DK Travel : San Francisco

San Franciscans will, rather candidly, admit that they are the most fortunate people on earth, the occasional earthquake notwithstanding; and most visitors, after a few days of taking in the sights and sounds of this magnificent city, will agree. Ask anyone who has been here and they will tell you it’s their favorite US city. The geographical setting evokes so much emotional drama, the light seems clearer, the colors more vivid, the cultural diversity of the ethnic neighborhoods so captivating and inviting, that it’s a place almost everyone can fall in love with at first sight.

Coit Tower

Depression-era murals decorate the lobby (see Coit Tower Murals).
Coit Tower Murals

The frescoes were painted by local artists in 1934, to provide jobs during the Depression (see Beach Chalet). The murals are socio-political commentary yet are also appealing for their details of life in California at the time.
Collectibles of Asia

In a complete departure from the usual kitsch of Pier 39, this shop offers genuine Chinese antiques at very affordable prices. You can find carvings, masterful ceramics, and much more.
Columbus Motor Inn

If you can score one of the six 2-bedroom suites here, you're well on your way to San Francisco budget vacation nirvana.

The Columbus Motor Inn is a modest motel, but it's clean, cheap, and has a lot going for it. It's got free covered parking (totally unheard of in SF!). The location is within easy walking distance of North Beach, Chinatown, and Fisherman's Wharf.

Request a small fridge for just $5 a day, and stock up on the basics at either Trader Joe's or Safeway (both 2 block away). There's no on-site restaurant, but you do have in-room coffeemakers and a fruit bowl at reception.

Don't be discouraged by the location on busy Columbus Avenue, the suites are all at the back of the building.
Comix Experience

Comics with adult aficionados in mind: The Ring of the Nibelung , The Filth , Naughty Bits , Static-X , Peculia , and Automatic Kafka are just a few of the whacky titles awaiting you in new and vintage issues.
Conzelman Road

This road hugs the bluffs, high above the waves, on the southern edge of the Marin Headlands. It affords some of the most famously beautiful views of the north tower of Golden Gate Bridge, looking back at the city in the distance. The way is punctuated with old military bunkers, since this entire area was once given over to the army to guard the western shores.
Corona Heights Park

Hiking trails and some spectacular views.
Cost Plus

The original world import mart that set the trend for all the others. It can still surprise with a well-chosen item from some far-away land.
Coventry Motor Inn

A good, basic motel, offering large pleasant rooms with bay windows, located on the Marina’s “Motel Row.” It isn’t beautiful, but it’s functional and reliable. All rooms are no-smoking, and parking is complimentary. A minimum stay may apply on some weekends.
Cow Hollow Motor Inn and Suites

Larger-than-average rooms. Floral wallpaper and traditional furniture give it a homey feel, and some of the suites even have Oriental carpets accenting wood floors, marble fireplaces, and antiques. Free parking and a no-smoking floor.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100-$200
- $200-$250
- $250-$300
- over $300