San Francisco Travel & San Francisco International Airport
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San Francisco is in Northern California in the United States. It is one of the busiest and most widely visited cities in California, filled with food, culture, activities, nightlife and diverse ecosystems.
The climate is very moderate with a year-round average temperature of around 19 degrees Celsius. Although June to August are summer months in San Francisco, this time of year can be quite foggy, so always dress in layers when visiting San Francisco. A morning with light rain can easily turn into a beautiful and sunny afternoon!
San Francisco tends to be cheaper on the weekends when business travel is less common, so it’s a great pairing with other Northern California destinations (e.g., Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Lake Tahoe (including North Lake Tahoe), Mammoth Mountain, Sacramento, or Yosemite Mariposa County) that tend to be more affordable during the week.
As a key convention destination, pricing can fluctuate based on activities and meetings happening in the city, so always pay attention to the event calendar to score the best prices.
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is one of the biggest entry ports in the US for Australians & New Zealanders. Direct flights are available from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland. Currently during COVID-19 there are daily flights from Sydney to San Francisco that are repatriation flights or for passengers that have gained exemption to travel.
San Francisco Travel usually participates in the annual Visit USA roadshow and/or the Visit California Roadshow that is held every two years. In addition, different agent events run throughout the year. If you are interested in attending any future events related to San Francisco, please register your interest.
There are many different ways to get around San Francisco therefore, you do not need a car unless you plan on going on some day trips outside of the city. Transportation in San Francisco includes city busses called Muni, the underground system BART, Ferries, Cable Cars and trams called Muni Metro. There are also various ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft.
Tipping is common practice in the US and part of our hospitality culture. Below is a general guide to follow:
Restaurants: 18-20%
Taxis: 10-15% (many taxis in the US aren’t equipped with credit card machines, so ask before you get in)
Tour guides: 20%
Bell desk: $2/bag
Valet: $2 when they bring your car around (nothing when you drop it off)
Valet loading luggage into your car: $2/bag
If hotel delivers anything to your room: $3
Housekeeping: $3/day on the bed
Courtesy shuttle: $2 per person/per bag
Doorman if they call you a cab: $2
San Francisco Travel’s website is a great resource for additional information.
On average, visitors stay in San Francisco for 4 to 5 nights. However depending on your pace of travel, you could stay for up to 2 weeks exploring all of the diverse neighbourhoods. To be able to see all of the main attractions i.e. Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate Park, Union Square, Lombard St and Chinatown, we would recommend 2 to 3 days alone just for this.
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Romantic Things To Do In San Francisco
There’s no shortage of incredible, romantic ways to spend your time in San Francisco. From sunset wine tasting to urban hiking, you’ll find something for every type of couple on this list.
150 Years of Cable Cars
2023 marks a major milestone in the history of San Francisco’s cable cars. For 150 years, these incredible (and charming!) feats of engineering have criss-crossed the city. Click here to learn more about how the city is celebrating this anniversary.
Where to Eat in Fisherman’s Wharf
Once a bustling waterfront where fishermen would unload heaps of Dungeness crab, Fisherman’s Wharf is now an attraction on every visitor’s itinerary. Home to world-famous Irish coffees, just-out-of-the-oven sourdough bread, and the cutest San Francisco residents—the sea lions—it’s no wonder it’s such a crowd-pleaser. It is also home to a number of delicious restaurants.
San Francisco Food Firsts
Did you know the Martini was invented in San Francisco?! Famous coffee, cocktails and more got their start in San Francisco. Find all the interesting food firsts that happened in the Bay Area.
29 Free Things to Do in San Francisco
World-class culture, natural beauty and that California disposition—what’s not to love about San Francisco? There’s plenty of things to do here, even if you’re on a shoestring budget. Here are some of our favourite free attractions, including the city’s most iconic experiences.
