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Wrapping around the bay that shares its same name, San Francisco has strong culture and neighbourhoods with distinct personalities. Many visitors start their exploration of the Golden City with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge (as well as Golden Gate Park), Pier 39, riding through the hills on the historic cable cars, Alcatraz prison, the Museum of Modern Art, and other well-known attractions.

1)Eat your way through the Mission
The Mission, San Francisco’s oldest neighbourhood, is considered by locals as one of the hottest areas to find great food in the city. Named after the Mission Dolores, which was founded in 1776, this district’s long Hispanic history is reflected in the culinary traditions. Sporting some of the best Mexican food in the city, there are also all-day brunches (serving every kind of food imaginable), tasty street food, handmade ice cream, and plenty of international eateries. Savour a sweet pastry at Tartine, pop into the Bi-rite Creamery for gourmet sweets and handmade ice cream and enjoy a strong coffee at the Ritual Roasters or Four Barrel.

2) Light a bonfire on Ocean Beach
Popular on both the weekend and a warm weekday evening, Ocean Beach is where San Franciscans come to watch the sunset, enjoy a BBQ with friends, and light a bonfire. Arrive early to secure a fire pit for bonfires and be sure to pack your own logs, lighter, and kindling. Evenings like these build great travel memories.

3)Do leave the t-shirts, shorts, sandals at home.
A lot of visitors tend to think that all of California is warm, sunny and full of palm trees.San Francisco is not Los Angeles nor is it anywhere close to Southern California. T-shirts, shorts and sandals are not recommended most days, even during the summer. The smartest thing to do is to layer up, wear your t-shirt underneath a windbreaker or a hoodie. The wind and fog definitely keep SF on the chilly side!