San Francisco Information

Questions or doubts often arise when you're organising a trip. That's why we've put together some useful information to help you when planning your getaway.

Necessary Documentation

Necessary documents, passports and visas to travel to San Francisco. Documentation needed to enter the United States of America.

Health Insurance

When travelling to the US, it's recommendable to take out health insurance in case of any unforeseen occurances.

Currency

The official currency in San Francisco is the US dollar (USD). Find out the exchange rate, the bank opening times and when and how to exchange money.

Prices

The prices in San Francisco are lower than in many other cities. We'll give you some examples so that you can budget for your trip.

Weather

Find out about the weather, seasons and best times to visit San Francisco, a city that has a broadly Mediterranean climate.

Public Holidays

Independence Day, Presidents' Day and Thanksgiving; discover all the public holidays in San Francisco.

History of San Francisco

Discover the history of San Francisco, from the arrival of the Spanish to it becoming one of the most formidable technological powerhouses.

Fisherman’s Wharf

San Francisco's first port, Fisherman's Wharf, has become an important tourist attractions that shouldn't be missed.

Yerba Buena Gardens

Yerba Buena Gardens is a peaceful, relaxing area located in Mission Street with various museums and points of interest.

Chinatown

This neighbourhood in San Francisco is home to one of the world's largest Chinese communities; Chinatown is a city within a city.

Union Square

Located in the heart of the city, Union Square is the most well-known and lively area of San Francisco. Discover it!

Alamo Square

This picturesque spot has been a backdrop in numerous films and TV series, and is one of the city's most common postcard images.

Fillmore Street

Fillmore Street is located in one of the most traditional neighbourhoods in San Francisco, Fillmore District, a beautiful spot to wander around.

Haight-Ashbury

Haight-Ashbury could be described as the most alternative, hipster part of San Francisco. Why not check it out?

Japantown

Japantown in San Francisco is one of the USA's largest and oldest Japanese neighbourhoods. Find out more about its history.

Little Italy San Francisco

Located north of Chinatown is Little Italy, a beautiful neighbourhood where you can enjoy a stroll and a delicious Italian meal.

Other Information

Electricity and Plugs

The electrical outlets in the USA are type A and B. If you're traveling from Europe or elsewhere in the world, don't forget an adapter for your electronic items.

The voltage in the USA is 110 V, which is less than in many other countries. These days most electronics are compatible for use between 220 and 110 V, but we recommend checking before packing. You don't want to take something with you that you then won't be able to use.

Timezone

The official time in San Francisco is GMT- 8 (GMT- 7 in the summer). This means that San Francisco is eight hours behind the UK, and nine hours behind most of mainland Europe.

Business Hours

The shops in San Francisco are generally open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 or 10 am until 6 or 7 pm.

Some of the most common areas for tourists to go shopping are Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, and Little Italy.

Health Insurance

Unlike in Europe, healthcare is private in the USA, therefore if you need medical attention you have to pay for it. Bearing in mind that the average price of a regular check-up is US$ 300, we suggest taking out insurance rather than running the risk of being stung with hefty medical bills.

If you do not have any insurance that covers you and you want to take out travel insurance for San Francisco, Civitatis offers a very complete health insurance for travelers starting at € 21 (US$ 22.40) per person: