San Francisco, 4 nights, best area to stay?

[bluesky]

I know there are some Mumsnetters over in San Francisco, or some that have travelled there in the last few years.

Where would you suggest staying, is it best to be down at the Fisherman's Wharf area, or instead be in Union Square?

We would be doing the usual touristy things. Any tips gratefully received.

I would advise against Fishermans Wharf. It's massively touristy and there are much much nicer areas of town to be in.

We went in 2008 and loved the town. If I went again I'd stay near union sq or in financial district.

thank you, I did wonder if FW would be too touristy.

We had a few nights in FW and yes, it's really touristy. Transport is pretty good and there are lots of options for getting round the city, so Union Square area would be a good choice I think

Hi DeadTall, many thanks. transport around the city does sound good.

Hi
Ah San Francisco is just lovely :)

We stayed at The Westin St Francis right on Union Sq and found this location great.
Used the trams and also walked quite a bit.

We stayed in the most amazing youth hostel a (very) short walk from all the 'stuff'. Double rooms and twin rooms, all en suite, lovely lounge, kitchen and breakfast (bagels, coffee etc) included in the price. Will look for name if you like. We had 2 dc at the time (5.5 and 3.5yo) and they loved it.

FW is touristy but you get the views and access to the ferry. Union Square is (almost) any city centre. Trams go between the two! Little Italy is quite nice for a more informal feel. Make sure to include a trip over to Sausalito.

DH spent 18 months living and working there. Do not go anywhere near Fisherman's wharf, it's awful.

Union Square is convenient. DH lived in SOMA, near the Embarcadero and the Ferry Building which is a nice more residential neighbourhood, but not too far from things. If you are near a Muni station it's very easy to get around.

The area around Yuerba Buena is nice too, and very central.

If it was me I would want to stay somewhere near Haight Ashbury and Golden Gate Park - but I am a rapidly ageing hippy.

We stayed in the Ritz carlton in the NOMA/Nob Hill area. Was an easy walk to the shops/centre, Chinatown, Italian area, etc. Felt central but upmarket too. Fisherman's Wharf is lovely IMO. The whole city has excellent transport links with regular buses and trams, is probably only 20 mins in any direction.