San Francisco is one of those cities that never gets old, no matter how many times you visit. Every time I land here, I find something new to love—whether it’s the sight of the Golden Gate Bridge emerging from the fog, the energy of Chinatown, or the fresh sea breeze down at Fisherman’s Wharf. But what makes this area even better is everything just beyond the city. From the charming waterfront town of Sausalito to the towering redwoods of Muir Woods and the tech-driven vibrancy of San Jose, San Francisco is more than a city—it’s an entire region waiting to be explored.
San Francisco Must-Sees
I always start with the classics. You can’t visit San Francisco without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, and walking or biking across it is one of the best ways to soak in the views. If you’re up for a longer adventure, the Presidio is a beautiful place to wander, with its scenic trails and historic military sites including the must visit Fort Point. Down at Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll find incredible seafood (crab rolls are a must), street performers, and sea lions lazing around at Pier 39.
One of my favorite spots is Alcatraz Island. The boat ride over gives you a great view of the city skyline, and once you’re there, the audio tour inside the old prison is hauntingly fascinating. It’s a must if you love history.
For art and culture, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is incredible, and if you prefer something a little more offbeat, the Mission District has some of the best street murals I’ve ever seen. And then, of course, there’s Chinatown—one of the best in the world. The dim sum here is unreal, and the streets feel like stepping into another world.
A Quick Escape to Sausalito and Muir Woods
One of the best things about San Francisco is how quickly you can escape to nature. Just a short ferry ride (or an Uber across the bridge) takes you to Sausalito, a charming little town with waterfront cafes and boutique shops. I love grabbing a coffee here and just taking in the views of the city across the bay.
Even better? Head a little further to Muir Woods National Monument. Walking among the towering redwoods here is an almost surreal experience. It’s quiet, peaceful, and completely different from the busy city just 30 minutes away. If you’re craving fresh air and a bit of solitude, this is the place to go.
San Jose: A Different Side of the Bay
South of San Francisco, San Jose is an entirely different vibe. It’s the heart of Silicon Valley, where tech meets culture. The Tech Interactive Museum is fun if you love innovation, but what I really enjoy is the unexpected gems—like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, which has one of the largest collections of ancient artifacts in the U.S.
San Jose is also an amazing food city. Whether you want authentic Vietnamese pho, Mexican street tacos, or high-end dining, this place has it all. It’s a great option for a day trip if you want to see a different side of Northern California.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
San Francisco is an amazing city, but like any major destination, it has areas to be mindful of. Certain parts of the Tenderloin and some areas of Market Street have a higher presence of homelessness and drug use. So, if you’re walking from Union Station to Japan Town, you would more than likely pass through the Tenderloin district. That said, the vast majority of the city is safe and welcoming, and I’ve never felt uneasy exploring here—just stay aware and stick to well-traveled areas at night or if unsure at any time, just book yourself an Uber.
Public transport is solid, with BART and MUNI making it easy to get around, but for exploring outside the city, renting a car or using ride-shares is the way to go. If you’re feeling brave, Waymo operates a fleet of driverless cabs and has been a regular sight in the City since August 2023. Take a ride with a few friends and share in the amazement of being driven around without a human driver – it’s really weird!
Why You Should Visit
San Francisco is a city that gives you a little bit of everything—history, culture, food, nature, and some of the most stunning views in the country. Whether you’re here for a quick stopover or a full vacation, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. The public transport here is efficient and good value for money, so if you’ve got time, don’t stop at the city limits—the beauty of this region extends far beyond.
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