Beacon Grand, a Union Square Hotel

The best time to visit is September and October, with warm highs around 20°C, little rain, and lower humidity. May through August are also pleasant and mostly dry, though mornings can be cool and foggy. The rainiest stretch is December through March, especially December with 13 rain days, so plan around that if you prefer dry weather.

For a central, walkable base, Union Square suits first-time visitors, with easy access to shops and transit. South of Market (SoMa) is a good pick for a modern, lively vibe, close to museums and the convention center. Fisherman's Wharf works well for families wanting waterfront sights and quick access to PIER 39. The Ritz-Carlton and CitizenM are in Union Square, while the Four Seasons and St. Regis are in SoMa.

Start at PIER 39 for the sea lions and bay views, then cross the Golden Gate Bridge for its iconic span. Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island to tour the historic prison. Golden Gate Park offers gardens and museums, while the Ferry Building is a lively food market. Union Square is the central shopping hub, and Coit Tower provides panoramic city views from its murals.

You can take day trips to Yosemite National Park for its granite cliffs and giant sequoias, Muir Woods for its towering redwoods, and Sausalito for its waterfront charm. The 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula, and Carmel offer scenic coastal views and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Big Sur, Monterey, and Carmel are also reachable on a full-day tour. If you prefer staying in the city, a hop-on hop-off bus tour covers San Francisco's main sights in about eight hours.

Plan 3 to 4 days. In 3 days, see PIER 39, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Golden Gate Park, plus Union Square and the Ferry Building. Add a fourth day for Coit Tower and Fisherman's Wharf. If you take a day trip to Yosemite or Monterey, add one more day.