San Francisco packs incredible diversity into 49 square miles. The painted Victorian houses, the fog rolling over the Golden Gate, Chinatown's bustling streets, and the tech campus energy all coexist in this compact city. Add in the food scene, from Michelin stars to Mission burritos, and you understand why people pay a fortune to live here. SF is expensive, but the city rewards exploration. Walk the hills, ride the cable cars, and eat your way through the neighborhoods. Flight deals to SFO appear regularly. Grab them when they drop.
Best Time to Fly to San Francisco
Peak Season
September and October offer the best weather (Indian summer). Summer brings tourists but also fog.
Off Season (Best Deals)
November through March sees rain and fewer tourists. January and February are the quietest.
San Francisco's weather is famously unpredictable. Summer (June to August) brings fog and 55-65°F. Fall (September to November) is warmest at 65-75°F. Winter (December to February) is rainy at 50-60°F. Spring (March to May) is mild and variable.
💡Book 6-8 weeks ahead for fall. Winter deals appear frequently with short notice.
Cheapest Months to Fly to San Francisco
Cheapest Months
January, February, November
Most Expensive
September, October, June
Get San Francisco Flight Deals in Your Inbox
Join thousands of travelers who save $400+ on average. We find the deals, you take the trips.
100% free • No spam • Unsubscribe anytime
Must-Try Foods in San Francisco
Mission Burrito
San Francisco invented the monster burrito wrapped in foil. La Taqueria and El Farolito battle for supremacy. Rice, beans, meat, salsa, guac, and sour cream in a flour tortilla. Cheap, filling, legendary.
$10-15
Dungeness Crab
Available November through June, Dungeness crab is an SF institution. Fisherman's Wharf has tourist traps, but the crab is fresh. Swan Oyster Depot serves it simply and perfectly. Worth the splurge.
$30-60
Dim Sum in Chinatown
San Francisco's Chinatown is the oldest in North America. Dim sum carts roll through packed dining rooms at spots like City View and Yank Sing. Go for weekend brunch and point at what looks good.
$20-35
Top Attractions in San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge
Walk or bike across the iconic orange span for free. The best views come from the Marin side or Baker Beach below. Fog often shrouds it in summer; October offers clearer skies. An essential San Francisco experience.
Alcatraz Island
The infamous prison on an island in the bay offers fascinating audio tours led by former guards and inmates. Book weeks ahead; it sells out. The ferry ride and island views are part of the experience.
Cable Car Ride
The moving national landmark climbs San Francisco's steepest hills. The Powell-Hyde line offers the best views. Lines are long at Powell Street; board at a mid-route stop. One ride costs $8; day passes available.
Daily Costs in San Francisco
San Francisco is expensive. Hotels, restaurants, and rideshares all cost more than most cities. But free attractions like the bridge and parks help. Budget $150-200 per day minimum.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$120-180
Mid-Range
$200-350
Airbnb
$150-250
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$12-18
Restaurant
$30-60
Coffee
$5-7
Transport
Local Transport
$3-8/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$150-220
Getting Around San Francisco
From the Airport
BART runs from SFO to downtown in 30 minutes for $10. From Oakland (OAK): BART to downtown for $11. Rideshares cost $35-50 from either airport.
Getting Around
San Francisco is walkable but hilly. Muni buses and metro cover the city. Cable cars are scenic but slow. BART connects to the East Bay and airports. Rideshares work but surge pricing is common.
Tips
- •Buy a Clipper Card for transit. Works on Muni, BART, and cable cars. Saves hassle with exact change.
- •Wear layers. San Francisco weather changes block to block. Fog rolls in quickly.
Where to Stay in San Francisco
Union Square / Nob Hill
Central location near cable car lines, shopping, and theaters. Walking distance to Chinatown and easy transit to other areas. Tourist-friendly with major hotels. Start here for orientation.
Mission District
The heart of San Francisco's Latino culture has the best nightlife, from dive bars to trendy cocktail spots. Burritos, street art, and a young creative energy. Valencia Street is the main strip. Stay late.
Haight-Ashbury / Castro
The Haight still carries Summer of Love energy with vintage shops and murals. The Castro is the historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood with rainbow crosswalks and cultural significance. Both are worth exploring on foot.
Smart Travel Tips for San Francisco
FAQs About Flights to San Francisco
San Francisco is expensive. Hotels, restaurants, and rideshares all cost more than most cities. Budget $150-200 per day. Free attractions like parks and the bridge help, but plan to spend.
Never Miss a Deal to San Francisco
Join 12,000+ deal hunters. Get notified when prices drop.