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Picture of San Francisco, CA, USA

Travel Guide for
San Francisco

United States

Mediterranean; cool, foggy summers, mild winters

Introduction

San Francisco, set along the scenic Northern California coast, is known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, historic cable cars, and hilly streets. This vibrant city blends a rich Gold Rush history with a thriving tech scene, attracting a cosmopolitan crowd.

In late September, expect pleasant, breezy weather with highs around 70°F (21°C), perfect for working at sunlit cafés in neighborhoods like SoMa or the Mission. Enjoy luxury coworking spaces, gourmet dining, and after-work outings to world-class museums or wine bars. San Francisco’s creative energy and natural beauty make it ideal for high-budget digital nomads seeking both productivity and play.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates19-22 September 2025

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHotel, villa

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturefestivals and eventsgastronomysightseeing and toursoutdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainmentvolunteering

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Picture of San Francisco, CA, USA

Key Facts

Location

California, USA

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Religion

Christianity (various), Non-religious

Population

808,437

Language

English, Spanish, Chinese

Electricity

120V, 60Hz, Type A/B plugs

Time zone

UTCPST (Pacific Standard Time) (UTC-8)

Country code

+1

Internet access

Widely available, high-speed, affordable

Climate

Mediterranean; cool, foggy summers, mild winters

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Map

Logistics

San Francisco is easily accessible by air via San Francisco International Airport (SFO), offering premium lounges and direct global flights—ideal for digital nomads on a high budget. Oakland and San Jose airports provide additional options nearby. Private transfers, luxury ride-shares, and chauffeured cars make seamless airport-city travel possible.

For those preferring trains, Amtrak’s California Zephyr and Coast Starlight routes arrive at Emeryville Station with quick motorcoach transfers into the city. Long-distance buses like Greyhound serve downtown, though private charters offer more comfort. Ferries from Sausalito or Oakland provide scenic boat arrivals.

Mid-September is typically mild, but occasional coastal fog and cooler evenings may affect flights or ferry schedules, so allow some flexibility in your plans. Urban mobility is excellent with luxury car rentals, executive car services, and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the city.

Weather

San Francisco has a mild Mediterranean climate with cool summers, foggy mornings, and gentle winters. Temperatures rarely fluctuate much—expect highs between 55°F and 70°F year-round. Summer tends to be cooler because of persistent coastal fog, especially in June, July, and August.

September is one of the city’s warmest, sunniest months, making it a great time to visit. From September 19 to 22, typical weather features pleasant afternoons around 70°F, cool nights, and mostly clear skies. Extreme weather is rare during this period, so it’s ideal for enjoying San Francisco’s arts, culture, outdoor adventures, and vibrant dining scene.

Food & Drink

San Francisco’s cuisine is diverse and innovative, reflecting its multicultural heritage. Enjoy iconic foods like sourdough bread, Dungeness crab, and Mission-style burritos. Seafood lovers flock to Swan Oyster Depot and Hog Island Oyster Co., while fine dining highlights include Atelier Crenn and Quince for exquisite tasting menus.

Trendy cafes like Blue Bottle Coffee and Ritual Coffee Roasters are perfect for digital nomads needing Wi-Fi and great brews. For cocktails, check out Trick Dog or Bourbon & Branch. Vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options are widely available, especially in neighborhoods like the Mission and SoMa. Tipping is customary; 18–22% is standard for good service. Reservations are advisable at popular spots, especially during festival seasons.

A picture of Hamburger

Hamburger

The classic American hamburger is a grilled beef patty served in a soft bun, often topped with lettuce,...

A picture of Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue ribs are slow-cooked, tender cuts of pork or beef that are generously seasoned with a flavorful dry...

A picture of Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish made with elbow macaroni pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce....

A picture of New York-style Pizza

New York-style Pizza

New York-style pizza is characterized by its thin, hand-tossed crust, generous cheese topping, and a variety of classic...

A picture of Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken consists of juicy, tender pieces of chicken that are coated in a seasoned batter and...

Accommodation

For a digital nomad on a high budget, top hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco, Four Seasons, and Hotel Nikko offer luxury amenities, central locations, and excellent business facilities. Stylish boutique spots like Hotel Zetta and the Proper Hotel in SoMa are popular among tech-savvy travelers, providing coworking spaces and fast Wi-Fi.

Nob Hill and Union Square are central, safe neighborhoods with easy access to cafes and transit. Book villas or boutique hotels through platforms like Booking.com or Luxury Retreats for elevated comfort. September 19-22 can coincide with large conferences or events, so it’s wise to reserve early, as availability may become limited and rates can rise.

Itinerary

Experience the vibrant arts and culture scene of San Francisco by exploring world-class museums and creative neighborhoods, indulging in the city’s culinary hotspots, and connecting with the local creative community.

