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Plan Your Trip to San Francisco: Best of San Francisco Tourism

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San Francisco, California

San Francisco may be small by big city standards, but it packs a lot into its seven-mile-by-seven-mile grid. Each neighborhood has its own identity, its own vibe, and even its own weather. Spend an afternoon in Haight-Ashbury, where indie bookstores and craft breweries sit next to tie-dye boutiques and vintage shops. Or take a cable car to Chinatown, known as much for dim sum and tea rooms as it is for upscale restaurants and dive bars. There's no shortage of nature here, either. You can hike in the Presidio, play volleyball at Ocean Beach, or sprawl out on Marina Green and take in the Golden Gate views. The food scene is constantly evolving, though staples like Mission-style burritos and the chicken at Zuni Cafe aren't going anywhere. There’s always something new to do, and we’ve got more recs, below.

Travel Advice

How to do San Francisco in 3 days

Scenic views, artsy vibes, and a diverse food scene
Read on

The best cocktail bars and breweries in San Francisco

From the miners to the beatniks, the hippies to the techies, San Francisco is a place people have been coming to reinvent themselves for more than a century. And those reinventions have often been fueled by creative ways to drink. So it should be no surprise that this culturally rich city has plenty of great bars and inventive cocktails worth your time and attention.
Robert K, Las Vegas, NV
  • Trick Dog
    69
    The cocktail menu changes every six months at this eclectic bar in the Mission. The drinks are wildly imaginative, using a combination of unique ingredients with relatively common spirits. If you're hungry, the kitchen puts an elevated spin on familiar snacks with the chicken nuggets and the Trick Dog (a hamburger on a hotdog bun) available to fill you up.
  • Li Po Cocktail Lounge
    83
    This Chinatown dive bar earned legendary status after some well-deserved praise by Anthony Bourdain. It’s got a lineup of colorful libations that complement the overhead paper lanterns. Li Po is famous for the deceptively strong Chinese Mai Tai, which has an officially trademarked name and a recipe that's top secret, although rum and some sort of herbal liqueur appear to to be the key ingredients.
  • Barebottle Brewing Company
    89
    Barebottle Brewing, one of the more adventurous players in the craft beer scene, brings some welcome social energy to Bernal Heights with regular live music and long tables to accommodate special events and large parties. The brews change frequently with the season, crafted with inspiration from local ingredients. A food truck is usually parked outside and you can always take a turn at shuffleboard or an arcade game between sips of beer.
  • House Of Shields
    54
    House of Shields has a strong legacy in San Francisco, dating back to 1908 and operating as a speakeasy during Prohibition for guests at the Palace Hotel. You can feel the history in the space with much of the original decor preserved and restored with timeless wood paneling, vintage chandeliers and an old-school neon marquee out front. The bartenders apply subtle modifications to classic cocktails and are always ready to accommodate special requests.
  • LUMA Hotel San Francisco
    731
    A drink is always better with a great view, and Cavaña is one of the most enchanting rooftop bars in Mission Bay with a perch on the 17th floor of the LUMA Hotel. The outdoor patio is a great vantage point, overlooking the Bay, Oracle Park and the city skyline, but the ambitious cocktail menu is equally worthy of your attention, taking inspiration from South American flavors with food bites to match.
  • Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar
    264
    This Nob Hill Tiki bar surrounding an indoor swimming pool takes kitsch to new levels with its “lagoon”, faux rainstorms (accompanied by a crack of thunder) and a floating boat that doubles as a live music stage. In true Tiki style, the drinks are fruity, but strong and pair well with the pan-Asian cuisine.
  • Fort Point Beer Co.
    19
    Fort Point was founded by a pair of friends who bonded over a love of homebrewing and turned their passion into the largest independent craft brewery in San Francisco. The company's first taproom is in the iconic Ferry Building on the waterfront near the Bay Bridge. Try the signature KSA Kölsch Style Ale first and take it from there. A second taproom welcomes guests on Valencia Street in the Mission district.
  • The Riptide
    8
    The Riptide isn't the fanciest place in San Francisco, but gives the Outer Sunset neighborhood a dive bar to call its own near the beach. Beer and basic cocktails are the specialties with a variety of live music and bingo nights to pass the time. The Riptide opened in 1941 and little has changed over the years, especially the stone fireplace. No food, but guests are welcome to bring over a slice from neighboring Brothers Pizza.
  • Rye
    43
    As the name suggests, Rye is a bar that loves its whiskey with an excellent selection of brown spirits and knowledgeable bartenders ready with a stiff pour. A dark and moody escape, Rye is something of an industry clubhouse with rugged brick and wood decor in an area between Lower Nob Hill and Tenderloin. The Basil Gimlet is my longtime favorite, but you'll love any variation on an Old Fashioned your bartender has in mind.
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San Francisco Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing San Francisco

