San Francisco is a city that has it all – chic hangouts, awe-inspiring coastal views and a host of cultivating cultural centres, but to name a few. Not only that, but you'll also be able to take in the surrounding state of California during your stay.
The Bay
Hire a car from the International Airport and head to San Francisco Bay, one of the city's major attractions. The landmark Golden Gate Bridge spans the entrance of the Bay. You can take a picnic and gaze at the grand red metal structure from Presidio Park at the south end of the bridge.
To the east, in the middle of the Bay, you’ll see another immortal sight – Alcatraz Island. Today you can visit this once-notorious prison by taking a boat trip from the piers near Fisherman’s Wharf.
The Bay's Twin Peaks Park is the perfect spot to take a photo with panoramic views out across the water, and Lands' End Park at the rocky shore showcases a beautiful scenic backdrop.
Culture vultures
For such a small, compact city, San Francisco is bursting with culture. Visit the original hippy district of Haight-Ashbury, the birthplace of flower power in the Sixties, and find bohemian shops and cafes. The city's colourful Chinatown is must-visit too, with its delicious delicacies and unique Californian twists on original Chinese dishes.
If you’re on the lookout for somewhere to blow your mind, visit the California Academy of Science. Explore an abundance of exhibits and the Exploratorium – a family friendly hands-on science museum. Spend an afternoon learning about the city's aerospace history at the SFO Museum, an acclaimed gallery exhibiting a rotating series of shows and displays from throughout history. For a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine, sit outside your pick of the many cafes of Union Square, one of downtown's cultured hangouts.
Cruise the coast
If you’ve got a hire car in San Francisco, you’ll be able to take trips outside of the city too. Head north over the Golden Gate Bridge to find the hilly countryside of the Marin Headlands, the unspoilt sandy cove at Muir Beach and the pretty waterside town of Sausalito facing into the Bay. The scenic conservation area of Point Reyes National Seashore is a little further to the north, and the relaxing natural environment of San Bruno Mountain State Park is just a few minutes further. It’s a good spot for picnics and walks.
The Pacific Coast is only a few miles to the west. You’ll find beaches at Mori Point and to the east of Golden Gate Bridge, and if you’re into hiking, take to the protected rugged rocky headlands near Cliff House for bracing walks to clear your head.
Whether you're visiting on business, or looking to soak up the famous San Fran atmosphere, car hire from the airport opens up this wonderful part of the world.