About San Francisco
San Francisco is a popular city of California and is located in the northern part of the country. In addition, it is the cultural, commercial, and financial center of the state. Being the thirteenth-largest city of the USA, the city also boasts plenty of restaurants, historical buildings, and food trends which attract a lot of tourists to this city. This San Francisco tour Guide will be including merely everything you need to know about this town.
World renowned for its cable cars and the Golden Bridge, the city has tons of things to explore, and a history it is proud of. Besides, if you’re looking for a small town feel away from the big city drama, then you’re better off in San Francisco. So, take a good read of this tour guide and learn in-depth stories of this town.
Population
San Francisco has a population of 873,965 as per U.S. Census 2020. It covers an area of 46.9 square miles at the end of San Francisco Peninsula, making it the second-most densely populated U.S. city. Moreover, the city has the 12th largest metropolitan area with 4.7 million residents and a GDP of $592 billion. According to the statistical data, there has been an initial hike in the city’s population as compared to the past years.
Geography
Being the second-largest city of California, it is situated in the West Coast of the United States at the north end of San Francisco Peninsula. It also includes a few stretches of Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay within its borders.Several picturesque island such as Alcatraz, Treasure Island and the adjacent Yerba Buena Island, and small portions of Alameda Island, Red Rock Island, and Angel Islands are a significant part of the city.
History
San Francisco history came into picture when the first human habitation came here 3000 years ago. In 1769, a Spanish exploration party moved to the San Francisco Bay area and became the first documented humans coming here.
After spending a few years under the enslavement of Spain, they finally received independence in 1821 and the area became a part of Mexico. In 1835, William Richardson placed the first independent homestead and together with Francisoc de Haro he laid a street plan for an expanded settlement.
Thereafter in 1846, commodore John D. Sloat claimed California for the United states. And two days later, captain John B. Montgomery arrived to claim Yerba Buena, which is now known as San Francisco.
Religion
The facts about religion in San Francisco, states that 22% of the population is unaffiliated with any religion. In addition, the city locals are majorly Christian(57%) with other religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam (2%), Jewish(4%). Furthermore, the other religious denomination in San Francisco is Roman Catholic Congregation(12%).
Culture
Culture in San Francisco is a diversified fusion of several things, such as art, music, cuisines, festivals, museums, and architecture. The diversity of cultures tell a story about how this city and even the nation has grown and developed in the last few years. Surprisingly, such a vibrant culture of this town has influenced other parts of the world too.
Language
With around 112 languages spoken, San Francisco has the strongest language access law in the nation. In addition, the most spoken language in San Francisco is English, followed by Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Persian. With about 44% of non-english speakers, this town depicts the diversity and acceptability of foreign languages in California.
Currency
The official currency of San Francisco is the U.S. Dollar ($, US$, USD).
Governance
San Francisco has five neighboring boroughs: Downtown, Richmond, Sunset, Upper Market, and Bayview. Additionally, it has a consolidated city county, which is the only consolidation in California. The elected mayor is also known as the county executive and the county’s board of supervisors also acts as the city council.
Furthermore, the government comprises two co-equal branches: the executive branch(headed by the mayor) and legislative branch(headed by the 11 member board of supervisors).
Climate
San Francisco covers a warm-summer Mediterranean climate with moist, mild winters and dry summers. With an average annual temperature of 27 °C, the dry period is experienced around May to October and the rainy season arrives around November to April. Moreover, the temperature falls down to its lowest in January with a temperature of 10.7 °C.
When to Go
If you’re planning a vacation in this city, then the first thing you need to think about is the best time to visit. That being said, the best time to take a trip here is around September to November. The reason is that the fall season offers a loaded level of adventure and is relatively less crowded than summers.
Travel
If you are visiting California from another country for 90 days for tourism, business, and medical purposes, an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is required. You have to apply for ESTA at least 3 days before your scheduled departure.
Due to Covid-19, there are some travel restrictions in San Francisco. Hence, read the updated government guidelines before applying for a visa.
