What to do on holiday in San Francisco ?

[missmoo]

My parents are visiting San Francisco for 5/6 days at the end of May. They are going to visit alcatraz and the wineries in napa valley, but could anyone suggest any other 'must do' things or fantastic restaurants to visit? thanks

[JoolsTwo]

Ride on the Cablecars, Alcatraz is fantastic, Fishermans Warf (A bit touristy but worth a look. you get the ferry to Alcatraz from there), Shopping in Union Square. Eating places there are loads, I can't recall the names, there was a Mexican place that did proper mexican food, if I can find the name I will come back with it. We just loved San Francisco.

The Napa Valley, once again there are so many wineries. If they go into the tourist board there they will give them a map and recommend the best ones to see. If they can get a reservation for - THE LAUNDRY - a Restaurant in Yountville, that is supposed to be really good. We couldn't get a reservation.

They will have a fantastic time I am really envious.

[SteveD]

If you like garlic, try The Stinking Rose:

http://www.thestinkingrose.com/

[Cathyhuns]

We went to a restuarant called Ana Mandara at the western end of Fisherman's Wharf. Not cheap but it was excellent.

http://www.anamandara.com/

Not sure how old or fit your parents are but the cycle trip from Fisherman's Wharf across the Golden Gate bridge to Sausalito or on to Tiburon and then back across the bay on a ferry is a good day out. You ject need to watch that some of the ferries back from Tiburon have limited bike space sp get there early.

[JK2]

Here's a good area guide

http://www.sfguide.com/beyond.htm

Carmel & Monterey is a nice day trip from SF - could also go to Yosemite National Park but better for an overnight stay. Las Vegas is a short cheap flight away for a few days.

Sears at 439 Powell Street is an old (1938) restaurant famous for the breakfasts it serves. The sort of place with loads of famous faces in the photos on the wall.

[Dee Sa]

If they can take a trip to Carmel, Monterey and Big Sur all down that coast is amazing, must be coach tours that go from San Francisco, the trains are good too, we went from SanFrancisco to San Jose to visit friends.Also went from San Jose airport to Anaheim and to Vegas, went by North West Airlines really friendly and informal, the pilot and the air hostess were in shorts.
There is also a small ferry that goes to and fro San Francisco to Sausalito[ I think] and you go under the bridge and can see Alcatraz but you dont go near.Nice little place to walk around and have lunch and come back.
Dont miss Chinatown and of the famous trolley ride.
There is loads to do in 5/6 days.

[annavc]

Everything everyone has said plus go for a chinese meal in Chinatown - just look for a restaurant that is full of Chinese people and you know it will be good. Can't miss a stroll through Golden Gate Park either. I love San Francisco - very jealous!

[britannia74]

I recommend booking for Alcatraz I think you can do it online. We have been twice to SF and both times failed to get there!
Take a drive down Lombard Street - Sf's famous twisty road.
Enjoy!