North Beach, a buzzy neighborhood steeped in Italian heritage, draws locals and tourists to its checked-tablecloth trattorias, coffee shops and retro-flavored bars. The spirit of the Beat Generation can be felt at the storied City Lights bookstore and the memorabilia-filled Vesuvio Cafe bar. In Telegraph Hill the Filbert Steps offer a scenic hike to the iconic Coit Tower, with WPA-era murals and panoramic views. ― Google

Area: 315 acres

Elevation: 16.4′

Area code: Area code 415

ZIP codes: 94111, 94133

Restaurants: North Beach Pizza, Tony's Pizza Napoletana

Hotels: Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman´s Wharf