Russian Hill

The Russian Hill district, in San Francisco

Russian Hill is an elegant perched district of San Francisco, famous for its steep slopes and its fine views. The San Francisco audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this chic sector, with a name inherited from the gold rush.

A chic district on the heights

Russian Hill is one of the most chic and residential districts of San Francisco, perched on a hill with steep slopes. Its name goes back to the gold rush: the new arrivals discovered there a small cemetery sheltering the tombs of Russian sailors, hence the name of the hill. Today, the district charms by its fine residences, its picturesque lanes, its stairs and its hidden gardens. From the top of its slopes, it offers superb views over the bay, downtown and the bridges.

What to see

Here you wander between the fine residences, the picturesque lanes, the stairs and the hidden gardens, with superb views over the bay and the bridges, in this perched chic district. Russian Hill, with a name inherited from the gold rush, houses the famous Lombard Street. It is a must-see stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Russian Hill district lies on a hill with steep slopes, in San Francisco, reachable on foot by climbs and stairs, and by public transport. It is a freely accessible public district; its residences and gardens are private. It is best to bring good shoes and to enjoy the views on a clear day.

Where does the name of Russian Hill come from?

From the gold rush, when the new arrivals discovered at the top of the hill a small cemetery sheltering the tombs of Russian sailors.

Where is Russian Hill?

On a hill of San Francisco, in California.