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San Francisco

Latest travel advice update: Qatari citizens can now travel to the US for up to 90 days without requiring a US Visa.

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San Francisco isn't just a city; it's a microcosm of California's eclectic spirit. A place where fog-kissed mornings meet sun-drenched afternoons, and where the past, present, and future collide, making for a place where dreams and disruption harmoniously co-mingle. It's a city of steep hills, iconic cable cars, and breathtaking bay views.

From the historic charm of the Haight-Ashbury district to the vibrant culture of Chinatown, San Francisco offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Wander through the colourful streets, explore iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, or simply lose yourself in the city's unique neighbourhoods.

San Francisco's diverse culinary scene caters to every palate. From Michelin-starred restaurants like State Bird Provisions and Quince serving innovative cuisine to food trucks offering delicious street food, there's something to satisfy every craving. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in fresh seafood at Scoma's and sip on artisanal coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee.

For the adventurous, San Francisco offers a variety of outdoor activities. Hike to the summit of Twin Peaks for panoramic city views, explore the stunning coastal trails of Lands End, or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful retreat, San Francisco has it all. So, come and experience the magic of this extraordinary city.

Did you know: If you’re a Qatar Airways Privilege Club member, when you book your next vacation to the San Francisco, you will earn Avios on your entire vacation package in addition to those earned on your flight! You can also pay for your booking with Cash + Avios, so you will be spending even less on your San Francisco adventure.

Holiday Packages

San Francisco holiday Packages

Discover the magic of the Golden State with Qatar Airways Holidays. Our San Francisco Flight + Hotel packages offer a wide range of options, from Economy or Business Class flights with the world’s best airline to the city’s top luxurious hotels. With convenient flight connections from various departure points, your dream California vacation is just a click away.

To maximise your experience, consider the various San Francisco holiday packages:
 
  • Room only: A room only package provides accommodation only, offering travellers complete flexibility in planning their meals and activities. This option is ideal for those who prefer to explore the city at their own pace and discover hidden gems without being tied to a specific meal plan.
  • Bed and breakfast: A bed and breakfast package includes accommodation and a daily breakfast. This option is perfect for travellers who enjoy a leisurely start to their day and prefer a more relaxed pace. Enjoy a delicious and satisfying breakfast each morning, setting you up for a day of exploring the city.

Good to know

  • Time Zone
    GMT -8 hours
  • Languages
    English
  • Dialing Code
    +1
  • Electricity
    120V 60Hz
  • Currency
    United States dollars
  • Experiences

    San Francisco holiday experiences

    San Francisco offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance, allowing you to immerse yourself in unforgettable surroundings and surreal sounds. 
     

    Take a deeper dive into San Francisco's iconic attractions:
     

    • Golden Gate Bridge: this iconic suspension bridge is a marvel of engineering, spanning the Golden Gate strait. Its striking orange colour and stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean make it a must-visit.
    • Alcatraz Island: Once a notorious federal penitentiary, Alcatraz Island now offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Take a boat tour to the island and explore the historic prison cells, hear stories of famous inmates, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
    • Golden Gate Park: This expansive urban park offers a diverse range of attractions, including:
      • Japanese Tea Garden: A serene oasis with traditional Japanese gardens, koi ponds, and tea houses.
      • California Academy of Sciences: A world-class museum featuring exhibits on natural history, astronomy, and environmental science, including a planetarium and an aquarium.
      • Conservatory of Flowers: A stunning Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants from around the world.
    • Haight-Ashbury: Step back in time to the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Explore the colourful streets, vintage shops, and historic landmarks of this iconic neighbourhood.
    • Chinatown: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Chinatown, one of the largest Chinese communities outside of Asia. Discover bustling markets, savour authentic cuisine, and explore ancient temples.
    • North Beach: Experience the Italian heritage of San Francisco in this charming neighbourhood. Indulge in delicious pasta, sip on espresso, and browse independent bookstores.
    • Pier 39: Enjoy stunning waterfront views, watch sea lions sunbathe on the docks, and explore a variety of shops and restaurants.
       

    Popular activities: 
     

    • Ride a cable car: a unique mode of transportation that has been a San Francisco icon for over a century.
    • A sunny lunch out: Embark on a day trip to Napa Valley or Sonoma Valley to enjoy picturesque vineyards and indulge in gourmet cuisine.
    • Stretch your legs: Hike to the summit of Twin Peaks for panoramic city views, explore the stunning coastal trails of Lands End, venture into the redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument, or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge.
    • Time to get wet: Paddle through the calm waters of the San Francisco Bay or catch some waves at Ocean Beach.
    • Catch an NBA game: Cheer on the Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry at Chase Center if the NBA team is in town.
       

    Food, culture, & wildlife
     

    Food: San Francisco's diverse culinary scene is a foodie's dream.
     
    • Michelin-Star dining: Indulge in innovative cuisine at world-class restaurants like State Bird Provisions and Quince.
    • Fresh seafood: Savour the freshest seafood at iconic restaurants like Scoma's or Hog Island Oyster Co.
    • Street food & food trucks:
      • Señor Sisig: Known for its innovative Filipino fusion dishes, especially their signature sisig.
      • Roli Roti: This South African-inspired food truck offers delicious rotisserie meats and sides.   
      • The Chairman: A popular choice for Chinese-American fusion cuisine, including bao buns and dumplings.   
      • MOMO Noodle: This truck serves up delicious ramen and other noodle dishes.   
      • Curry Up Now: A favorite for Indian street food, offering a variety of flavorful curries and naan.
      • La Taqueria: A legendary taqueria in San Francisco's Mission District, renowned for its authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. 
    • Coffee Culture: Sip on world-class coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee, Ritual Coffee Roasters, or Sightglass Coffee.
    Remember, the food truck scene in San Francisco is always changing, so it's always a good idea to check online or local food truck apps to see what's currently available.
    Culture: San Francisco's understatedly diverse cultural landscape offers a unique experience for every visitor.
     
