San Francisco, California

San Francisco, California

How much does it cost ?

For a comfortable trip, expect to spend around $250-$350 per day including accommodations, meals, sightseeing, and other expenses. This could change depending on your lifestyle and the type of accommodations you prefer.

How many days would be recommended?

Spend at least 3-4 days to fully experience the city, although a week would allow for a more relaxed pace and time for day trips to nearby attractions like Napa Valley or Muir Woods.

The Basics

San Francisco is a major city in California, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and colorful Victorian houses. It's a cultural, commercial, and financial center of Northern California, with a diverse population and a thriving tech industry. The city is also famous for its steep hills, cool summers, and fog.

Fun facts

San Francisco is home to the world's most crooked street, Lombard Street, which has eight sharp turns. The city is also known for its large population of sea lions, which can be found lounging at Pier 39. Alcatraz Island, once a notorious federal prison, is now a popular tourist attraction and part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

What is the best time to visit?

The best times to visit San Francisco are from September to November, when the weather is warm and there are fewer tourists, or from March to May, when the city experiences mild temperatures and spring blooms.

Hot Tips

  • Take a scenic walk across the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Explore the diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown, North Beach, and the Mission District.
  • Visit the Ferry Building Marketplace for a taste of local food and drink.
  • Consider purchasing a CityPASS to save on popular attractions.
  • Rent a bike and ride along the waterfront to explore the city at your own pace.

A bit of History

San Francisco was founded in 1776 by Spanish colonists, but it wasn't until the California Gold Rush in 1849 that the city experienced rapid growth and became a major port and commercial hub. The city was almost completely destroyed by the 1906 earthquake and fire, but was quickly rebuilt. In the 20th century, San Francisco became a center for counterculture movements, most notably the Summer of Love in 1967, and the gay rights movement.

What to do in San Francisco, California during a few days?