First Timers Guide to San Francisco

A trip to San Francisco is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences one can have on a vacation. However, with so much to see and do in this California coastline jewel, planning an itinerary can be difficult for a first-time visitor, especially if your time in the city is limited. To help get the most out of your visit, here's a first timer's guide to San Francisco.

What to See on Your First Time in San Francisco

A true pleasure of a city, San Francisco, California is teeming with places to see and things to do. But some places demand a little more attention as being the city's primary tourist locations. Some of the sights you should definitely see during your first visit to San Fran include the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Warf and the inescapable Alcatraz. Lesser known, but equally impressive treasures include the Moscone Center, the Exploratorium and Golden Gate Park. Of course, a visit to the famously winding Lombard Street is a must as is enjoying a city tour on a historic cable car. Read up on the top 10 attractions in San Francisco to make sure you get the best experience possible during you time in the bay.

Where to Eat on Your First Time in San Francisco

While at Fisherman's Warf, enjoy some of the freshest seafood around at #9 Fisherman's Grotto, an old-time favorite, or try one of the other fine San Francisco restaurants Fisherman's Wharf offers. Or watch the sea lions play while you eat at the Sea Lion Cafe. If you're in the mood for Chinese food, travel down to Chinatown and enjoy the cuisine at House of Nanking. If you don't mind the looks of the place, Sam Wo has some of the best Chinese food to be found in the area. Italian food is popular in San Francisco and the best of it can found in North Beach. For the garlic lover, the Stinking Rose has exactly what you're looking for and Bocadillos is a moderately priced delight. Interestingly enough, each of these areas of San Francisco are within walking distance of each other.

What to Expect on Your First Time in San Francisco

San Francisco is a friendly city where everyone is welcome. With an open mind and progressive attitude, the city sees visitors of every race, religion, style, sex and demeanor, treats them all with equal respect and expects you to do the same. A visual cornucopia of personalities, sometimes just watching the people stroll by while you're enjoying a cup of coffee at an outdoor cafe can be quite an adventure!

First time visitors may also be surprised at how cool it can sometimes get in San Francisco. With the occasional low fog bank rolling in, temperatures can sometimes drop into the 60s, forcing you to break out your sweater, or causing you to buy one at a gift shop!

Ultimately, San Francisco can be a welcome vacation where you can experience quite a bit with the proper planning. A city filled with great restaurants, impressive architecture and entertaining attractions, San Francisco is guaranteed to delight no matter if it's your first visit or your tenth.