DK Travel : San Francisco

San Franciscans will, rather candidly, admit that they are the most fortunate people on earth, the occasional earthquake notwithstanding; and most visitors, after a few days of taking in the sights and sounds of this magnificent city, will agree. Ask anyone who has been here and they will tell you it’s their favorite US city. The geographical setting evokes so much emotional drama, the light seems clearer, the colors more vivid, the cultural diversity of the ethnic neighborhoods so captivating and inviting, that it’s a place almost everyone can fall in love with at first sight.

Cat Club

Crowded, loud, trashy – just what you’re looking for in a super-popular and stylish SoMa dance club. Wednesday is Bondage-a-Go-Go night, Thursday features 80s hits.
Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption

The exterior of this 1971 building has been compared to a giant washing machine; inside is equally odd, with stained-glass strips, evoking the four elements, and a sculpture of aluminum rods (see St. Mary’s Cathedral).
Chapeau!

Perhaps the most authentic French bistro, run by a talented husband and wife team. He’s the sommelier and knows how to assign the treasures from his list. Service is refined, and every bite memorable.
Chardonnay

Of the whites, this is the most popular, fermented in French oak barrels, lending it smooth vanilla tones. Try Sterling Vineyards (see Sterling Vineyard).
Charles Crocker

Another “Big Four” accomplice. The Crocker Galleria recalls his legacy (see Crocker Galleria, Top 10 Shopping Areas).
Charles Manson

This commune leader and his followers murdered actress Sharon Tate in 1969.
Chateau Tivoli

Rooms and suites in this stunning old building are named after Mark Twain, Enrico Caruso, Jack London, and others, to remind guests of San Francisco’s illustrious history in the arts. Rooms are furnished with four-poster beds, fireplaces, bay windows, American Renaissance pieces, and the like.
Chelsea Motor Inn

Vaguely English Tudor in style, with a slate roof, the rooms are comfortable and fairly large, and a few have bay windows. The location is convenient to the Marina and Pacific Heights. Free parking, cable TV, and in-room coffee maker. All no-smoking.
Chenery Park

Take a window seat looking out onto the street for the maximum effect.
Cherry Blossom Festival

Japantown comes spectacularly to life when the cherry trees blossom. Traditional arts and crafts, taiko drumming, martial arts demonstrations, and dancing, as well as delicious Japanese food make this one of the city’s favorite celebrations. There’s also a colorful and impressive parade.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100-$200
- $200-$250
- $250-$300
- over $300
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $20
- $20-$40
- $40-$55
- $55-$80
- over $80