Flights from Seoul (ICN) to San Francisco (SFO)

About San Francisco

Discover San Francisco

Why visit San Francisco?
San Francisco is a compact, characterful city where steep hills meet the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge frames the skyline. You will find lively neighbourhoods, waterfront views, and a creative energy that blends technology, arts, and outdoor living.

What to expect
The city’s centre clusters around Union Square, Market Street, and the Financial District, with heritage cable cars linking you to the waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf. Each neighbourhood has its own feel, from the colourful streets of the Mission to the Victorian houses of Alamo Square and the tech campuses around SoMa.

Plan your trip
San Francisco is an easy base for exploring the wider Bay Area, including Berkeley, Oakland, and the wine regions of Napa and Sonoma. With efficient public transport, organised tours, and scenic drives, you can combine time in the city with day trips to redwood forests, coastal towns, and nearby national parks.

Top sights in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Walk, cycle, or drive across this world-famous suspension bridge for sweeping views of the bay and Marin Headlands.

Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39

Explore the lively waterfront, watch sea lions basking on the docks, and sample fresh seafood along the piers.

Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the former island prison and learn about its history while enjoying panoramic views back to the city skyline.

Chinatown

Stroll through ornate gateways and bustling streets filled with traditional shops, bakeries, and dim sum restaurants.

Golden Gate Park

Wander through gardens, lakes, and museums in this expansive urban park that stretches almost to the Pacific Ocean.

Lombard Street

Visit the famously crooked section of Lombard Street, where a steep hill zigzags through beautifully landscaped turns.

Twin Peaks

Head up to Twin Peaks for an impressive 360-degree lookout over San Francisco, especially atmospheric at sunset or dusk.

The Mission District

Discover colourful murals, independent boutiques, and a vibrant dining scene in one of the city’s most creative neighbourhoods.

Experience San Francisco’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
San Francisco’s Muni system of buses, trams, and historic cable cars makes it straightforward to move between key sights and neighbourhoods. You can also use the BART rail network for journeys to and from the airport or East Bay. For short distances, walking and app-based ride services work well.

Local life & culture
Daily life in San Francisco often centres on neighbourhood streets, local cafés, and small parks where residents meet friends or work remotely. You will notice a strong creative and tech influence, with galleries, live music venues, and co-working spaces woven into older, well-established districts.

Where to unwind
When you need a break, head to the waterfront promenades along the Embarcadero or the lawns of Dolores Park for city views. Ocean Beach and Crissy Field offer fresh air and space to stroll beside the water. Early morning and late afternoon are particularly pleasant times to enjoy these open spaces.

A taste of San Francisco

Street food & local specialties
San Francisco is known for sourdough bread, cioppino seafood stew, and generous burritos, especially in the Mission District. Food trucks and casual counters around SoMa and civic areas offer quick bites ranging from tacos to gourmet sandwiches and snacks.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed, modern eateries throughout the city, with notable clusters around the Marina, Hayes Valley, and along Valencia Street. Food halls and mixed-use complexes combine multiple kitchens under one roof, letting you try different cuisines in smaller portions.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for restaurants overlooking the bay, the skyline, or the bridge, particularly around the Embarcadero and waterfront. Hilltop neighbourhoods and rooftop venues offer attractive views, making them ideal for special occasions or a leisurely evening out.

Retail therapy in San Francisco

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Union Square is the city’s main shopping district, with large department stores, global brands, and interconnected malls. Nearby streets host design shops and lifestyle boutiques, and many centres also feature cinemas, cafés, and casual dining for relaxed breaks.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhoods such as the Mission, Hayes Valley, and the Haight are popular for independent designers, vintage finds, and artisan goods. Regular farmers’ and craft markets, especially along the waterfront, showcase locally made items and seasonal products ideal for gifts.

Evening retail scene
After dark, Union Square and surrounding streets remain active with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening stores. Some waterfront areas host evening markets during selected seasons. Public transport and ride services make it straightforward to reach these districts and return to your hotel at night.

Best time to visit San Francisco

Summer 'fog season' (June to August, peak season)
Summer brings average temperatures of around 14–20°C (57–68°F), often with cool ocean breezes and morning fog. This is a popular time to visit, with lively events and long days, ideal for walking tours and evening views of the bay.

Mild 'shoulder seasons' (March to May, September to November, shoulder season)
Spring and autumn are generally mild, with typical temperatures between 12–21°C (54–70°F). Skies are often clearer in early autumn, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities, neighbourhood exploration, and day trips to nearby wine country or coastal towns.

Cooler 'rainy season' (December to February, low season)
Winter is cooler, with averages around 8–15°C (46–59°F) and a higher chance of rain, but many days remain bright and walkable. Visitor numbers are usually lower, so you can enjoy museums, galleries, and cafés in a calmer atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions