San Francisco vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for San Francisco vacation rentals

Stay near San Francisco's top sights

Union Square817 locals recommend
Pier 39416 locals recommend
Fisherman's Wharf713 locals recommend
Palace of Fine Arts463 locals recommend
Chinatown551 locals recommend
Painted Ladies300 locals recommend

Private San Francisco vacation rentals

Quick stats about vacation rentals in San Francisco

Total rentals

8.9K properties

Rentals with dedicated workspaces

5.3K properties have a dedicated workspace

Rentals with a pool

330 properties have a pool

Pet-friendly rentals

1.7K properties allow pets

Family-friendly rentals

2.7K properties are a good fit for families

Total number of reviews

391K reviews

Your guide to San Francisco

All About San Francisco

Surrounded on three sides by glittering water, punctuated by comically high hills, festooned with verdant public parks, and alternately enshrouded in mysterious fog and blazing sunshine, San Francisco is one of the prettiest places on earth. The city has long attracted iconoclasts and fortune seekers, in the shape of Gold Rush hopefuls, immigrants who fought to build thriving communities, and queer people seeking a home and civil rights. It’s a city of glorious contrasts: storybook Victorians and soaring skyscrapers; the bright, pinging amusements of Fisherman’s Wharf and the austere beauty of Ocean Beach. Like the rest of the Bay Area — which includes Oakland to the east, Marin to the north, and San Jose to the south — San Francisco continues to transform. But its scruffy, proudly independent roots are never far from the surface.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in San Francisco

San Francisco has a legendarily capricious climate — hot, sunny days can turn chilly on a dime, so no matter what time of year it is, pack layers. March through June typically ushers in temperatures in the low-to-mid-60 degrees Fahrenheit. July through October is generally warmer, with temperatures in the high 60s or low 70s. Fall is often considered this city’s summer. November through February is brisk, with temperatures dipping into the 50s. Expect some fog and wind year round.


Top things to do in San Francisco

Golden Gate Park

Opened in 1870, this park’s 1,017 acres are the undisputed jewel of the park system (and that’s saying a lot). Visit close to 2,000 species of rare, tropical, and aquatic plants inside the stately Conservatory of Flowers. Explore an indoor rainforest at the California Academy of Sciences, and surround yourself with world-class art at the de Young Museum. Ride a carousel, paddle a boat around Stow Lake, or stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden. Just don’t expect to do it all in one day.

Alcatraz

This tiny island in the bay, now a National Park, has a complicated and fascinating history. Best known as the home of an (almost) inescapable federal prison populated by notorious criminals, Alcatraz is also the site of a historically significant protest led by Native American activists, who occupied the island for nineteen months starting in 1969 to protest the US government's failure to surrender federal land owed to the tribes who once lived there. A trip to Alcatraz to learn about its many lives is well worth it. Tickets go fast, so plan ahead and book your voyage early.

Golden Gate Bridge

Completed in 1937, this gorgeous 1.7-mile-long Art Deco wonder is renowned for its hue — a color so distinct it has its own name: International Orange. Walking, biking, or driving are all wonderful ways to experience this architectural marvel, and on the Marin side you’ll find a rest stop with bathrooms and breathtaking views of the bridge and bay. One thing to note: If you walk or bike, wear layers, as it can get very windy crossing the bridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in San Francisco?

    San Francisco has a mild, temperate maritime climate. Summers are often cool and foggy, with temperatures around 70°F (21°C), while winters are rainy with temperatures around 50°F (10°C). Layered clothing is often recommended due to the city's microclimates.

  • What are some of the best things to do in San Francisco?

    Popular activities in San Francisco include walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring the vibrant murals in the Mission District, taking a cable car ride, and engaging in ecological volunteer activities at the Presidio.

  • What is the best time of year to visit San Francisco?

    San Francisco is most frequently visited during summer and fall, from June to October. Notable events include the Pride Parade in June, Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival in August, and the Fleet Week airshow in October.

  • What are the best places to stay in San Francisco?

    Popular areas to stay in San Francisco include bustling Union Square for shopping enthusiasts, Fisherman's Wharf for waterfront views, the Mission District for a vibrant food scene, and Pacific Heights for its historic charm.

  • What are the best places to visit in San Francisco?

    Popular places to visit in San Francisco include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island with its historically rich prison, Fisherman's Wharf for a taste of local seafood, and Chinatown, the oldest one in North America.

  • What are some hiking trails in San Francisco?

    San Francisco has a variety of hiking trails for all levels. Consider exploring the Lands End Trail for stunning coastal views, the Mount Sutro Loop for a stroll in a eucalyptus forest, or the Presidio's Ecology Trail for an enriching educational experience.

  • What are some family activities to do in San Francisco?

    Families visiting San Francisco often enjoy exploring the California Academy of Sciences, taking a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the interactive Exploratorium museum, or spending a day at the San Francisco Zoo.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in San Francisco?

    For day trips, consider exploring the scenic Marin Headlands, tasting your way through Napa Valley's vineyards, immersing in the quaint charm of Sausalito, or discovering the natural beauty of Muir Woods National Monument.

  • Are there vacation rentals near San Francisco's top attractions?

    You're in luck! Stay at the heart of it all with our vacation rentals near San Francisco's top attractions. We offer over 16,820 vacation rentals near Sheraton Fisherman''s Wharf Hotel, over 32,870 vacation rentals near Golden Gate Bridge Tours, over 21,920 vacation rentals near Golden Gate Bridge, over 33,680 vacation rentals near Fisherman''s Wharf, and over 32,680 vacation rentals near Hardly, Strictly Bluegrass, and so much more! Experience the best of San Francisco right on your doorstep.

  • What types of vacation rentals are available in San Francisco?

    Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in San Francisco. From over 1,180 condo rentals, over 2,940 apartment rentals to over 2,260 house rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

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