Your Ultimate Guide to San Francisco

Given that I’m the daughter of a dad who was born and raised in San Francisco, and that I spent five years living in the Bay Area, and that I made four trips back to the city throughout my teen years… it’s safe to say that I know a lot about San Francisco.

The hilly streets of San Francisco; June 2014

I always make jokes with my friends that I can route myself around New York, Paris,or San Francisco better than I can Washington D.C. (which is where I currently live and have lived for the past seven years). 

While it sounds hyperbolic, it’s true – I know my way around those cities better than I do in my own “hometown”.  

A lot of people mistake me for a Californian when I go abroad because of my free-spirited nature. While I’m far from being a west coast native – I do think that San Francisco is one of the most unique cities that the U.S. has to offer.

View of the The Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco; July 2014

Is San Francisco Overrated?

I don’t think San Francisco is overrated, but I also don’t think it’s the world’s most amazing city either.

San Francisco is by no means my favorite city in the world (sorry, Paris and New York take those titles!) – but I do have to say, I think it’s one of the overlooked cities in the US to visit.

Living abroad in Europe, I always hear about people visiting Los Angeles, New York, and even Miami – but they often skip San Francisco, even though it’s one of the most diverse and interesting cities for international tourists to visit.

Between the famous landmarks, incredible restaurants, approachable hikes, and photography opportunities – San Francisco has a little bit of something for everyone.

The Painted Ladies in San Francisco; December 2016

How Many Days For A First Trip to San Francisco?

Honestly, San Francisco won’t be fully experienced unless you stay there for at least 3 to 4 days. Between the Golden Gate Bridge, restaurant hopping on Filmore Street, local hikes like Land’s End, riding a cable car, and exploring Fisherman’s Wharf – you don’t to ruin the casual vibes in San Francisco by rushing it.

🌉 WHERE TO STAY ON YOUR FIRST TRIP TO SAN FRANCISCO 🌁

🌿 LOCAL VIBES

Stay in Dolores Heights if you want to experience everyday San Francisco life. It's a beautiful residential neighborhood with Victorian homes, trendy cafés, and an atmosphere that feels much more local than touristy.

🛍️ SHOPPING

Choose Union Square if shopping is high on your itinerary. You'll be surrounded by department stores, luxury boutiques, restaurants, hotels, and excellent public transportation.

🏖️ BEACHES & A SMALL-TOWN FEEL

The Richmond District is perfect if you want to stay near Ocean Beach and experience a quieter, small-town side of San Francisco while still being close to Golden Gate Park.

🚋 FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Stay near Fisherman's Wharf for easy access to cable cars, waterfront restaurants, shopping, Pier 39, and many of San Francisco's most famous attractions.

View of Coit Tower in San Francisco; June 2014

Like New Yorkers, people from San Francisco take a lot of pride in their city… and because of this atmosphere, San Francisco has a way of making you feel like there’s no other place in the world for the moment. 

I’m not a native, so I’m not going to preach that it’s the, “greatest city in the world” – but there for sure is no other city like it, and it is worth the trip if you’re in the U.S. for the first time.

Should I Go to San Francisco or Los Angeles on a Big International Trip to the U.S.?

I would definitely recommend to someone coming from abroad to see San Francisco over L.A. In my opinion, there’s a lot more to do in San Francisco, and it’s funkier vibe has something that can appeal to everyone – whether it be food, bike riding, or going to a baseball game. Los Angeles is a lot more sitting in a car and beaches than anything else, making it less interesting for international tourists.

How Many Days Should I Stay in San Francisco?

In order to do San Francisco justice, you should really consider staying a full 3 days and 3 nights to make the most of the city. This will give you time to hit all of the major tourist attractions like Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park, Union Square, and the Painted Ladies – while still leaving additional time to discover San Francsico’s funkier, more distinct neighborhoods like the Castro District, Chinatown, and a drive through Sea Cliff or the Lower Pacific Heights.

