What it actually costs
When to go
Counterintuitive: SF summer is cold and foggy (Mark Twain's "coldest winter" quote). September-October is the real summer — warm, clear, beautiful.
Golden Gate Bridge: walk from the SF side. Morning fog burns off by 11am. Weekday mornings are peaceful.
What locals know
The Mission district for burritos (La Taqueria, El Farolito), street art (Clarion Alley, Balmy Alley), and nightlife.
Dolores Park on a sunny day is SF at its best — bring wine, snacks, and a blanket. View of downtown from the south slope.
Cable cars are $8 each way and always have 30+ min queues. MUNI buses go the same routes for $2.50. Or walk — the hills ARE the experience.
Ferry Building Farmer's Market (Saturday 8am-2pm) is world-class. Blue Bottle Coffee started here.
Honest warnings
Car break-ins are epidemic. Never leave ANYTHING visible in a car — including empty bags or jackets.
Tenderloin district: avoid walking through, especially at night. It's between Union Square and City Hall.
Bring layers. Temperature swings 10-15°C between neighbourhoods (sunny Mission vs foggy Sunset). Always carry a jacket.
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