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.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Remnants of the early fishing industry that contributed to San Francisco’s growth are still found here, just layered over with a slick veneer of tourism. Fishing boats still come in and deliver their catch of the day, and nature makes its presence known with a colony of sea lions that lounge on the pier.
Fisherman’s Wharf

Despite rampant tourism and commercialization, the saltiness and authenticity are still to be found here if you take time to look. The views of the bay are unmatched, and you’ll have an opportunity to sample some great seafood.
Fisherman’s Wharf

Although now largely tourist-oriented, there are still authentic sights to see, aromas to savor, and salt air to breathe among these piers.
Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel

On a wooded hilltop, this hostel is housed in Civil War-era buildings. It’s just a short walk to everything along the Bayshore.
Folk Art International

Dating from 1948, this is the city’s only building by American master Frank Lloyd Wright. The sweeping spiral ramp predates that at Wright’s controversial Guggenheim Museum in New York.
Folsom Street Fair

One of the biggest events for the gay community is SoMa’s leather-and-body-hair carousal.
Foreign Cinema

In the courtyard, old movies are projected onto a neighboring building while you dine. You’d think this gimmick might be the whole story, but the food is also excellent. The oyster bar and Sunday brunch on the patio are popular.
Forever After Books

Perhaps the funkiest used bookstore in the world. There are piles of tomes stacked on every surface, but amazingly, the owners know where to find just about anything you’re looking for.
Fort Mason

The rolling lawn above Fort Mason Center, known as the Great Meadow, is a relatively little-used park, but it’s great for taking a siesta, tossing a frisbee, or just strolling through to take in the spectacular views from the cliffs.
Fort Mason

The Learning Wall is a mural depicting education.

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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