The home of the Golden Gate Bridge has a thriving counter-culture to this day. Although they may have gone more upscale since the 1960s, areas like Fillmore and Irving streets and the Castro are still home to gay communities and spirited individuals. The iconic cable cars run on three lines in the steepest areas of the city, between Fisherman’s Wharf and Market street, and are well worth a ride.
What it is: A hilly, waterfront city in northern California, famous for its Golden Gate Bridge, diverse neighborhoods, and tech-driven economy.
Affordability: Expensive, with high costs for hotels, dining, and attractions, though budget-friendly public transport and casual food options exist.
Safety: Generally safe, but homelessness and petty crime can be issues in certain areas.
Popularity: One of the most-visited cities in the U.S., known for its history, scenic beauty, and cultural diversity.
Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed, with efficient public transit, a variety of hotels, and iconic attractions.
Accommodation Options: Budget hostels, boutique hotels, historic stays, and high-end waterfront accommodations.
Dining Scene: A mix of world-class seafood, international cuisine, and a thriving food truck scene.
Nightlife: Eclectic, with craft cocktail bars, speakeasies, live music venues, and LGBTQ+ nightlife in the Castro.
Weather: Cool and foggy year-round, with mild summers and chilly, damp winters.
Best Time to Go: September to November, when the weather is warmest and crowds are smaller.
Known For: Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Alcatraz, tech culture, steep streets, Chinatown, seafood, LGBTQ+ history.
Top Attractions: Golden Gate Bridge • Alcatraz Island • Fisherman’s Wharf • Chinatown • Lombard Street • Palace of Fine Arts • Mission District • Twin Peaks.
- Population: Approximately 815,000 in the city; around 4.6 million in the metropolitan area (Bay Area).
- Emergency Numbers: 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
- Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST), UTC -8; Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), UTC -7 (March to November).
- Currency: U.S. Dollar ($ USD); ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Language: English is the primary language; Spanish and Chinese are also widely spoken.
- Electricity: Standard voltage is 120V; plugs are type A and B (North American standard two- and three-pin plugs).
- Internet: Excellent coverage; free Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, libraries, and many public spaces.
- Convenience stores: Found all over the city, 7-Eleven, Walgreens, and many local corner stores.
- Nearest International Airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) (about 13 miles / 21 km south of downtown).
- Trivia: San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge was once dubbed “the bridge that couldn’t be built” and opened in 1937.
- Iconic Local Foods: Must-try dishes include sourdough bread, cioppino (seafood stew), mission-style burritos, and Dungeness crab.
- Fun Fact: San Francisco has the world’s largest and oldest Chinatown outside of Asia, dating back to the 1840s.
San Francisco is a city of iconic landmarks, steep hills, and diverse neighborhoods, offering visitors a scenic mix of nature, history, and innovation. Most tourists come to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf, but the city’s true charm is in exploring its distinct districts, whether you’re wandering through Chinatown, Mission murals, or the Victorian-lined streets of Pacific Heights.
What sets San Francisco apart is its compact size combined with dramatic geography and rich cultural history. The city feels both historic and cutting-edge, home to counterculture movements, tech giants, and a famously open-minded spirit.
Top attractions include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard Street, and the Painted Ladies. Don’t miss neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury for its hippie history, or a stroll through Golden Gate Park. Day trips to Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Napa Valley are also popular.
Alcatraz remains the most visited of San Francisco’s attractions, an island accessible by boat from the city. If visiting the notorious maximum security prison doesn’t appeal to you, eating and drinking at the city’s staggering array of venues just might. Chinatown and Richmond remain the best areas for Asian fare, with the Mission the best for Mexican and North Beach the undisputed king of pasta and pizza joints. Eating and drinking out is very much a neighborhood affair, with Haight-Ashbury still the place among the hippy crowd and the Marina attracting young professionals.
For lodging, Union Square is central and convenient, while Fisherman’s Wharf offers a touristy, waterfront vibe. The Mission and Hayes Valley are hipper, local-feeling spots. San Francisco’s accommodations range from luxury hotels and boutique stays to budget inns and historic bed-and-breakfasts.
Getting around is easy with Muni buses, streetcars, cable cars, and the BART system. Walking is enjoyable but expect steep hills. Rideshares and taxis are widely available, and bike rentals are popular for exploring the waterfront and parks.
Dining in San Francisco is world-renowned, with fresh seafood (like Dungeness crab), farm-to-table cuisine, and an incredible variety of global eats. Nightlife ranges from historic dive bars to sleek lounges and live music venues. Shopping highlights include Union Square, Ferry Building Marketplace, and indie boutiques in Hayes Valley.
San Francisco is generally safe, though petty theft and car break-ins are common, never leave valuables in your vehicle. Some areas (like the Tenderloin) can feel sketchy, especially at night, so it’s wise to stay aware.
Why Go to San Francisco?
-
Iconic Landmarks: Snap photos of the Golden Gate Bridge, ride a cable car, and explore Alcatraz Island.
-
Diverse Neighborhoods: Experience the unique character of Chinatown, Mission District, and Haight-Ashbury.
-
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy bay views, waterfront parks, and nearby redwood forests.
-
Foodie Heaven: Indulge in fresh seafood, artisanal markets, and global cuisine.
-
Day Trip Options: Easily reach Napa Valley, Muir Woods, and Sausalito for quick escapes.
Who Might Not Enjoy San Francisco?
-
Budget-Conscious Travelers: San Francisco is one of the most expensive U.S. cities for lodging and dining.
