Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and enter the city of culinary delights, arts, culture and glitter. Surrounded by water on three sides, San Francisco can sometimes feel like an island. Although it has a relatively small geographical size of just 49 square miles, there is so much to do and experience in this eclectic city.
The number one sight to see in San Francisco is of course the Golden Gate Bridge. As the most famous bridge in the world and one of the most photographed things on Earth, the bridge spans 1.7 miles with approximately 120,000 cars driving across it each day. In stark contrast to the impressive concrete Golden Gate Bridge that connects Marin to San Francisco, the lush Golden Gate Park is a reminder of the Summer of Love. The world’s largest developed park is home to hugging hippies, drum circles, the California Academy of Sciences and the Conservatory of Flowers. The park is also extremely kid-friendly with a carousel, playgrounds, miniature trees and paddle boats.
The best way to tackle San Francisco’s steep slopes is to board a cable car which will provide you with spectacular views of the city’s renowned hills and neighbourhoods. With only three routes and affordable prices, you just can’t miss this popular San Francisco attraction.
Located just a short ferry ride from Pier 43 lies Alcatraz, home to some of the United States’ most notorious criminals. Take a recorded tour off the cells and explore the grounds of this fascinating prison. A short walk from Pier 43 you will find Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf, the best place to watch silly California sea lions bathing in the sun and a perfect spot to dine on freshly caught crab. From here you can walk to a number of popular attractions such as the Guinness Museum of World Records, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, the Wax Museum and two shopping areas - The Anchorage and The Cannery. For some more serious shopping, head to Union Square, where you’ll find the largest Bloomingdale’s outside of New York as well as the most exclusive designer boutiques.
San Francisco boasts some of the best restaurants in America using the finest and freshest ingredients. Choose from almost any international cuisine or try some modern “fusion” dishes combining different international influences. For dining outside of the Bay area, drive to the world-renowned wine region of Napa Valley, a haven for food and wine lovers where you can sample farm fresh foods and award-winning wines.
Bordered by rolling hills of vineyards and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, the Bay area is California’s most admired golf region. Practice your swing with mountains as your backdrop and a challenging designer course at your toes.