Introduction

One of the most iconic and affluent cities in the USA, San Francisco is usually bathed in sunshine all year round, looking all the better for it. A mix of old and new sit side by side in this gorgeous coastal metropolis, from the bustling centre to the peaceful yet individualistic suburbs that share borders with wine country. San Francisco has numerous communities with roots in China, Italy, Latin America and other parts of the world, making it more cosmopolitan than other parts of the West Coast. It’s also a great place to catch a few rays, go surfing or learn a little about the region’s history in a variety of museums, galleries and visitor centres.

Ideal car

Important things to note

Highlights & Hotspots

The Palace of Fine Arts in the Presidio, a former military post, should be the first port of call for any art aficionado. The building itself is impressive, as are the views of the nearby Golden Gate Bridge, but the collections on show are equally breath-taking.
If you want to see something a little different, there are regular cruises to Alcatraz Prison, one of the most infamous penitentiaries in the country. You can learn about some of the most notorious criminals who served time there as well as look at the San Francisco Bay area from afar.
Alamo Square Park is the best place to see some of San Francisco’s Victorian architecture. Here, you can see the famous Painted Ladies row of houses as well as the San Francisco skyline, including some of the tallest buildings in the city such as the Transamerica Pyramid.
San Francisco’s LGBT Pride event is one of the biggest and most colourful in the world. Taking place every summer, it features live music, speeches from gay rights activists and family-friendly spaces such as the family garden.