bsimosd

Although the city is relatively small geographically, because of the hills, you need to buy a one, three, or seven-day visitor pass at either the airport or any Walgreens. This allows you access to the buses, trams, street cars and — most importantly — the cable cars. Without the pass, each trip on a cable car will cost you $6!

ColoMama33

Dress in layers, the weather can be unpredictable.

Martha C

If you like to cycle, rent a bike and ride along the waterfront. Just be careful of getting caught out going up those famous hills!

54Nancy54

San Francisco is a great city for walking but also has easily manageable public transportation to help you get around. There is lots to see in one day by foot and cable car/trolley/bus.

Bill P

Like to enjoy a long walk while enjoying great sights and tastes? You can visit Italy, China, shopping and a fishing village all within a comfortable six-mile walk...

SanMijas

San Francisco is a small city representing every culture available with the ocean to one side and the bay to the other. Loads of parks throughout the city and Golden Gate Park being the jewel. A city of hills and variety of architecture with fabulous views. A city with history. ... Each neighborhood offers a different experience and different culture.

What is the best way to get there?

flying

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the city’s primary airport with more than 50 airlines and nonstop service to more than 125 cities. Another option is Oakland International Airport (OAK) across the bay.

train

Amtrak’s California Zephyr train runs between Chicago and the Bay Area, with stops in Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City and Reno. It also offers three train lines within California.

bus

Greyhound buses to San Francisco are available to/from many U.S. cities, while Megabus is available to/from a few select cities in California.

For more info on getting to San Francisco, visit here.

Do I need a visa?

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you may need a visa to visit San Francisco, unless your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The program allows citizens of certain countries to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.

For more info on visas and the VWP, visit here.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer sees the biggest concentration of festivals — including San Francisco Pride and Outside Lands music festival — but also cooler temperatures, whereas fall offers warmer, sunny weather. Average daily temperatures in summer are highs of 19°C and lows of 15°C, while winter highs can hit 15°C and lows of 7°C.

Whenever you choose to visit, come prepared with layers, as the fog usually burns off by mid-morning and returns in the early evening, bringing with it huge swings in temperature.

Get around

trains

San Francisco Municipal Railway, aka Muni, operates a light rail and Muni Metro subway. Bay Area Rapid Transit, aka BART, connects San Fran to the East Bay. Caltrain is a commuter rail that runs to San Jose.

For info on Muni fares, routes and schedules, visit here.

For info on BART fares, routes and schedules, visit here.

For info on Caltrain fares, routes and schedules, visit here.

streetcar

Muni also operates San Francisco’s historic and iconic streetcar on Market Street from Fisherman’s Wharf to Castro Street.

For more info, visit here.

cable cars

Muni also runs the three lines of San Fran’s equally famous cable cars, two of which run from Powell and Market to Fisherman’s Wharf with the third runs between Market and Van Ness. To grab one, look for its brown and white sign.

For info on fares, routes and schedules, visit here.

buses

There are plenty of muni bus routes to get you across San Francisco. To find the nearest stop, look for yellow street poles, white paint on streets or small bus shelters.

For info on fares, routes and schedules, visit here.

ferries

The San Francisco Bay Ferry runs from the Ferry Building and Pier 39 to six Bay Area cities while the Golden Gate Ferry connects to Marin County.

taxis

There are plenty of taxi companies operating in San Francisco that can get you to/from airports and around town.

bikes

Bay Wheels, operated by Lyft and available on its app, is the primary bikeshare in San Francisco.

