Whether you are visiting San Francisco for a short trip, or you are visiting at the end of a longer vacation, you want to be sure that you can get the most out of your trip. To do this, you must take in the sights, and you must be prepared for as many eventualities as possible. Taking a tram ride, catching a cab or walking around the city will allow you to see all the beauty that is on offer.

Alcatraz is world famous for its location, and for its reputation. Reserving a ticket and then exploring this prison that held notorious criminals such as Al Capone can leave you feeling humbled. It can also leave you valuing your freedom too, especially when you see how isolated and cut-off Alcatraz truly is. This national historic landmark is best explored through one of the many Alcatraz tours on offer. Trying to see everything by yourself, and trying to uncover the deep-rooted history by yourself can be challenging.

The weather in San Francisco can be unpredictable - even in those sunnier months. Ensuring that you pack the right clothing is important. If you do not have the right clothing, you may at times feel uncomfortable - especially if the wind gets chilly. Layering up is often a good idea for when you are exploring San Francisco by foot, because this way you can then remove or add layers as you need to.

Some areas of San Francisco are heavily influenced by Mexican and Latin culture, and this is something that can be seen in local buildings and sites of interest. In addition to this, you may want to soak up some classical music at the Symphony, or you may wish to visit the ballet. There are also a large number of theaters that offer live performances throughout the week, and throughout the year - ensuring that you will be kept busy and on your toes at any time.

San Francisco is a photogenic location, and you will find that there are always plenty of opportunities to snap the perfect photo or selfie. If you forget your camera, fear not as you always have your phone. Ensuring that you capture the moments with a photo is important as it will give you something to look back on in the years to come. A selfie in front of the famous Golden Gate Bridge, or while taking a tram can leave even the most seasoned travelers feeling a little envious.

Even if you are only visiting San Francisco for a short period of time you will need to find suitable accommodation. Looking at little quaint bed and breakfasts, as well as larger chain-run hotels, is important. You will often find that smaller premises will help you explore the city a little more, and ensure that you get the most out of your time.