The Golden Gate Bridge at dusk with city lights in the background.

San Rafael Holidays

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Top San Rafael flight + hotel deals

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
  • 14 Sept - 18 Sept

    Villa Montes Hotel + Flight

    San Bruno
    4 nights
    3.0 star property
    9.0/10 - Wonderful (1,011 reviews)
    Return Dublin (DUB) - San Francisco (SFO)
    DUB - SFO1 stop SFO - DUB1 stop
    €2,090
    €1,777
    per traveller
    found 1 day ago
    Villa Montes Hotel
  • 14 Sept - 18 Sept

    La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport N + Flight

    Downtown South San Francisco
    4 nights
    3.0 star property
    8.2/10 - Very good (2,096 reviews)
    "Our room was clean but it appears updates may have been started then stopped. The shower handle was broken and it was tricky getting the hot water to turn on. Overall, not a bad stay."
    Reviewed August 7, 2026
    Return Dublin (DUB) - San Francisco (SFO)
    DUB - SFO1 stop SFO - DUB1 stop
    €2,174
    €1,820
    per traveller
    found 1 day ago
    La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport N
  • 14 Sept - 18 Sept

    Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square + Flight

    Fisherman's Wharf
    4 nights
    5.0 star property
    9.4/10 - Exceptional (410 reviews)
    "Excellent location and rooms - great space for families. Very helpful and friendly staff."
    Reviewed July 31, 2026
    Return Dublin (DUB) - San Francisco (SFO)
    DUB - SFO1 stop SFO - DUB1 stop
    €4,543
    €3,808
    per traveller
    found 1 day ago
    Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square
  • 14 Sept - 18 Sept

    Sonesta ES Suites San Francisco Airport San Bruno + Flight

    San Bruno
    4 nights
    3.0 star property
    8.8/10 - Excellent (1,008 reviews)
    "Overall great stay, clean and well stocked room. Breakfast was very nice. The only complaint is having to pay $15/night for parking, after paying over $500 for a two night stay, parking should be included."
    Reviewed August 6, 2026
    Return Dublin (DUB) - San Francisco (SFO)
    DUB - SFO1 stop SFO - DUB1 stop
    €2,170
    €1,828
    per traveller
    found 1 day ago
    Sonesta ES Suites San Francisco Airport San Bruno
  • 14 Sept - 18 Sept

    Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco Arpt North + Flight

    The East Side
    4 nights
    3.0 star property
    8.6/10 - Excellent (1,016 reviews)
    Return Dublin (DUB) - San Francisco (SFO)
    DUB - SFO1 stop SFO - DUB1 stop
    €2,385
    €2,047
    per traveller
    found 1 day ago
    Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco Arpt North

Where to stay in San Rafael

Find the best San Rafael areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San Rafael
Learn more about San Rafael

Downtown San Rafael

City centre San Rafael captures California's Spanish colonial past through its historic Mission and Victorian buildings along Fourth Street. The area buzzes with a weekly farmers market, summer street festivals, and screenings at the Rafael Film Centre. Art and culture thrive at Art Works City centre with its galleries and studios. Visitors can explore the white adobe walls of Mission San Rafael Arcángel or admire ornate Victorian mansions nearby. The area offers diverse dining options reflecting Latino influences and local California cuisine. Mountain views provide a stunning backdrop to this walkable city centre with its authentic community feel.

Gerstle Park

Step back in time along the tree-lined streets of Gerstle Park, San Rafael's historic gem. Victorian and Craftsman homes showcase ornate woodwork and colourful facades dating back to the 19th century. The peaceful namesake park offers shaded walking paths under heritage oaks and redwoods. This residential haven sits just minutes from city centre San Rafael's dining and shopping options. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the well-preserved historic details throughout the area. Visitors can enjoy the authentic local atmosphere while strolling through this charming, quiet district.

Montecito-Happy Valley

Montecito-Happy Valley offers a serene retreat from San Rafael's urban energy. This affluent area features spacious homes along quiet tree-lined streets. Mature oaks create natural canopies over winding roads with manicured gardens. The peaceful atmosphere appeals to travellers seeking an exclusive residential experience. Luxury holiday rentals with premium amenities dominate the accommodation options here. While lacking shops or restaurants within its boundaries, the area provides easy access to city centre San Rafael's amenities. Nearby China Camp State Park offers excellent hiking trails and bay views for nature enthusiasts.

Civic Center

While visiting Civic Center, you might make a stop by sights like Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market and Marin County Civic Center.

Sun Valley

While Sun Valley may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like American Legion Log Cabin and San Anselmo Town Hall.

Discover the most popular places to visit in San Rafael

What to do in San Rafael

San Rafael Hotel Deals

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a San Rafael holiday package cost?