Golden Gate Park’s Hidden Treasures
Within its 1,000-plus acres, Golden Gate Park contains some of San Francisco’s most famous and most visited attractions. Everyone knows about museums like the California Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum or the Conservatory of Flowers and serene spaces like the Japanese Tea Garden and the San Francisco Botanical Gardens, but there is still plenty to see that you might not know about yet from dutch windmills to rainbow falls.
6 Secrets of San Francisco
Do you want to get beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, PIER 39, Alcatraz Island and other iconic San Francisco landmarks? Or are you a returning visitor who’s eager to discover something new about the city? Discover these unusual, unlikely, and all-around unforgettable secret attractions around San Francisco.
Best Spots to View the Golden Gate Bridge
From locations around the city and a brand new park, or even your hotel room, there are plenty of breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge vantage points in San Francisco. San Francisco Travel has rounded up their top picks!
With New Michelin Honors, San Francisco Retains its Culinary Crown
July’s prestigious 2023 MICHELIN Guide California awards made one thing clear: San Francisco remains the culinary capital of the Golden State. The City by the Bay boasts 27 Michelin-starred restaurants, and the San Francisco Bay Area is now home to 50 of the 87 California restaurants awarded Michelin stars.
28 Things Not To Miss In San Francisco
The experiences that San Francisco offers run the gamut from iconic vistas, to historic neighbourhoods, hip boutique shops, to more delicious restaurants than we can count, and friendly wildlife (we’re looking at you, sea lions), to must-see museums.
2023’s Guide to Pride in San Francisco
When it comes to Pride celebrations, nobody does it quite like San Francisco—and in 2023, Pride is here for us to celebrate even better than last year. Looking back and moving forward – this year’s Pride celebration will see the return of San Francisco’s legendary Pride parade, along with many other favourites.
Always Iconic: San Fran Icons
Recognized around the world as being synonymous with San Francisco, these six legendary attractions should be at the top of any visitor’s itinerary. Each has its own fascinating history, offers multiple visitor experiences, and will wow your friends and followers with their photogenic beauty.
8 San Fran Eats You Need To Try In 2023
San Francisco is a culinary mecca on par with some of the greatest cities in the world. From San Francisco sourdough to the original Mission burrito, the City by the Bay offers a bevy of famous eats that you can’t experience anywhere else.
The Real Star of the Michelin Stars You Need to Visit
San Francisco is the city with the most Michelin stars in the world.
Year after year, it sweeps the guide as the existing restaurants keep living up to the standard and new restaurants come in with full force.
San Francisco’s Portola Festival
Portola Festival at Pier 80 returns for year 4 – one of the newest, biggest, and most popular music festival to ever hit San Francisco. With a stacked lineup featuring LCD Soundsystem, Christina Aguilera, Dom Dolla, Peggy Gou, Moby, and more, the two-day event promises unforgettable performances and high-energy vibes. Expect immersive art, reimagined VIP spaces, and nonstop music across multiple stages.
A guide to vintage shopping and thrifting in San Francisco
Vintage shopping is one of the best ways to explore San Francisco. Part treasure hunt, part time travel, and always full of surprises. Whether you’re after a party dress from the 1940s, a pair of oversized ‘80s clip-ons, or just something you didn’t know you needed, the city’s vintage scene has you covered. From iconic Haight Street shops to hidden gems and weekend markets, read more to find San Francisco’s best second-hand style.
Take a Jimi Hendrix-Inspired San Francisco Trip
Step into the world of Jimi Hendrix and explore the San Francisco streets he once called home. During the Summer of Love, Hendrix helped define the city’s psychedelic sound and countercultural spirit. From his former Haight Street apartment to the iconic Hippie Hill and Panhandle, his influence lives on in murals, music history and local landmarks. Follow this self-guided walk through Haight-Ashbury and beyond to experience Hendrix’s San Francisco story for yourself.
