Flights from Brussels (BRU) to San Francisco (SFO)

About San Francisco

San Francisco, where the bay meets the hills

San Francisco is a compact city with a big personality, set on rolling hills that drop dramatically into a wide, glittering bay. Colourful neighbourhoods, crisp ocean air, and sweeping views make it a place that feels both energetic and laid-back at the same time. From the moment you arrive, you notice how close the water, parks, and streets all feel to one another.

The city is known for its iconic bridges, historic cable cars, and a creative spirit that runs through everything from its tech scene to its arts community. Each area has its own character, whether it is the Victorian-lined streets of Alamo Square, the buzz of Union Square, or the open waterfront of the Embarcadero.

San Francisco also serves as a gateway to some of California's most scenic landscapes. Within a short drive, you can be among redwood forests, coastal cliffs, or wine country, making the city an ideal base for wider exploration of Northern California.

Top sights in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

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

Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

Explore the lively waterfront, watch sea lions basking on the docks, and sample fresh seafood with a view of the bay.

Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry ride to this historic island for impressive city views and a fascinating insight into its former role as a federal prison.

Chinatown

Stroll through colourful streets lined with shops, markets, and eateries in one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in North America.

Twin Peaks

Head up to these twin hilltops for one of the best panoramic views of San Francisco, especially striking at sunset or after dark.

Experience the character of the Bay Area

San Francisco invites you to experience its neighbourhoods on foot. Ride a historic cable car up the steep streets, then wander down through Russian Hill or Nob Hill, stopping at small cafes and lookout points along the way. Along the Embarcadero, you can walk or cycle past piers, public art, and the Ferry Building, a hub for local produce and food stalls.

Outdoors, the city rewards those who enjoy being active in fresh air. In Golden Gate Park you can hire a bike, visit lakes and gardens, or simply find a quiet spot on the grass. Across the bridge, the headlands offer coastal trails with uninterrupted views back to the city skyline and the Pacific, ideal for half-day hikes or relaxed photography.

For those interested in design and history, museums and galleries provide a deeper look at the region. You can explore contemporary art, maritime heritage, or the story of how the city rebuilt after major earthquakes. Many venues are close to public transport, making it easy to combine cultural visits with time by the waterfront.

A taste of San Francisco

San Francisco has a dining scene shaped by its coastal setting and diverse communities. Fresh seafood is a highlight, from crab and shrimp to classic clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls at the waterfront. Local bakeries, coffee shops, and casual eateries fill the streets, making it easy to enjoy good food throughout the day.

Neighbourhoods such as the Mission District, North Beach, and Richmond offer a wide variety of cuisines. You will find everything from long-established family restaurants to modern, ingredient-focused kitchens. Many places emphasise seasonal produce from nearby farms, so menus often change with the time of year.

For a relaxed evening, you can explore wine bars and small restaurants that showcase bottles from California vineyards. Food markets, street stalls, and food trucks are also popular, giving you the chance to sample different flavours in a single outing without needing a formal reservation.

Retail therapy in the city by the bay

San Francisco offers a range of shopping experiences, from well-known brands to independent boutiques. Around Union Square you will find major department stores, flagship shops, and designer labels, all within easy walking distance and well connected to public transport. This area is ideal if you want many options in one place.

Beyond the centre, different districts have their own retail character. Hayes Valley and the Mission District are known for local designers, homeware shops, and creative concept stores, where you can pick up pieces that feel distinctly tied to the city. Along the waterfront, smaller shops offer souvenirs, practical travel items, and locally themed gifts.

If you enjoy browsing markets, look out for periodic craft fairs and stalls at the Ferry Building, where makers from across the region sell art, textiles, and speciality food products. These are good places to find small, easy-to-pack items to bring home.

Best time to visit San Francisco

Spring by the Bay (March to May, 12°C–18°C / 54°F–64°F, shoulder season) brings mild days, cool evenings, and fresh greenery in parks. Morning fog is common but often clears to bright skies, making it a pleasant time for walking tours and coastal viewpoints.

Summer and early autumn fog season (June to October, 14°C–21°C / 57°F–70°F, peak season) is known for cool mornings, fog rolling over the hills, and comfortable afternoons. The city is lively with events, and the cooler temperatures make exploring steep neighbourhoods and outdoor spaces feel manageable.

Cosy coastal winter (November to February, 8°C–15°C / 46°F–59°F, low season) is cooler and can be breezier, with occasional rain. Clear days often bring particularly crisp views over the bay and bridge, and popular attractions and trails tend to feel calmer, offering a more relaxed pace of sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions