San Francisco Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Travel Tips & General Information
Is San Francisco safe? Travelers responses are mixed. While many locals and visitors feel safe, especially during the day and in touristy areas, they recommend being aware of your surroundings, especially in certain neighborhoods like the Tenderloin. The most common crime mentioned is car break-ins, but for tourists without a car, phone snatching is a possibility, so keep your phone in a pocket, not in your hand.
How do I get around? Public transit is highly recommended. Get a Clipper Card (or add it to your phone’s digital wallet) to pay for BART (subway/regional train) and MUNI (buses/trolleys/cable cars). Google Maps is great for planning routes.
Should I rent a car? For most visitors staying within the city, it’s a “waste of money and a huge hassle” due to difficult parking and the risk of car break-ins. Stick to public transit, ride-shares like Uber or Lyft, and walking.
What’s the weather like? San Francisco is notoriously colder than people expect, especially in the summer. Pack layers, including a jacket or hoodie, even on sunny days. The fog is real, and it can be chilly.
What should I pack? Layers are key. A small backpack or fanny pack is good for carrying a water bottle, a jacket, sunscreen, and snacks.
Are the cable cars worth it? They are a tourist trap, but also an iconic experience. Travelers recommend hopping on at a mid-route stop to avoid long lines at the end terminals.
What is a “Mission-style burrito”? It’s a large burrito from a taqueria in the Mission District, a must-try food item for many travelers.
What’s the best way to get from SFO airport to the city? BART is the easiest and most affordable option. Uber/Lyft may be comparable in price if you have multiple people.
What’s a Clipper Card and how do I use it? It’s a single card for all Bay Area public transit. You can add it to your phone’s digital wallet. For MUNI, you only need to tap when you board. For BART, you need to tap when you enter and exit.
Is there a day pass for public transit? Yes, MUNI has a day pass that you can buy on the MuniMobile app. A visitor passport is a good option if you plan to use the cable cars, as it covers everything in the MUNI system.
Do I need cash for anything? Many places are cashless, but it’s good to have some cash on hand, especially for cash-only spots like some taquerias.
Is it worth it to visit Alcatraz? Absolutely. Travelers rave about the tour, calling it a “truly great tourist attraction that locals need to go to as well.” Book your tickets in advance.
What is a “Waymo”? It’s a driverless taxi service in the city that many travelers recommend trying for a unique experience.
What’s a good way to see a lot of the city in a short time? A hop-on, hop-off bus tour can be a good way to get an overview of the city and decide where you want to spend more time.
How should I prepare for the hills? Wear comfortable shoes. The city is very hilly, and you will be doing a lot of walking. An e-bike is another popular suggestion for navigating the inclines.
Must-Do Activities & Sightseeing
Visit the Golden Gate Bridge: Walk or bike across the bridge for an iconic experience. Travelers also recommend checking out viewpoints from the Presidio, Lands End, or Crissy Field for great photos.
Explore Golden Gate Park: It’s a huge urban park with a lot to see. Recommended spots include the Japanese Tea Garden, the De Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Conservatory of Flowers.
Go to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39: While touristy, it’s a classic San Francisco experience. See the sea lions at Pier 39 and get some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
Take a ferry ride: Ferries to Angel Island or Sausalito offer great views of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Hike the Lands End Trail: This is a popular recommendation for a hike with stunning views of the ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Go to the Presidio: This former military base is now a national park with beautiful trails and views. The new Tunnel Tops park is highly recommended for its views of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
See Lombard Street: The “crookedest street” is a classic sight. Take a cable car to the top and walk down.
Visit the Ferry Building: It’s a food-lover’s paradise with a farmers market and tons of local vendors. It’s also a great place to people-watch and eat.
Ride a historic streetcar: The F Market & Wharves line uses historic streetcars from all over the world and runs along the Embarcadero.
Wander through Chinatown: The oldest Chinatown in North America is a must-see. Grab some dim sum and explore the shops.
Neighborhoods to Explore
The Mission District: Known for its vibrant culture, street art, and incredible food scene. Walk down Valencia Street and 24th Street for a mix of trendy shops and traditional taquerias. Dolores Park is also a popular spot for picnicking.
The Richmond District: A local favorite for its diverse food, especially Burmese and Chinese. It’s also home to Clement Street, Golden Gate Park, Lands End, and the Legion of Honor museum.
North Beach: A historic neighborhood known as a literary and nightlife hub. Enjoy Italian food, visit the City Lights Bookstore, and check out the historic Vesuvio Cafe.
The Castro: A vibrant and historically significant neighborhood for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s known for its nightlife and welcoming atmosphere.
Hayes Valley: A trendy, central, and walkable neighborhood with a “town square” feel, boutiques, and restaurants.
Inner Sunset: A more residential neighborhood with a relaxed vibe, close to Golden Gate Park. Popular for its cute shops and restaurants on Irving Street.
Bernal Heights: A cute, family-friendly neighborhood with great views from Bernal Heights Park.