Morning at SFMOMA: Art & Coffee

Begin your trip at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, a centerpiece of the city’s art scene. Don’t miss temporary exhibitions by world-renowned artists. Enjoy a specialty coffee at Sightglass Café on-site while soaking in the museum’s lively creative atmosphere.

Afternoon Stroll through Mission Murals

Spend your afternoon walking along the Mission District’s famed Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley, where vibrant murals tell stories of San Francisco’s diverse communities. Meet local artists or book a guided mural walk for insights.

San Francisco Love Tour

San Francisco Love Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

For an unforgettable City Sightseeing tour, hitch a ride in a 1970's VW Hippie bus. This is an authentic and unique way to experience San Francisco. This tour is packed with with facts and fun about San Francisco!

4.9 (2803 reviews)

From $85 USD

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Attractions

4.8 (826 reviews)
Mission District or North Beach & Chinatown Authentic Food Tour

Mission District or North Beach & Chinatown Authentic Food Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

On our Secret Food Tour: San Francisco, the Mission District, you'll see how immigrants shaped the neighborhood by creating brilliant artwork, beautiful architecture and sharing their fantastic food! Originally home to Irish, German, and Italian immigrants, it is now the epicenter of San Francisco's Latino culture. The Mission District is full of vibrant murals that offer a visual history lesson featuring themes ranging from cultural heritage to social-political statements. We will take a stroll through the neighborhood to get an up-close experience. Our tours are more than just the food. Our local guides connect the dots between history, culture, and cuisine to provide you with a deep understanding of the Mission District's thriving culinary scene!

From $87 USD

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4.9 (136 reviews)
San Francisco Chinatown Food Tour

San Francisco Chinatown Food Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On this guided food tour of San Francisco’s Chinatown, you will taste five different mouthwatering delights. Three of the tastings (enough for lunch) will be done seated inside the restaurants and two tastings will be done on the street in front of the establishment. In between delectable food tastings, your guide will tell fun and interesting stories about the history and culture of the neighborhood. It's a food, and culture walking tour with 5 tastings in 3 hours. Come eat with us!

From $99 USD

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4.1 (29 reviews)
San Francisco City Tour: Must-See Sights in Half a Day

San Francisco City Tour: Must-See Sights in Half a Day

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This half-day tour is designed to show you the very best of San Francisco in just a few hours—without feeling rushed. You'll stop at iconic landmarks like the Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, and Twin Peaks for stunning views and unforgettable photos. Along the way, drive through the historic Presidio, explore the lush beauty of Golden Gate Park, and take in the charm and culture of neighborhoods like the Haight-Ashbury, Castro, Chinatown, and North Beach (Little Italy). With thoughtful stops, scenic routes, and local insights, it’s a well-rounded introduction to the city’s highlights.

From $69 USD

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4.9 (42 reviews)
San Francisco Small Group Customizable Tour

San Francisco Small Group Customizable Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

I craft one four-hour adventure each morning just for the small group and unique goings on in the City that day. The itinerary is open - we will always stop at San Francisco’s classic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Twin Peaks and typically roll through neighborhoods like North Beach, Pacific Heights, Haight-Ashbury, Castro, and the Embarcadero. We will also leave big buses behind and may explore street-art alleys in the Mission, mosaic stairways in the Sunset, the laid-back vibe of the Presidio, our Beaux-Arts City Hall, famous “Painted Ladies” at Alamo Square, or go down the real crookedest street in San Francisco (not Lombard). It all depends on what's best just that day. It's a long morning, so mid way through we will stop at a local market where the group can get a quick lunch and do some local people watching. We will finish in the Fisherman's Wharf area in the early afternoon. If your afternoon plans take you elsewhere, we can find a mutually convenient end point.

From $139 USD

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4.8 (66 reviews)
North Beach Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour

North Beach Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

On this three hour guided food tour of North Beach, we'll visit 5 uniquely different mom-and-pop shops, ethnic eateries and restaurants and experience the history, architecture and culture of North Beach and the Barbary Coast.

From $99 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
San Francisco Private Car Tour: Instagram's Most Famous Spots

San Francisco Private Car Tour: Instagram's Most Famous Spots

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you are looking for some culture, delicious food and a ton of great photos, then this is the tour for you! The morning will start with a private pickup from your hotel by one of our friendly, local guides. From there your tour will begin as you start your drive in one of our comfortable and spacious vehicles. This full-day tour will be fully packed with famous landmarks, vintage architecture, secretly located spots and much much more! ==== Full schedule 10:00 AM – Pick up from Hotel 10:30 AM – Check out the legendary Painted Ladies 11:00 AM – Explore Union Square 11:45 AM – Catch of view of Alcatraz from Pier 39 12:00 PM – Walk around Fisherman’s Wharf 12:30 PM – Lunch time 1:00 PM – Explore Ghirardelli Square 2:00 PM – Awe at the view from the Golden Gate Bridge 2:40 PM – Stop by Golden Gate Park 3:10 PM – Get a picture at one of SF’s Hidden Gems (16th Avenue Tiled Steps) 3:30 PM – Overlook the whole city at Twin Peaks Viewpoint 3:45 PM – Return to hotel 4:00 PM – Arrive at hotel

