Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to San Francisco (SFO)

About San Francisco

Discover San Francisco, the gateway to the Bay Area

San Francisco combines dramatic bay views, iconic hills, and a distinctive skyline into a compact, walkable city. Neighbourhoods shift quickly from historic streets lined with cable cars to waterfront promenades, modern art spaces, and leafy residential enclaves. You will find a city that feels both relaxed and energetic at the same time.

The city is a natural base for exploring the wider Bay Area, with easy access to wine country, rugged coastal drives, and innovative tech hubs. Whether you are visiting for business, study, or leisure, San Francisco offers a mix of classic landmarks, creative dining, and cultural diversity that rewards both first-time and repeat visitors.

Top sights in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Walk, cycle, or simply admire this world-famous red-orange suspension bridge and its sweeping views of the bay and Pacific Ocean.

Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

Stroll the lively waterfront, watch sea lions basking on the docks, and sample fresh seafood with views of the bay.

Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry across the bay to explore the former island prison, now a fascinating historic site with panoramic city views.

Chinatown

Enter through ornate gateways into one of the oldest Chinatowns in North America, filled with shops, eateries, and colourful streetscapes.

Lombard Street

Visit the famously winding block of Lombard Street, framed by flowerbeds and classic San Francisco houses on the surrounding hills.

Experience the best of the Bay

San Francisco is made for exploring on foot, by cable car, and along the waterfront. You can ride the historic cable cars up and down the steep streets, pause at viewpoints like Twin Peaks, and then continue on to the Embarcadero for a leisurely stroll along the bay. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the network of parks and coastal paths around the Presidio and Lands End, where the ocean meets dramatic cliffs.

Culture lovers can spend days moving between museums and neighbourhoods. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Asian Art Museum, and smaller galleries showcase an impressive range of creative work. In the evening, the city’s theatres, concert halls, and venues host everything from major productions to local performances. For a different perspective, consider a bay cruise at sunset, when the city skyline and bridges are illuminated by the changing light.

A taste of San Francisco

San Francisco’s dining scene reflects its coastal location and multicultural character. Fresh seafood is a highlight, from clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls at the waterfront to refined tasting menus that showcase local produce. Alongside this, you will find a wealth of casual eateries, coffee shops, and food halls where you can explore flavours from around the world in a relaxed setting.

Neighbourhoods each offer their own food identity. In North Beach, Italian-inspired cafés line the streets, while the Mission District is known for vibrant Latin American flavours and contemporary spots that focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Vegetarian and plant-forward options are widely available, and food trucks bring an informal, creative edge to dining across the city.

Retail therapy in the city by the bay

San Francisco offers a variety of shopping experiences, from international brands to independent local designers. Around Union Square, you will find department stores, boutiques, and flagship shops in a compact area that is easy to explore in an afternoon. This is also a convenient place to pick up travel essentials or gifts before you depart.

Beyond the city centre, neighbourhoods like Hayes Valley, the Mission, and Fillmore Street feature smaller shops and studios where you can browse clothing, homeware, and lifestyle products created by local designers. At the waterfront, marketplaces and piers combine speciality food products with artisanal items, providing relaxed spaces to explore between sightseeing stops.

Best time to visit San Francisco

Summer fog season (June to August, peak season) brings cool, misty mornings and evenings, with daytime temperatures around 14–20°C (57–68°F). The fog often clears by afternoon, revealing bright blue skies, and the city feels lively with outdoor events and visitors enjoying the long daylight hours.

Mild spring and autumn (March to May, and September to October, shoulder season) are often pleasantly warm, with temperatures typically between 15–22°C (59–72°F). These months can offer clearer days, comfortable conditions for walking the hills, and are ideal for combining city sightseeing with day trips to nearby wine regions or coastal areas.

Cooler winter months (November to February, low season) are generally mild compared with many other parts of the United States, with temperatures around 8–15°C (46–59°F). Occasional rain showers bring fresh, crisp air, parks turn greener, and attractions are usually less busy, making it an enjoyable time to explore indoor museums and cafés.

Frequently Asked Questions