Dylan’s Tours › Forums › San Francisco Travel › Which areas of the city have the most historic charm or ‘old San Francisco’ feel—worth visiting on a short trip? › Reply To: Which areas of the city have the most historic charm or ‘old San Francisco’ feel—worth visiting on a short trip?
North Beach is high on the list—it’s the old Italian neighborhood with a lot of local restaurants, coffee shops, and Beat Generation history. You’ve got Coit Tower and Washington Square Park right there, too. Chinatown is another great pick—one of the oldest and most authentic in the country.
If you’re into architecture and old Victorian homes, check out Pacific Heights or Alamo Square (where the Painted Ladies are). Even if you just walk around for 30 minutes, it gives you that unique San Francisco charm you won’t find in newer parts of the city like SoMa or Mission Bay.