🌉 IF YOU LIKE... GO HERE IN SAN FRANCISCO 🌁

If You Like...	Go Here
🥾 Scenic Hikes	Lands End for dramatic coastal trails, hidden beaches, and some of the best Golden Gate Bridge views in San Francisco.
🛍️ Shopping	Union Square for department stores, luxury boutiques, shopping malls, and countless restaurants.
✌️ Hippie Vibes	Haight-Ashbury to experience the neighborhood that helped define the Summer of Love, complete with vintage stores, colorful Victorian homes, and quirky cafés.
🌉 Golden Gate Bridge Views	The Presidio and Baker Beach for some of the most spectacular viewpoints of the Golden Gate Bridge.
☕ Local Coffee Shops	Dolores Heights for charming neighborhood cafés, independent coffee shops, and a true taste of local San Francisco life.
🏡 Quiet Residential Neighborhoods	The Richmond District for a peaceful, residential atmosphere that feels more like a small town than a major city, while still being close to Ocean Beach and Golden Gate Park.
🦀 Seafood	Fisherman's Wharf for fresh seafood, crab, clam chowder, waterfront restaurants, and classic San Francisco dining.

There’s a lot to do if it’s your first trip to San Francisco.

Wondering where to start?

I’m going to give my honest reviews of these popular and non-touristy things to do in San Francisco from someone who lived in the Bay Area.

Here’s a list of everything I have seen and done in San Francisco over the years and what I think:

18 Best Things to Do in San Francisco (From Someone Who Lived There)

1.     The Golden Gate Bridge

Obviously, the Golden Gate Bridge is without a doubt the first thing on your sightseeing list, given it’s the most famous bridge in the world. 

I’ve probably driven over this bridge at least fifty times in my young life; so, I’m not dumbfounded by it anymore – but I can see how it can allure someone visiting for the first time.

Is It Really Foggy in San Francisco?

The thing about San Francisco, though, is that its fog is real. I’ve seen very few days where the Golden Gate Bridge looks as good as it does in the opening sequence to Full House.

A completely clear day in the city is rare. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see it like this…

Driving across the Golden Gate Bridge; June 2014

 Where Can I Get the Best Picture of the Golden Gate Bridge?

If you’re looking to get a really good picture of the Golden Gate Bridge, I recommend these places for photo opportunities:

• Land’s End Hike

• Presidio of San Francisco

• Marin Headlands Vista Point

• Marshall's Beach

2.     Twin Peaks

 I think this well-known view of the city lives up to its hype. 

Me at Twin Peaks in San Francisco; August 2013

If you’re a fan of panoramic pictures, this is the place for you. 

The view from Twin Peaks in San Francisco; August 2013

3.     Land’s End

Entrance to Land’s End in San Francisco; June 2014

 A great (and easy, trust me – I was not an athletic person when I did this) hike with great views of the Golden Gate Bridge…

View of the Golden Gate Bridge from Land’s End; June 2014

… you know, if the fog decides to cooperate. 

4.     The Painted Ladies 

Ever seen the opening sequence to, “Full House” where they’re picnicking?

These are the infamous houses from the show.

The Painted Ladies in San Francisco; December 2016

Is It Worth Going to the Painted Ladies in San Francisco?

The Painted Ladies are very cool to see in person; just another example of the distinct architecture that adds to the unique character of San Francisco. 

5.     The “Full House” House

Located in Lower Pacific Heights, you can visit the iconic TV show house and make all your 90s dreams come to life. 

I’ve been twice; back in 2014 it was painted and looked nothing like it did on the original sitcom…

The Full House House in July 2014

… but when I most recently went in 2016, it was restored to a more familiar look.

Me Outside the Full House House in December 2016.

6.    Haight-Ashbury

 This is the place to go in San Francisco if you wish there was a time machine that could take you back to the 60s. 

Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco; June 2014

If you want to do some vintage shopping, this is the neighborhood in San Francisco for you.

7.    Castro District

A colorful, LGBT neighborhood with plenty of places to learn about the historical side of the district, to shop for pride clothing…

I bought this shirt in the Castro District; it’s the place to buy pride clothing.

Walking through the Castro in San Francisco; December 2016

… and to discover as many… adult shops, as your heart desires.

The rainbow sidewalks in the Castro; December 2016.

8.    Richmond District

My grandma lived in this district, so as a young teenager without a ride anywhere else in the city – I spent some time wandering the surrounding neighborhoods here by myself on foot.

The Richmond District in San Francisco; June 2014

What Can I Do in the Richmond District in San Francisco?

