Flights from Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) to San Francisco (SFO)

About San Francisco

Discover San Francisco

Why visit San Francisco?
San Francisco combines iconic landmarks, a dramatic bay setting, and compact neighbourhoods that invite you to explore on foot. From the Golden Gate Bridge to colourful Victorian houses, the city has a distinctive character that feels both historic and forward-looking.

What to expect
You will find steep hills, bayside promenades, and districts with very different personalities, from lively Fisherman s Wharf to elegant Nob Hill. Tech-driven innovation sits alongside classic cable cars and waterfront piers, creating a city that feels energetic yet laid-back at the same time.

Plan your trip
San Francisco is a convenient base for exploring Northern California, including wine regions, coastal drives, and national parks. Plan a few days for the city itself, then add side trips to nearby areas to make the most of your journey to the US West Coast.

Top sights in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Walk or cycle part of this famous red span for sweeping views of the bay, city skyline, and Pacific Ocean.

Fisherman s Wharf

Stroll along busy piers, watch sea lions basking on the docks, and take in the lively waterfront atmosphere.

Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry across the bay to tour the former island prison and enjoy striking views back towards the city.

Chinatown

Enter through the Dragon Gate and wander colourful streets filled with shops, eateries, and narrow alleys.

Lombard Street

See one of the world s most famous winding streets, lined with flowerbeds and classic houses on a steep hill.

Golden Gate Park

Escape into a vast urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and quiet walking paths stretching towards the ocean.

Painted Ladies at Alamo Square

View the postcard-perfect row of Victorian houses set against the backdrop of the modern downtown skyline.

Embarcadero and Ferry Building

Walk the waterfront promenade and step inside the historic Ferry Building to browse artisan stalls and eateries.

Experience San Francisco s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Compact and well-connected, San Francisco is easy to explore using a mix of trams, buses, and metro services. Classic cable cars offer a scenic way to tackle steep hills, while walking is ideal for short hops between central neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture
Neighbourhoods like North Beach, the Mission District, and Hayes Valley each have a strong identity, shaped by art, music, and independent venues. You will notice a relaxed, creative atmosphere, with locals meeting in corner cafés, parks, and small galleries throughout the day.

Where to unwind
Head to waterfront spots such as Crissy Field or Marina Green for fresh air and open views of the bay. In the afternoon, Golden Gate Park offers quiet paths, lakes, and gardens, while sunset at the oceanfront or on a hilltop lookout can be a calm way to end the day.

A taste of San Francisco

Street food & local specialties
San Francisco is known for fresh seafood at the piers, sourdough bread, and generous burritos in the Mission District. Food trucks and casual stalls appear across the city, giving you plenty of opportunities to try quick bites between sightseeing stops.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed dining rooms and cafés throughout SoMa, the Marina, and Hayes Valley, with menus influenced by flavours from across the world. Food halls and urban markets make it easy to sample several dishes in one visit, ideal if you like to try a bit of everything.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a restaurant with views of the bay, skyline, or bridges. Waterfront venues and hilltop locations create an impressive backdrop, whether you are enjoying a lingering lunch or a special dinner overlooking the city lights.

Retail therapy in San Francisco

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Around Union Square you will find large department stores and multi-level shopping centres with international brands and local labels. These areas double as social hubs, with cafés and services that make it easy to combine errands, browsing, and a relaxed break.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhood streets in the Mission District, Hayes Valley, and the Haight showcase independent boutiques, design shops, and vintage finds. Regular markets and small studios highlight local makers, from clothing and accessories to homeware and printed art.

Evening retail scene
After dark, central shopping streets and waterfront areas stay lively with illuminated storefronts and late-opening boutiques. Evening strolls through Union Square or along parts of the Embarcadero pair well with dining plans, and public transport makes it straightforward to get back to your hotel.

Best time to visit San Francisco

Summer fog season (June to August, peak season)
Summer brings mild days of around 18–22°C (64–72°F), often wrapped in the famous coastal fog, especially mornings and evenings. It is a popular time for outdoor festivals and bay cruises, with cool air that feels refreshing for walking the city s hills.

Mild spring and autumn (March to May, September to October, shoulder season)
During spring and autumn, temperatures usually hover between 15–21°C (59–70°F), with a mix of clear and breezy days. These months are often pleasantly calm, ideal for exploring neighbourhoods, parks, and viewpoints with slightly fewer crowds.

Cooler winter (November to February, low season)
Winters are generally mild, with temperatures about 10–16°C (50–61°F) and occasional rain showers. You can enjoy quieter attractions, atmospheric views of the bay, and cosy cafés, making it a comfortable time for museum visits and indoor experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions