Currency
US Dollar (USD) $
Best Time
September to November
San Francisco stands out as a city of contrasts and diversity. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the eclectic mix of Victorian houses, the city is full of surprises. Known for its progressive spirit, San Francisco is also a cultural and culinary mecca, with each neighborhood offering its own unique charm. Whether you're exploring the city's many hills, visiting Alcatraz Island, or enjoying a concert at the Fillmore, San Francisco offers something for everyone.
Airport
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Minimal List TL;DR
🍸Upscale Restaurant
The ViewCocktail bar at the top of Marriott offering views over San Francisco
🍹Rooftop Lounge
Top of the MarkRooftop bar serving cocktails with great ambience and staff
🍸Gastropub
The BrixtonFun bar with cosy booths, soul food and tasty cocktails
🍸Cocktail Bar
MonarchVintage cocktail bar with an underground club room 💯
🎤Southern Comfort Cuisine
TupeloCasual bar hosting live music gigs and karaoke nights with a fun crowd
🎧Nightclub
TempleNightclub offering bottle service and hosting DJs spinning electronic tunes
🎷Historic Saloon
Comstock SaloonBar and lounge playing live jazz music in a fun atmosphere
🥘Live Music Venue
BarbarossaCosy lounge serving food & drinks in a building that survives earthquake 💯
Places to See
1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States
4.8
10-50 (per meal)
11AM to 5PM
A vibrant market with local foods and artisanal products
Tip:
Local eats, artisan goods
Get To:
Embarcadero BART station
Organic farmers market with food stalls
429 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States
4.7
12-15
11AM to 5PM
Iconic theatre known for its historic films and events
Tip:
Classic films, special events
Historic theatre playing movies and performances
Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94100, United States
4.7
30-35
11AM to 5PM
A museum of science, art, and human perception
Vibe:
Engaging, educational
Get To:
Embarcadero BART station
Science museum that allows to ask question & question answers
2600 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States
4.6
10-20
11AM to 5PM
Craft chocolate maker with tours and tastings
Tip:
Tasting flights, pastries
Independent chocolate factory with tours and a café
916 El Camino Del Mar, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States
4.6
Free
11AM to 5PM
Beautiful coastal trail with views of the Golden Gate
Vibe:
Natural, breathtaking
Tip:
Scenic views, wildlife
Short trail across the historic Sutro Baths with an ocean view
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States
4.5
15-30
11AM to 5PM
A fine arts museum featuring American art and more
Tip:
Art exhibits, rooftop views
Contemporary art museum with Friday cocktails and shows
San Francisco, CA, United States
4.5
Free
6AM to 10PM
Iconic beach with views of the Golden Gate Bridge
Vibe:
Relaxing, beautiful
Tip:
Beach walks, sunset views
Clothing-optional beach overlooking the golden gate bridge
San Francisco Bay, California, U.S.
4.5
40-50
11AM to 5PM
Infamous former prison with guided tours
Vibe:
Mysterious, historic
Tip:
Audio tour, memorabilia
Get To:
Ferry service from Pier 33
Take a ferry to the former federal prison located on an island
Must Visit:
Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island
San Francisco is known for its 50+ hills and is a popular hub for tech innovation, with Silicon Valley nearby.
Places to Eat
🍛
AzizaMoroccan-Fusion Cuisine
5800 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States
4.7
40-70
12 to 8PM
Award-winning chef, intricate decor with Moroccan tiles
Get To:
Accessible via BART (Civic Center Station)
Tip:
Lamb Chops, Couscous Salad
Intimate Morrocan restaurant serving contemporary arab cuisine and drinks
http://azizasf.com/2401 Harrison St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
4.6
40-60
12 to 8PM
Open kitchen concept, seasonal menu
Get To:
18th St. & Valencia (Muni)
Tip:
Pizza, handmade pasta
Italian restaurant with a Cali-influence
https://www.flourandwater.com/2534 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
4.6
40-60
5:30 to 9:30PM
Outdoor space showing movies and serving Mediterranean food
http://www.foreigncinema.com/1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States
4.5
40-70
12 to 8PM
Innovative dishes served family-style
Get To:
16th St. & Mission (BART)
Tip:
Quail, seasonal dishes
Dim sum style innovative dishes like sauerkraut pancakes
https://www.statebirdsf.com/🌮
NopaContemporary American Dining
560 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States
4.5
30-60
5 to 9PM
Open kitchen, seasonal ingredients
Get To:
24th St. & Divisadero (Muni)
Tip:
Wood-grilled dishes, pancakes
Contemporary Californian restaurant focusing on quality ingredients
http://www.nopasf.com/27 Main St, Belvedere Tiburon, CA 94920, United States
4.5
30-50
12 to 8PM
Seafood waterfront restaurant offering views over Angel island
http://www.samscafe.com/66 Mint St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States
4.5
5-15
12 to 8PM
Known for its fresh, artisanal coffee
Get To:
18th St. & Valencia (Muni)
Tip:
Drip coffee, pastries
Café serving Belgian waffles and seasons soups
https://bluebottlecoffee.com/cafes/mint-plaza2950 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
4.5
10-20
10AM to 1:30AM
