San Francisco, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, dynamic neighbourhoods, and rich cultural heritage, is a must-see destination on the West Coast of the United States.
From the thrilling buzz of Chinatown to the historic Alcatraz Island, San Francisco offers a wide range of experiences for all types of travellers. Whether you're exploring the city's famous museums, enjoying the vibrant nightlife, or taking in the stunning coastal views, San Francisco is a unique travel destination you’ll remember for life.
And, with its mild climate and variety of places to stay, the city is perfect for both short breaks and extended stays.
No visit to San Francisco is complete without walking, cycling, or driving across this iconic landmark.
Take a ferry to the historic prison of Alcatraz and enjoy a guided tour (just be sure to book in advance during busy seasons!).
Explore one of San Fran’s most bustling areas with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions (like Pier 39) to discover.
Take a stroll around one of America's most beautiful urban gardens, complete with exhibitions and recreational areas.
Visit one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the US for shopping and dining experiences you’ll want to come back for.
Get a feel for the San Francisco you see on TV with a visit to one of San Francisco's steepest hills, complete with hairpin bends and sloped houses to photograph as you walk.
A San Francisco favourite, Tartine Bakery is most famous for its delicate pastries and fresh bread.
Featured in the Michelin guide, this cafe restaurant is best known for its roast chicken and oysters.
A popular spot for Chinese cuisine, House of Nanking offers a unique cultural experience during your stay in San Francisco. Just be sure to plan ahead – there might be a line outside the door!
A no-frills dining experience, this seafood counter is renowned for its fresh seafood, great service, and good times.
Also featured in the Michelin guide, State Bird Provisions is one of San Francisco's most creative small plates restaurants.
This evolving neighbourhood is known for its vibrant street art and diverse food scene.
Famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement, Haight-Ashbury has something interesting to see on every corner!
San Francisco’s Little Italy, this neighbourhood is famous for its cafes, nightlife, and lively culture.
A historic centre of LGBTQ+ culture and activism, San Francisco’s Castro District has some great bars to check out during your stay.
With stunning views, historic architecture, and a sense of luxury, Nob Hill is one neighbourhood in San Francisco you might not want to leave.
San Francisco is world-famous for its cable car trams, offering a fun and historic way to navigate the steep streets.
The BART train is an efficient way to travel within the city and to nearby areas.
San Francisco's Muni buses and trains cover extensive routes throughout the city.
Bike rental is a great way to explore the city – just be sure to avoid steep hills if you’re not super confident on two wheels!
Many neighbourhoods in San Francisco are best explored on foot, so why not give it a try?
| JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg high ºC | 13 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 17 | 19 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 17 | 13 |
| Avg low ºC | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 8 |
San Francisco is a popular destination for tourists all year round. While some like to visit during the summer season, it’s also great to visit in September or October, when the weather is still mild and the summer crowds have thinned out.
The currency used in San Francisco is the US Dollar (USD).
Yes, San Francisco is a very family-friendly destination with lots of attractions and activities suitable for children.
Visitors from many countries will need a visa or an ESTA to enter the United States. Check the requirements based on your nationality.
The primary language spoken in San Francisco is English, but many people also speak Spanish and other languages.
Yes, there are direct flights from Dublin to San Francisco International Airport.
A big part of San Francisco's draw as a tourist destination is its diverse food scene. Some must-try foods include Dungeness crab, Mission-style burritos, and local sourdough bread – but there’s plenty of dishes from other cuisines to enjoy too!
There are plenty of ways to get from San Francisco International Airport to the city centre. For example, you can take the BART train, a taxi, or a shuttle service.