There’s a great, cozy café called “Simple Pleasures” on Balboa street to get a good cup of coffee and a pastry. 

They also have an independent theater where you can catch a movie. We went to go see “Inside Out” and “Sing!” at the Balboa Theater when they both come out. It was refreshing to see a movie in a smaller theater, being from the Washington D.C., almost everything is packed all of the time.

The whole neighborhood will take you back to a simpler time and state of mind – so while it’s mostly residential, I think a trip here is worth it if you want to see all the sides of San Francisco.

9.    Fisherman’s Wharf 

 Honestly, Fisherman’s Wharf hasn’t been my favorite activity that I’ve done in the city. It’s definitely more touristy; it’s busy at all times of the day.

Fisherman’s Wharf; July 2014.

is Fisherman’s Wharf worth visiting?

It’s garnered towards visitors with commercial shopping and copious places to eat seafood, given this is a city on the water. If you’ve been to San Francisco many times, you can skip the Wharf – but if it’s your first time, you should head down as it’s perfect for all travelers from couples, families, and solo travelers in San Francisco.

I personally think the Wharf is a little overrated, and doesn’t compare to the ones I’ve seen in Sydney and Cape Town.

I will say though, that it is one of the best places you can go if you’re looking to try some of San Francisco’s fresh-from-the-water cuisine.

Last time I was there, I got some sort of soup in a bread bowl and it was good. 

Eating a chowder-bread-bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco; December 2016

P.S. – San Francisco is known for its sourdough bread… and take it from someone who has been to France several times, their bread is good and is the best sourdough you will ever have.

10. The Ferry Building

Near Fisherman’s Wharf, the Ferry Building is home to a massive food market – making it the perfect place for foodies to discover cuisine in San Francisco.

There’s a phenomenal ice cream place inside called Humphry Slocombe, and I’ve never been the biggest fan of ice cream when it’s not à la mode to something… so that says something.

11. Drive Through Sea Cliff

 My mom was infatuated with Sea Cliff because she loves houses. 

It’s an upscale neighborhood with houses that rest against the Pacific. If you’re into architectural design and scenic residential neighborhoods – you’ll want to see this.

12. Eat the Trendy Food

 As someone who eats plant-based, the last time I was in San Francisco – I was determined to find some of the hipster cuisine…

… and San Francisco, is one of the best cities to look for that in.

For instance, the original sushirrito started in San Francisco – there’s one on Market street nearby where you would catch a Cable Car.

I’ve also had an awesome acai bowl off of Van Ness Avenue at a place called “Basik Café”. [UPDATE: As of January 2022, this place is now closed].

An Acai bowl for Basik Cafe near Nob Hill in San Francisco; December 2016

My cousin, a native to the city, took me and said it’s the best place she knows in the city for the famous smoothie bowl.

Long story short: if you’re into anything gluten, dairy, sugar free – rest assured you’ll have a plethora of options in this city.

13. Golden Gate Park 

My grandmother’s house in the Richmond District was right in front of this park. It’s large; not the prettiest park I’ve ever seen, but really good for running. 

14. Chinatown

 Nearly every city in the states (and around the world) has a Chinatown… but this one is the real deal.

Is the Food in Chinatown San Francisco Good?

My mom and I had the most incredible Chinese steamed buns. It’s worth going there if you want to get your hands on some authentic Chinese cuisine. 

15. Discover the restaurants on Fillmore Street

 Five summers ago, my aunt and cousins took me to dinner at a Turkish-Mediterranean place called “Troya” – and it was fantastic.

The whole street is lively and filled restaurants, and I think it’s worth finding a place to eat there at least once during your trip.

16. Lombard Street 

It’s known as the “crookedest street in the world”, but it should also really be called the steepest street in the world.

My favorite part is the houses on Lombard Street. They’re whimsical and covered in the prettiest of flowers. 

The Houses on Lombard street are charming beyond belief.

I wonder every time how those people don’t panic every time they pull their cars out of their driveway!

This is one of the many sights in San Francisco that make this city eccentric in the coolest of ways from the rest of the states… therefore, it’s one of the things I think should absolutely be on your to do list.

