Karl the Fog may never be too far away but who doesn't enjoy a bit of moody mist? Pull on some layers and head for the city's sprawling hills.

Poised on its Californian peninsula, San Francisco is an energetic enclave with a storied libertine history, undeniable entrepreneurial fervour and vibrant cultural patronage.It may be known for its thriving technology sector but look beyond the numbers and you'll find a dynamic urban offering, complete with easygoing charm and dramatic natural beauty.



The Monocle Travel Guide to San Francisco will help you navigate the varied and rolling cityscape, from the unhurried beachside allure of the Outer Sunset to the psychedelic hippie haze still prevailing in the Haight-Ashbury. We'll direct you to the glitziest art deco cinemas, round up our favourite forward-thinking retailers and show you where to enjoy everything from freshly shucked oysters to a jam-packed burrito. Of course, we'll also point out some first-rate early 20th-century architectural marvels, drop by one or two well-stocked wine bars and show you where to break a sweat - in the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge, no less.