For fares and locations, visit here.

rideshares

Uber and Lyft are available in San Francisco via their apps on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone?

Pacific Time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in San Francisco is 110V to 115V, 60Hz AC. Outlets accommodate two-prong flat (not grounded) plugs or grounded three-prong plugs.

What is the currency?

USD.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Yes.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes.

Is it easy to find a bank?

Yes.

How much do I tip?

Restaurants/room service

Standard tipping in San Francisco is 15 to 20 percent of your bill, or 25 percent if you were extremely happy with your meal and service.

Taxis

Like restaurants, 15 to 20 percent of your fare is a typical tip for taxis, more if they were particularly nice or helpful.

Bellhop/valet

It’s standard to give between $2-$3 cash to bellhops who help with your luggage and the valet each time you retrieve your car.

Housekeeping

It’s common to leave a tip of $2 per day of your stay to the housekeeping staff of your hotel, which you can leave in the room when you go. Some hotels leave envelopes for such tips, but if they don’t, a quick note saying “Thank you” will suffice.

Tour guides

If you take a tour in San Francisco, your guide will surely appreciate a tip, generally between $5-$10 cash.

Are there local customs I should know?

Drinking

The legal drinking age in San Francisco is 21.

Drugs

Recreational marijuana is legal for private use in San Francisco for adults 18 and older with ID.

Attire

As the birthplace of Levi’s, jeans are acceptable to wear to just about everything.

San Francisco travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Recommended Hotels and Locations

According to forum posts, some travelers recommend staying in areas like Union Square or Fisherman's Wharf for their safety, convenience, and access to public transportation. The Chancellor, located near Union Square, is frequently mentioned for its reasonable rates and good guest relations. The Argonaut Hotel at Fisherman's Wharf is praised for its proximity to attractions and public transport links.

Hotel Features and Pricing

Travelers have called out the Hilton Financial District for its advantageous location at the border between the Financial District and Chinatown, with easy access to public transportation. The Hyatt Regency near the Embarcadero is also highlighted for being close to key areas like the Ferry Building and Market Street. Prices were not consistently detailed, but the context suggests a mid-range to upscale pricing structure depending on the location and amenities.

Considerations for Staying

For many users, choosing a hotel with character and good location is crucial. Hotels like the Chancellor are noted for their boutique atmosphere, while the Argonaut adds a historical touch near major tourist spots. Parking availability and costs are also significant considerations, as many central hotels do not offer free parking.

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Activities and Locations

During a layover in San Francisco, travelers often explore the city's iconic sites. Options include visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring Fisherman's Wharf, or strolling through neighborhoods like Chinatown and North Beach. Some travelers suggest taking BART to Embarcadero Station for a walk along the bay or enjoying local cuisine in various districts.

Transport and Logistics

Using public transportation like BART is recommended to efficiently travel between the airport and the city. This option allows for quick access to downtown areas. Travelers should consider travel time, including waiting for trains, to ensure they return to the airport in time for their connecting flights.

Luggage Storage

For those concerned about luggage during their layover, the Airport Travel Agency in the international terminal offers luggage storage services for a fee. This allows travelers to explore the city without the burden of carrying their bags.

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Itinerary Overview

According to forum posts, a well-rounded short stay in San Francisco can include visits to iconic locations such as Fisherman's Wharf, where Pier 39 and the sea lions are popular attractions, and a walk through the historic Chinatown. Travelers have suggested exploring the vibrant Mission District and the artsy Castro neighborhood for a mix of cultural experiences.

Day Planning

Some travelers said that starting a day at the Japanese Tea Garden, especially during free entry hours, followed by exploring Golden Gate Park can be refreshing. For museum enthusiasts, the Exploratorium or the California Academy of Sciences offers interactive exhibits, with the latter known for its impressive Osher Rainforest.

Dining and Shopping

For dining, posts highlighted vegetarian options at the Ferry Building and suggested trying local Mexican cuisine in the Mission District. Thrift shopping along Valencia and visiting unique bookstores like City Lights are recommended activities for those interested in quirky and vintage finds.