Food & Drink
What food is San Francisco famous for? Sourdough bread, clam chowder, Mission-style burritos, Burmese food, and oysters are some of the most mentioned specialties.
Where can I get a good Mission-style burrito? El Farolito and La Taqueria are the two most frequently recommended spots.
Where can I try Burmese food? Burma Superstar is the most well-known, but Burma Love is another popular choice.
Where’s the best place for oysters? Hog Island Oyster Co. at the Ferry Building is a top choice. Swan Oyster Depot on Polk Street is also highly recommended.
What’s a good place for fine dining? Travelers mention a number of Michelin-starred and high-end restaurants, including Lazy Bear, Californios, and House of Prime Rib.
Where can I get a great sandwich? There’s a lot of love for sandwiches on Dutch Crunch bread. Super Duper Burgers is also recommended for burgers and garlic fries.
What are some good bakeries? Arsicault for croissants, Tartine for bread and pastries, and Craftsman and Wolves for a unique “Rebel Within” muffin are all highly praised.
Where can I get good pizza? Golden Boy in North Beach for a slice and The Laundromat in the Outer Richmond are popular choices. Zante Pizza in the Mission is recommended for its unique Indian pizza.
What’s a great place for a cocktail? P.C.H. (Pacific Cocktail Haven) and Trick Dog are mentioned as top cocktail bars.
Where can I get an Irish Coffee? The Buena Vista Cafe is famous for its Irish Coffee.
Is there a good place to get coffee? Blue Bottle Coffee is a local favorite.
What’s a good spot for a quick and cheap meal? Food trucks at Spark Social SF are a fun option.
What are some other great food recommendations?
Bar Crudo: Seafood and chowder.
House of Prime Rib: A classic, but reservations are hard to get.
R&G Lounge: For authentic Cantonese Chinese food.
Souvla: For frozen Greek yogurt.
Every Questions & Answers on San Francisco
Is San Francisco safe for tourists? Generally yes, but be aware of your surroundings, especially in certain areas.
What’s the best way to get around the city? Public transit (MUNI and BART) and walking.
Should I rent a car? No, unless you are taking a day trip outside the city.
How do I pay for public transit? Get a Clipper Card or use a digital wallet on your phone.
Is the MUNI Mobile app useful? Yes, you can buy passes on it and use it for MUNI (local transit) but not BART (regional train).
What’s a good way to see a lot in a short amount of time? A hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
What are the must-see tourist spots? Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39, and Lombard Street.
Do I need to book Alcatraz tickets in advance? Yes, definitely. They sell out.
What’s the most iconic food in SF? Clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
Where can I get a great burrito? La Taqueria and El Farolito.
Where can I find unique food? Try Burmese food at Burma Superstar.
Is it worth it to go to the Ferry Building? Yes, for the food, shopping, and views.
What’s a great free activity? Walking the Golden Gate Bridge or visiting the Presidio.
What’s a good place for a picnic? Dolores Park.
What’s a less-touristy hike with great views? The Lands End Trail.
Where can I see the Golden Gate Bridge? Presidio Tunnel Tops, Crissy Field, Baker Beach, and the Marin Headlands.
What’s a good way to get to the Golden Gate Bridge? The 28 bus line.
Is it true that San Francisco is always cold? It’s often cooler than expected, especially in the summer due to fog. Dress in layers.
What’s a good area to stay in? The Mission, North Beach, or Nob Hill are often recommended for their central location and vibe.
Which neighborhoods should I avoid? The Tenderloin is generally advised against, especially at night.
What’s the best way to get to Muir Woods? You need a reservation and a parking pass in advance, and a car or a tour bus is the best way to get there.
Is it safe to walk around with my phone out? Be cautious, especially on public transit, as phone snatching can occur.
What are the best museums? SFMOMA, the DeYoung Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences are highly rated.
Where can I see the “Painted Ladies” (Alamo Square)? In Alamo Square Park.
Is it easy to get around by bike? Yes, and there are many bike rental and bike share options available.
What’s a good place for a walk in a park? Golden Gate Park or the Presidio.
What’s a good place for a scenic bus ride? The N-Judah line to Ocean Beach.
Is Chinatown worth visiting? Yes, for the culture, food, and history.
What’s a good cocktail bar? P.C.H. and Trick Dog.
Where can I get a good croissant? Arsicault Bakery.
What’s a good Italian restaurant? Piccolo Forno in North Beach or Flour & Water.
Where can I get great dim sum? Dragon Beaux or Z & Y Restaurant.
Is it easy to find parking? No, it’s very difficult and expensive.
Where’s a good spot to see sea lions? Pier 39.
What’s a good place to buy souvenirs? The Ferry Building or local neighborhood shops.
Are there good tours to take? Free walking tours by SF City Guides are a popular suggestion.
What’s a good day trip from San Francisco? Sausalito, Muir Woods, or a wine country tour to Napa/Sonoma.
How can I avoid looking like a tourist? Take off your convention badge if you’re attending a conference and walk with purpose.
