillmore in the Western Addition is famed for hosting some of the country’s leading musicians, including Jefferson Airplane and Led Zeppelin.

Tips for Travelling With Kids in San Francisco

Request a Car Seat

San Francisco is a great city for getting around without a car, thanks to pedestrian-friendly areas and an excellent, family-friendly public transport system. If you have children under 8 years old and you do want to rent a car, or take a taxi, bear in mind that it is California state law for them to ride in a car seat. These are easy enough to find, for a surcharge, from rental companies, taxis, and Uber rides by special request.

Be Prepared for a Little Rain

Another thing to keep in mind is the weather: San Francisco is cold and misty in July and August, while the warmest months are September and October. This is not a scorching California beach town, so make sure you pack enough warm and wet-weather clothes.

Keep em' Busy

In terms of activities, you're spoilt for choice. If the sun is shining, take the boat to Alcatraz, or head to Golden Gate Park to rent a bike and explore endless trails through trees, parks, a Japanese tea garden, and even the beach. At Presidio National Park you can rent rowboats, climb tree forts, and enjoy a number of innovative playgrounds or, if you feel up to it, walk across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Just 11km from the north end of the bridge is Muir Woods, home to giant redwood trees, squirrels, and other local wildlife. For rainy days, the hands-on Exploratorium, the Walt Disney Family Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences are just a few of San Francisco's many museums and discovery centres catered towards kids.

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge

Even while shrouded in fog, the 746-foot tall Golden Gate Bridge is a remarkable sight. Dress warmly and walk across the 1.7miles of the world’s most photographed bridge and be ready for a spectacular view. On one side are cityscapes, while nature adorns the other side, all complemented by the beautiful blue below. Make sure to allow plenty of time for stopping, taking photos, and taking in the scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions