San Francisco, the city by the bay, is a popular travel destination for tourists from around the world. Known for its stunning views, iconic landmarks, and cultural diversity, San Francisco has something to offer to everyone.
But how much does a vacation to San Francisco really cost? Let’s break it down.
Transportation
Getting to San Francisco is pretty easy as it has its own international airport. However, if you’re coming from another city in the US, then flying directly into San Francisco can be expensive.
You might want to consider flying into Oakland or San Jose and taking public transportation or a shuttle service to San Francisco. Once you’re in San Francisco, the best way to get around is by using public transportation such as buses and trains which are affordable and convenient.
Flight Costs
The cost of flights varies depending on where you’re coming from and when you book your ticket. On average, a round-trip flight ticket from New York City to San Francisco can cost anywhere between $200-$500 depending on the airline and time of year.
Ground Transportation Costs
The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system is one of the most affordable ways to get around in San Francisco. A one-way ticket on BART costs around $9 per person. Taxis are more expensive with an average fare of $30-$50 for a short ride.
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation in San Francisco varies depending on your choice of hotel or Airbnb rental. You can find budget-friendly options starting at around $100 per night for a basic hotel room or shared Airbnb accommodation. However, if you’re looking for luxury accommodations with stunning views of the city, expect to pay upwards of $300 per night.
Hotel Costs
The average cost of a mid-range hotel room in San Francisco is around $200 per night. However, this can vary depending on the season and location of the hotel.
Airbnb Costs
For those on a budget, Airbnb can be a great option. You can find shared accommodation starting at around $50 per night, while entire apartments or homes can cost upwards of $200 per night depending on the size and location.
Food and Drink
San Francisco is known for its diverse food scene with plenty of options to suit any budget. You can find affordable eats in Chinatown or the Mission District, while more upscale restaurants will cost you upwards of $50 per person.
Budget Food Options
- The Ferry Building Marketplace – offers plenty of affordable food options from local vendors
- Taquerias – you can find delicious Mexican food at affordable prices in the Mission District
- Food Trucks – San Francisco has plenty of food truck parks where you can grab a quick bite to eat for under $10
Upscale Dining Options
- The Slanted Door – a popular Vietnamese restaurant with stunning views of the bay
- Boulevard – an upscale French-American restaurant with a focus on locally sourced ingredients
- Gary Danko – one of San Francisco’s most iconic fine dining restaurants with prix fixe menus starting at $150 per person.
Attractions and Activities
San Francisco has plenty to offer in terms of attractions and activities, from exploring iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, to visiting world-renowned museums and galleries.
Free Attractions
- The Golden Gate Park – a massive park with plenty of walking trails, gardens, and museums to explore
- The Painted Ladies – a row of colorful Victorian houses that are a popular photo spot
- The Cable Cars – San Francisco’s iconic cable cars are a fun way to see the city. Riding them costs around $7 per person.
Paid Attractions
- Alcatraz Island – a former maximum security prison that is now a popular tourist attraction. Tickets start at $39 per person.
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art – one of the largest modern art museums in the country.
Admission costs $25 per person.
- California Academy of Sciences – a natural history museum with an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest exhibit. Admission starts at $39 per person.
Conclusion
A vacation to San Francisco can be affordable or expensive depending on your choices. On average, you can expect to spend around $1,500-$2,000 per person for a week-long trip including flights, accommodation, food and drink, and attractions and activities.
However, by choosing budget-friendly options for transportation, accommodation, and food, you can easily lower your expenses without sacrificing the quality of your trip.