Mexican restaurant serving tacos, quesadillas and burritos
https://elfarolitosf.com/355 11th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States
4.4
30-50
12 to 8PM
Emphasis on local produce and sustainable sourcing
Get To:
16th St. & Harrison (Muni)
Tip:
Seasonal dishes, cocktails
Ecofriendly lounge serving meat and seafood delicacies
http://www.baragricole.co/4001 Judah St, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States
4.4
20-40
12 to 8PM
Local art, cozy atmosphere
Get To:
Judah St. & La Playa (Muni)
Beach shack themed café serving pancakes
Must Try:
Sourdough Bread, Cioppino, Clam Chowder, Dim Sum, Burritos
Places to Drink
714 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States
4.1
10-15 per drink
4 to 10PM
Frequent live music, artsy atmosphere
Vibe:
Lively and energetic
Get To:
Accessible via Muni (Line 30)
Tip:
Cocktails, Small Plates
Cosy lounge serving food & drinks in a building that survives earthquake 💯
Music / Dance:
Indie Rock, Folk, Hip Hop, Blues, Jazz
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
Tech (Silicon Valley)
San Francisco
“San Francisco provides an abundance of treasures for its travelers, from the windswept and foggy bay to its meandering hills positioned by Victorian homes that command spectacular scenery over the city. SF varies wildly from the Chinatown to the hipster vibe of the Castro and the gleaming skyscrapers built along the city’s Silicon Valley.”
Places to Shop
3639 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
4.8
10-50 per item (grocery, dessert)
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Known for their quality and commitment to local
Vibe:
Community-focused and organic
Grocery store serving gourmet sandwiches, ice cream and baked goods
489 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
4.6
200-500 for outerwear
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Combines fashion with outdoor functionality
Vibe:
Stylish and functional
Get To:
Powell St. (BART)
Quality outdoor fashion products with a lifetime guarantee
489 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
4.6
200-500 for outerwear
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Combines fashion with outdoor functionality
Vibe:
Stylish and functional
Get To:
Powell St. (BART)
Quality outdoor fashion products with a lifetime guarantee
824 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
4.4
20-100 for curiosities
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Focus on unusual and eclectic finds
Vibe:
Whimsical and intriguing
Tip:
Vintage items, plants
A cabinet of curiosities with a collection of carnivorous plants & fossils
600 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States
4.1
30-200 for home goods
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Practical home accessories, unusual decorations and gift products
Luxury
495 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
4.4
15-30 per drink
Temporarily closed
Stunning redwood decor and cozy atmosphere
Vibe:
Elegant and sophisticated
Get To:
Montgomery St. (BART)
Glamorous cocktail bar with artistic decor serving as a hot spot in SF
3127 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States
4.9
400-500 per tasting menu
5 to 8PM
Three Michelin stars; focuses on storytelling
Vibe:
Artistic and intimate
Get To:
Powell St. (BART)
Fine dining restaurant serving food as an artistic experience
178 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States
4.7
400-600 per tasting menu
5:30 to 9:30PM
Michelin-starred with seasonal ingredients
Vibe:
Upscale and refined
Get To:
Embarcadero (Muni)
3 Michelin star restaurant serving a luxurious French-American cuisine
SF Hidden Spots
Cable cars, tech startups, and vibrant arts.
The city has more than 200 parks, including the sprawling Golden Gate Park, larger than New York's Central Park.
San Francisco is a city that blends natural beauty with technological innovation. Famous for its fog-covered Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco offers stunning views of the bay, along with its vibrant neighborhoods and diverse culture. The city is also a major tech hub, with Silicon Valley just a short drive away. Known for its hills, cable cars, and scenic vistas, San Francisco is also a foodie’s paradise, offering everything from fresh seafood to innovative international cuisine.
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Powell Cable Car
Skip the Powell Cable Car Line and just explore the quiet scenic parts of the city
🚠
San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Off the beaten path places in
San Francisco
Transportation
BART, bike-friendly
City Overview
San Francisco is a hub of tech innovation and steep hills, offering everything from the Golden Gate Bridge to quirky districts like Haight-Ashbury. The city blends history with modernity, from cable cars to Silicon Valley.
3 Day City Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Golden Gate Bridge and Crissy Field. Afternoon: Ferry to Alcatraz Island. Evening: Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and have dinner at a seafood restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Visit Golden Gate Park (Japanese Tea Garden and De Young Museum). Afternoon: Haight-Ashbury for vintage shopping. Evening: Sunset from Twin Peaks. - Day 3: Morning: Mission District for brunch. Afternoon: Dolores Park. Evening: Explore Chinatown and North Beach.
