Perched on 43 rolling hills beside the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, this cosmopolitan jewel is legendary for the rust-red Golden Gate Bridge, historic clanging cable cars, Painted Ladies Victorians, and nearby Silicon Valley.
Top Attractions & Sights
Golden Gate Bridge
The world's most photographed suspension bridge, completed in 1937 in International Orange, spanning the Golden Gate strait between city and marin headlands.
Alcatraz Island Federal Penitentiary
The infamous maximum-security federal prison island where Al Capone was locked up, featuring an award-winning audio cell-house tour.
Lombard Street & Painted Ladies
The 'crookedest street in the world' featuring eight tight hairpin turns lined with hydrangeas, beside the iconic Victorian row houses of Alamo Square.
Where to Go & Neighborhoods
Explore historic Chinatown, the Beat-generation Italian bakeries of North Beach, sea lions sunbathing at Pier 39, and vibrant murals in the Mission District.
Where to Eat & Local Gastronomy
Boudin Bakery (Fisherman's Wharf)
Historic sourdough bakery operating since 1849, legendary for creamy Pacific clam chowder served inside a freshly hollowed sourdough bread bowl.
House of Prime Rib (Nob Hill)
Nob Hill institution carving prime dry-aged roast beef tableside from gleaming stainless steel carts with classic creamed spinach.
La Taqueria (Mission District)
James Beard Award-winning Mission eatery famed for foil-wrapped, rice-free 'dorado style' burritos grilled until golden and crisp.
Getting Around & Transportation
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) connects downtown via BART trains. Ride the historic national landmark Cable Cars along Powell-Hyde hills, or historic streetcars on Embarcadero using the digital Clipper Card.
Best Time to Visit & Stay Duration
September and October bring the warmest and sunniest days of the year, avoiding the summer marine fog. Recommended stay: 3 to 5 days.
Traveler's Tip
Rent a bicycle at Fisherman's Wharf, ride across the Golden Gate Bridge sidewalk to Mediterranean-style Sausalito, and take the scenic ferry boat back.