Guide to San Francisco
San Francisco in Northern California is the 8th largest economy in the world and used to have Arnold Schwarzenegger as its governor.
You can explore the bay area of this city or head over the Golden Gate Bridge into the Nappa Valley wine region just north of Oakland.
There really is tons to do and maybe two weeks is simply not enough time to explore everywhere. We list the top attractions for you to see.
Welcome to the Northern Bay Area!
San Francisco is a vibrant city for everyone to enjoy from the famous Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz to Fishermans Wharf.
The best times to go are in the summer months although dense fog comes into town in the afternoon through the Golden Gate Bridge. In the winter it can be cold but generally bright blue skies can be had daily.
Getting about in San Francisco
San Francisco has the famous tram system going up and down the steep hills that surround the bay area. It's probably best to drive into the town (if you are not staying there) and park up in Fishermans Wharf car park.
Once in the city you can always walk. If arriving by air get a cab into town - it's about a 30 minute ride as the airport is south of the city.
Sightseeing in San Francisco
There are many places to see, here are a few of our favourites:
Golden Gate Bridge
An absolute must do. Drive over the bridge (a toll applies) to the other side of the bay. Take the first right and drive down to the shore line where you'll get an incredible view back across the bridge and into the city across the bay.
Alcatraz
The rock in the middle of the bay is accessible from Fishermans Wharf. In the summer you'll need to book your trip a few days in advance. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the rock. Take the audio tour which will lead you to the original cells and recreation area. It really is as though you are a prisoner!
Pacific Heights
Pacific Heights is home to many young professionals and is largely residential. It has gained more popularity since the movie of the same name. The house used in Pacific Heights is not actually located in Pacific Heights but found on Potrero Hill. Painted Victorian Houses line the streets in most of the area divided by Fillmore Street where you'll find good restaurants.
Twin Peaks
Made famous by the TV series this is a high vantage point where you can see most of the city and the Pacific Ocean. Take a cab and ask the driver to wait.
Lombard Street
The "Crookedest Street in the World" may be only a block in length but it is quite lovely and of interest to all visitors between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, Lombard makes eight switchbacks along a brick pathway. Oh the view coming down this hill is wonderful, but you better keep an eye on the road. You wouldn't be the first to have lost a turn signal to the garden borders along the edge of the narrow road. For those who prefer to view than drive, steps follow the path of the vehicles along either side of the road safely behind the garden wall.
Fisherman's Wharf
Located on the coast with views across the bay to Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf has shops and cafes with a charming atmosphere. The local sea lions even have purpose made floating decks on which to sunbathe!
Pictures and Photographs of San Francisco
To whet your appetite check out these pictures of some of the sights - if you have some you'd like to add to the site, then please use our contact form and email them into us.
Your views on San Francisco
Have you been to San Francisco? Let us know your views, best places to eat and go to and we will publish the best. Just complete our contact form. We hope to hear from you soon!
Travel Guides
The 118Student team have travelled to many places produced travel guides of our experiences to help you in addition to this one for San Francisco - check out the menu on the right.