With its dynamic culture, diverse neighborhoods, and stunning landscapes, San Francisco welcomes visitors who have a taste for the arts, great food, and outdoor recreation. Take your pick from San Francisco vacation homes in various neighborhoods, and get ready to explore this vibrant city.

San Francisco has a pleasant climate marked by cool summers and mild winters. If you visit in July or August, you'll experience dry skies and highs in the mid-60s. The weather warms up in the fall, however, with highs in the low 70s. Highs usually reach the mid-50s throughout the winter months, and the city receives the most rain in December, January, and February. Also known as Fog City, San Francisco is no stranger to rolling mist, especially during the cooler months. Early summer can be particularly foggy, but that doesn't stop this season from being one of the busiest times to visit San Francisco. For smaller crowds and better weather, plan your visit during autumn.

San Francisco International Airport is just south of the city and offers easy access to the entire Bay Area. Hail a taxi, book a driver through a ride sharing app, or hop on the train into the city. Most San Francisco vacation homes are convenient to the city's public transit system or are in walkable neighborhoods. You may want to rent a car to explore the greater Bay Area, but you won't usually need one to navigate the city itself.

One of the most iconic landmarks in San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, is best viewed from the Golden Gate Park. Just across the bridge, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a large green space that's home to more than 1,300 plant and animal species and has plenty of space for hiking, biking, and enjoying the views. Just north of this recreation area, the Muir Woods National Monument is the site of majestic redwood groves and one of the Bay Area's best swimming beaches. Back in San Francisco, wander through Chinatown, the largest of its kind in the nation, and explore Fisherman's Wharf, where you'll find fresh seafood and family friendly waterfront attractions. Near Fisherman's Wharf, you can also stroll through the park at the Palace of Fine Arts or catch the ferry to Alcatraz Island to tour the infamous prison.

San Francisco is home to numerous major events year-round. Visit in the spring, and get tickets for the San Francisco International Film Festival, which showcases hundreds of films from all over the world. In the summer, the Fillmore Street Jazz Festival welcomes dozens of world-renowned jazz musicians to several stages. In the fall, the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival sweetens the city with chocolate samples, chef demonstrations, and eating contests.