Central San Mateo Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Central San Mateo
Popular places to visit
Central Park
Central Park is just one of the places to see in San Mateo, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Things to do
Pacific Coast Highway App-Based Driving Audio Tour Bundle
Napa, Sonoma and Exclusive Battery Spencer Small Group Wine Tasting Tour
2hr. SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay
Filoli Historic House and Garden Entry Ticket
Half Moon Bay Guided E-Bike Tour
Half Moon Bay Family Friendly Guided E-bike Tour
Top hotels in Central San Mateo
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"This is a very nice hotel in a good area. It is close to the cruise port 27 and pier 39. They allowed us to check in early with no additional feen"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"Clean rooms"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"This hotel is clean, centrally located with many restaurants and food around. The room was cleaned every day and the staff is very friendly. My kids loved this hotel as well. The gym is well equipped."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Great location! Breakfast buffet is top notch."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
"Nice place."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"Beautiful hotel, classy with great rooms and amenities."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Central San Mateo
Fisherman's Wharf
Travellers love Fisherman's Wharf for its popular shops, and you can see more of San Francisco by jumping on the metro at Jones St and Beach St Stop or Jefferson St & Taylor St Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Pier 39 and San Francisco Bay.
Union Square
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Union Square. Check out top attractions like Westin St Francis Hotel Glass Elevators and Union Square, and jump on the metro at Powell St & Geary Blvd Stop or Powell St & Post St Stop to see more of the city.
Downtown San Francisco
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and San Francisco Bay are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.
South of Market
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from Oracle Park to San Francisco Bay – discover South of Market, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Nob Hill
Gourmet restaurants Chinatown and top sights from SF Masonic Auditorium to Cable Car Museum – discover Nob Hill, a destination also famous for its shopping.
