Bright lights and the big city! No it’s not New York, London or Tokyo: welcome to San Francisco. Home to generations of hippies turned hipsters and all things fabled and fabulous, San Francisco is one city that should be on every genuine adventurer’s wish list.
San Francisco is the cultural and financial hub of Northern California, characterised by its rich and diverse neighbourhoods set on a large peninsula. The city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world with good reason. There are plenty of sights and sounds to enjoy, from the world famous Golden Gate Bridge to the dizzying and dazzling streets of Chinatown.
Things to do
The Union Square, an iconic plaza now filled with high-end retailers forms the bustling shopping district. It was once, however, the spot of protest and rallies held over 150 years ago during times of civil unrest.
Whilst it might be a gloomy tourist attraction, Alcatraz is another ‘must’ for holidaymakers. This is America’s first military prison with maximum security and rests on a rocky island in disputed waters, just off the cost of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Those looking for something a bit more upbeat to immerse themselves in whilst visiting the city might want to explore the Golden Gate Park. The park is a great way to unwind, enjoy a picnic and let your inner ‘big kid’ loose in the playgrounds.
Where to eat
Visiting San Francisco means you will never be short of food choices. ‘Escape from New York Pizza’ has been crowned as one of the best pizza joints in the city. The family friendly restaurant is cheap and cheerful, the perfect way to sample one of the most popular dishes in the country. The Swan Oyster Depot is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering freshly caught food and superb ocean views.
Cost
It is worth noting that as a hotspot for tourists and one of the most populous cities in the United States of America, San Francisco is not cheap. But, being such a liberal city there are a number of things you can do for free, such as enjoying the natural beauty, street festivals, gallery openings and more. You can, however, save on car hire as the city offers efficient transport links and most residents use public transport. You can sort out your travel money in advance with Asda Money.
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