San Francisco is one of those places that is on almost everyone's bucket list.  A city of just over 830,000 people it has almost a village feel being made up of separate areas such as Fisherman's Wharf, Nob Hill, Chinatown and Haight Ashbury. San Francisco's population is cosmopolitan, and that reflects in the cuisine, it is a great place to visit if you are a foodie, as there are over 4000 eating establishments, from Michelin star restaurants to cafes and food trucks.

San Francisco is a city that appeals to people of all different cultures, tastes and budgets. You can spend a fortune San Fransico but also there are lots of fun, free and cheap things to do in San Francisco too.

Fisherman's Wharf


On our recent visit, we based ourselves in Fishermans' Wharf.  Fisherman's Wharf is home to Pier 39, a waterfront marketplace and one of the city's most popular attractions. From here you can see the famous sea lions that have taken up residence here, visit the San Francisco Dungeon, Ripleys Believe It Or Not and Madam Tussards as well as shop and eat in one of the many cafes and restaurants. 




We decided to visit Madam Tussauds. The last time I went was to the London branch many years ago, so I was amazed at how good the models are these days and pleasantly surprised with the interactive element - you can be a knife-wielding maniac from Psycho, jump onboard a bike with E.T or cuddle up to George Clooney on a sofa. Go late in the evening and you could have it almost to yourself like we did!

Fisherman's Wharf is a great area for food with a view. I can highly recommend Fog Harbour restaurant, which specialises in seafood. We had amazing cocktails overlooking the bay and my lobster was fabulous too.

While you are here what about trying the New England clam chowder served in a sour dough bread bowl? There are many places you can try this along Fisherman's Wharf, we ate ours at Pier Market. Doesn't it look delicious?

The tourist shops are fun and better than most in this type of area. Quality leather goods, sweet shops, T-shirts and Alcatraz souvenirs can be bought here.

Alcatraz




A visit to San Francisco is not complete without visiting Alcatraz. The notorious former prison set on an island in the middle of the bay, held some of the most famous prisoners in the area, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud - the 'Birdman of Alcatraz'. Although several tried no inmate ever made a successful escape from 'The Rock'. Closed in the 1960's it is a must do when you are in San Francisco.


To visit take the short ferry trip and while you are there do the free audio tour which is narrated by former guards and prisoners. A fantastic insight into life in this notorious prison. Whilst you are here, stop by the gift shop and get a replica key to a cell, or a copy of the inmate rules.



Chinatown




San Francisco has the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. We walked to it through a tunnel and on the other side was like a whole new world. Full of food markets, Asian shops, renowned restaurants and even a fortune cookie factory, a stop here is interesting and recommended.

Union Square



The city's shopping district, and a shoppers paradise, all your major shops are here such and it is home to Tiffany, Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy's.  We had brunch in The Cheesecake Factory on the top of Macy's and the food was tasty and well priced. The vast array of cheesecakes are a sight to behold but unfortunately, we didn't have room - maybe next time.

Cable Cars


The San Francisco cable car system is the world's last manually operated cable car system. Take a ride in a cable car up and down the steep roads. It's a fun way to visit the city. Do like the locals do and stand on the side whilst hanging on tightly! Journeys are $6 each or buy a City Pass which included other attractions and you get 7 days use of the Muni and cable car routes included. 

Lombard Street





This twisting road has to be seen to be believed. It is famous for its eight hairpin turns and is said to be the most crooked street in the World and is a must see when you visit the city. It was designed like this in the 1920s to allow traffic to descend the steep incline safely.

The Golden Gate Bridge

This iconic bridge, one of the most famous in the World, is a must-see in San Francisco. A pedestrian walkway allows you to cross on foot and a bicycle route also allows you to cross on a bike if you like. Often shrouded in fog it is said the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most photographed things on Earth.




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