San Francisco, how I adore you! I know some people question why this city has a special place in my heart. But after living and working there for about four years, it’s become one of my favorite cities.
San Francisco has this vibrant energy about it. I have so many great, and not so great, memories from my time living there. The city opened my eyes to new perspectives. I am grateful for the amazing people I met, the delicious food I tasted, and all the experiences I had.
So if you ever have the chance to visit San Francisco, I recommend you do. You might fall in love with it like I did. Here’s a quick San Francisco city guide answering all your top questions to get the most out of your trip.
What is the best time of year to visit San Francisco?
The best time to visit San Francisco is during the spring or fall. The months of April-May and September-October are the best. The weather is mild during these months, and there are fewer tourists.
Do not make the mistake of visiting in the summer months (June-August). There is a reason this quote exists, “the coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” Which is true, the summer tends to be the coldest and foggiest months of the year. So much so that the fog has its own name, Karl. Along with the funniest twitter feed about it.
What is the weather like in San Francisco?
The weather is typically mild year-round, the average temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit. I like to air on the side of precaution and always bring a jacket with me. The weather can be a little unpredictable at times so the best advice I give to visitors is to layer up! Different neighborhoods can even have different weather! I used the Mr Chilly app to check how much of a difference going from the FiDi to the Marina would be.
Wondering how long to stay in San Francisco?
The amount of time you spend in San Francisco depends on what you want to see and do in the city. On average people spend about 3 days.
You’ll be able to see all the popular attractions like the Palace of Fine Arts and Chinatown. I’ve listed the top 3 as well later in the article. You can also ride a cable car from Ghirardelli Square to Union Square!
If you decide to stay longer, like 4 or 5 days, you can explore more neighborhoods and even take a day trip. Those extra days can give you time to go wine tasting in Napa or Sonoma. Go hiking in Muir Woods or Mt Tamalpais. Or explore Sausalito and enjoy the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay.
Is San Francisco safe?
Generally San Francisco is safe. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. You might be startled by the occasional homeless person but if you don’t engage they will leave you alone. San Francisco drivers can be a little wild, so take precaution when crossing the street.
What is the best way to get around San Francisco?
Public transportation and walking! The city is about 7×7 miles so things are relatively close to each other. If you’re not afraid of walking up and down hills you can get from one neighborhood to the next in about 20 minutes. Depending of course where you start and end.
The city also has a decent public transit system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. And of course, you can always catch an Uber or Lyft. Be mindful that you might get stuck in traffic during certain times of the day. Like traveling through the Financial District at 5pm on a weekday.
Where should I stay in San Francisco?
This depends on your budget and location preference. There are many great places to stay in San Francisco. Many chain hotels are located in neighborhoods like Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf. If you want to stay in a specific neighborhood, you’re better off finding Airbnbs which range in size and price.
What are some of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco?
San Francisco has so much to see and do within its small footprint. These are the top 3 tourist attractions:
- The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. If you’re up for it you can walk or bike across the bridge during the day. The best view with the green hills in the back is from Crissy Field or Torpedo Wharf. The best view with the city as the backdrop is from Battery Spencer or Kirby Beach.
- Alcatraz Island is the former Federal Penitentiary. Which was once home to some of the most notorious criminals in the United States. You can take a tour of the prison, or learn about its history at the Alcatraz Museum. Book in advance as tours get sold out quickly.
- Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist destination. You can find a variety of shops and restaurants. One of the best things to see is the sea lions at the end of Pier 39. Take a stop at Boudin’s for some clam chowder.
What are some of the best restaurants in San Francisco?
San Francisco can be a foodie’s dream come true. There are some many amazing places to eat, it can be hard to fit them all in during one visit. There is something for everyone from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eats.
Here are some general tips for dining in San Francisco:
- San Francisco is an expensive city so be prepared to pay a premium.
- Tips are encouraged and welcomed. The normal rate is 15-20%.
- Make reservations if you can. Popular places get packed quickly and wait times can be long if you don’t plan ahead.
According to Google these are the top 3 best restaurants in San Francisco:
- State Bird Provisions a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its small plates and its lively atmosphere.
- Zuni Cafe is an iconic San Francisco restaurant that has been serving up classic California cuisine since 1979.
- The Slanted Door is a Vietnamese restaurant and a San Francisco institution. It offers a unique and delicious dining experience.
Travels with RJ 