Where to stay in San Francisco

Question

Hi. I’m solo female travelling from the UK and will be staying in San Francisco for 4 night late August/early September. I’m planning on booking into a couple of tours and have looked at the Hilton in the facial district (the tour collects from there). My main worry is that I need to feel safe walking around in my own and sleeping at night. If I believe everything I read then I’d never travel so I’d really welcome your advice as to whether that hotel is in a good place or whether you can recommend other places for me to stay, feel safe and explore the wonderful city? My budget is about 650USD. Hope you can help. Thanks.

Answer

San Francisco is a beautiful city with lots to see, but like many major urban areas, some neighborhoods require extra caution, especially if you are traveling solo. The Hilton in the Financial District is generally considered safe for visitors. The area is busy during the day with office workers and tourists, and it has good public transport access, which makes it convenient for tours and sightseeing.

That said, the Financial District can be quieter at night, and you may notice some homeless presence around the edges. It's not inherently dangerous, but it's always best to stay alert and stick to well-lit streets after dark.

For solo female travelers, here are some tips and alternative areas to consider:

Union Square: Central, very busy, lots of hotels, shopping, and restaurants. Streets are generally safe, especially around the main squares, and it’s well-patrolled.
Embarcadero/Ferry Building area: Beautiful views of the Bay, safe, and easy access to ferries and walking paths along the waterfront. Very tourist-friendly.
Nob Hill: Quiet, upscale neighborhood, scenic, and safe. A bit more expensive, but worth it if safety and ambiance are priorities.
Fisherman’s Wharf: Popular tourist area, generally safe, especially during daytime, but it can be crowded and touristy.

Some general safety tips while in San Francisco:

Avoid walking alone late at night in quieter areas or alleys.
Keep belongings secure and be mindful of pickpockets, particularly in crowded tourist areas.
Use rideshare or taxis at night rather than walking long distances alone.
Stay in hotels with good reviews from solo travelers and clear security measures.

Within your budget of around $650 for 4 nights, the Hilton in the Financial District is reasonable and well-located. If you prefer to stay in an area that feels busier and more lively at night, consider Union Square hotels such as the Westin St. Francis, Grand Hyatt San Francisco, or Parc 55. These are all centrally located, well-reviewed, and suitable for solo travelers.

Ultimately, choose a hotel that feels comfortable to you, has good lighting and secure entry, and is near the attractions or public transport you plan to use most.

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