San Francisco holidays

San Francisco is buzzing with energy and brimming with iconic sights that’ll have you snapping pics at every turn! Whether you’re into stunning views, quirky neighbourhoods, or historical landmarks, San Francisco is the place to be. Here’s a rundown of the best things to do in this fabulous city:

1. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
Let’s kick things off with the most iconic sight in San Francisco – the Golden Gate Bridge! Take a walk, bike ride, or even a scenic drive across this jaw-dropping landmark. Don’t forget to snap a few pics from Crissy Field or Baker Beach for that perfect shot of the bridge against the sky!

2. Explore Alcatraz Island
If you want a slice of history with a side of adventure, make sure to visit Alcatraz Island. Hop on a ferry, and head over to the infamous former prison for an immersive tour that’s full of fascinating stories. The views of the city and the bay from here are pretty amazing, too!

3. Wander Around Fisherman’s Wharf
You can’t miss Fisherman’s Wharf when you’re in San Francisco! This lively spot is packed with seafood stalls, quirky shops, and a sea lion colony at Pier 39. And if you’re hungry, grab a bowl of that famous clam chowder in a bread bowl – it’s a total must-try!

4. Take a Cable Car Ride
Hop on one of the iconic San Francisco cable cars for a ride up and down the city’s steep hills. You’ll get an awesome view of the city’s charming neighbourhoods, and the rattle and roll of the car makes it a fun, authentic experience!

5. Explore Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, and trust us – it’s much bigger than you think! From gardens to museums like the California Academy of Sciences, there’s plenty to see. You can even rent a bike to explore at your own pace.

6. Visit the Painted Ladies
For an Instagram-worthy moment, head to Alamo Square to see the Painted Ladies – those colourful Victorian houses with the city skyline in the background. It’s one of San Francisco’s most famous views and a great spot for photos.

7. Walk Through Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is buzzing with life, full of delicious smells, vibrant markets, and tempting eateries. It’s the perfect place to try authentic dim sum, shop for quirky gifts, and get lost in the narrow, lively streets!

8. See the View from Twin Peaks
Want the best view of San Francisco? Head up to Twin Peaks! You’ll get a panoramic view of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the bay – and it's especially stunning at sunset.

9. Check Out the Ferry Building Marketplace
Foodies, get ready! The Ferry Building Marketplace is full of delicious local produce, artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, and gourmet goodies. It’s the perfect place to pick up a tasty bite or some unique souvenirs.

10. Take a Day Trip to Muir Woods
If you’re craving a bit of nature, a short drive from the city will take you to Muir Woods National Monument, home to towering redwood trees that are thousands of years old. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city hustle, and the perfect spot to recharge.

San Francisco is a food lover’s dream come true! Whether you're craving fresh seafood, authentic Italian, or farm-to-table delights, this city is packed with mouth-watering options that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Here are the best places to eat in San Francisco:

1. Fisherman’s Wharf – Fresh Seafood Galore
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a stop at Fisherman’s Wharf. Grab a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery or indulge in a plate of fresh Dungeness crab at one of the many seafood stalls. The Pier 39 area is perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze while sampling some of the best seafood in the city.

2. The Ferry Building Marketplace – A Foodie’s Paradise
If you love local produce, artisanal cheese, and gourmet treats, The Ferry Building Marketplace is the place to be. From the iconic Cowgirl Creamery to Hog Island Oyster Co., you'll find delicious food, drink, and unique snacks from local vendors. It’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to dive into the local food scene.

3. Mission District – Tacos, Burritos, and More
The Mission District is the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Mexican food scene. Head to La Taqueria for the city’s famous Mission-style burritos or grab a delicious taco at El Farolito. Don’t forget to try a fresh margarita at one of the area’s lively Mexican bars!

4. Chinatown – Authentic Flavours and Delicious Dim Sum
San Francisco’s Chinatown is brimming with food spots serving authentic Chinese cuisine. For a traditional dim sum experience, head to Yank Sing or Dumpling Alley. Whether you're grabbing some dumplings, noodles, or enjoying a hearty bowl of wonton soup, Chinatown has it all.

5. North Beach – Italian Delights
Craving some Italian? North Beach is San Francisco’s Little Italy, offering everything from pizza to pasta. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana is a local favourite for wood-fired pies, while Trattoria Contadina serves up delicious pasta dishes. Don’t forget to grab a cannoli or a sfogliatella for dessert!