Celebrate Juneteenth the San Francisco Way
San Francisco is gearing up for Juneteenth with a vibrant line-up of events celebrating Black culture, community and freedom. Honoured since 1950 in the Fillmore District, the city’s Juneteenth traditions continue with parades, concerts, cookouts and community festivals across the Bay Area. From fashion and live music to local food and cultural showcases, there are plenty of ways to take part. Here are some of the must-attend Juneteenth events happening around San Francisco this year.
Your Guide to San Francisco Pride
San Francisco, a city at the heart of LGBTQ+ history, proudly hosts one of the most iconic Pride celebrations in the world. Now in its 55th year, the festival returns with the powerful theme “Queer Joy is Resistance,” reflecting both celebration and solidarity. Expect vibrant parades, rainbow-filled streets, and an atmosphere of love, identity, and unapologetic self-expression. Mark your calendar, bring your full self, and stay tuned – more events are being added across the city. Read more for a full guide to San Francisco pride.
Watch the Escape from Alcatraz Triathalon
The legendary Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon returns to San Francisco this month. Athletes will conquer a 1.5-mile swim from Alcatraz Island, an 18-mile bike ride through the Presidio, and an 8-mile run to Marina Green. Spectators can soak up the action at the free Escape Fitness Festival, May 31 – June 1, featuring food trucks, brand activations and a beer garden. Don’t miss your front-row seat to one of the sport’s most iconic races.
7 Totally Queer Things to Do in San Francisco
San Francisco has long been celebrated as the LGBTQ+ capital of the USA, known for its rich queer history, inclusive spirit, and vibrant culture. From the world’s first “gayborhood” in the Castro to hosting one of the largest Pride celebrations on the planet, the city offers unforgettable experiences for queer travelers. Whether you’re visiting for the culture, the nightlife, or simply to feel at home, read more for seven totally queer things to do in San Francisco.
Explore the Mission’s Many Murals
If you’re heading to the Carnaval celebrations later this month, be sure to make time to wander through the Mission District’s striking murals. These ever-changing works of art celebrate the heritage, voices and stories of the communities that have shaped the neighbourhood for generations.
The Nutcracker
Every year, America’s oldest ballet company presents Tchaikovsky’s beloved family classic, The Nutcracker. Experience the magical winter wonderland of toy soldiers, King of the Mice, Sugar Plum Fairy, and so much more. This dazzling production is a kaleidoscope of over 150 dancers accompanied by the SF Ballet Orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s beloved score.
San Francisco Turkey Trot
A beloved annual tradition returns this year with even more enthusiasm and community spirit. Scheduled for Thanksgiving Day, participants will lace up their running shoes to take part in the scenic 5K or 10K races, enjoying breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and iconic landmarks along the way.
San Francisco Coffee Festival
Think about your ideal coffee event experience: this is it. Enjoy the best specialty roasters and coffee shops with unique beans, delicious snacks, and live entertainment, during this one-of-a-kind coffee culture experience.
LEAP Sandcastle Classic
Teams comprised of architects, engineers, contractors, designers, corporations, and local elementary school students work together to build giant sand sculptures at the LEAP Sandcastle Classic. The funds raised by teams and sponsors make it possible for LEAP to continue to provide arts programs to Bay Area students.
Fleet Week San Francisco
Every October, San Francisco gives the Blue Angels permission to buzz the (Coit) tower during Fleet Week. This annual celebration of the brave men and women who have served their country includes a parade of ships, live music, and a breathtaking air show that features the most famous aerial acrobats in the nation, the Blue Angels.
Castro Street Fair
Many of San Francisco’s unique neighborhoods host their own annual fairs, showcasing local businesses and performances, and the Castro is no exception. In fact, the Castro Street Fair is one of the largest and is open to everyone, so put on your most colourful clothes and join in.
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
This annual favourite will be returning to Golden Gate Park and welcoming gleeful music lovers from all over. With more than 80 artists performing at this celebration, you can hear country, soul, folk, and indie blues in a beautiful outdoor setting. And it’s free to attend!
