Flights from Philippines to San Francisco (SFO)

Discover San Francisco

Discover San Francisco

Why visit San Francisco?

San Francisco blends dramatic bay views, iconic bridges, and character-filled neighbourhoods in a compact, walkable city. You find culture, tech, and nature all within easy reach.

What to expect

Expect steep hills, cool breezes, and eclectic streets lined with colourful Victorian houses, cafes, and galleries. The city feels laid back yet energetic, with waterfront promenades and lively cultural districts.

Plan your trip

Use San Francisco as a base to explore Northern California, from Napa Valley and redwood forests to the Pacific coast. Allow time for both city exploring and day trips into the wider Bay Area.

Top sights in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Walk, cycle, or drive across this world-famous orange span for sweeping views of the bay, the city skyline, and the Marin Headlands.

Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the former island prison and explore atmospheric cell blocks, harbour views, and stories from its layered history.

Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39

Stroll the waterfront for sea lion sightings, street performers, fresh seafood, and boat trips around the bay.

Chinatown

Enter through the Dragon Gate into one of the oldest Chinatowns in North America, packed with shops, bakeries, and lantern-lined alleys.

Lombard Street

See the famously winding, flower-lined block of Lombard Street, best viewed from the bottom looking up its sharp curves.

Palace of Fine Arts

Wander around this grand lakeside rotunda and colonnades, a peaceful spot for photos and a break from the city streets.

Twin Peaks

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

Experience San Francisco’s everyday rhythm

Getting around

Move easily using Muni buses, trams, and the BART rail system for longer hops across the Bay Area. Mix in a classic cable car ride for the hills, then use ride-hailing, taxis, or shared bikes for the final stretch to your hotel or sights.

Local life & culture

You feel distinct personalities across neighbourhoods, from artsy Mission District murals to tech-driven SoMa and elegant Nob Hill. Museums, independent bookshops, galleries, and live music venues shape a creative, open city culture.

Where to unwind

Relax in Golden Gate Park among gardens, lakes, and walking paths, or head to Crissy Field for fresh sea air and bridge views. Early mornings and golden-hour evenings are ideal for quieter paths and softer bay light.

A taste of San Francisco

Street food & local specialties

Try clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls along Fisherman’s Wharf, Mission-style burritos in the Mission District, and dim sum in Chinatown for a quick, flavour-packed meal.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Head to the Ferry Building Marketplace, Hayes Valley, or the Marina for casual spots serving Californian, Asian, and Latin American flavours, with portions sized so you can share plates and sample widely.

Signature & scenic dining

Book a table at restaurants with bay or skyline views around the Embarcadero, Nob Hill, or near the Golden Gate for memorable meals that pair local produce with sweeping city vistas.

Retail therapy in San Francisco

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Union Square anchors downtown shopping with department stores, international labels, and nearby boutiques, while neighbourhood centres add cafes and entertainment for relaxed browsing days.

Markets & local crafts

Browse the Ferry Building’s artisan stalls, Hayes Valley’s independent boutiques, and the Mission District’s small shops for local designs, crafts, and unique souvenirs.

Evening retail scene

After dark, Union Square and parts of Market Street stay lively with illuminated window displays and late-opening stores, easily reached by Muni or BART from most central areas.

Best time to visit San Francisco

Summer peak season (June to August) brings average temperatures of around 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F), with cool mornings, frequent fog near the coast, and mild afternoons. Spring and autumn shoulder season (March to May, September to October) are slightly warmer inland, with averages around 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F) and generally pleasant sightseeing conditions. Winter low season (November to February) is cooler and wetter, with temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), quieter attractions, and a softer, misty atmosphere over the bay.

Frequently Asked Questions