If you belong to one of the 40 countries part of the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply for ESTA. Additionally, you must have an e-passport to use the Visa Waiver Program. However, the purpose of your visit to San Francisco, California should be tourism, business, or medical. For other purposes, the eligibility criteria would be different.
For a trip to California for 90 days, ESTA is the quickest and easiest way to get travel permission. However, check your ESTA eligibility criteria before applying for a B1 and B2 visa.
- B1 Business Visa: If you are going to the US for a business meeting or conference.
- B2 Tourist Visa: If you are traveling to the US for tourism.
While applying for a visa, the first step is to complete the DS-160 form. Once you submit it online, schedule an interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to provide some documents at the interview.
The ID and Documentation requirements to visit San Francisco, California varies from country to country. Furthermore, it also depends on your nationality, health status, criminal record, and purpose of the visit.
The ID and documents required to enter the territory of the US are:
- Passport with at least 6 months of validity
- You must have an electronic, biometric passport, which is equipped with an electronic chip in it and contain your biometric data.
- Your ESTA must be valid when you arrive in the US. You can’t renew your ESTA and overstay.
Arriving From Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda
- Citizens arriving in the U.S. from these countries must show a valid passport, U.S. Passport Card, a Trusted Traveler Program Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry, or FAST), or an enhanced driver license.
- Canadian citizens can use NEXUS instead of a passport to arrive in the U.S. if departing from Canada.
Arrival From Other Countries
- Citizens from other countries must present a valid passport upon arrival.
- Both permanent residents and foreign nationals need a U.S visa.
Before traveling to San Francisco, California, you should prepare the necessary information needed for mandatory security checks to prevent delays at the Airport. To learn more about the security and customs guidelines for travel to the USA, you can check out the US Customs website and acknowledge the number of items you are carrying with you.
The prohibited items as per the US Federal Law are:
- Alcoholic beverages over 70% by volume
- Alcoholic beverages under 70% by volume
- Animal products or products of animal origin (EU destinations only)
- Batteries
- Cutting instruments
- Defense sprays
- Drones
- Dry ice
- Electronic cigarettes like vapor or e-cigarettes
- Explosives
- Firearms and ammunition
- Flammable items, liquids or solids
- Gasoline powered tools
- Hoverboards
- Marijuana
- Mobility Devices
- Lighters and Matches
- Pressurized containers/compressed gasses
- Self-heating meals
- Self-inflating life jackets
- Scissors and tools
- Smart bags
The major airport in the city is San Francisco International Airport(SFO) which connects the city with all major destinations. It is located in San Mateo County, which is 13 miles away from the downtown district.
It is the second-largest airport in the San Francisco Bay area and second-busiest airport in California. In addition, it is a major hub for United Airlines and also houses SFO Museum, the frist museum to be settled in an international airport.
Furthermore, the airport has been owned and operated by the City and County of San Francisco ever since it was founded.
Also, if you’re looking for an accommodation nearby you must pre-book for a hassle free experience. As a matter of fact there are several hotels available near the airport, which offer easy airport pick-up and drop-off.
San Francisco International Airport(SFO) Customer Support Number (24*7)
+843-767-7000
Custom and Immigration
- Location: San Francisco, CA 94128, United States
- Contact Info: +1 650-821-8211
Emergency and Medical Assistance
Dial 211 from a courtesy phone, 911 from a payphone or cell phone in an emergency. For medical emergencies, professional medical assistance is available 24×7 at the airport.
Lost and Found
Contact San Francisco International Airport TSA Lost & Found at 650-457-2670.
The most popular airlines to fly from/to San Francisco are- Delta Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Republic Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Silver Airways etc.
If you’re wondering how to travel in San Francisco, then there are a lot of options you can choose from.
