Search

San Francisco: Travel Guide

San Francisco: Explore the magic of the City by the Bay and let yourself be enchanted by its unique charm.

 
 

Table of content

Customized itinerary for the United States.

Are you considering hiring a travel agency for your trip to the United States?
Compare the offers from our partners.

General information

Located in California, San Francisco is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, picturesque hills, and thriving artistic scene.

POPULATION

The city of San Francisco has approximately 900,000 inhabitants, making it the 17th largest city in the United States after the city of Charlotte. But the city also welcomes millions of visitors every year.

CLIMATE

San Francisco enjoys a cool Mediterranean climate with foggy summers and mild winters. It is advised to carry a light jacket throughout the year due to unpredictable temperature changes.

CURRENCY

The official currency is the United States dollar (USD).

LANGUAGE

The official language is English, but you will find a minority who speak Spanish and various other languages from around the world in this city.

A bit of history

The first inhabitants of the San Francisco region were the Native Americans of the Ohlone tribes. They lived in harmony with nature and utilized the resources of the San Francisco Bay for their sustenance.

In 1776, the Spanish established a military and missionary outpost called the Presidio de San Francisco. The Mission San Francisco de Asís, also known as Mission Dolores, was founded in the same year. These Spanish settlements marked the first steps toward European colonization of the region.

In 1848, the discovery of gold in California attracted thousands of gold seekers from around the world. The California Gold Rush transformed San Francisco into a bustling city filled with miners, traders, and adventurers. The city's population grew rapidly, going from a few hundred residents to over 25,000 within a few years.

The rapid growth of San Francisco was interrupted in 1906 by the great San Francisco earthquake. The earthquake, followed by devastating fires, destroyed a significant part of the city. However, the people of San Francisco quickly recovered from the disaster and rebuilt the city using earthquake-resistant construction techniques.

Over the decades, San Francisco has evolved into a major cultural and economic center. The city is renowned for its role in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, with the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood becoming a hub of the hippie culture. It has also been a stronghold of political and social activism.

Today, San Francisco is a vibrant city with a thriving technology scene. Companies such as Apple, Google, Facebook, and Twitter have their headquarters or significant offices in the Bay Area. The city is also renowned for its Victorian architecture, unique neighborhoods like Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf, as well as its cultural diversity and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

What to do in San Francisco

You will never be bored in Las Vegas! The city is filled with exciting activities for every taste. Whether you want to try your luck at the casino, witness breathtaking shows, relax by the pool at a luxury hotel, or explore the diverse culinary scene, Las Vegas has everything to entertain you.

Golden Gates

Alcatraz

Fisherman's Wharf

Twin Peaks

When to visit San Francisco

The best time to visit San Francisco is typically from September to November when the weather is mild, and tourist crowds are less crowded.

  • The dry season is from June to August.
  • The rainy season is from November to February.
 

You can enjoy outdoor activities without being overwhelmed by the intense summer heat. Additionally, hotel rates are often more affordable during these off-peak periods of tourism.

What to do around San Francisco

San Francisco offers much more than just casinos and shows. Surrounding the city, you'll find breathtaking natural landscapes, fascinating national parks, and intriguing cultural destinations. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the treasures of California. 

point reyes

Half Moon Bay

Sausalito

Our selection of accommodations in San Francisco.

Booking.com

Customized itinerary for the United States.

Are you considering hiring a travel agency for your trip to the United States?
Compare the offers from our partners.

Our selection of restaurants in San Francisco.

San Francisco is a paradise for food enthusiasts. From renowned chefs to gourmet restaurants, the city offers a diverse culinary scene that will delight even the most discerning visitors. Here is our selection of reputable restaurants not to be missed.

Gary Danko

Tartine Bakery

The events not to be missed in San Francisco.

San Francisco is a lively city with numerous exciting events happening throughout the year. From world-renowned performances to cultural festivals, there is always something to celebrate in San Francisco.

Electric Daisy Carnival

The San Francisco Carnival is a vibrant celebration of culture and diversity, where the city streets come alive with exotic dances, flamboyant costumes, and captivating music. Latin American, Caribbean, African, and other ethnic communities come together to share their heritage through lively parades, street performances, and art exhibitions, creating an atmosphere of joy and festivity that captures the vibrant spirit of San Francisco.

Fleet Week

The San Francisco Fleet Week is an annual event that celebrates the United States Armed Forces. During this week, the San Francisco Bay welcomes an impressive fleet of warships, while fighter jets soar through the sky. Airshow demonstrations, ship tours, and parachute performances are among the exciting activities offered to visitors. This event serves as a tribute to the military and raises awareness among the public about their vital role in national defense.

Transportation in San Francisco.

Bus

Buses are also an affordable option for getting around Las Vegas. There are urban buses that operate throughout the city, as well as intercity buses that connect Las Vegas to other cities in Nevada.

Taxi

Taxis are also available throughout the city, but it's important to make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid scams. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called by phone.

Streetcar

Buses are a cost-effective means of transportation in Las Vegas. The city has a comprehensive network of urban buses that cover various routes within the city. Additionally, there are intercity buses that provide connections between Las Vegas and other cities in Nevada, offering convenient options for travel beyond the city limits.

Subway

Buses are also an affordable option for getting around Las Vegas. There are urban buses that operate throughout the city, as well as intercity buses that connect Las Vegas to other cities in Nevada. 

The cost of living in San Francisco.

0
The average salary in San Francisco.
Very expensive cost of living 85%

The cost of living in San Francisco is generally equivalent to that of other major cities in North America and Europe, making it a reserved destination for budget-conscious travelers. Here are some examples of common costs in San Francisco:

Accommodation

 The cost of housing in San Francisco is high due to high demand and the allure of the city. Hotels and vacation rentals can be expensive, but there are also affordable options such as hostels and shared accommodations available.

Food

 Restaurants in San Francisco can vary significantly in terms of prices. From upscale establishments to small local eateries, there are options to suit every budget. Farmers markets and food stands also offer more affordable dining options.

Transportation

Public transportation in San Francisco is relatively affordable, with fares for trams, buses, and metros. Ferry fares can vary depending on the distance traveled.

Activities

 San Francisco offers a multitude of free or low-cost activities, including visiting parks, free museums, and cultural events. However, some shows, concerts, or tourist attractions may be more expensive.

The activities not to be missed in San Francisco.

Practical information

It is recommended to research safe areas of the city and consult with local authorities' advice and recommendations before going on excursions or traveling outside the city. Additionally, it is advised to stay informed about the latest updates on the city's security situation by checking local and international media.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR San Fricisco

Travel insurance is especially important if you plan to travel to San Francisco, United States.

Although the city is relatively safe for tourists, it is still possible to encounter unexpected situations such as health issues, lost or stolen luggage, or transportation delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

MONEY / BANKS

When traveling to Las Vegas, it is important to consider several practical aspects to manage your money effectively. Firstly, it is recommended to use ATMs to withdraw cash in U.S. dollars.

However, make sure to withdraw money from safe and well-lit locations such as shopping centers or banks. Avoid exchanging money in the streets or non-official locations as it can be risky and you may be scammed.

It is also important to travel with international credit or debit cards, such as Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank for transaction fees that may apply to using these cards abroad. It is also recommended to notify your bank of your international travel to avoid any blockage of your card due to suspicious activity.

Lastly, it is recommended to use online payment applications such as Revolut to avoid transaction fees and obtain a competitive exchange rate. Make sure to download the application and set it up before your trip to the United States.

en_US