Current Trends
- Food trucks: San Francisco’s food truck scene is booming, with events like Off the Grid attracting locals and tourists alike. - Art installations: Interactive street art and pop-up galleries, especially in the Mission District. - Third-wave coffee: SF is a coffee lover’s paradise, with Blue Bottle Coffee leading the pack in ethically sourced beans.
Local Events Guide
- Outside Lands (August): A three-day music festival in Golden Gate Park featuring top artists. - San Francisco Pride (June): One of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ events. - Fleet Week (October): A celebration of the U.S. Navy and a stunning airshow over the bay.
Local Insider Tips
- Mission District for murals and burritos. - Golden Gate Park’s hidden gems, like the Japanese Tea Garden. - Sutro Baths ruins, where locals hike with coastal views.
Sustainable Travel
- Bike rentals: San Francisco’s Bay Wheels bike-sharing system. - Public transportation: The city’s cable cars are iconic, and the MUNI system offers electric buses. - Eco-friendly hotels: Stay at Hotel Zelos, a modern, green-conscious hotel. - Sustainable food: SF is a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement, with restaurants like Chez Panisse leading the charge.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
Sign below for Fresh Updates
We will send you the latest curation of places and cities straight to your inbox along with access to the pop-up store & exclusive events.
Unlock the Hidden Side:
Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
More Cities to Visit:
29
Medium
Indian Rupee (INR) ₹
Cultural & Coastal
Vibe:
Marina Beach is the longest natural urban beach in India.
Tip:
Chennai is a vibrant, multicultural city where tradition meets modernity. As the cultural capital of South India, the city is home to centuries-old temples, stunning colonial architecture, and the famous Marina Beach. The city’s music scene is dominated by Carnatic music, and the Chennai Music Season, held every December, celebrates the best of classical music and dance. Visitors can explore the city’s rich heritage through its temples, art galleries, and bustling local markets, or simply enjoy the beautiful coastal vistas. With its distinct blend of culture, cuisine, and history, Chennai offers a unique and immersive experience for every traveler.
Lush & Serene
Vibe:
Famous for its Madeira wine.
Tip:
Madeira offers a remarkable natural beauty, with steep cliffs, lush gardens, and a rich cultural heritage. It is a destination where nature lovers and wine connoisseurs can experience the island’s signature landscapes and flavors. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can explore the island's diverse terrain, while those interested in the island’s wine culture can visit vineyards and wineries to taste the famous Madeira wine. The island is a perfect blend of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Paris Unseen
Vibe:
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum, housing over 35,000 works, including the Mona Lisa.
Tip:
Paris offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity, where visitors can wander through its cobbled streets, admire its grand architecture, and enjoy its delicious food and wines. The Seine River adds an enchanting charm to the city, especially at sunset when the city’s lights reflect on the water. Paris is not just the epitome of romance but also a city full of art, from the masterpieces at the Louvre to the avant-garde galleries scattered throughout the city. Paris' café culture invites visitors to relax and people-watch while sipping coffee or wine in the heart of the city. Whether it’s strolling through Montmartre or shopping along the Champs-Élysées, Paris offers something for everyone.
28.5
8
UAE Dirham (AED) د.إ
Dubai Treasures
Vibe:
Dubai has the world’s largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall, which features an aquarium and indoor ice rink.
Tip:
Dubai is a beacon of luxury and modernity in the desert. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is just one of the many architectural marvels that make Dubai famous. The city is also known for its luxury shopping malls, where you can find everything from high-end boutiques to unique local finds. But Dubai isn’t just about opulence; the city also offers a rich cultural scene with traditional music and dance performances.
NYC Uncovered
Vibe:
New York City has over 800 languages spoken, making it one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world.
Tip:
New York City is a bustling, 24-hour metropolis where diversity is celebrated in every corner. Its streets pulse with energy, from the neon lights of Times Square to the peaceful green space of Central Park. The food is world-class, and the city is a haven for every art form. New York is home to Broadway, jazz clubs, and international food markets, making it an exciting destination for travelers from around the world. Visitors can shop on Fifth Avenue, catch a Broadway show, or simply enjoy the city’s iconic skyline. New York has something for everyone—whether it’s a trip to the Empire State Building or a stroll through the world’s most famous parks, New York delivers an experience like no other.
SF Hidden Spots
Vibe:
The city has more than 200 parks, including the sprawling Golden Gate Park, larger than New York's Central Park.
Tip:
San Francisco stands out as a city of contrasts and diversity. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the eclectic mix of Victorian houses, the city is full of surprises. Known for its progressive spirit, San Francisco is also a cultural and culinary mecca, with each neighborhood offering its own unique charm. Whether you're exploring the city's many hills, visiting Alcatraz Island, or enjoying a concert at the Fillmore, San Francisco offers something for everyone.
