San Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States and is visited by millions of tourists each year. The city was established by the Spanish as a fort and a mission for Francis of Assisi in 1776 and started to grow rapidly after the California Gold Rush in the mid 19th century. Today, San Francisco has approximately 800,000 inhabitants although covering an area of only seven-by-seven miles (11x11 kilometers).
The Golden Gate Bridge is definitely the most recognizable landmark in San Francisco. One of the most famous bridges in the world by some considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World is the longest suspension bridge span in the world and is an absolute must-see if visiting the city. However, San Francisco is also famous for its splendid architecture which is a mixture of Victorian and modern architectural styles, steep rolling hills, cable cars running down the hills between the Market Square and Fisherman's Wharf, summer fog and its districts each of which is marked by an unique character. The Chinatown is one of the most famous San Francisco's districts and is estimated to be visited by a larger number of tourists than the famous Golden Gate Bridge. The city is also home to numerous world-class museums and art galleries of which is probably the most famous the former federal prison on the Alcatraz Island in the San Francisco Bay 1,5 miles (2,4 kilometers) offshore.
There is much to see and much to do in San Francisco and it is always a good time to visit the city. Finding an accommodation should not be a problem regardless of your wishes and budget. Worth considering are also San Francisco vacation rentals which can be found all over the city and range from one room apartments to luxury homes offering all the luxury you expect from the finest hotel, and coziness and warmth of a home away from home.