San Francisco may be modest (less than 50 square miles) in comparison to the behemoth. That is New York City (almost 300), yet it has an extensive list of must-see sites. If you’ve never visited San Francisco before, you’re in for a treat. Book a cheap flight ticket to San Francisco.
The village by the Bay offers it all: hiking, biking, dining, and drinking. Not forgetting several of the best burritos in the entire nation. And, because this is America’s most liberal city, feel free to dress, say, and act any way you like. Never be humiliated in San Francisco.
When to Visit San Francisco
April-May and September-October are the best seasons for visiting San Francisco.
Summer is usually gloomy and cold. June Gloom is a real thing. Don’t even consider going swimming during the “summer”. But, honestly, any moment of the year is an excellent time to make the trip. Last January, it was 70 degrees, and the next day (March 2), it was 74. It has been raining for a few days now, following several years of dryness. Unforeseeable, to say something.
If it’s cloudy or foggy in one region, go somewhere else where it may be bright and sunny. #microclimates are real. Summers arrive late here, and Autumn often seems like summer. If you’re disappointed about the weather. Go about 30 minutes south to the Peninsula and you could be rewarded with a clear sky.
What to do on your first time in San Francisco
Twin Peaks
One of my favorite vistas of the entire Bay Area! Make sure to drive there on a clear day, as you won’t be able to see anything during San Francisco’s heavy fog. Come before dusk for a beautiful light show over the entire city. Make sure to pack a jacket or layers because it is windy up here.
It may be crowded (especially on warm Indian summer nights. Yep, summer comes late here), but take a seat, close your eyes for a moment, then open and enjoy your vantage position. Looking for a semi-romantic spot? This is it.
LOMBARD STREET
They don’t call it the world’s crookedest street for nothing! Those eight hairpin twists are a handful! Fun fact: it’s not. Vermont Street in San Francisco gets the honor. Visitors prefer Lombard because it is in concrete rather than the gorgeous red brick. That makes up Lombard Street, and it only has seven twists.
Prepare to arrive early, as this is a popular tourist destination that can become busy after 10 a.m. on weekends. I recommend parking on a side street above, admiring the views, and descending the stepped street (on a separate path, you’ll notice it). Exploring for a while, and then returning up. I assure you your calves will suffer for a few days thereafter, but that is San Francisco. #thosehillsthough! It is a one-way roadway (downhill).
ALCATRAZ ISLAND
This legendary jail, where Al Capone was imprisoned, has been converted into a tourist destination with audio tours. You will board a swift ferry to the island, which is located in San Francisco Bay more than a mile from the peninsula. Again, wrap up because the ferry ride can be chilly.
Some say the tour is eerie at night, but I’ve heard the vistas during the day are magnificent. I went on a rainy, foggy night, which added to the experience. Take your pick; both night and day appear to be beautiful. Tours fill up quickly, so make your bookings roughly two weeks in advance.
GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE AND CHRISSY FIELD
The building in question is a San Francisco monument that should not be overlooked. Consider walking along Chrissy Field for my favorite views of the iconic rust-colored bridge, which is not golden. Take the Golden Gate Bridge trail to the entrance to the Golden Gate Bridge, which you can walk across for free. Understand that the span is around 2 miles long (in either direction), so prepare accordingly.
If you’ve got a few days in San Francisco and wish to visit as many sights as feasible. I propose walking to the first trough and turning around. Take a selfie, but please be cautious and watch out for cyclists!
The bridge provides a clear view of Alcatraz Island, the sandy beaches, and the northern areas of the town. Take your camera; you won’t want to miss these photos.
Explore Golden Gate Park
San Francisco’s own “Central Park,” complete with a bison herd and skating ladies. True tale. While not as huge, there is still much to see and do. Museums include the de Young Fine Arts Museum and the California Academy of Sciences. The Botanical Garden, Japanese Tea Garden, and Conservatory of Flowers are all worthwhile a quick stop.
If museums and plants aren’t your thing (although the ones here are quite fascinating!). When friends came to browse, we organized a Segway tour. On two wheels, we had the opportunity to view much more of the park than we could on foot. It requires some time to adjust, but once done, it’s a lot of fun!
FISHERMAN’S WHARF AREA
Ghirardelli’s is a must-see during every trip to San Francisco. Eat a chocolate fudge sundae with hot chocolate (just so you can say you did). Consider having a light breakfast and lunch that day.
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Boudin is around the street, and it’s well worth a visit to try their famed sourdough bread. Do not miss the sea lions at Pier 39. But, it is quite touristy here (think selfie sticks and swarms of people), so don’t say I didn’t tell you. You do not spend all of your vacation here; this is not the authentic San Francisco. If you have never been there before, it’s a fantastic way to kill a day. Click on Book a cheap flight ticket to San Francisco.