Two days to explore San Francisco

You could probably turn page and page writing about things to do in and around San Francisco. It would be an easy task, as time and words would not be a limitation. But, I wondered, what if I had only 2 days to explore San Francisco, what would I do? Now that is a really difficult and intriguing task.

Day one:
One needs sightseeing (yes, San Francisco is more than food and shopping). I would personally do a narrated bus tour. You will see landmarks such as: Coit Tower (built in 1933 as a memorial to Lillie Hitchcock Coit and the San Francisco firefighters); Golden Gate Bridge; and Twin Peaks (weather permitting). When I did this tour, the view from Golden Gate Park was nothing short of breathtaking.

Of course I’m hungry now, so I’m going to Chinatown, where you can find restaurants that serve good dim sum. In my experience, I think it’s very reasonable and hits the spot. The best way to explore San Francisco’s Chinatown is to wander its streets and browse the various shops. Don’t forget the opportunity to take pictures at the entrance known as Chinatown Gate. Although it covers more than 24 blocks, it is best to concentrate your exploration between Stockton and Grant Street.

For dinner, there are so many great places to eat. I won’t even try to pick a place as it all depends on your budget and taste.

Day two:
What would a visit to San Francisco be without riding the cable car? Inconceivable! So we took the cable car up to Pier 39 / Fisherman’s Wharf. I remember the excitement and novelty of riding the cable cars (I played it safe and rode inside). There are three current lines of operation: Powell-Mason; Powell-Hyde; and California Street. Pier 39 / Fisherman’s Wharf are actually 2 areas, but they have been mixed into one BIG area. We first take a look at the famous sea lions, probably because everyone talks about them. They are kind of cute in their own way. There are many specialty stores in the area where you can buy those San Francisco souvenirs.

Again, with so many places to eat and from what I heard they are all excellent. However, I personally had lunch at Alioto’s in Fisherman’s Wharf. Located on the second floor, the host was a friendly Italian gentleman who said all the right things. The service was excellent, the prices reasonable, and the food delicious.

Then it’s back on the cable car back to Union Square and the rest of the day shopping in probably one of the best shopping “destinations” in the world. Macy’s flagship store, as well as Nordstrom and Neiman-Marcus, can be found here. The list of stores, both national names and smaller boutiques, make this a shopper’s dream. I’m not a shopper, but it’s hard not to enjoy the atmosphere and excitement.

Two days. But there is much more to do and see. It’s not surprising why San Francisco continually draws visitors over and over again. I’m too sold out in San Francisco!

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