San Francisco Travel Guide

San Francisco is the 13th largest city in the U.S. and the 4th largest in the state of California. Ranking as the 7th most-visited city in America in 2017, it's the preferred destination for those looking to check Northern California and its wide range of activities and wonders. San Francisco's culture is distinct. From its bright houses built into the hills to its cable cars to its iconic bridges, the city is unlike any other. The population is extremely diverse, with large Hispanic and Asian populations coming from a long list of countries. Locals are friendly, accustomed to tourist crowds and generally happy to help with directions.

Getting There

By Air

San Francisco has its own airport (SFO), although Oakland International Airport, and San Jose International Airport are alternatives to access the city. BART is the Bay Area Rapid Transit system that links the International Airport to downtown.

By Bus

There’s a Greyhound bus terminal on Folsom Street that connects to a large number of West Coast cities, as well as long-haul journeys to other states.

By Train

The Amtrak Coast Starlight Line goes to Oakland via the San Francisco Bay, or the CalTrain runs from San Jose.

Weather & Climate

Although located on California’s coast, San Fran has a climate that fluctuates very quickly. January and December are the only two months that drop below 60 degrees, while September and October peak in the 70s. December through to March are the rainiest months, although the downpour is rarely extreme; the fog however is one of San Fran’s most famous weather elements.

Best Time to Visit

The city's weather is notoriously strange and can often be chilly in the summer with thick layers of fog. We recommend the fall as the time to visit in order to catch great weather and dodge the thick crowds. Alternatively, spring is another good time to visit as there is less rainfall than the rest of the year.

Things to Do & Attractions

Popular neighborhoods include Fisherman's Wharf for its view of Alcatraz and endless waterfront attractions, the vibrant Haight-Ashbury section for its painted homes and eccentric shops, and the Marin Headlands just across the Golden Gate for the breathtaking views of the bay.

No trip to San Francisco is complete without taking in the views of Golden Gate Bridge but vacationers should also plan to spend a day in Golden Gate Park or one of the regional parks and beaches in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The parks in San Fran see more than 13 million visitors a year.

Shopping

Take a trip to Pier 39 for shops, restaurants, a video arcade, street performances, the Aquarium of the Bay, virtual 3D rides, and views of California sea lions.

A popular spot for tourists is the Fisherman’s Wharf, which is on the northern waterfront. There’s everything from food stalls selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls as well as souvenir shops and postcards. There are also sea lions to spot and historic ships in the water.

History

A visit to the notorious Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay with the former prison on-site has to be on every vacationer’s must-do list. Visitors can be “locked in” to experience the full feeling of the prison and what it must have been like for past prisoners.

Outdoors & Adventure

For adventurous travelers, there really is nothing better than climbing up to Twin Peaks. Named after the 922-foot-high summits, this residential neighborhood with modern homes includes a 64-acre hilltop park which has hiking trails leading up to 360-degree views of the Bay Area.

Elsewhere, take a walk through Downtown San Francisco to stare up at the tower blocks of the financial districts as well as having a meal at the Tadich Grill, the city’s oldest restaurant.

Where to Stay

There are plenty of rentals in San Francisco to choose from and they are available year-round. The city isn’t known for being a very hot resort and is more suited to travelers that enjoy sightseeing or museum-hopping rather than sun-seekers looking for a beach.

Events

Whatever time of the year, there’s always something creating a buzz in San Francisco. From live music, street parades, fairs or conferences, the city’s event calendar is more than impressive. One of the largest events in San Francisco is Gay Pride, which takes place at the end of June and attracts visitors from around the world to celebrate equality. New Year’s Eve is equally spectacular, when a colorful display of fireworks lights up the bay area. Other important events to watch out for include:

Chinese New Year (February)
The Cherry Blossom Festival (mid April)
St. Patrick’s Day (March)
Outside Lands Festival (August)
Oktoberfest (October)

Nightlife

In true Californian form, San Francisco knows how to party. Clubs and bars like Audio Discotech, Monarch, Vertigo, Delirium, and Starlight Room are some of the local favorites. When the sun goes down in SF, everything from electronic, funk, pop, and R&B, and more takes over the dancefloors. There are also a number of gay-friendly spots, including Badlands, Powerhouse, Q Bar, Moby Dick, and Edge.

Food & Drink

San Francisco is home to a plethora of cuisines, restaurants, and street food. If you’re a foodie traveler - prepare to be full all the time.

Mission Burrito

Located in a Central-American neighborhood, this eatery is famous for its huge burritos, stuffed with meats, vegetables, spices, and sauces.

Fog Harbor Fish House

Over on Fisherman’s Wharf, this restaurant in a San Fran classic. Serving up award-winning clam chowder (presented in a bread bowl), as well as other fresh seafood, its entire menu is utterly mouthwatering.

Anchor Steam Bar

The first ever American brewery, this spot is a timeless classic. With a range of brews on offer, plus a friendly atmosphere, it’s a must for every SF itinerary.

Tartine Bakery

Everything at this popular bakery is deserving of a spot on your plate. Come for breakfast, lunch, dinner or all three - the treats are all freshly baked and unforgettable.

Art & Culture

Stay in San Francisco to discover the history, culture and stunning views of this west coast resort. The northern California destination is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. It’s known for the foggy climate and steep streets which give Instagrammers all over the world tons of amazing snaps.

Art-lovers should check out the Asian Art Museum which has one of the most comprehensive Asian art collections in the world, with more than 18,000 works of art in its permanent collection, some as much as 6,000 years old.

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is also worth checking out for the internationally recognized collection of modern and contemporary art.

Family Activities

San Francisco is extremely family-friendly and has a whole array of things to do with kids. From the bustling nature of Golden Gate Park, the Exploratorium Museum, Ocean beach, and Lombard Street, to Coit Tower, the Marin Headlands, and of course, Fisherman’s Wharf - you’ll never be bored in this city with little ones.