Here’s some San Francisco travel tips to help make the most of your travel to San Francisco:

1. SF has a fantastic public transport system with bus, subway, trolley, and of course cable car service. If you plan to use local transport, consider buying a MUNI pass which are sold in 1, 3, and 7 day packages.
2. Golden Gate Park can provide at least a half day’s entertainment, from just chilling out with a picnic to visiting world class institutions such as Conservatory of Flowers, California Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden or any of several other options.
3. Although the city is on a peninsula, don’t expect a day swimming. The water is generally cold and the currents strong, making it both uncomfortable and dangerous. That said, strolling along the city’s Pacific coast beaches provides some fantastic views and a chance to mingle with locals.
4. Shoppers naturally gravitate to Union Square area, but each district offers unique one of kind shops. Check out one or more of the city’s other neighborhoods for some local shops.
5. Foodies will find themselves in heaven with so many options for cuisine and an emphasis on fresh ingredients. The taquerias that dot the Mission District are worth the trip.
6. Summer can be cold, damp, and foggy while winter is rainy season. Ideal time to visit is April and May or September/October. At anytime the weather can change, so go like a local and carry a sweater or jacket and keep a scarf handy.
7. The hills of San Francisco are notorious and most tourist will make their obligatory visit to Lombard Street, the city’s most famous mound and “crookedest” street. With its manicured gardens and redbrick, it’s a picturesque stop. But we recommend exploring several of the other 42 hills, such as Telegraph Hill with Coit Tower at its peak, Russian Hill, Noe Peak, or Strawberry Hill in Golden Gate Park. What better way to get a feel for one the city’s most famous characters than giving your legs a wake up on a brief, steep climb and enjoying the vistas from above.
8. Despite the hills, renting a push bike is still a great way to cover certain areas. Golden Gate Park is relatively flat and closed to vehicle traffic on Sundays.
9. Plan ahead if you plan to visit “the Rock” (Alcatraz). The number of visitors each day is limited and usually requires advance booking. Check the Alcatraz website for availability.