17. The Presidio 

 A gigantic park that sits at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

The Presidio is a really good place to go for pictures.

18. Ride a Cable Car

While this is a very touristic activity to take part in, it is fun and I do recommend you do it at least once. 

One of the many Cable cars in San Francisco; June 2014

I hope this gave some ideas on what to do on your upcoming trip to the Bay Area.

Have additional questions about visiting San Francisco? You’ll find everything you need to know about the city by the Bay for your upcoming trip below.

🌉🌁 SAN FRANCISCO FAQ 🦀

🌉 Is San Francisco worth visiting?

Absolutely! San Francisco is one of the most unique cities in the United States. It's funky, fresh, and has its own distinct personality that's unlike anywhere else. From riding the iconic cable cars and exploring trendy neighborhoods to enjoying incredible restaurants and sweeping ocean views, San Francisco is a city that deserves a spot on every California itinerary.

📅 How many days do you need in San Francisco?

I personally recommend spending at least 3–4 days in San Francisco. While the city itself is relatively small, the list of things to do is surprisingly long. Between neighborhoods like North Beach, the Mission, Haight-Ashbury, and the Marina, plus attractions like Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Golden Gate Park, it's easy to fill several days without running out of things to see.

🚶 Is San Francisco walkable?

Despite what locals like my dad might tell you, I don't actually think San Francisco is all that walkable. The hills can be exhausting, many attractions are spread far apart, and public transportation isn't always the most convenient. You'll likely enjoy your trip much more if you have access to a car.

🚗 Do you need a car in San Francisco?

In my opinion, yes. Every one of my family members who lives in the San Francisco area—from the Marina to Dolores Heights and even near the airport—uses a car on a daily basis. While it's certainly possible to rely on public transportation, renting a car makes exploring the city and nearby attractions significantly easier.

☀️ What is the best time of year to visit San Francisco?

The best months to visit San Francisco are May and October. That's when you're much more likely to enjoy sunshine and pleasant weather. As surprising as it sounds, summer is often one of the cloudiest times of year, with temperatures frequently sitting in the mid-50s°F thanks to the city's famous marine layer.

🌁 Where are the best views in San Francisco?

If you're after the very best panoramic views of San Francisco, I'd head straight to the Presidio and Twin Peaks. Between sweeping skyline views, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the bay stretching out into the distance, these are easily my favorite viewpoints in the city.

🧥 Is San Francisco colder than people expect?

Yes! San Francisco is almost always colder than visitors expect. It's located in Northern California and has a completely different climate from sunny Southern California cities like Los Angeles or San Diego. Even during the summer, you'll want to pack layers—and especially a windbreaker.

📸 Where can you get the best Golden Gate Bridge photos?

My favorite places to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge are Lands End and Baker Beach. Both offer stunning perspectives of the bridge and are fantastic places to watch the sunset if you're lucky enough to catch a clear evening.

If you’re looking for other things to do in the U.S., click here.

Additional articles you might find helpful include:

• New York City vs. Los Angeles: Which City is Better?

• 8 Reasons Why L.A. is the Most Overrated City in the World

• San Francisco vs. Los Angeles: Which City Is Better?

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About the Author

Hi, I'm Stephanie Safdie, a travel writer and content creator based in Paris. Since living here, I've spent years exploring the city and regularly update my Paris travel guides with firsthand experience while also exploring destinations across Europe and beyond as a solo female traveler. I've been solo traveling for the past decade, having visited more than 70 cities and nearly 30 countries before turning 30.

Before moving abroad, I grew up moving all around the United States, having lived in New York City, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Tampa – which sparked my desire to discover and experience new places and cultures from a young age.

As a true writer at heart passionate about being open-minded, adventurous, and diaristic – it's my goal to share honest, practical travel advice, local insights, detailed itineraries, and real-life experiences that go beyond typical tourist recommendations. With over 200 guides published on Destination Dreamer Diaries, I’m here help you plan the most memorable trip of a lifetime with confidence.

When I'm not traveling or working professionally in content creation, you'll find me doing just about anything creative: writing, practicing my photography skills (the large majority of photos featured on this blog were taken during my own travels), playing my music at open mic nights, editing videos for my YouTube channel, cooking, or creating travel content.

Last updated: July 9, 2026