Offering excellent value package deals from €1,777 on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a holiday to San Rafael costs! Our packages mean less travel planning for you and greater savings.

What are the cheapest months to go to San Rafael?

You can typically find lower prices and better availability in December, January and February. Take a look at our cheap San Rafael holiday packages and you could get some great off-season deals.

How many days is enough for San Rafael?

With around 2 days, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy popular neighbourhoods like Almonte and Strawberry during your San Rafael holiday. Be sure to also add Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Baseball - Albert Park to your sightseeing list. Looking for more adventures? Consider venturing outside of San Rafael on day trips and tours.

Is it worth booking a holiday package to San Rafael?

San Rafael has everything you need for an amazing getaway. Begin your San Rafael holiday on a high note by exploring major attractions like Mission San Rafael Arcangel.

How to find the best San Rafael package deals?

Use Expedia's filters to help you find some tempting San Rafael package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or look for San Rafael package deals in the off-peak season. Switch up your travel dates and you may land even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to lock in your holiday package as early as possible.

Is it cheaper to book a San Rafael holiday as a package?

An Expedia holiday package could land you significant savings when compared to arranging flights and stays individually. Better still, you can customise your San Rafael escape to match your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.

When to book a holiday package to San Rafael?

If you're considering a spur-of-the-moment San Rafael getaway, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can score incredible deals on your flights and hotels by booking well in advance.

How to plan a trip to San Rafael?

  1. Choose when to go: Check your diary and get your bags packed. Your favourite season and the type of activities on offer will also help you decide when to escape to San Rafael.
  2. Budget wisely: Besides the cost of your stay, you should consider other expenses. These include transportation, food and flights. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected costs that may arise during your trip to San Rafael.
  3. Work out your trip length: Consider how long you'd like to spend exploring San Rafael. Plan your days so you can get to all the attractions and experiences you're interested in without rushing.
  4. Bundle your airfare and accommodation: After you've nailed down your trip dates and duration, lock in the perfect San Rafael holiday package for you.

Book with confidence

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking recreation and education. Visitors can explore various activities, including unique tours to Guatemala and Arequipa, as well as engaging in exotic excursions. Additionally, the area features a shopping mall centre, providing ample opportunities for leisurely shopping amidst the stunning Californian landscapes.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in San Rafael, visit Marin Country Mart, only 3.2km away, offering a mix of business and entertainment. You can also explore Book Passage, a charming store located 4.8km from the city. If you’re up for a drive, consider visiting larger shopping centres nearby.

Recreation

Nevin Community Center offers a tranquil atmosphere with wellness programmes and relaxation activities, perfect for rejuvenation. For a touch of luxury, visit the Pacific-Union Club, where opulence meets leisure. Don't miss Audium, where immersive music concerts provide a unique entertainment experience that invigorates the spirit.

Adventure

Embark on an adventure at Tennessee Valley Trailhead, a scenic hiking trail located 12.9km from San Rafael, offering stunning views and outdoor vibes. Alternatively, explore Marina Bay Trail, 14.5km away, or the Dipsea Trailhead, 8.0km distant, both promising exhilarating experiences in nature.

Nightlife

For a vibrant night out in San Rafael, start at the American Legion Log Cabin, a charming pub with a romantic vibe, just 3.2km away. For a livelier experience, head to the Phoenix Theater nightclub, 30.6km away, where the city atmosphere enhances the entertainment.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael, California, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, boasting attractions like urban parks, beautiful beaches, and nearby national state parks. Visitors can enjoy a blend of culture and family-friendly experiences while exploring local highlights such as Sao Rafael Beach, San Rafael Beach, and the stunning San Rafael Glacier. With its scenic landscapes and diverse activities, San Rafael promises a memorable getaway for all types of travellers.

  • Muir Woods National Monument: Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of towering coastal redwoods in this enchanting forest just 9.7km from San Rafael. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, Muir Woods offers numerous trails that let you explore its lush surroundings and experience the adventure of nature.
  • Golden Gate Bridge: A symbol of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is a stunning feat of engineering located 19.3km away. Its striking Art Deco design and breathtaking views make it a cultural landmark worth visiting, with opportunities for photography and leisurely walks.
  • Pier 39: Located 20.9km from San Rafael, Pier 39 is a vibrant jetty where you can enjoy waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and entertaining street performances. The lively atmosphere and scenic views of the bay make it a perfect spot for relaxation and socialising.

Best time to go to San Rafael

The best time to visit San Rafael can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Rafael falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in San Rafael falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Tips to save on your trip to San Rafael

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to San Rafael.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically February and November to December) for more affordable package holidays to San Rafael.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.