- Public Transport
San Francisco offers a variety of public transportations for all those who don’t wish to navigate the city by car or foot. In addition, a huge percent of inhabitants and tourists take advantage of the transit system of the city. For visitors and even locals, there’s a Muni Bus and Trolley service, which includes routes covering several corners of the city. - Muni Bus and Trolley
San Francisco Muni operates both: a bus system and a streetcars or trolley service(Muni Metro) covering top attractions and other routes. In addition to local streetcars, the city also has a rail line that offers an experience to ride in vintage trolleys of other cities. The best ones are trolleys from Milan and Chicago. - Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)
BART is a train system of the town. This train runs from San Francisco to outer cities settled in the East Bay and down the Peninsula. The actual fare of this transport depends on the distance and destination you’re traveling to. - Cable Cars
Fortunately Cable Cars are back in business, after a long shutdown due to Covid-19. This transport offers rides to three routes: Powell- Hyde line, Powell-Mason Line, and California Street Line. Moreover, you need to purchase a ticket before riding in these cable cars. - Golden Gate Ferries and Transit
As the name suggests, this particular ferry and transit vehicle provides a ride only for the North Bay, where the popular Golden Gate Bridge resides. Within the city, these buses and ferries run from the downtown district to the Golden Gate. Being a public transport, it only accepts clipper cards. - PresidiGo
This is a free shuttle service in San Francisco. Besides, it’s a perfect way to stroll around the town and that too for free. The shuttles offer rides to merely three top routes: Downtown, Crissy Field, and Presidio Hills. The shuttles run from morning to evening every day with a waiting time of around 15-30 minutes.
Accommodation
From luxurious hotels to affordable B&Bs, this city has a variety of accommodations you can consider for your staycation. Check out the best hotels in San Francisco where you can stay during your trip in this town.
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Address: 351 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Contact: +1 415-781-7800
Hotel Zephyr
Address: 250 Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Contact: +1 415-617-6565
Hotel Riu Plaza
Address: 2500 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Contact: +1 415-362-5500
Hotel Nikko
Address: 222 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Contact: +1 415-394-1111
Holiday Inn San Francisco
Address: 1500 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States
Contact: +1 415-441-4000
Services
When in the US, call 911 in case of any emergency. In addition, the Emergency Medical Services Department of the city offers medical assistance to all the residents and tourists visiting here. Furthermore, below are the emergency contact numbers of emergency services in San Francisco.
UCSF Medical Center
- Address: 505 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Contact: +1 415-476-1000
CPMC Davies Campus
- Address: 45 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States
- Contact: +1 415-600-6000
Mission Wellness Pharmacy
- Address: 2424 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
- Contact: +1 415-826-3484
- Timing: 9 a.m.- 6p.m. (Monday- Friday), 10a.m.-5p.m. (Saturday)
All the tourists traveling to the USA should get their insurance coverage before departing from their home country. From medical to travel insurance, visitors should ensure they are completely insured.
Why is insurance necessary?
Travel insurance is necessary for unexpected losses or expenses such as missing flights, losing luggage, stolen cash, and missing passport.
Gas, Electric, Phones, Cable TV service
Contact: +1 800-743-5000
San Francisco Fire Department
Contact: (415) 558-3403
Etiquette
Dress Code
As a part of the San Francisco tour guide, dressing up appropriately is very important. Although there’s no specific dress code if you’re trolling in the city, I would suggest you wear a dress or two while entering the bars of the town. Additionally, a blue denim paired with a chic, modern t-shirt, will get you through many of the places.Drinking
With some applied restrictions, drinking beer and wine is legal and allowed in San Francisco. However, hard drinks such as whiskey, rum ,etc. are strictly prohibited; along with the glass containers. Moreover, walking on roads or in a subway with glass, cans, and bottles containing alcohol is also prohibited.Tipping
Tipping in San Francisco is important, even for locals. So, do remember to spare a minimum tip of 10-15% of your total bill even if the service provided isn’t up to your expectations. Further, the actual amount also depends on the place and the outlet you’re eating at.Photography
Fortunately, clicking pictures is completely allowed in the city. You can even click pictures inside the City Hall of San francisco, provided that you follow the guidelines. Besides, there are tons of spots in the city itself, where you can click pictures and cherish the moments.Note: You can click pictures of any subject as long as you’re in public; however, capturing photos is strictly prohibited in any private establishment.
Neighborhood
San Francisco, as a major city of California, houses popular neighborhoods on one hand and smaller districts on the other. The five major neighborhoods of the city are: Central/Downtown, Richmond, Sunset, Upper Market, and Bayview. Now, let’s have a look at each of these districts, which is also considered as one of the best things to do in San Francisco.
