San Francisco’s outstandingly beautiful location on a ripple of hills overlooking the bay is matched by its liberal, individualistic outlook. It is a popular international tourist destination renowned for its steep rolling hills, a mix of Victorian and modern architecture and a cosmopolitan population that is highly diverse. The compact city centre can be explored on foot or with the help of the famous cable cars, bustling Chinatown, the shops of Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, wealthy Nob Hill, North Beach, the city’s restaurants, theatres, art galleries and museums are all within easy reach.

Places of interest
Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Union Square, Sausalito, Bay Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge and Coit Tower. Excursion to Alcatraz

For the family
Cable car, California Academy of Sciences, Exploratorium, Pacific Bell Park, San Francisco Zoo, Golden Gate Park and the Bay Area

Best Buys
Arts and crafts, souvenirs, hand-painted ceramics, jewellery and watches, antiques available at the waterfront, flea markets, Chinatown, Richmond & Sunset District, Japan town, North Beach, Union Square, Hayes Valley, Embarcadero Center and South of Market

Out and about
Restaurants, cafés, bars, live music, concerts, dance clubs, cinema, theatre, classical music and opera, ballet and cable cars

Sporting attractions
Swimming, hiking, camping, tennis and golf