North Beach Pub Tour

Discover San Francisco’s best bars, pubs and cafes during this laid-back walking tour of North Beach. Kick off at the Vesuvio Café, famous for its literary gatherings, which inspired several Beat generation writers. Maybe try an Anchor Steam ale which has been made in the city since 1896 or sample one of California’s world-class wines from the nearby Sonoma and Napa Valley. Still a local favourite, this bohemian café has a fantastic array of photos featuring writers, actors and artists adorning the walls.

Hit the pavement and head off into North Beach, one of San Francisco's most festive neighbourhoods. A beach no more, the area was settled upon landfill, including hundreds of abandoned ships left after the 1849 gold rush. Once home to fortune seekers, local fishermen, international sailors, and writers, North Beach still maintains a distinctly bohemian and Italian flair.

Explore a few local drinking establishments, from a bar decked out with seafaring trinkets left behind by sailors to the city’s oldest watering hole with its colourful mix of locals and thriving big blues music scene. Down an espresso while experiencing the atmosphere of a traditional Italian café, complete with red leather booths and a classic jukebox spinning 45s. Later, there’s even a chance to serenade the house at a local karaoke bar.

End you San Francisco Urban Adventures tour at Washington Square, a local hub that’s well connected to public transport or is ideal if you want to continue exploring North Beach’s wealth of cafes, bars and restaurants independently. Your guide will be happy to provide some excellent local suggestions or help you get home.