SF’s How Weird Street Faire
Billed as a “street fair for the 21st century,” the How Weird Street Faire includes nine music stages over seven city blocks, food and vendors from around the world, and educational booths.
St Patrick’s Day Parade
One of San Francisco’s largest annual parades and one of the longest-running parades in the U.S. is celebrated with live music, dancing, beverages, and traditional Irish cuisine. The theme of the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade is UniteSF. The mission of UniteSF is to share St. Patrick’s Day with everyone: to unite, embrace, and honour all the unique cultural groups across this fine City. Join us for the fun!
KNBR/Giants FanFest
Fans can participate in an array of interactive games and displays on the Field, Promenade, and Club levels at the KNBR & Giants FanFest. Members of the Giants team will be on hand to sign autographs, pose for photos and participate in Q&A sessions. FanFest is FREE and open to the public.
Flower Bulb Day
Flower Bulb Day is coming to America! On March 4, 2023, a colourful display of more than 80,000 tulips will cover Union Square in Downtown SF. You are invited to visit the square and pick your own bunch of tulips. Flower power!
Noise Pop
Noise Pop Festival is a music and arts festival taking place across the San Francisco Bay Area. Now in its 31st year, Noise Pop Festival has transcended its roots as a one-night indie-rock showcase into a 10-day, multi-venue, multi-genre festival where you can discover some of the most promising up and coming artists from the worlds of indie rock, electronic, jazz, hip-hop and much more.
Beer Week
SF Beer Week returns Feb. 9-18, including the official, real deal SF Beer Week Opening Gala, splashing down again at Pier 35 on February 9. Local craft beer legacy and culture are celebrated at San Francisco Beer Week Opens in new window with hundreds of events including beer dinners, cheese and beer pairing events, meet the brewer evenings, demonstrations, music and films from Monterey to Sacramento and beyond.
SF Indie Fest
The 26th anniversary of the San Francisco Independent Film Festival is back on February 8 to February 18, 2024. This year’s festival includes 55 shorts and 35 features from 15 countries. There are 34 films that are local to the Bay Area. These are incredible films you won’t find at the multiplex or on popular streaming services.
SF Sketch Fest
A nationally recognised comedy festival that mixes national headliners, local favourites and the best up-and-coming groups from throughout North America for a month of sketch, improv, stand-up and alternative comedy. A favourite with audiences, critics, and performers alike, the festival has grown substantially to become a highly anticipated artistic showcase that consistently delivers top quality comedic performances, tributes and panel discussions.
Cirque Du Soleil: Kooza
“Kooza” combines acrobatic performance and the art of clowning, while exploring fear, identity, recognition, and power. The Innocent’s journey brings him into contact with comic characters from an electrifying world full of surprises. Don’t miss the magic and get your tickets today.
San Francisco’s 40th Summer SFJAZZ festival 2023
This year SFJAZZ celebrates its 40th anniversary and the 10th birthday of the SFJAZZ Center—the first stand-alone structure in the country built specifically for jazz. Located in San Francisco’s cultural corridor, SFJAZZ is presenting hundreds of concerts from artists and musicians that have inspired and guided the organization for decades.
What's New
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Pop-Ups in Downtown SF
A flurry of pop-ups has landed in nine downtown properties. The first cohort features 17 local activators, including apparel brands, restaurants, designers, artists, and other makers. Among those who debuted their three-month pop-ups are local favourites such as Devil’s Teeth Bakery and Wack Donuts, both at Embarcadero Centre. Two more cohorts of pop-ups are slated to open in 2024.