Is it worth it to see the Yoda statue? It’s a quick, fun stop at the Letterman Digital Arts Center in the Presidio.
What’s a good place for a fancy meal? Lazy Bear or Californios.
Where can I get a good coffee? Blue Bottle Coffee.
Is there a good place to see the city lights at night? The Cityscape Bar or Twin Peaks.
Is a Clipper Card needed if I am only using MUNI? The MuniMobile app might be easier for a tourist.
What’s the best way to get to Sausalito? Take the ferry for great views.
What’s a good spot for a quick bite to eat? Super Duper Burgers or a food truck.
What’s a good place for a walk by the water? The Embarcadero.
What’s a good place to see a concert? There are many venues, depending on your taste.
Is San Francisco walkable? Yes, but be prepared for the hills.
What is a “Dutch Crunch” sandwich? A sandwich on a special type of bread unique to the Bay Area.
Where can I get a good Irish coffee? The Buena Vista Cafe.
What’s a good place to buy books? City Lights Bookstore in North Beach.
Is the Golden Gate Bridge walk crowded? Yes, especially on a nice day.
Are there good places to eat in the Mission? Yes, it’s a food-lover’s paradise.
What’s a good place to get some fresh air and open space? Crissy Field or the Presidio.
Is it a good idea to stay in Oakland? Many travelers like Oakland’s scene, but it’s a separate city with its own vibe.
What’s a good place for a drink with a view? Cityscape Bar or the Tonga Room.
Where can I get a good sourdough bread bowl? Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf.
What are some less-touristy neighborhoods to explore? The Inner Sunset, Inner Richmond, and Cole Valley.
Is it worth it to visit the Disney Family Museum? Yes, if you’re a Disney fan.
What’s a good place for a cheap slice of pizza? Golden Boy.
Where can I get a good burger? Super Duper Burgers.
What’s a good place to go shopping? Union Square or Chestnut Street in the Marina.
Are there good places for a quick, cheap meal? Yes, especially in the Mission and Richmond.
What’s a good way to see the city’s architecture? Take one of the free walking tours.
Is it a good idea to use a money belt? No, it’s not necessary; just be mindful of your belongings.
What’s a good place for a romantic dinner? Cotogna or Seven Hills.
Where can I get a good bowl of ramen? Mensho or Nojo.
What’s a good place for a day trip to see redwoods? Muir Woods.
Is it easy to take public transit to the airport? Yes, BART goes directly to both SFO and OAK.
What’s a good place for a dog walk? Golden Gate Park or Bernal Heights Park.
Are there good places to get breakfast? Brenda’s French Soul Food and Jane the Bakery are recommended.
What’s a good place for a quiet stroll? The Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park.
Is it worth it to see the Palace of Fine Arts? Yes, it’s a beautiful, free spot for photos.
What’s the best time of year to visit? Fall is often recommended for its clear, warm weather.
Are there a lot of homeless people? Yes, especially in the downtown core.
Where can I get a good seafood dinner? Anchor Oyster Bar or Sotto Mare.
What’s a good place for live music? The Fillmore and the Warfield are historic venues.
What’s a good place to see street art? The Mission District, especially Clarion Alley.
Is the ferry a good way to get around? Yes, it’s a great way to see the bay and a legit mode of transit.
What’s a good place for a drink on a sunny day? A bar with outdoor seating in the Marina or North Beach.
What’s a good way to get a different perspective of the city? Take a Waymo ride.
Where can I find a good farmers market? The Ferry Building on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
What’s a good activity for a rainy day? Visiting one of the many museums.
What’s a good place for a run? Crissy Field or the Marina Green.
Where can I find the most “local” vibe? The Richmond, Sunset, or Cole Valley.
Is it worth it to walk down Lombard Street? Yes, it’s a unique experience.
What’s a good place for a photo op? Golden Gate Bridge, Alamo Square, and Lands End.
What’s a good place to get a good view of the city? Twin Peaks.
Where can I find good souvenirs besides the usual tourist spots? Shops in the Mission or North Beach.
Is there anything unique about the city’s public transit? Yes, the historic F-line streetcars are a fun way to get around.
What’s a good place for brunch? Brenda’s French Soul Food or Zuni Cafe.
Are there good seafood restaurants besides the ones at Fisherman’s Wharf? Yes, like Anchor Oyster Bar and Sotto Mare.
What’s a good place for a quick snack? A morning bun at Tartine.
What’s a good way to spend a half-day in the Mission? Walk Valencia and 24th Street, get a burrito, and relax in Dolores Park.
Where can I find good Chinese food? In the Richmond District or Chinatown.
Is it safe to use ride-sharing services? Yes, Uber and Lyft are widely used and safe.
What’s a good spot for people-watching? Dolores Park on a sunny day.
Are there good places for dessert? Bi-Rite Creamery for ice cream.
Is it a good idea to take a ferry to Angel Island? Yes, it’s a fun day trip with great views and hiking.
What’s a good place to visit for architecture lovers? SF City Hall or the Presidio.