San Francisco has been the first stop of our west coast road trip and we immediately fell for it. It’s really a unique city and here you can find a complete guide what you shouldn’t miss when in San Francisco.
Minimum stay: 3-4 days
Best time to visit: May – October
Daily Budget: $$$ 70-100$
Rental car needed: no
Hotel: Hotel North Beach (300$ for 3 nights)
+ good location, quite cheap for San Francisco
- tiny rooms, shared bathrooms
1. Golden Gate Bridge
This red monster of steel is San Francisco’s landmark and no visit to SF will be complete without a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge. As it is hidden in the fog most of the time, it requires some patience or luck to see it in its full beauty. However, you can either cross it on a rental bike, or just take a bus to the different view points or most popular photo spots. Our favourite spots to watch the bridge were Crissy Fields Beach, Battery Spencer and Baker Beach.
PS: bring a jacket, it is always windy near the ocean and can become quite breezy, even in July & August!
2. Alcatraz
Having been the home of famous inmates like Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly or Roy Gardner, Alcatraz is probably the most popular prison in the world. With its unique location on a rocky island just a few kilometres off the shore of San Francisco, it was well-known for its rough conditions, until it was closed down in 1963. Nowadays you can visit the island by boat, and walk around the original cell blocks and admire the view of San Francisco’s skyline from the water. Attention! There is only one agency whose boat tour will let you enter the island – the others all just circle it by boat. Book your tickets 2-3 months in advance only via THIS website.
PS: there is no restaurant on the island, so make sure you bring some snacks J
3. Painted Ladies/ Alamo Square
Since Full House, a famous US series broadcasted in the 1980s and 90s starring the Olsen Twins, these Victorian buildings have become a must-see in San Francisco. Located in the hills at Alamo Square, you will find the 5 famous houses known as the Postcard Row. Next to these houses many events are held during the weekends, as for example open air cinema etc.
4. Fisherman's Wharf & Pier 39
These two places are located right next to each other and there is always something to see. At Fisherman’s Wharf you will find some of the best seafood restaurants, whereas at Pier 39 is home to many street artists, restaurants of all kinds and several souvenir shops. AND of course: Pier 39 is also famous for its seals who are always up for some entertainment. However, food and drinks are quite pricey at this place, as in every tourist hot spot.
5. Union Square
If shopping belongs to your favourite free-time activities, Union Square is your place. All kinds of shops and the huge Westfield shopping mall are located along Market Street. And if you want to take a break from shopping, there are also lots of restaurants around, and in the small park next to the famous Apple Store you will find some pretty nice photo spots.
6. Cable Cars
San Francisco is home to the oldest cable cars in the United States, and the best thing is – they are still in use. Although the ride can be quite rickety and jerky, it’s still a must-do in San Francisco. However, make sure that you don’t leave the cable car until the end of the line – seeing how the train conductors will turn around the cable cars with pure muscle strength is also a highlight! One of these “turning points” is located right across Union Square and will take you to Chinatown.
7. Chinatown
For all the people who love some Chinese dumplings, sweet-sour chicken or spring rolls, Chinatown will be your place. Located in the east of San Francisco, it isn’t only the oldest Chinatown in North America, but also one of the largest Chinese enclaves outside Asia. There are numerous restaurants and the streets are lined with the typical Chinese lanterns. Make sure to visit Dragon Gate, the south entrance to Chinatown, located at the intersection of Bush Street and Grant Avenue.
8. Lombard Street
Lombard Street is definitely the most famous street of San Francisco. Why? Because it’s the curviest street in the city. Lined with tons of flowers, you can watch people driving down the 8 hairpin turns or even try it yourself. It’s not really long, but if you are in San Francisco, you have to see this :D!
9. Beaches
Even if San Francisco is quite breezy and cool, a visit to one or more of its beaches is a must. From Baker Beach and Crissy Fields Beach you will have a wonderful view of the Golden Gate bridge. If you have a rental car, head over to the other side of the bridge and visit Muir Beach – it’s really quiet in comparison to the city beaches.
10. Presidio Park
Not far from the Palace of Fine Arts, a little bit up the hill, you will find a huge park. This is Presidio Park and you will find lush greens, cute cafés and many outdoor fitness groups. It’s a nice place to have a break and to just lie down in the grass for some moments. However, one part of the park is really special – it is called “lover’s lane” and there is a twisted path in between huge trees – really worth a visit!
READ MORE ABOUT OUR WESTCOAST ROAD TRIP:
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