From $583 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
San Francisco Instagram Walking Private Tour: Most Iconic Spots

San Francisco Instagram Walking Private Tour: Most Iconic Spots

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our San Francisco Walking Instagram Tour will take you to some of the most famous spots in San Francisco in one day by foot! If you are looking for some culture, delicious food and a ton of photos, then this is the tour for you! The morning will start with meeting your friendly guide at the Embarcadero BART Station. From there your tour will begin as you start your walk through San Francisco’s beautiful streets. This half-day tour will be packed with famous landmarks, architecture, secretly located spots and much more! ==== Full schedule 10:00 AM - Meet your guide at the Embarcadaro BART Station 10:20 AM - Get a view of Alcatraz Island from Pier 39 10:50 AM - Explore Fishermans Wharf 11:35 AM - Catch a view of the Golden Gate Bridge 12:20 PM - Explore a secret street in Mission District (Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley) 1:20 PM - Walk around Dolores Park 2:00 PM - Say bye to your guide & get dropped off at the 16th St Mission BART Station

From $223 USD

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4.2 (2180 reviews)
Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF

Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Cruise along California's spectacular coastline on a relaxing day trip from San Francisco. Follow Highway 1 and enjoy stops at Pigeon Point Lighthouse and in Davenport for a quick coffee and snack. Back on the road traveling by Monterey Bay and Peninsula, to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Steinbeck's Cannery Row. Explore Monterey's charming shops or choose to go to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Two hours is ample time for pictures and Instagram posts of everything you are experiencing. See the stunning estates of 17-Mile Drive, as well as Bird Rock, Lone Cypress, and world famous, Pebble Beach Golf Course. Arriving in Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, and the fairytale cottages, and galleries of its village like center. 11 hours of breathtaking sightseeing, unique shopping, historical landmarks, mouth-watering culinary innovation.

From $139 USD

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4.8 (43 reviews)
Airplane Elite San Francisco Flight Tour

Airplane Elite San Francisco Flight Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Fly over San Francisco on board of a Cessna and get fantastic aerial views of the City of San Francisco, Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate. Panoramic views of Sausalito, Tiburon, Angel Island and stunning views of San Francisco International Airport.

From $309 USD

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4.9 (92 reviews)
San Francisco Private Group Open-air Jeep Tour

San Francisco Private Group Open-air Jeep Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

See the San Francisco sights you want to see in an open-air convertible Jeep, at a pace that suits your group. This 2-hour exploration includes a photo stop and ride over the Golden Gate Bridge and covers most of the city's must see highlights. Also on the route is a drive down Lombard Street (depending on traffic) Guests can choose to venture out to Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach OR enjoy additional stops including Chinatown, City Hall, or a enjoy a spectacular bay view from Coit Tower on top of Telegraph Hill. Our Jeeps fit up to 4 adults and 2 children. The 3rd row seating is perfect for children and teens.

From $169 USD

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5.0 (45 reviews)
San Francisco Private Group Open Top Jeep Tour - 3 Hour

San Francisco Private Group Open Top Jeep Tour - 3 Hour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

See the San Francisco sights you want to see in an open-air convertible Jeep, at a pace that suits your group. Enjoy this 3-hour exploration that includes a photo stop at the Golden Gate Bridge! This tour covers most of the city's highlights, including the Golden Gate Bridge. Also on the route is a drive down Lombard Street (depending on traffic) and time in Golden Gate Park or Ocean Beach. Guests can choose additional stops including the Mission District Murals or a enjoy a spectacular bay view from Coit Tower on top of Telegraph Hill. NOTE: Price is per jeep, NOT per person. Our Jeeps fit up to 4 adults and 2 children. The 3rd row seating is perfect for children and teens.

From $249 USD

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4.7 (9 reviews)
Alcatraz and San Francisco Combo Tour Package

Alcatraz and San Francisco Combo Tour Package

MANUAL

Why should you visit Alcatraz? Visiting Alcatraz Island is one of the most rewarding and fascinating experiences of any trip to San Francisco and California, you will not be disappointed. The mystery of the Alcatraz Great Escape endures 50 years after the event. Visiting Alcatraz Island is one of the most rewarding and fascinating experiences of any trip to San Francisco and California. Alcatraz, the legendary former prison known as “The Rock”, is where some of the United States’ most notorious criminals were incarcerated. Though several inmates tried to escape from this maximum-security federal prison, none were ever successful - until the June 1962 Alcatraz escape. No tour company can offer you this 5-star Alcatraz and San Francisco combo tour like we do. Special terms: -All Alcatraz reservations are subject to availability even when transactions are approved.

From $521 USD

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