6. Tartine Bakery – Sweet Treats and Savoury Bakes
For some of the best pastries in the city, make your way to Tartine Bakery in the Mission District. From buttery croissants to freshly baked sourdough bread, every bite is a piece of heaven. If you’re after something sweet, their lemon cream tarts are a must-try!

7. Zuni Café – Classic Californian Cuisine
For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Zuni Café. This beloved spot is famous for its roast chicken and caesar salad, both of which have become iconic dishes in the city’s dining scene. Located in the Civic Centre, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

8. The Slanted Door – Modern Vietnamese Flavours
For a more contemporary experience, check out The Slanted Door in the Ferry Building. This trendy spot serves up modern Vietnamese cuisine with a Californian twist. Try their shaking beef or spring rolls for an explosion of flavours you won’t forget.

9. Dolores Park – Picnic with a View
Looking for a laid-back lunch with a view? Head to Dolores Park, where you can grab some food from nearby eateries like Bi-Rite Creamery or Mission Picnic and enjoy a relaxed picnic while soaking in panoramic views of the city skyline.

10. Mission Chinese Food – For a Twist on Traditional
If you're in the mood for something out of the ordinary, check out Mission Chinese Food in the Mission District. Known for its quirky twist on traditional Chinese flavours, dishes like kung pao pastrami and thrice-cooked bacon will leave you craving more.

San Francisco is a city best explored from behind the wheel, offering breathtaking views and iconic landmarks along its scenic roads. From twisting coastal highways to charming city streets, here are the best routes to drive in San Francisco for an unforgettable adventure.

1. The Golden Gate Bridge – Iconic Views All the Way
No trip to San Francisco is complete without driving across the Golden Gate Bridge. Start your journey from the San Francisco side and take in panoramic views of the bay, the city skyline, and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you drive over or pull over at one of the many viewpoints, this is the ultimate route for a picture-perfect start to your San Francisco adventure.

2. Lombard Street – The Crooked Road
For a fun and quirky drive, head to Lombard Street, famously known as the “crookedest street in the world.” This unique, hairpin-turn road takes you down the hills of the Nob Hill neighbourhood. It's a must-see for anyone visiting San Francisco, with lush gardens lining the street and stunning views at the top. Take it slow and enjoy the ride!

3. The Pacific Coast Highway – Coastal Beauty at Its Best
If you're up for a scenic road trip, take a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1). This stunning route stretches along the California coastline, offering dramatic views of the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and sparkling waters. Start your journey south from the city and enjoy the rugged beauty of Big Sur or head north for even more coastal beauty in places like Muir Woods National Monument.

4. The Embarcadero – Waterfront Views and Iconic Landmarks
The Embarcadero is the perfect route to get a feel for San Francisco’s vibrant waterfront. Starting from the Ferry Building, you’ll pass by Pier 39, AT&T Park, and end up at the Golden Gate Bridge. This drive gives you a fantastic view of the bay, perfect for a day in the city, with plenty of places to stop for food, photos, and shopping.

5. Twin Peaks – Stunning Panoramic Views
If you want to get a bird’s eye view of San Francisco, drive up to Twin Peaks. The winding roads lead you to one of the highest points in the city, where you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of the city and beyond. It’s the perfect spot for a break during your exploration and a fantastic photo opportunity.

6. The Marin Headlands – Breathtaking Coastal Views
Drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and into the Marin Headlands for some of the best viewpoints of San Francisco. This route offers sweeping views of the bridge, the bay, and the surrounding coast. It’s ideal for a leisurely drive, with plenty of opportunities for a picnic, a hike, or simply soaking in the scenery.

7. Treasure Island – A Hidden Gem
If you’re after a more off-the-beaten-path route, head to Treasure Island. Located in the bay between San Francisco and Oakland, this tiny island offers a quieter, less-crowded experience. The drive offers beautiful views of both the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge, making it a perfect detour for a peaceful escape with fantastic photo spots.

8. Crissy Field – A Scenic Coastal Drive
For a more relaxed drive with scenic waterfront views, head to Crissy Field. This route takes you along the coast and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco skyline, and Alcatraz Island. Along the way, you can pull over and enjoy the beach or visit Crissy Field Centre, which is a great spot to learn more about the area.