    • Art and History:
      • San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA): Immerse yourself in a world of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by renowned artists like Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and Frida Kahlo.
      • De Young Museum: Explore a vast collection of American, European, and international art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
      • Legion of Honor: Admire a stunning collection of European art, including works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Rodin.
      • Asian Art Museum: Discover a diverse collection of Asian art, ranging from ancient Chinese ceramics to contemporary Japanese art.
      • California Academy of Sciences: Explore the natural world through interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an aquarium.
    • Unique Cultural Experiences:
      • The Beat Museum: Delve into the Beat Generation, a literary and cultural movement that originated in San Francisco.
      • Cable Car Museum: Learn about the history of San Francisco's iconic cable cars and see them in action.
      • Museum of Craft and Design: Discover innovative and creative works from around the world.
         
    Wildlife: While San Francisco is a bustling metropolis, it also harbours a surprising amount of wildlife. 
     
    • Golden Gate Park: Discover a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, birds, and reptiles.
    • Aquarium of the Bay: Encounter a variety of marine life, from sharks to sea otters.
    • San Francisco Zoo: Explore a vast zoological park with a diverse collection of animals from around the world.
    • Marine Mammal Center: Learn about marine mammal conservation and rehabilitation.
       

    Travel tips
     

    Travel visa information:
    • From 1 December 2024, citizens of Qatar can travel to the US for up to 90 days without requiring a US Visa - click here for more details. You can also check other need-to-know destination-specific travel information here.
    Currency:
    • The official currency of the United States is the US Dollar (USD).
    Language:
    • English is the primary language.
    Climate:
    • San Francisco has a Mediterranean climate, characterised by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The city is known for its frequent fog, especially during the summer months, a phenomenon known as "Karl the Fog." However, fog can occur year-round, particularly in coastal areas.
    Transportation:
    • Public transportation system: buses, cable cars, and the iconic BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system.
    • Ride-hailing apps and taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.
    • Walking and biking: The city is quite walkable, and biking is popular, especially in certain neighborhoods.
    Safety:
    • While the US is generally safe, it's always advisable to take standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in large cities. Pay special attention to cities with high crime rating, taking extra care to not venture out during the late hours of the night. 
    Dress code and alcohol:
    • Dress code: Casual attire is suitable for most occasions. However, dress codes can vary depending on the specific location and activity.
    • Alcohol: The legal drinking age in the US is 21. Alcohol is widely available in bars, restaurants, and liquor stores.
    FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

      When is the best time to visit San Francisco?
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      The best time to visit San Francisco typically falls between late summer and early fall. This period, particularly September and October, offers pleasant weather with less fog and fewer crowds.
      What are the latest travel updates for holidays in San Francisco?
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      From 1 December 2024, citizens of Qatar can travel to the US for up to 90 days without requiring a US Visa - click here for more details. For the other up-to-date travel information, it's advisable to check the official website of the US State Department.

      What are some amazing facts and reasons to visit San Francisco?
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      San Francisco is a city of contrasts, where historic charm meets modern innovation. Here are some reasons to visit:
      • Iconic landmarks: The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Painted Ladies are must-sees.
      • Diverse culture: Experience the city's multicultural tapestry, from Chinatown to the Mission District.
      • Scenic beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views, stunning waterfronts, lush parks, and beautiful beaches.
      • Thriving food scene: Indulge in world-class cuisine, from Michelin-starred restaurants to food trucks.
      • Vibrant arts and culture: Explore world-class museums, theatres, and a thriving music scene.
      What are some of the best places to visit in San Francisco?
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      • Golden Gate Park: A vast urban park with diverse attractions, including Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences, and the de Young Museum.
      • Haight-Ashbury: A historic district known for its counterculture past.
      • Chinatown: One of the largest Chinatowns outside of Asia.
      • North Beach: A vibrant neighborhood with Italian restaurants, cafes, and bookstores.
      • Pier 39: A bustling waterfront pier with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
      Will I earn Avios when I book my package for San Francisco with Qatar Airways Holidays?
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      Yes. You will earn Avios for your entire Flight+Hotel holiday package in addition to Avios you earn from the airline direct with Qatar Airways.
      Why should I go on holiday to San Francisco with Qatar Airways Holidays?
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      When you travel to San Francsico with Qatar Airways, you can be sure that no stone is left unturned. We’ll dot the I’s and cross the T’s to guarantee that you have the best holiday. All you need to do is pack a suitcase, get to the airport on time and prepare for holiday heaven.
      What are the best San Francisco travel packages?
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      Qatar Airways Holidays offers a diverse range of US travel packages that include accommodations in the country as well as fantastic flights from a choice of departure points, located all over the country, catering to all sorts of globe trotters. Choose from room-only and bed and breakfast stays to suit your preferences and budget as well as give you the best opportunity to explore the Land of Opportunity.