San Francisco - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips
Known as one of the more liberal and inclusive communities in the US as a whole, San Francisco is a conglomeration of different ethnicities, cultures and lifestyles. Sat on a square of only 11km by 11km, San Francisco is much smaller than many travellers expect. However, this little city has a huge reputation for the myriad of offerings to explore.
Travel Highlights
- Whether you gawp up at it from one of the many viewing points, cycle or hike or even drive across it, San Francisco’s art deco Golden Gate Bridge is a landmark you cannot and should not miss.
- Built in 1873, the cable cars of San Francisco are an integral part of the public transport system and you haven’t experienced San Fran until you’ve ridden one.
- Explore the oldest Chinatown in the US.
- Experience the unique San Francisco nightlife. Enjoy live jazz, dance to Latin or even try some ‘swing.’
- The California Academy of Sciences is home to a natural history museum, an aquarium and planetarium and, a four-story rainforest.
- Hike to the top of Grand View Park, or ‘Turtle Hill’ as locals call it, for some of the best views of the city.
- Listen to the Wave Organ, a wave powered musical instrument.
- Rent a rowboat at Golden Gate Park.
- San Francisco is full of world-class, yet affordable, restaurants. Make sure you try!
Travel Tips
- A Clipper Card is the best way to use public transportation. There’s also the Citypass and Go card.
- San Francisco can actually be quite chilly in summer, with October and May being sunnier months. Layering is a good idea.
- If you want to visit Alcatraz, make sure you book online at least two weeks in advance.
- Some cable car stops are known for notoriously long lines. If you walk a little way to the next stop, you’ll hop on quicker.
- 7 main hills and a lot of walking call for comfortable shoes!
