1. The Golden Gate Bridge

This is easily the most recognisable part of San Francisco, if not the whole of California. Built in 1937 its a suspension bridge connecting the city to Marin County, across the Golden Gate (the opening of San francisco Bay into the Pacific Ocean). A drive across the bridge in your rental car is a must- the views are spectacular and there are some terrific spots to visit over in Marin County. Its also the opportunity to drive over an American icon!

2. Alcatraz

This small island in the Bay was made famous as a high security federal penitentiary. Often referred to as 'The Rock', its complete inaccessibility made it the perfect location for a prison. Made famous by Hollywood movies and some notorious inmates such as Al Capone, the island is now a historical site and is open to tours. Ferries go out regularly.

3. Chinatown

This is the largest Chinatown in the US, and a big tourist drawcard. Expect all the elements of a normal China Town, just on a grander scale! There's some great places to eat, and any number of stores to buy souvenirs or other goods. Grant Avenue and Chinatown Gate are popular spots to visit, as is St Marys Church, whose granite foundations come from China.

4. The Public Transport System

SF has one of the most comprehensive public transport systems in America. Hire a car to visit the attractions near to the city and in the rest of the state, but if you are travelling around the city you cant go wrong with the public transport. There's the underground metro, a good bus system and cable cars. The historic Streetcar F Line uses historic streetcars, in original colors from several cities in the US and Milan, Italy.

5. The Nightlife

This is one of those cities that really doesnt sleep! Theres always a party to be had, whatever the day of the week. The Mission district is great for bar hopping, while tha Marina district has more of an elegant class to it. North Beach is more of a neon strip, and there are some delightful bars hidden away in the streets there. Always remember to be completely sober before getting behind the wheel of your hire car!

6. The Culture and the History

One of the oldest US cities, San Francisco was completely destroyed by a fire and earthquake in 1906, and then rebuilt again. SF has always been known as a progressive and liberal city, and this has given it a diverse and interesting culture. The home of the hippy movement of the 1960's, today its seen as the gay capital of the world and a place that tolerates all types and manners of people.

7. Fishermens Wharf

This is a place for year round entertainment, fun and fine cuisine! The waterfront is home to some of the finest restaurants in the city, and you are guaranteed to only be served the freshest seafood. There are street performers during the day, and in the evening there is theatre, comedy and live music to keep you entertained. Hyde Pier is home to a record number of historic ships, and there are always hundreds of sea lions gathered at the docks.

8. San Francisco Zoo

Get connected with nature at one of the biggest zoos in the country. An urban oasis nestled against the Pacific Ocean, it is home to more than 250 animals, many of them endangered. From elephants to giraffes to all sorts of cheeky monkeys, there's plenty to see and learn about on a day out at this zoo. The animals are all in enclosures that are remarkably similar to their natural habitats, making this the next best thing to seeing them in the wild.

9. The Golf

A driving holiday around the golf courses of San Fran will let you play on some amazing holes. The city is famous for its proximity to many hills, and the golf courses take advantage of the scenery and the geography, featuring views of oak studded hills and sun drenched lakes. The courses themselves are pretty top notch too, many of them designed by golfing legends and all of them kept in immaculate condition!

10. Wine Country

The Wine Country is one of the most important wine producing regions in the world. It lies 50 miles to the north of the city, and is the perfect region for a exploratory day trip in your hire car. Call in at the wineries, sample the local drops and pick up some exquisite bottles to drink at a later date. You wont regret it!

Gavin Wyatt