Encompassing the city of San Francisco and its surrounding counties, the San Francisco Bay Area is one of the most popular destinations in Northern California. It’s home to rugged beaches, stunning vineyards and towering redwoods, as well as one of the world’s most famous prisons.

Ride the cable cars along San Francisco’s hilly streets or hop between the family-friendly attractions and crab restaurants that cluster on Fisherman’s Wharf. You can walk or cycle across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge or cruise to the notorious island prison of Alcatraz before marvelling at the giant redwoods of the Muir Woods National Monument.

An ideal day trip from San Francisco are the sun-drenched vineyards and cellar doors of the Napa Valley, which can easily be explored on the Napa Valley Wine Train. Coincide your visit with Napa’s lively Oxbow Public Market to pick up locally-grown produce and artisan goods.

Getting there

San Francisco International Airport is the main aviation gateway to the San Francisco Bay Area while long-distance trains connect to cities across the United States. Buses travel throughout the Bay Area and passenger ferries are a scenic way of getting between its waterfront cities.