San Francisco is one of the most dynamic and culturally diverse cities in the United States, offering countless things to do and see. The city is full of exciting activities that let you practise your English while soaking up the local culture. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, San Francisco offers an adventure around every corner.
Must-See Sights and Travel Essentials
Located in Northern California, San Francisco is known for its hilly landscape, eclectic architecture, and iconic landmarks. The city is a hub for innovation, creativity, and social change, making it a fantastic place for international students to experience American culture.
Climate
San Francisco is characteristic of the cool, dry summer and mild, wet winters. The city experiences mild temperatures, making it comfortable year-round but often unpredictable. Whatever time of the year you visit San Francisco; it is always wise to carry a jacket or sweater with you!
Money
The currency used in San Francisco is the United States Dollar (USD). ATMs can be found all over the city, and credit or debit cards are widely accepted.
Telephone Country Code
The telephone country code for the United States is +1, followed by the area code 415.
Electricity
110 V; 60Hz – 2 flat-pin plugs. You might need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.
Tap water
Tap water in San Francisco is safe to drink and of high quality unless there is a sign to the contrary.
Transport
San Francisco is a very walkable city, but if you prefer not to walk, you will find plenty of transportation options including ridesharing services and taxis. Biking is also a popular option, with many bike rental stations throughout the city.
Public Transport Info
San Francisco has an extensive public transportation network, which includes buses, streetcars, and cable cars. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system connects San Francisco with nearby cities and suburbs. MUNI, the city’s transportation service, operates buses and light rail trains throughout the city.
Public holidays falling on a weekday
2025: 01 Jan, 20 Jan, 17 Feb, 31 Mar, 26 May, 19 Jun, 04 Jul, 01 Sept, 13 Oct, 11 Nov, 27 Nov, 28 Nov, 25 Dec.
A visa may be required depending on your nationality and length of stay. For Visa information, please visit our Visa Requirements page
Legal Driving Age
The minimum driving age is 16 years, but most rental companies require that you be at least 25 years old, have an international driving license, a second form of identity and a major credit card.
Alcohol Age
The legal drinking age is 21. You will have to show valid identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, if you wish to purchase alcohol at bars, restaurants, or stores.
Smoking Laws
Smoking is banned in most indoor public places, including bars, restaurants, and workplaces. Smoking is also prohibited in parks, near playgrounds, and at public transportation stops.
Insurance
All EC San Francisco students must be covered by health insurance for the entire length of their stay in the U.S.
Cost of Living
Bottle of water / soda (0.33 litre)
$1.00-$2.50
Coffee/Cappuccino (Starbucks)
$3.50-$5.00
Fast-Food combo meal
$7.00-$10.00
Meal, inexpensive restaurant
$12.00-$20.00
Fitness club (monthly, 1 adult)
$45.00-$150.00
Public transport (local transport)
$2.50-$2.75
Public transport (monthly pass)
$75.00-$90.00
The Golden Gate Bridge offers stunning views of the city and bay. You might even spot dolphins or seals in the water below. You can walk or rent a bike to cross this famous suspension bridge.
Hop on a cable car and ride through the city’s steep hills, passing by landmarks such as Lombard Street and Chinatown. It is a unique way to see the city’s architectural beauty while experiencing a piece of San Francisco’s history.
Take a ferry to the island and book a guided tour to learn about the infamous inmates of Alcatraz and explore the grounds while enjoying stunning views of the San Francisco skyline.
Golden Gate Park is an urban oasis that features beautiful gardens, lakes, and museums. You can also enjoy attractions like the de Young Museum and the Japanese Tea Garden.
This rugged coastal path offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. The trail is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Along the way, you can explore hidden beaches and historical shipwrecks.
These two high hills offer an unparalleled 360-degree view of the city, from the downtown skyline to the bay and beyond. The hike to the top is worth the effort, especially at sunset.
Find out how our international students turned their first steps in language learning into important achievements that changed their lives.
Besides our General English programme, EC San Francisco offers a wide variety of special courses to help you improve your English to succeed at school and in the global workplace. These include English for Work, an intensive English course that helps you develop the skills you need to advance in your career and EC x FutureLearn, which combines immersive English language lessons from EC with specialised online courses from leading educational institutions worldwide.
At EC San Francisco, we offer host family or student residence accommodations. If you choose a homestay option, you will live with a family in San Francisco. This is an excellent option if you want to practice your English with a local family and home-cooked meals. If you’re looking for more independence, consider a residence.
San Francisco has a mild climate characterised by cool, foggy summers and wet winters, with an average annual temperature of around 16°C. The air comes right off the ocean, so it is often sunny but cool and foggy. It feels like it’s always spring, so you’ll want to dress in layers.
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to study in San Francisco. Contact us to learn more.
If you want to learn English in a creative, innovative and free-spirited city with a relaxed California vibe, San Francisco is the place for you. With 25 universities, a thriving arts culture, charming, multicultural neighbourhoods and a world-renowned global tech environment, San Francisco draws enterprising students from all over the world—a perfect place to meet new friends and network while you learn English.
