Though it remains true that there are certain regions of San Francisco that are a bit on the pricey side, a trip to the Bay Area doesn’t need put a dent in your wallet.  There are plenty of budget-friendly alternatives while on a San Francisco tour, with cheap options for transportation, dining, shopping, and entertainment.  San Francisco is an eclectic city, known for its many different districts which each hold a unique history and culture.  Fortunately for you, some of these districts at better tailored to those working with a smaller budget.  Cities like Mission, Castro, and Haight Ashbury all have character and appeal, but without the higher price tags of some other San Francisco cities. 

Your trip to San Francisco doesn’t need to plagued with expensive cab fees like other big cities.  Take the MUNI, the city’s line of buses and cable cars that can be as affordable as $2.00 for a ticket.  Or travel like a true San Francisco native by boarding the BART, the subway system which will run you about $3.50 each way.  Hop on to either one of these options and venture to the Mission district or the famous Chinatown for a meal that’s both delicious and budget-friendly. Also, if your San Francisco tour happens to be during the weekday, keep an eye out for eateries that offer Happy Hour deals, which can save you loads on a nice meal.   If you’re interested in doing some shopping but the big boutiques and department stores of Union Square don’t appeal to you, go for the unique streets of Haight Ashbury where you’ll get to experience San Francisco’s eclectic hippie culture.  Another tip for those traveling to the Bay Area during the week, the California Academy of Sciences at the Golden Gate Park transforms into a lounge at night, and admission on Thursday evenings are $12.00, as opposed to the usual $29.95.  Another weekday deal is admission to the Japanese Tea Garden, also at the Golden Gate Park, which is free before 10 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.