North Beach

On sunny days, the city's small Italian neighborhood and its European vibe make even locals feel as if they're on holiday. In the morning, fresh foccacia beckons, and there are few better ways to laze away an afternoon than in one of North Beach's cafés. Day and night visitors crowd the streets, hopping from café to restaurant to boutique; bars here are bustling and unintimidating. It's a difficult climb to Telegraph Hill, but the view of the bay and beyond is worth it, so take a car if necessary. (Coit Tower itself pales next to the view.) Parking in North Beach is difficult, in the evening especially so; spare yourself the frustration and take a cab.