San Francisco

Overview

San Francisco is best known for the 2.7-kilometer Golden Gate Bridge, which carries 112,000 vehicles daily. The city welcomes 25.8 million annual visitors across its 121 square kilometers. San Francisco statistics indicate 48 hills within city limits, served by 39 operating cable cars that transport 7 million passengers yearly.

Alcatraz Island receives 1.7 million visitors annually, while Fisherman's Wharf attracts 12 million. Tourism data shows that the city's 3,500 restaurants and 220 parks support a diverse visitor experience across 36 distinct neighborhoods.

United States

Destination Type City

Currency USD

Languages English

Best Time to Visit June-August

Recommended Duration 3-5 days

Elevation 16 meters

Popularity Score 9/10

Apps and Services to Check Out Before You Go

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On the Move

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Safety and Security

🥽 Overall Safety

7.0/10

👩‍🦰 Solo Female Safety

6.0/10

🌈 LGBTQ Safety

9.0/10

Travel Advisory

Exercise normal precautions.

Drinkable Tap Water? 💧

Yes

Safety Info

Generally safe but be cautious of petty crime.

Remember to get your travel insurance! Our recommended insurer is SafetyWing

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Budget and Cost of Living

Cost of Living Level

$$$$$

Accommodation (Per Night)

Budget $50-$100

Mid-Range $150-$250

Luxury $400-$800

Eating Out

Budget Meal $15-$30

Mid-Range Meal $30-$60

Luxury Dining $150-$300

Activities

Budget Activities $10-$20

Mid-Range Activities $20-$50

Luxury Activities $100-$300

Money Saving Tips

Use public transport, dine at local eateries, book attractions online

Top Things to Do in San Francisco 2025

Check out the best things to do in San Francisco, United States 2025. Here are the very best experiences, upcoming events, and attractions in San Francisco. We've rounded up everything you need to take full advantage of what this destination has to offer.

Tours & Activities

Upcoming Events

NBA All-Star Game

📅 Fri Feb 14 2025 00:00:00 GMT+0900 (Korean Standard Time) - Sun Feb 16 2025 00:00:00 GMT+0900 (Korean Standard Time)

📍 Chase Center

💲 $200 - $5,000

Annual exhibition basketball game featuring NBA stars.

More Info & Tickets

Attractions

Golden Gate Bridge

Suspension Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge that connects San Francisco to Marin County in California. It spans…

9.5/10

View Attraction

Golden Gate Bridge

Suspension Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge that connects San Francisco to Marin County in California. It spans approximately 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait, which is the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. Completed in 1937, it was once the longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world, with its towers reaching a height of 746 feet. The bridge is painted in a distinctive International Orange color to enhance visibility in foggy conditions, which are common in the area. For those seeking Golden Gate Bridge travel information, there are several ways to experience this engineering marvel. Visitors can walk or bike across the pedestrian pathways for stunning views of the city and bay. There are also guided tours available that provide historical insights about its construction and significance. Additionally, nearby vista points such as Battery Spencer offer panoramic views perfect for photography. Whether you plan to cross it or simply admire it from afar, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see landmark when visiting San Francisco.

9.5

Open: Daily (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA, USA

https://horizonjumpers.com/north-america/usa-travel/california/san-francisco/golden-gate-bridge/

Alcatraz Island

Historic Site

Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, is a historic site known for its role as a federal prison from…

9.0/10

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Alcatraz Island

Historic Site

Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, is a historic site known for its role as a federal prison from 1934 to 1963. It housed some of Americas most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the Birdman of Alcatraz. Today, visitors can tour the island and explore the prison cells, guardhouse, and lighthouse. Alcatraz Island opening hours vary by season, so its important to check in advance before planning your visit. The island is accessible only by ferry, which departs from Pier 33 in San Francisco. In addition to the prison buildings, visitors can enjoy views of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. There are also audio tours available that provide detailed information about life on Alcatraz. These features make it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

9.0

Open: Daily (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: $45
Child: $30
Student: $42
Senior: $42

Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

Booking Required: Yes
Recommended Booking: 60 days days in advance

https://horizonjumpers.com/north-america/usa-travel/california/san-francisco/alcatraz-island/

Fisherman's Wharf

Tourist Attraction

Fishermans Wharf in San Francisco is a popular tourist destination known for its seafood and maritime history. Visitors can enjoy…

8.5/10

View Attraction

Fisherman's Wharf

Tourist Attraction

Fishermans Wharf in San Francisco is a popular tourist destination known for its seafood and maritime history. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as Pier 39, which features shops, restaurants, and a colony of sea lions. The area also offers views of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. Fishermans Wharf opening hours vary by business, but many shops and attractions typically open around 9 or 10 AM and close by evening. Transportation to Fishermans Wharf is convenient, with options including streetcars, buses, and parking facilities. The area is walkable, making it easy to explore various points of interest. Dining options abound, from casual eateries offering clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls to more formal seafood restaurants. For those interested in history, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park provides insights into the citys nautical past.

8.5

Open: Daily (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

https://horizonjumpers.com/north-america/usa-travel/california/san-francisco/fishermans-wharf/

Chinatown

Cultural District

San Franciscos Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America. It is a vibrant neighborhood…

8.5/10

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Chinatown

Cultural District

San Franciscos Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America. It is a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and traditional Chinese architecture. Visitors can explore Grant Avenue, the main street lined with shops offering everything from souvenirs to herbal medicines. When planning a visit, it is helpful to check Chinatown opening hours, as some stores and attractions may have varying schedules. The area features several popular attractions, including the Dragon Gate, Portsmouth Square, and the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. Delicious dining options are plentiful, with many restaurants serving authentic Chinese cuisine. Public transportation access is convenient with several bus routes and the nearby Montgomery Street BART station. Overall, Chinatown offers a unique cultural experience in the heart of San Francisco.

8.5

Open: Daily (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Grant Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94108, USA

https://horizonjumpers.com/north-america/usa-travel/california/san-francisco/chinatown/

Lombard Street

Scenic Street

Lombard Street in San Francisco is famous for its steep, one-block section with eight tight hairpin turns. This iconic stretch,…

8.5/10

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Lombard Street

Scenic Street

Lombard Street in San Francisco is famous for its steep, one-block section with eight tight hairpin turns. This iconic stretch, often referred to as the crookedest street in the world, attracts numerous visitors who come to experience its unique design. The street is lined with beautiful homes and well-maintained gardens, offering a picturesque view as cars carefully navigate the winding road. Located between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, Lombard Streets opening hours are not applicable since it is a public road accessible at all times. However, it can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. Visitors should note that parking nearby can be challenging due to the areas popularity and limited space.

8.5

Open: Daily (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Lombard St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

https://horizonjumpers.com/north-america/usa-travel/california/san-francisco/lombard-street/

Latest Posts About San Francisco

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San Francisco