Evening Activities

Travelers have called out the Exploratorium After Dark as a worthwhile evening event, offering a chance to enjoy science exhibits in an adult-oriented setting. This can be a pleasant wrap-up to a day filled with city exploration.

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Tour Recommendations

According to forum posts, Dylan’s Tours receives excellent reviews for its personalized small van city tours. For a more focused experience, the Movie Tour compares current city scenes with their cinematic portrayals, and City Guides SF offers walking tours emphasizing local neighborhoods, historical eras, or specific buildings. Food enthusiasts may enjoy culinary walking tours in areas like the Mission District and Chinatown.

Alternative Tour Options

Some travelers have recommended exploring alternative tour options such as Segway tours of Fisherman's Wharf and Golden Gate Park, which offer a unique way to see these popular areas. For tech enthusiasts, Silicon Valley tours are available, providing visits to major tech campuses and historical sites in the tech industry, although expectations should be managed regarding the accessibility of corporate interiors.

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Available Transportation Options

According to forum posts, travelers can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, taxis, or public transportation such as BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and Muni services from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). For those heading directly to downtown San Francisco or nearby hotels, these options are frequently recommended.

Considerations for Choice

Some travelers have noted that for direct and convenient transfers, rideshares or taxis are preferable, especially when carrying luggage or traveling in groups. Rideshare services can be arranged for larger groups by requesting larger vehicles.

Public Transportation Details

For a more budget-conscious option, BART is available and can be taken to various parts of San Francisco including the Embarcadero Station. From there, travelers can connect to other forms of transport like the Muni services to reach specific destinations. This option may involve more travel time and handling of luggage compared to direct rideshare or taxi services.

Additional Services

Travelers have also mentioned using car services such as Pleasant Limo for a more personalized transport experience directly from SFO.

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Hotel Recommendations

According to forum posts, family-friendly accommodations in San Francisco include the Hilton Financial District, located close to Chinatown and North Beach, and the Hyatt Regency near the Ferry Building. These hotels are appreciated for their proximity to family-friendly attractions and safety.

Additional Options

Some travelers have also recommended the Columbus Motor Inn, which includes parking and is noted for its convenience to Fisherman's Wharf, a popular area for families. The Grand Hyatt Union Square is another option, described as a 4-star hotel close to major attractions, suitable for family stays.

Hotel Features

Travelers have called out specific features like the availability of family rooms and included amenities such as on-site parking, which is particularly valuable in a city like San Francisco where parking can be expensive and challenging to find.

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Car Rental Recommendations

According to forum posts, travelers recommend using well-known car rental agencies such as Avis, National, and Hertz, which have locations in San Francisco, including Union Square. These agencies are known for reliability and have numerous pick-up points around the city.

Car Rental Timing and Locations

Some travelers suggested renting a car only for the days it is needed to avoid high parking fees in the city. It is also advised to pick up and return rental cars at the airport to potentially reduce costs. However, renting from a downtown location right before leaving the city can save on unnecessary rental days.

Alternative Car Rental Services

For shorter trips or specific day needs, services like Zipcar and Gig Carshare are mentioned. These services offer flexibility for travelers who need a car for just a few hours or a day. Zipcar requires membership but includes gas in the rental price, while Gig Carshare operates on a pay-per-use basis without reservation far in advance.

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Public Transit Options

According to forum posts, travelers can use public transit to reach Muir Woods from San Francisco. One option involves taking Golden Gate Transit Route 70 to Pohono Street Park & Ride and then catching the Muir Woods Shuttle. During summer, the shuttle runs daily, but outside this period, it operates only on weekends.

Alternative Transportation

Some travelers mentioned that taking a ferry to Sausalito followed by a shuttle to Muir Woods used to be a popular option, but recent changes now require catching a shuttle from Pohono Park & Ride instead. For those considering a weekday visit when the shuttle isn't running, forum suggestions include using a taxi service like A1 Taxi from nearby places such as Mill Valley.

Tour and Private Transport

For those preferring not to use public transit, forum users have discussed organized tours and private transport options like Uber or Lyft. However, they noted the absence of cellular service at Muir Woods, which complicates arranging a return trip via these services. Booking a scheduled tour or arranging a taxi for a return trip in advance are recommended alternatives.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.