The City by the Bay is a vibrant and progressive metropolis boasting a hillside setting and stunning outlook over San Francisco Bay. Home to the Golden Gate Bridge and a huge gay community, it is laidback personified and has many worthwhile attractions tourist and national travel deals. You can get to the Napa Valley and Yosemite National Park by rental car from San Francisco.
Getting there
San Francisco International Airport is a hub served by many major airlines, and is just 15 miles from downtown via US-101. Amtrak trains serve from the north, south, and west, as do major bus lines. By car rental to San Francisco, the city and Bay area are supplied by several interstate highways, including I-5 and I-80. National deals on San Francisco travel can be found online.
Key attractions
San Francisco has diverse neighborhoods with their own flavor and Golden Gate is famed for its bridge and stunning park, as well as for upmarket districts like Marina and Pacific Heights. Fisherman’s Wharf should be on everyoneеs itinerary, for the sea lions and seafood, while that famous San Fran skyline is best seen from Nob Hill. The Palace of Fine Arts is a must-see landmark.
Out and about
Oakland is a great area to drive to by car rental from San Francisco, going via the double-decker Bay Bridge. You could also drive out to the Napa and Healdsburg wine regions, or take in the coast or the majestic Muir Woods for its giant redwood trees. A drive east comes to the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Yosemite National Park.
Leisure options
Golden Gate Park is the best place for activities, while Golden Gate Recreational Area has good scope for sports and hiking. There are even beaches within reach of town, such as Baker Beach which offers a unique view of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge via rental car from San Francisco. All big American sports are represented in town, with baseball played at the AT&T Park.
Safety
San Francisco is safe and friendly, though there are the odd areas to avoid as with anywhere. Avoid driving right in downtown, where it is hilly, busy, and trams can be awkward to negotiate. Be aware that the waters are frigid year round.