Golden Gate Bridge. Photo / iStock
You'll leave your heart there once you've experienced its charms.
Whether it's a day or a week, San Francisco is one of those cities that can keep you guessing until the moment you bid it farewell. With its distinctive neighbourhoods and districts, the sprawling parks - there are more than 220 - the nearly inescapable bay and ever-changing weather, it's
possible to visit the old and the new, be hot and cold, surprised and comfortable all at the same time. Here are a few ways to help you see every side of this fascinating city during your stay.
Go Green
San Francisco is famed for being a clean, green, sustainable city. So why not embrace it? Try a biodynamic wine and a plate of seasonal, locally produced food at a cosy wine bar, pick up some vegan clothing or eco-friendly shoes at one of the many shops that cater for the conscious shopper in the Mission district, or rent a Hybrid ZipCar for an hour or so rather than hiring a vehicle for your whole stay.
Walk the bridge
You can't visit San Francisco without at least glancing at this iconic structure. But why not get hands - or feet - on with the nearly 80-year-old bridge? Walking the 2.7km from one vantage point to another across the channel between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean is the perfect way to appreciate the bridge's true size. Pedestrians are allowed only on the east (or city side) footpath, and only during daylight hours. If you fancy checking out the view at night, hire a bike around Fisherman's Wharf and return by ferry from Sausalito.
Eat!
The City by the Bay should be renamed the City of Eating Out. In 2010, Census data showed San Francisco was easily number one on the list of US cities with the most restaurants per capita - 39.3 restaurants per 10,000 households. So whether it's joining the queue at the famed Tartine Bakery before sunrise or grazing at the popular Ferry Plaza Farmers' Market - 25,000 shoppers visit each week - hungry tourists are spoiled for choice.
