Beautiful San Francisco calls everyone from parents with young children to seniors who wish to retire. It’s a coastal city that provides plenty of sunny weather all year round. For anyone living in the western half of the continent, it’s also a great way to escape for a beautiful holiday without travelling too far. For those travelling in from international locations, it’s a multicultural city with plenty of excitement and lots of nightlife.
Where to Stay
Thankfully, San Francisco is enough of a tourist destination that it has plenty of hotels. San Francisco hotels come in all shapes and sizes, from the expensive resorts with inclusive spa services to cheaper hostels designed to support backpackers and those on a budget. It’s best to use online services to get a bird’s eye view of what’s available. The city is also home to several holiday rental companies that specialise in renting out condos and apartments if you plan to stay for a while. Also check with hotel chains directly for special discounts and sales where possible.
If you’re interested in having a high-end experience, look for four and five star hotels. Check out the following to get you started:
The Ritz-Carleton San Francisco
Four Seasons San Francisco
Cavello Point
The Fairmont San Francisco
InterContinental San Francisco
What to Do
While you’re in San Francisco, there are plenty of fun things to do and see. This is a city that’s made for people who tow the line between the adventurous and the glamorous. Even the Golden Gate Bridge is a sight to behold in the city. Also worth seeing are all of the following areas:
Fisherman’s Wharf
Alcatraz Island
Golden Gate Park
Chinatown
Union Square
Pier 39
The Exploratorium
Coit Tower
The Aquarium of the Bay
Ghirardelli Square
The Museum of Modern Art
The Japanese Tea Gardens
The Sutro Baths
To see all of these on your holiday, plan to stay for at least seven days. Although the city isn’t geographically large, there is so much to do that you’ll inevitably find it easier to spend at least two weeks to wander around.
The 10 Essential Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss
San Francisco is home to some of the most popular restaurants in the United States. It’s close enough to Los Angeles and Hollywood that some very famous chefs have restaurants in the area, but it’s small enough that there are plenty of nooks and crannies to explore for a more low-key experience. Don’t miss these great restaurants when you visit:
Bar Tartine
Bar Tartine is one of the higher-end restaurants in the mission district. Itsdistinctive design and gourmet food calls people from all across the country. Book reservations well in advance when possible.
Frances
With a combination of French and American gourmet, Chef Melissa Perello has created one of the most popular neighbourhood eateries in San Francisco. Despite its popularity, it’s a laid-back location that’s ideal for tucking away from the hustle and bustle.
ICHI Sushi
ICHI Sushi has won many different awards, time and time again, for its fresh and brilliantly prepared sushi dishes. It’s fairly expensive, but well worth the extra money for taste alone. This is a true sushi experience.
Nopalito
Nopalito is San Francisco’s most famous Mexican restaurant. They serve truly authentic Mexican, with excellent carne asada and totopos. It’s surprisingly affordable, too.
Super Duper Burgers
With several awards for “best burgers” under their belt, Super Duper Burgers is a little tucked away burger shop that will absolutely enchant you. It’s great for grabbing a burger to go without visiting a chain restaurant.
Mission Chinese
Easily the best Chinese restaurant in San Francisco, Mission Chinese provides delicious authentic Chinese food in a location that’s tastefully decorated. It’s supremely affordable, but highly popular due to its high quality.
