Russian Hill NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

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Russian Hill’s claim to fame is Lombard Street, often called the world’s most crooked road (which isn't actually true!). Every day cars line up to drive down this one block stretch of twists and turns and tourists stand at the bottom taking pictures. But since this is the neighborhood’s only tourist attraction, Russian Hill is less of a destination and mostly a lovely residential neighborhood. It keeps to itself but is tucked between very popular attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square to the north, areas dense with shops, restaurants, and throngs of tourists gazing out at the beautiful Marin County coastline across the Bay.

Russian Hill is named for the seven Russian gravestones found at the top of the hill by gold rushers, although the Russian influence on the neighborhood has long passed. It also has the highest altitude of any neighborhood in San Francisco. The heights can either be daunting for less resilient pedestrians or cyclists, or exhilarating for those interested in getting a workout whenever they leave the house. Buses are pretty easy to come by and the surrounding neighborhoods are within walking distance (as long as you’re willing to get a calf workout).

Pockets of restaurants and shops give residents everything they need, especially on Polk and Hyde Streets towards the south of the neighborhood. Polk Street is crowded with boutiques, antique shops, trendy restaurants, and a few night spots. Some French influence has popped up around Polk and Green Streets, where you’ll find a café-boulangerie, a French antiques store, and a few gift and home décor shops.

Although it boasts some low-key nightlife, it’s primarily a quiet and clean neighborhood with an upscale vibe. You can find extravagant Victorian and Edwardian homes, along with a few high rise apartment buildings (some of the city’s first and finest). It’s a beautiful neighborhood in the middle of everything, dotted with parks with incredible views. It’s perfect for families and young couples who like to be active.

Russian Hill is bordered on the north by Fisherman's Wharf, on the east by North Beach, on the south by Nob Hill, and on the west by Pacific Heights.