Union Square

In Union Square, all things fashionable and hip can be gazed upon, tried on and purchased. Big–name retail, posh hotels and superb theater are the name of the game. But take a moment to step out of the riptide of people walking through the square, and you'll see San Francisco in all its melting–pot glory.

Embarcadero/Financial District

Right where Market Street funnels traffic to the bayfront, you'll find the Embarcadero, San Francisco's old waterfront. Flush up against the Financial District's skyscrapers, the Embarcadero's promenades lend the area a sense of escape. The Ferry Building Marketplace is a cornucopia of epicurean delight.

North Beach

North Beach is infused with laid–back living and white–washed beauty. It is known as San Francisco's "Little Italy," but the neighborhood's history is painted in more hues than just green, white and red. Basques, bohemians, beatniks and even wild parrots – who flock to Telegraph Hill – have molded the character of North Beach.

Fisherman's Wharf

Loved by tourists and known around the world, Fisherman's Wharf somehow manages to be equal parts kitsch and authentic. On one hand there are fun–loving shops and kooky street performers; on the other hand, you will find savory seafood fresh from the ocean and a fleet of historic ships that recall the city's maritime past.

South of Market/Yerba Buena

In a city such as San Francisco, it takes a lot to say that one particular neighborhood has the most activity, but in the case of "SoMa," it's pretty much true. Yerba Buena Gardens soothes with greenery, waterfalls and cityscape views. The Museum of Modern Art astounds visitors with its collection of paintings and interactive art.

Mission District

One of San Francisco's trendiest neighborhoods happens to be its oldest. "The Mission" is centered around the beautiful Mission Dolores, which has anchored the area since 1791. Some of the city's prettiest Victorian homes can be found here, adding even more color to an already vibrant neighborhood.

Chinatown

Pass under the famous Chinatown Gateway at Bush Street and Grant Avenue and you'll feel as though you've walked into the streets of a foreign city. Merchant signs are printed in Chinese first, grocers sell uncommon produce and there's nary a Victorian house to be seen. Experiencing Chinatown is truly a study in cultural immersion.

Haight–Ashbury/Golden Gate Park

When the Summer of Love took hold at the intersection of Haight and Ashbury Streets, the repercussions were felt around the world. While laptops are now more common than peace symbols, this Victorian neighborhood still maintains some of its freewheeling ways.

Nob Hill

From this lofty perch you can gaze upon the city, the bay and the Golden Gate. Cable cars climb the hill, their passengers standing on the outside running boards for clearer views. Grace Cathedral – which was built between 1927 and 1964 – is reminiscent of Notre Dame Cathedral.

Civic Center

Crowned by the Beaux Arts gem City Hall, this part of town is home to glorious architecture and fascinating museums. The War Memorial Opera House and Davies Symphony Hall inspire envy from music lovers who wish they had similar venues at home. Civic Center has been, and remains, the cultural focus of the city.

Japantown/Nihonmachi

Near Pacific Heights are a number of intimate cafes and restaurants as well as a concentration of upscale clothing, kitchenware and home furnishing stores. The 2000–2200 blocks offer a smorgasbord of shops dealing in vintage clothing, costumes and the next–to–new.

The Castro District/Upper Market

Steep streets and brightly painted Victorian houses give this upper Market Street "Gay Mecca" that distinct, San Francisco look. The Castro is filled with imaginative boutiques, bookstores and bars. Built in 1922, the Castro Theatre at 429 Castro survives as one of the last grand movie palaces, featuring revivals and pre–film concerts.

Presidio/Marina

Founded in 1776, the Presidio served as a military garrison under the flags of Spain, Mexico and the United States before it became a national park in 1994. Its long history is reflected in many places: 17th–century cannons, a diversity of architectural styles and a forest planted beginning in the 1880s.

Ingleside/Candlestick Point

Located in the southwestern corner of the city, Ingleside neighborhood includes a rich combination of diverse cultures. Ocean Ave is the main commercial corridor of this neighborhood and is also the commercial heart of the district.