When you’re on a road trip that is time sensitive, it’s hard to see everything you want to see. San Francisco has become one of my all-time favourite cities in the world! One or two days don’t seem enough to soak in the city properly, but if you only have limited time, you shouldn’t miss these places!
City Lights Bookstore
City Lights Bookstore was on top of my list after hearing about it first. It’s one of the best independent bookstores in the US and home of City Lights Publishing where my favourite poetry collection “Howl” by Allen Ginsberg.
The atmosphere in this bookshop was amazing, with three floors filled with books you can literally spend hours there! City Lights Bookstore is open from 10AM till midnight every day.
http://www.citylights.com/
(4519, 261 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133)
Fisherman’s Wharf
Another must see when you’re in San Francisco is Fisherman’s Wharf. The epicenter of tourism, but 100% worth your time. The old buildings plus the cute little shops make it perfect for a stroll around.
Pier 39 is located on Fisherman’s Wharf, but deserves a special mention. From Pier 39 you can see the many sea lions that come there to rest. You can also see Alcatraz Island from the Pier, and even book a tour if you have some little extra time.
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
After we went to City Lights Bookstore and Fisherman’s Wharf, we drove down to Mr. Holmes Bakery for a quick snack. You can’t really sit down for lunch there, but the pastries are absolutely amazing! If you’re in a bit of a hurry – like we were – it’s definitely a good place to quickly pick up something tasty and continue your explorations.
http://mrholmesbakehouse.com/
(1042 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109)
Explore more of SF via Lombard Street
The famous little part of Lombard Street with the eight hairpin turns is a perfect point for pictures. From there you can enjoy more of the beautiful houses that are located in San Francisco’s North Beach.
(Lombard St, San Francisco, CA 94133)
Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco’s most iconic landmark has to be the Golden Gate Bridge, a landmark that has been on my list for a long time! And oh man, it was gorgeous to see in real life. If you have some extra time, you can rent a bike to cycle across the bridge. But if you’re on a tight schedule, you can simply drive across the bridge with your car. I would definitely recommend driving (or cycling) to see the amazing view from the other side! It’s totally worth it while you’re there.
Dinner at YakiniQ BBQ in Japantown
After seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s time for dinner. For dinner we drove to Japan town. You can park your car for very cheap rates at the parking garage there and have a little walk around Japan town before or after dinner.
We decided to go to YakiniQ Korean BBQ, which is located just outside the bigger shopping mall. If you’re a fan of Korean BBQ, you will love this place! Reasonably priced for an unlimited menu, great atmosphere and even better food.
(Parking: 1670 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115)
(YakiniQ: 1640 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94115)
San Francisco has rightfully claimed its place in my heart. I cannot wait to return to this city in the future and explore it more – one day simply wasn’t enough to see everything I wanted to see!
What would you like to see in San Francisco?
Have you ever been?