Absolutely! San Francisco is a brilliant holiday destination for families, packed with adventure, curiosity, and those unforgettable moments that make travel so magical, especially when you’ve got little ones in tow.

From iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge to hands-on fun at places like the Exploratorium and California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco is a city that knows how to keep all ages entertained. Got mini thrill-seekers in the group? Hop on a cable car for a ride through the city's famous hilly streets, or take a ferry out to Alcatraz Island for a dash of history with a side of excitement.

The city is full of family-friendly green spaces too—Golden Gate Park is a firm favourite, with playgrounds, picnic spots, and even paddle boats. Fancy a beach day? Head to Crissy Field for sandcastle-building with epic views of the bridge.

And when tummies start to rumble, there’s no shortage of family-friendly places to eat—think fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, giant slices of pizza in North Beach, or sweet treats from Ghirardelli Square.

If you’re dreaming of cable cars, sea breeze, and golden sunsets over the bay, the best time to visit San Francisco is from September to November. Surprised? Most people think summer’s the sweet spot, but here’s the local secret: autumn in San Fran is pure magic.

During these months, the city enjoys its warmest, sunniest weather, with fewer crowds and clearer skies—perfect for strolling across the Golden Gate Bridge or enjoying an al fresco lunch at the Ferry Building Marketplace. And yes, you can still wear your sunglasses (but bring a jacket—this is SF, after all).

Spring (March to May) is another lovely time to visit, with blooming flowers in Golden Gate Park and a calendar full of festivals and outdoor events. It’s ideal if you like your city breaks with a bit of colour and culture.

Summer (June to August) may sound tempting, but pack layers! Thanks to the famous coastal fog—affectionately known as "Karl"—it can be chillier than expected. That said, it’s still a vibrant time to visit, especially with all the family-friendly attractions and buzzing waterfront vibes.

San Francisco is one of those cities that’s practically made for sightseeing—where every turn reveals something iconic, quirky, or just plain breathtaking. From postcard-perfect views to hidden gems, here are the must-see spots that belong on every traveller’s San Francisco bucket list.

1. Golden Gate Bridge
It’s the city’s most famous landmark for a reason. Whether you walk, cycle, or drive across it, the Golden Gate Bridge delivers jaw-dropping views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. Head to Battery Spencer or Crissy Field for the ultimate photo op.

2. Alcatraz Island
Take a ferry across the bay and step into history at the infamous Alcatraz Island. The audio tour of the former prison is fascinating (and surprisingly atmospheric), with stories of daring escapes and notorious inmates. Book ahead—it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions.

3. Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
This lively waterfront area is packed with family-friendly fun. Watch sea lions laze around on the docks, grab a sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder, or hop on a bay cruise for scenic views of the skyline and bridges.

4. Lombard Street
Known as the “crookedest street in the world,” this zig-zagging, flower-lined stretch is pure San Francisco. Drive it if you’re feeling brave—or walk down for the views and quirky charm.

5. Chinatown
The oldest Chinatown in North America is a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and tastes. Wander under the Dragon Gate, shop for souvenirs, and tuck into dim sum or Chinese pastries at a traditional bakery.

6. Painted Ladies & Alamo Square
Those pastel Victorian houses with the city skyline in the background? Yep, that’s the famous view from Alamo Square. It’s pure Instagram gold, especially at sunset.

7. Twin Peaks
If you want a 360° view of San Francisco, head to Twin Peaks. It’s the highest point in the city and the perfect spot to watch the fog roll in (or out) over the bay.

8. Golden Gate Park
Bigger than Central Park and brimming with attractions, Golden Gate Park is a haven of green space. Think paddle boats, bison paddocks, the Japanese Tea Garden, and world-class museums like the de Young.

9. Haight-Ashbury
Channel your inner flower child in this historic hippie neighbourhood. It’s colourful, eclectic, and full of vintage shops, record stores, and groovy murals—a real slice of 1960s counterculture.

10. The Ferry Building Marketplace
For a taste of local flavour, head to the Ferry Building. This foodie haven is packed with artisan stalls, farm-fresh produce, and waterfront views. Grab a coffee, soak up the atmosphere, and watch the ferries cruise by.