San Francisco Downtown Airport Transfers

Start your stay at the famous Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can enjoy coffee or, if you’re in time for lunch, try a meal at one of the various gourmet restaurants that line the water’s edge. As you might expect, seafood and fish are the specialities here. Next is Union Square, the busiest neighbourhood in the city, where you’ll find everything from cafes and bars to shops, nightlife, art galleries and museums. One of our favourite is the Walt Disney Family Museum, a huge museum that includes some of the historic items that brought the producer’s films to life.

If you’re feeling tired of sightseeing then take the opportunity to relax in the beautiful Golden Gate Park. Over 1000 acres of lakes, gardens and picnic areas are waiting, with playgrounds for the kids and a full calendar of events that take place here throughout the year. Or take a stroll along Ocean Beach. This peaceful, white sand beach is off the well-beaten tourist path and is a great place for watching the birds or for more experienced surfers.

If you’re a sports fan, take the chance to see one of the most famous teams in baseball, the San Francisco Giants. The AT&T Park is in the South Beach district of the city, where you can get tickets to see a home game. Wildlife lovers should stop by the Aquarium of the Bay. Dedicated to protecting local marine life, the aquarium has a clear tunnel system that allows visitors to be immersed in the sea life surrounding the bay, including leopard sharks and jellyfish.

Top attractions

The most famous of San Francisco’s attractions, and one of the world’s most recognisable structures, is the Golden Gate Bridge. One of the modern wonders of the world, it was the longest suspension bridge ever created at its opening in 1937 and makes an iconic appears in plenty of films. Just as well known is the infamous island of Alcatraz. This former prison has held some of the most famous criminals, including Al Capone and Robert Franklin Stroud. Now a tourist attraction, it is possible to visit the island with a tour boat.

You can’t visit San Francisco without a ride on a cable car. The last manually operated cable car system in the world, it was first opened in 1873. Three lines still exist today, so why not see the city from the windows of one. For more fantastic views, walk or take a taxi to the top of the Twin Peaks hills that overlook San Francisco.

Best restaurants

For something different, get a table at Lazy Bear restaurant. This unusual eatery, a bit like a supper club, can only be booked with a ticket - tickets are released on sale at the start of the month. But if you love fine dining, the 15 course menu of carefully crafted small dishes is worth the effort.

Another local favourite is Foreign Cinema. Set in an old cinema, the restaurant offers fantastic brunches and Mediterranean-themed dinners in an artful setting. For a more budget-friendly alternative, try House of Nanking. Expect delicious Shanghai cuisine and large plates of food.