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San Francisco’s Culinary Scene Shines in 2024 with the MICHELIN Guide California
August 12 The 2024 MICHELIN Guide California has just unveiled its latest stars, and San Francisco is dazzling with 28 restaurants earning this incredible recognition! San Francisco is the second-highest city in the US for the most MICHELIN-starred restaurants, just behind New York. Three new restaurants claimed their first star, and another added a second to its name, showcasing the incredible talent and innovation within this vibrant city. For the third consecutive year, a San Francisco chef has been honoured with the MICHELIN Guide California’s “Young Chef Award,” proving that the city is not only a premier dining destination but also a beacon for the world’s top culinary talent.
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Transamerica Pyramid Center Reopens
Transamerica Pyramid Center, an historic block on the northern edge of San Francisco’s Financial District, is reopening following a $1 billion dollar investment. The iconic Transamerica Pyramid, long a symbol of resilience and architectural ingenuity, and two adjacent buildings at Two and Three Transamerica, have been reimagined with a hotel-like aesthetic that welcomes tenants and guests with luxurious private amenities and expanded public spaces. Features include a renovated grand lobby, exclusive top-floor bar, sky lounge, gym, spa, conference spaces, and more. Transamerica Redwood Park, an urban oasis in the heart of the City, has also been meticulously restored and expanded with new sidewalks, seating and landscaping.
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San Francisco International Airport (SFO) opened it's newest amenity, a sensory room specifically designed for neurodiverse travelers and their families.
The interactive room opened in December and offers a wide range of experiences. It features an 'Activity Area', a 'Calming/Soothing Area' dor contemplation and wonderment, and a life-size 'Cabin Experience' featuring a realistic aircraft interior mock-up, allowing families to acclimate to the experience of flying before getting on board.
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A two-mile stretch of the four-lane Great Highway along the city's western oceanfront has become a full-time 17-acre park.
The southern section of the Great Highway has officially reopened as a dedicated recreational space. Once part of a weekend-only pilot, this stretch along Ocean Beach is now permanently car-free following voter approval. The transformation includes dune restoration, vibrant street murals, and over a dozen public art installations. Lauded by The New York Times as a “must-go destination,” the revitalized promenade offers a fresh take on coastal urban space in the Sunset District.
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Best Family Friendly Activities in San Francisco
Ready for your next family adventure? Round up the kids and head to San Francisco — 49 square miles packed with fun for all ages. Looking for kid-friendly culture? It’s here. Parks and outdoor space to play? Absolutely. Learning experiences so fun the kids won’t even realise they’re educational? Consider it done. Here are some of our favourite family-friendly activities to add to your San Francisco itinerary. Read more for more info.
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How to Watch the San Francisco City Football Club
San Francisco City FC is making waves with a fresh, fan-first approach to local football. Home games at historic Kezar Stadium combine community spirit, food vendors, and family-friendly energy. Matchdays feel like block parties, with giveaways, chants, and local eats. The team plays Wednesdays and Sundays, with affordable tickets and vibrant support sections. Whether you're a diehard fan or curious first-timer, now’s the perfect time to experience grassroots football in the heart of Golden Gate Park.
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Your Guide to San Francisco's Counterculture Museum
Newly opened, San Francisco’s brand-new Counterculture Museum in Haight-Ashbury brings the spirit of the 1960s to life. Through immersive exhibits on civil rights, LGBTQ+ activism, psychedelia, anti-war protest, and more, the museum celebrates the city’s radical legacy. Visitors can explore original posters, clothing, underground newspapers, and music history in the very neighbourhood where it all began. It’s a must-visit for anyone curious about San Francisco’s role in shaping modern social movements.
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San Francisco Celebrates the Grateful Dead’s 60th Anniversary
San Francisco is celebrating 60 years of the Grateful Dead with months of concerts, exhibitions, and events across the city. Highlights include Dead & Company headlining three nights at Golden Gate Park, a new Jerry Garcia street sign, and a special exhibit at the just-opened Counterculture Museum in Haight-Ashbury. From tribute shows and art to psychedelic history and community festivals, the city is honouring the Dead’s legacy in true San Francisco style.
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