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San Francisco, the city of a thousand faces

Located on the west coast of the United States, San Francisco has travelled through the centuries without ageing a bit.

From the gold rush of the 19^th century to the hippy culture of the 1960s, discover a city bursting with history that is now an essential destination in any trip to the United States. Architecture, landscapes and atmosphere, an overview of the must-see stops during your stay in San Francisco.

San Francisco is the second most densely populated city in the United States, just after New York. A place of tolerance, open-mindedness and counter-culture, it has been home to gold hunters looking to strike it rich, the pioneers of the beatnik movement and defenders of gay rights. In addition to the important role it has played in the history of the United States, it is also known for its impressive Chinatown, the Victorian mansions that line its streets, the breath-taking panoramas of the bay and its laid-back lifestyle. Avant-garde and full of history, peaceful and yet full of life: San Francisco is a city of contradictions and it is exactly this that gives it its charm.

5 reasons to go to San Francisco

Take a stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge

The city’s emblem, the Golden Gate Bridge is an absolute must-see during your travel in San Francisco. With its 227-metre-high towers and bright red colour that can be seen from far, far away, the three-mile-long bridge can be crossed by car, on foot or by bike, all of which can be rented from either side of the landmark. Fun fact: the bridge has its own souvenir shop and even a café. You can also take a look at the inner workings of the bridge and its gigantic metal pillars.

Enjoy delicious seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf

The authentic and friendly Fisherman's Wharf fishing port is the perfect place to enjoy a fresh breathe of sea air whilst discovering the different catches of the day. Crab, seafood and fish await you along the length of the bay, where you can enjoy your finds whilst looking out over the ocean. Fall for the charms of the cottages lining the harbour, its market vendors and the restaurants and boats that dance across the horizon. During your trip, why not take a tour of Pier 39, where hosts of (very talkative) sea lions have taken up residence, much to the delight of passers-by.

Take a tram tour of the city

Visit Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf and many other neighbourhoods on board one of the legendary trams that cross the city. In operation since 1873, it is one of the last manually operated cable cars in the world. Hold on tight outside the carriage and get ready for the break-neck corner of Powell Street.

Make your hair stand on end at the prison of Alcatraz

Renowned for famous prisoners such as Al Capone and George Kelly, the prison of Alcatraz is an unmissable destination during your stay in San Francisco. Built on an island for increased isolation, this federal penitentiary, which was active between 1934 and 1963, can be visited throughout the day or as night falls. In addition to its fascinating and dark atmosphere, "The Rock" also offers an incredible view of San Francisco bay.

Go window shopping in Union Square

Located right in the heart of the city centre, Union Square is surrounded by huge palm trees and is the ideal destination for shopping or simply strolling through the streets admiring the window displays of luxury boutiques. Stop for a drink at the Clock Bar, walk up the pedestrian street of Maiden Lane, enjoy a coffee in between shopping sessions... And simply make the most of travel to San Francisco, where luxury stores rub shoulders with fishing ports and trams from another age.