15 Things to Know Before Visiting San Francisco, California

Planning a trip to the vibrant city of San Francisco? Before you pack your bags and head to the Bay Area, it’s crucial to arm yourself with some insider knowledge to make the most of your visit. There are many things to do in San Francisco, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Coit Tower, and the famous Lombard Street.

Whether you only have 24 hours or a full week, there are plenty of activities to fill up your itinerary. From the city’s eclectic neighborhoods to its iconic landmarks and culinary delights, here are 15 essential things to know before embarking on your San Francisco adventure from someone who visits this glorious city about once a month.

Embrace the Microclimates

San Francisco’s weather is famously unpredictable, thanks to its microclimates. While one neighborhood may be basking in sunshine, another could be shrouded in fog.

Be sure to pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. If you’re lucky, you’ll experience Karl, San Francisco’s fog (he even has an Instagram account).

Public Transportation

San Francisco boasts an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams (known as Muni), and the iconic cable cars. You can simplify your commute by purchasing a Clipper Card for seamless access to all modes of transit.

It’s actually quite easy to get around on public transport alone. Just be mindful of the neighborhoods your are getting off at as some areas are better avoided later at night.

Hills on Hills

Prepare for some serious cardio as you navigate the city’s steep streets and hilly terrain. Opt for comfortable walking shoes to tackle San Francisco’s unique topography and build in some extra time if you’re catching a dinner reservation that’s atop one of these.

If you’re lazy like me and want to e-bike, just be forewarned these will not be able to make it up all the hills. You could find yourself pushing a heavy piece of metal uphill (I don’t recommend it).

Diverse Neighborhoods

What makes San Francisco such a cool city is how diverse all of the neighborhoods are. Each one has its own distinct personality, from the vibrant Mission District to the bustling Chinatown and the eclectic Haight-Ashbury. San Francisco even has one of the country’s oldest (and one of the only) Japantown, which is worth just walking through.

It’s worth exploring as many of these as you can to get a true snapshot of the city so be sure to take the time to explore these diverse enclaves to truly experience the city’s cultural tapestry.

Book Alcatraz Tickets in Advance

If you plan to visit Alcatraz Island, home to the infamous former prison, be sure to book your tickets well in advance. Tours often sell out quickly, so securing your spot ahead of time is essential.

During my first visit to the city I convinced my sister we would be fine to just book at the dock, and I was quite wrong. She never let’s me live it down as it was high on her list for the weekend, so don’t be like me and grab them ahead of time! It’s touristy, yes, but it’s worth the visit.

Prepare for Expenses

It’s no secret that San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the United States, but as a frequent visitor from Los Angeles, I am sometimes taken by surprise.

Be sure to budget accordingly, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining out. Many hotels book up and can leave you with pretty pricey options.

Nearby Wine Country

Some people are surprised to learn how close the city is to Napa and Sonoma Valley. If time permits, you can easily venture beyond the city limits to explore nearby wine regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma. Napa may be famous for its wine, but there are plenty of other activities to enjoy even if you don’t drink.

Even if you don’t have a car, there are tons of guided tours from San Francisco that offer a convenient way to experience the beauty and bounty of California’s wine country for a day trip.

Indulge in the Food Scene

San Francisco is a foodie’s paradise, boasting a diverse and innovative culinary landscape. From savory clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls to mouthwatering Mission-style burritos, and tons of elevated seafood be sure to sample the city’s culinary delights.

If you’ve never visited the Boudin Bakery at the Wharf, I highly recommend it. Yes, it’s a bit on the touristy side, but it’s worth the experience if you’ve never had the chance to enjoy one of their sourdough bowls with clam chowder.

Keep a Flexible Itinerary

San Francisco is a city full of surprises, so don’t be afraid to deviate from your original itinerary. Serendipitous discoveries, such as stumbling upon a hidden park or a local street festival, have often led to my most memorable experiences.

The city also hosts tons of local celebrations, like Fleet Week, when people flood the streets and rooftops to watch air shows. See what’s happening the week you’re visiting, and lean into the local vibe if there is something going on!

Embrace the City’s LGBTQ+ Culture

San Francisco has a rich LGBTQ+ history and is home to one of the largest LGBTQ+ communities in the world.

Celebrate diversity by exploring the vibrant Castro District, visiting LGBTQ+ landmarks like the Harvey Milk Plaza, and participating in events like the annual Pride Parade, which is one of the biggest parties the city holds and a very fun time to experience the city.

Stay Vigilant Against Petty Theft

Unfortunately, San Francisco’s reputation for petty crime is well deserved — albeit decreasing. I’ll assure everyone it’s generally very safe for tourists, but just be vigilant with your belongings and be aware that petty theft can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas.

I recommend carrying a bag that zips, and if you are renting a car, just be sure to empty all of your belongings when you are not driving.

Sunsets Galore

While you can experience a classic CA sunset over the horizon from Ocean Beach, I recommend finding a vantage point in the city and watching it set over the skyline. The city is gorgeous at sunset, and the light paints the city in a breathtaking array of colors unlike any other I have seen.

Some great spots I frequent are Twin Peaks, Lands End, or Baker Beach for panoramic views of the skyline and the Pacific Ocean.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

San Francisco offers plenty of free attractions and activities if you want to see it on a budget. A few great ways to see the city are by exploring the historic Ferry Building, strolling along the scenic Embarcadero waterfront, or exploring the vibrant murals of the Mission District — all without spending a dime.

If you have a car or can bike, you can take one of the many gorgeous hikes just across the bridge to see more of the stunning Northern California coast outside the city. Within the city, you’ll also find tons of people laid out in every park enjoying the sun, Dolores and Fort Mason being two very popular spots.

Secret Staircases

If you want to make your hill climbs more exciting, try exploring San Francisco’s extensive network of hidden staircases that offer unique views and access to tucked-away neighborhoods.

Staircases like the Filbert Street Steps in Telegraph Hill or the Lyon Street Steps in Pacific Heights are great for a scenic workout or off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Hidden Speakeasies and Bars

San Francisco has a lot of hidden speakeasies and cocktail bars that make for a fun night out and a peak into the city’s past. From secret entrances to creative libations, establishments like Bourbon & Branch, Wilson & Wilson, and Smuggler’s Cove offer a taste of Prohibition-era glamor and intrigue.

For any fans of Gin, Whitechapel is a must on your list!