WEATHER
Mild year-round, rarely above 75°F or below 45°F. Fog is common in summer mornings and evenings — always pack a jacket, even in July.
GETTING AROUND
Muni buses, streetcars, and cable cars cover the city. BART connects to the airport and the East Bay. Walking is great, but the hills are steep — plan accordingly.
PASSES & TICKETS
A multi-day Muni passport covers unlimited cable car and transit rides. Book Alcatraz ferry tickets in advance — they sell out days ahead.
WHAT TO PACK
Layers, a windbreaker, and comfortable shoes for hills. Locals joke that summer is the coldest season in the city — Mark Twain gets the credit for that line.
NEIGHBORHOODS TO EXPLORE
North Beach, Chinatown, the Mission, Haight-Ashbury, the Marina, and the Castro each have their own distinct flavor. Pick two or three per day.
BUDGETING
Many top sights are free — the Golden Gate Bridge view, Painted Ladies, murals, and parks. Save your budget for a ferry ticket and a great meal.