-
Fog & Chill-Averse Visitors: Even in summer, expect cool temps and fog, layers are essential.
-
Drivers: Parking is expensive and traffic is challenging; it’s better to rely on public transit and walking.
What’s Cool
Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island tours, cable cars and steep streets, Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, Chinatown and North Beach, Golden Gate Park, tech hubs (Silicon Valley proximity), Painted Ladies and Victorian architecture, Mission District murals, vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Castro, film spots (Vertigo, The Rock), scenic bay views, day trips to Napa and Muir Woods.
What’s Not
High cost of living and hotels, chilly and foggy summers, steep hills tiring for walking, heavy traffic and limited parking, visible homelessness in downtown, crowded tourist spots, expensive dining, unpredictable weather, occasional earthquakes, small hotel rooms, busy BART trains at rush hour.
San Francisco is located in northern California, on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. The city is about 20 km (12 miles) north of San Francisco International Airport and is known for its hilly terrain, iconic bridges, and diverse neighborhoods. Public transport is extensive, including BART trains, Muni buses and streetcars, and the famous cable cars.
Covering about 121 km² (47 mi²), San Francisco is compact but geographically varied, with steep hills, waterfronts, and green spaces. The city is divided into neighborhoods like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Mission, SoMa, and Chinatown, each offering different experiences.
Most tourists stay around Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, or SoMa for easy access to landmarks and transit.
Union Square
Union Square is the central shopping and hotel district, packed with theaters, restaurants, and easy transit connections. It’s a prime spot for first-time visitors.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range to High-End) – Chain hotels, boutique stays, and luxury options.
- Nearby Attractions: Union Square Park • San Francisco Museum of Modern Art • Powell Street Cable Cars
- Dining: (Diverse) – International cuisine and steakhouses.
- Nightlife: (Moderate) – Bars, lounges, and theaters.
- Shopping: (Excellent) – Designer boutiques and flagship stores.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is a major tourist hub by the bay, known for seafood, family attractions, and waterfront views. It’s ideal for visitors focused on classic sightseeing.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range) – Hotels and family-friendly stays.
- Nearby Attractions: Pier 39 • Ghirardelli Square • Aquarium of the Bay • Alcatraz Island (via ferry)
- Dining: (Touristy) – Seafood restaurants and clam chowder spots.
- Nightlife: (Quiet) – Pubs and waterfront bars.
- Shopping: (Souvenir) – Gift shops and local markets.
SoMa (South of Market)
SoMa is a large, mixed-use district blending tech offices, museums, and nightlife. It appeals to visitors interested in culture and a modern urban vibe.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range to High-End) – Business hotels and boutique stays.
- Nearby Attractions: Oracle Park • Yerba Buena Gardens • Contemporary Jewish Museum
- Dining: (Trendy) – Breweries, food halls, and international spots.
- Nightlife: (Busy) – Clubs, lounges, and live music venues.
- Shopping: (Good) – Westfield mall and local boutiques.
Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is one of the oldest and largest in North America, full of narrow streets, markets, and temples. It’s great for cultural immersion and affordable eats.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) – Small hotels and inns.
- Nearby Attractions: Dragon’s Gate • Portsmouth Square • Tin How Temple
- Dining: (Authentic) – Dim sum, noodle houses, and bakeries.
- Nightlife: (Low-Key) – Tea shops and small bars.
- Shopping: (Unique) – Souvenirs and specialty shops.
North Beach
North Beach, also known as Little Italy, is a lively area known for its cafés, literary history, and nightlife. It offers a mix of dining, culture, and close proximity to landmarks.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range) – Boutique hotels and guesthouses.
- Nearby Attractions: Coit Tower • City Lights Bookstore • Saints Peter and Paul Church
- Dining: (Italian) – Pizzerias, trattorias, and espresso bars.
- Nightlife: (Vibrant) – Bars, jazz clubs, and lounges.
- Shopping: (Local) – Bookstores and small shops.
The Mission District
The Mission is a colorful, artsy neighborhood known for murals, Mexican culture, and a vibrant food scene. It’s popular with younger travelers and creatives.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) – Boutique inns and hostels.
- Nearby Attractions: Mission Dolores Park • Clarion Alley Murals • Mission San Francisco de Asís
- Dining: (Trendy) – Taquerias, fusion restaurants, and cafés.
- Nightlife: (Lively) – Dive bars and live music venues.
- Shopping: (Indie) – Vintage stores and artisan markets.
Haight-Ashbury
Haight-Ashbury is famous for its 1960s counterculture history, vintage shops, and colorful Victorian houses. It’s best for visitors interested in history and alternative culture.
- Accommodations: (Budget to Mid-Range) – Inns and B&Bs.
- Nearby Attractions: Haight Street • Golden Gate Park • Red Victorian
- Dining: (Casual) – Vegan cafés and burger joints.
- Nightlife: (Casual) – Bars and music spots.
- Shopping: (Vintage) – Record stores, thrift shops, and boutiques.
The Marina District
The Marina is a scenic, affluent neighborhood along the bay, offering waterfront paths and views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s quieter but close to big landmarks.
- Accommodations: (Mid-Range) – Boutique hotels and motels.
- Nearby Attractions: Palace of Fine Arts • Crissy Field • Marina Green
- Dining: (Upscale-Casual) – Bistros and seafood spots.
- Nightlife: (Mellow) – Wine bars and neighborhood pubs.
- Shopping: (Boutique) – Small shops and fitness studios.