San Francisco
Introduction
San Francisco is the top city break destination on the west coast of the USA. The Bay Area has numerous attractions and with San Fran at the hub of the area you can be assured there is much to keep you entertained.
Getting there
Air: San Francisco International (SFO) is located 15kms south of the city. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system connects you with the city. Another possible airport to arrive at is Oakland International (OAK) in the East Bay Area. Oakland airport is more commonly used by the budget airlines.
For flights to San Francisco click Expedia.co.uk for great flight deals.
Rail: Amtrak has services from San Fran to Chicago (connecting to east coast) as well as up and down the west coast to Los Angeles, Portland and Seattle.
Bus: Greyhound is the main bus service provider although competition is increasing. Services leave NYC for all over the USA and Canada.
Accommodation
San Francisco has a wide range of tourist accommodation to suit all budgets. Check out Hotels in San Francisco from Expedia.
Alternatively look at Hotels.com City Break Hotel Deals.
What to See and Do
San Francisco's numerous attractions include the following:
Alcatraz Island: Famous from countless movies, Alcatraz prison sits out in the Bay and can be visited by the tourist. The prison no longer operates but you will still gain an understanding of what life was like "locked up" on the island.
Twin Peaks: Travel up Twin Peaks Boulevard to one of the highest points in the city. The city views are spectacular so make sure you bring your camera!
Golden Gate Bridge: The bridge is a San Fran icon and is recognised across the world. The bridge was completed in 1937 and has starred in many movies. Take a walk across (no toll!) and observe from the viewing points at each end.
Fisherman's Wharf: A famous tourist attraction as well as a functioning wharf, this is the place to come in San Fran to eat sea food. There are also numerous museums in the locale.
Getting Around
The best way to get around San Francisco is with the Bay Area Rapid Transit System.
BART: This is the regional metro system and has 8 stations in San Fran.
Cable Cars: These are a San Francisco icon. Running on the steep streets between Market Street and Fisherman's Wharf, the Cars are a must see tourist attraction.
Muni: The Municipal Railway is a railway and subway system. Consider a travel pass giving you unlimited access to the metro, cable cars and the street car.