- Central/ Downtown
It is the downtown district of the city. Downtown is also considered as the financial center of San Francisco, considering the place is filled with businesses and industries. The area also covers part of Union Square, the Tenderloin, Chinatown, and South of Market. - Richmond
This neighborhood is nestled in the southwest corner of the city. It was developed in the 19th century, but do not confuse it with Richmond city. Surrounded by several parks, such as Golden Gate park, Lincoln Park, Mountain Lake Park, etc., you will certainly love visiting this district. - Sunset
It is the largest neighborhood of San Francisco and is located in the southwest quadrant of the city. In addition, it is bordered by Golden Gate Park in the north and the Pacific Ocean in the west. Sunset and neighboring Richmond district are together called The Avenues. - Upper Market
Upper Market is a small district located between the southern end of Twin Peaks and Market Street. This district mainly spans Corbett and Burnett Avenue and boasts several popular streets. One of them is Clayton Street tucked on the northside of this district. - Bayview
This popular neighborhood stretches along the third street, south of Evans Avenue and west of Hunters Point. Within this district, you will find tons of attractions such as public parks, art galleries, and gardens.
Entertainment
Museum and Cultural Tour
Museum tour is a crucial part of the San Francisco tour guide and luckily, there are tons of museums you can explore in this city. From historical centers to popular art museums the city receives a lot of appreciation for the conservation of American culture.
In addition, the Downtown and Bayview district of the city are immensely dedicated to such world renowned museums and art galleries that augment the beauty of this place and attract several tourists here.
Top Museums and Art Galleries
San Francisco Sightseeing
San Francisco Food and Wine Tour
High End Dining
If you’re thinking about the best restaurants in San Francisco, then here comes a list of all the eateries you can have a delicious bite in. Additionally, San Francisco boasts plenty of delectable restaurants that often attract tourists visiting the city.
With a decent amount of finest restaurants, this foodie town pays a considerable respect to culinary traditions of California. The creative chefs of San Francisco are gifted with a talent to sprinkle flavors of America in each dish they prepare.
So, let’s explore the list of top-rated delectable restaurants this city has to offer. But do remember to check the latest travel restrictions in San Francisco.
Lazy Bear
Address: 3416 19th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
Contact: +1 415-874-9921
Boulevard
Address: 1 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States
Contact: +1 415-543-6084
Cotogna
Address: 490 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Contact: +1 415-775-8508
L'Ardoise Bistro
Address: 151 Noe St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States
Contact: +1 415-437-2600
Angler
Address: 132 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States
Contact: +1 415-872-9442
Casual Dining
Delancey Street Restaurant
Address: 600 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States
Contact: +1 415-512-5179
Double Decker
Address: 465 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Contact: +1 415-552-8042
Ananda Fuara
Address: 1298 Market St, San Francisco,CA 94102, United States
Contact: +1 415-621-1994
DragonEats
Address: 520 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Contact: +1 415-795-1469
Tommy’s Joynt
Address: 1101 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States
Contact: +1 415-949-0399
Bars & Lounges
Alchemist Bar & Lounge
Address: 679 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States
Contact: +1 415-746-9968
Smuggler’s Cove
Address: 650 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Contact: +1 415-869-1900
Trick Dog
Address: 3010 20th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
Contact: +1 415-471-2999
Whitechapel
Address: 600 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Rickhouse
Address: 246 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
Contact: +1 415-398-2827
Spas & Wellness Resorts
SenSpa
Address: 1161 Gorgas Ave, San Francisco, CA 94129, United States
Contact: +1 415-441-1777
Pearl Spa & Sauna
Address: 1656 Post St, San Francisco,CA 94115, United States
Contact: +1 415-580-7142
Serenity Wellness & Spa
Address: 2087 Union St #2, San Francisco,CA 94123, United States
Contact: +1 415-441-1061
Imperial Spa
Address: 1875 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States
Contact: +1 415-771-1114
Spa J’Adore
Address: 490 Post St #1701, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Contact: +1 415-987-0999
