Lombard Street

Lombard Street's one-block stretch on Russian Hill is billed as the crookedest street in the world, with eight tight switchbacks descending a steep slope lined with flower beds. It is free to walk down the pedestrian stairs or drive the curves, and the view toward Coit Tower and the bay is lovely. It is extremely touristy and the driving queue can back up for a long time, so walking is usually the better experience, and remember it is a real residential street.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth the trip?

As a quick stop paired with the cable car, North Beach, or Coit Tower, sure. As a standalone destination you travel across the city for, it's underwhelming. Set expectations accordingly and fold it into a Russian Hill or North Beach wander.

Is it free to visit Lombard Street?

Yes. It's a public street, free to walk down the pedestrian stairs on either side or drive down the one-way curves. There's no ticket or gate. The only 'cost' is the time you'll spend waiting in the car queue on busy days.

When is it least crowded?

Early morning, before the tour buses and car lines build up. Late afternoon can work too but shadows fall across the hill and crowds swell. Weekdays beat weekends. If you want a clean photo, be there not long after sunrise.

Is it actually the crookedest street in the world?

Not really, and not even in San Francisco. Vermont Street in Potrero Hill is steeper and more crooked. Lombard is the famous, photogenic one thanks to its flowers and setting, but the 'crookedest' label is more marketing than fact.

Can I drive down the crooked part?

Yes, but only eastbound (downhill) and expect a long line of cars on weekends and summer days, sometimes 20-plus minutes. It's a slow crawl through eight tight turns. Many locals think walking down the side stairs is more enjoyable anyway.

Where's the best photo spot?

From the bottom at Leavenworth Street looking up captures the full switchback with the flowers. From the top you get the view down toward Coit Tower and the bay. Early morning gives you softer light and far fewer people in the frame.

Can I walk down instead of drive?

Yes, and it's the better move for many. Pedestrian staircases run along both sides of the curvy block, letting you take your time, enjoy the gardens, and photograph freely without sitting in a car line. Wear decent shoes; it's steep.

How do I get there on transit?

The Powell-Hyde cable car stops right at the top at Hyde and Lombard, which is the easy way to arrive and skip the brutal uphill walk. The 30-Stockton bus stops in North Beach below, leaving you a steep climb up.

Nearby in Ask San Francisco

• Buena Vista CafeBar0.44 km · 6 min walk
• Cartoon Art MuseumMuseum0.54 km · 7 min walk
• Aquatic Park BeachBeach0.64 km · 8 min walk
• Fisherman's WharfNeighborhood0.66 km · 8 min walk
• North BeachNeighborhood0.76 km · 10 min walk