Flights from Manila (MNL) to San Francisco (SFO)

About San Francisco

Discover San Francisco

Why visit San Francisco?
San Francisco combines dramatic hills, sweeping bay views, and an inventive spirit. You will find distinct neighbourhoods, from the waterfront bustle of Fisherman’s Wharf to the colourful streets of the Mission, all framed by the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

What to expect
The city is compact yet varied, with classic trams sharing the streets with cyclists and modern trams. Waterfront promenades, leafy parks, and a lively arts and tech scene give each area its own character, whether you are exploring Union Square, SoMa, or North Beach.

Plan your trip
San Francisco is an ideal base for exploring the wider Bay Area, wine country, and the Pacific coast. With efficient regional transport and scenic drives in every direction, you can combine urban sights with day trips to places like Napa Valley, Berkeley, and coastal Highway 1.

Top sights in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Walk or cycle across this world-famous span for sweeping views of the bay, the city skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Stroll along the busy waterfront, watch sea lions bask on the docks, and join a cruise on San Francisco Bay.

Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the island and explore the historic former prison while enjoying panoramic views back to the city.

Chinatown

Enter through the Dragon Gate and wander atmospheric streets filled with shops, bakeries, and traditional apothecaries.

Golden Gate Park

Discover gardens, lakes, and cultural institutions in this vast green space stretching towards the Pacific coast.

Cable car rides

Ride the city’s iconic cable cars up and down steep hills for a scenic and nostalgic way to get around.

Painted Ladies at Alamo Square

Admire the row of pastel Victorian houses set against a backdrop of modern high-rises in the distance.

Exploratorium

Engage with hands-on science and art exhibits in a striking museum along the Embarcadero waterfront.

Experience San Francisco’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
You can move easily around San Francisco using Muni buses, trams, and the historic cable cars, with BART trains linking the city to the wider Bay Area. Rideshares and taxis help with steeper hills, while walking gives you the best feel for each neighbourhood.

Local life & culture
Daily life in San Francisco blends creative energy with a relaxed coastal pace. Locals gather in cafés, independent bookshops, and small galleries, and each district has its own character, from the artistic Mission to the more upscale Marina and Pacific Heights.

Where to unwind
When you need a break, head to the lawns of Dolores Park, the trails of the Presidio, or the beaches near Land’s End. Sunset is a rewarding time to visit west-facing viewpoints, when the city lights begin to glow and the ocean horizon softens.

A taste of San Francisco

Street food & local specialties
You can sample fresh seafood along the waterfront, from clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls to crab when in season. Neighbourhoods like the Mission and the Richmond offer tacos, noodles, and snacks from small, informal eateries.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Around Union Square, SoMa, and the Embarcadero, you will find casual restaurants and food halls that make it easy to try different flavours in one visit. Portions are often generous, so sharing plates is a good way to sample more dishes with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a restaurant with views of the Bay Bridge, the skyline, or the Golden Gate. Hillside districts and waterfront venues provide striking backdrops, turning dinner into an occasion, especially around sunset and into the evening.

Retail therapy in San Francisco

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Union Square is the city’s main shopping area, with department stores, international brands, and stylish boutiques. Nearby centres combine shopping with dining and entertainment, making them easy places to spend an afternoon.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller neighbourhood streets in the Mission, Hayes Valley, and the Haight showcase local designers, vintage shops, and independent bookstores. Regular farmers’ and craft markets along the waterfront feature regional produce and handmade goods.

Evening retail scene
After dark, central streets stay active with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening stores, especially around Union Square and the Embarcadero. Night-time strolls are comfortable thanks to frequent public transport and rideshare options linking the main districts.

Best time to visit San Francisco

Summer fog (June to August, peak season)
Average temperatures range from about 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F), often with fog rolling in from the Pacific. This is a popular time to visit, with long daylight hours, cool evenings, and lively outdoor events across the city.

Mild autumn (September to November, shoulder season)
Temperatures typically sit between 14°C and 22°C (57°F to 72°F), with many of the clearest, sunniest days of the year. It is a pleasant period for walking the hills, enjoying outdoor dining, and exploring the wider Bay Area under soft, golden light.

Cool, green winter and spring (December to May, low season)
During these months, temperatures usually range from 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F), with some rainy days that keep parks and surrounding hills green. Quieter attractions and a calmer pace make it an appealing time for museums, neighbourhood cafés, and scenic coastal walks.

Frequently Asked Questions