Planning a San Francisco Vacation on a Budget

It can be difficult to put into words just how beautiful San Francisco is, but Tony Bennett said it best when he sang the timeless melody, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco." In the song, he croons, "little cable cars, climb halfway to the stars," and "My love waits there in San Francisco, above the blue and windy sea." It's true, San Francisco is a timeless and beautiful treasure along California's coast, where the weather is always perfect and people are always friendly.

A city with a rich and inspiring history and some of the world's most impressive attractions, San Fran is a true delight to visit. If you want to take a memorable vacation, but don't think you can afford a trip to San Francisco, then you may be surprised to find out that you can certainly enjoy this city and not break the bank in doing so. Here are some tips for planning a San Francisco vacation on a budget.

Budget Flights to San Francisco

San Francisco is serviced by three main airports. They include San Francisco International, Oakland International and San Jose International. The latter two airports usually hold your best chances of finding the cheapest flights to San Francisco. Use the Internet to compare flights in order to ensure you're getting the best rate, and you can save even more by choosing a weekday departure.

Budget Accommodations in San Francisco

While San Francisco is home to some of the country's most elegant hotels, it is also very accessible for the budget traveler. Numerous San Francisco motels are available in the city, like the Surf Motel on Lombard Street or the Oceanview Motel on Judah Street. There are also many affordable hotels where you can stay at in the city like the Heritage Marina Hotel, where you are within walking distance of Fisherman's Wharf for $89 per night or the Cathedral Hill Hotel where the same price gets you a room right next to the spectacular shopping of Union Square. Of course, the backpacking adventurer can always grab a bed at one of San Francisco's hostels for around $24 a night.

Eating on a Budget in San Francisco

San Fran has some incredible restaurants and very trendy outdoor cafes scattered around the city. Much of the best cuisine is separated into the different districts like Italian food in North Beach, Chinese food in Chinatown and Latin-American food in the Mission district. There are also plenty of sushi restaurants all over the city as well as a wide variety of Vegan eateries, and Fisherman's Wharf will satisfy your seafood craving with some of the best on the west coast. Some of the best San Francisco restaurants on the cheap side include the Saigon Sandwich Shop on Larkin Street, the appropriately named, “Chow” on 3rd Street and the classic, In-N-Out Burger.

Seeing San Francisco on a Budget

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art has a spectacular exhibit which you can see for free if you're lucky (or smart) enough to visit on the first Tuesday of the month. The glory of Ocean Beach is a huge draw in San Fran and it's totally free. Go to check out the master surfers or gather up the courage to give it a shot for yourself.

As home to many incredible views, there may be none better than the one on Twin Peaks. Head there for a stunning panoramic view and photographer's paradise. Of course, the magnificence of the Golden Gate Bridge has to be taken in while you're in town, but it won't cost you a penny to appreciate. Another free exhibit, and one to spark any history buff's interest, is the San Francisco Cable Car Museum located on Mason Street.

So, as you can see, there are an impressive number of things you can do and see in San Francisco, California that don't cost a thing and there's even more than what's represented here! As with any vacation destination, you can greatly reduce your costs of enjoying the best of what the city has to offer if you just take some time to research and plan your trip prior to arriving. Proper planning, and traveling within your means, is the best way to enjoy San Francisco, even if you have to stick to a budget!