First trip to California: 12 tips that save you time
Weather, tipping, taxes, distances and safety: the essentials nobody tells you before a first visit.
After thousands of travellers on board, the same questions come up on almost every trip. Here are the short answers.
Weather and clothing
San Francisco has a cold, windy summer: 60-68°F with fog. Napa, on the same day, can pass 90°F. Dress in layers and always carry a windbreaker.
Money day to day
- An 18-20% tip in restaurants is expected, not optional.
- Sales tax is not included in the shelf price.
- Cards are accepted almost everywhere; cash is rare.
Distances
California is bigger than it looks. San Francisco to Los Angeles is 6 hours via I-5 and 10 hours via Highway 1. Yosemite is 4 to 5 hours. Do not stack two distant destinations in one day.
Documents and connectivity
Most European visitors need an ESTA; check your own visa requirements early. An eSIM bought before departure gives you data the minute you land.
Safety
Never leave anything visible inside a car, especially in San Francisco and at scenic-overlook car parks. Bags in the boot before you arrive, not after.
Parking
It is the biggest hidden cost of the trip: $40-70 a day at San Francisco hotels. A chauffeur often costs less than renting a car for city days.
Book the essentials early
Alcatraz, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Napa tastings and Yosemite entry reservations sell out weeks ahead.
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