California road trip: Golden Gate to Hollywood Hills

'If you're going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair'. With or without flowers in your hair, but guaranteed to be humming a catchy tune, you land in the Golden City. When you get to where you're staying, you drop off your bags then get right to exploring. And the best starting point is Market Street in the city centre, at the famous cable car junction. Why not hop aboard and explore the hilly town on its historic rails (optional, payable on site)? The Powell-Hyde line, which runs from Powell Street to the northern Hyde Street, is highly recommended. And a stop at Union Square, where you'll find all kinds of restaurants, cafés, boutiques and other shops, is a must. No wonder it's one of the city's main meeting points! When you're done, continue on to one of the most famous photo spots and probably the curviest street in the world: Lombard Street. The red brick-paved street winds downhill around eight curves through a sea of flowers. And of course, there's still another must-see on your list: the Golden Gate Bridge! So make your way to the end station in Hyde, where you'll find the iconic bridge shining in all its glory. And don't forget your camera! 

San Francisco's calling. Let's go! As you step out onto the street, you're greeted by the city's famous fog. But you're not worried about it, because you know it'll lift as the day goes on. Your first stop? Fisherman's Wharf. From the Aquatic Park Pier, you stroll along the gorgeous coast, accompanied by the iconic view of Alcatraz – the world's most famous prison island. Continuing onwards, you pass by the Maritime National Historical Park, the anchoring place of several historic ships and the perfect spot for a little detour (optional, entrance fee payable on site). The closer you get to Pier 39, the more you hear the barks and growls of the wild sea lions who call this place home and put on a truly entertaining show that you don't have to pay a dime for. And by the way, if you're a fan of sweets, you'll definitely want to check out the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory. Once there, not only will you have the chance to discover the history of the cult chocolate, but you’ll also get to taste your way through the company's delicious creations – yum!

It's time for a cultural twist! Tucked between the Golden Gate and cable cars lies San Francisco's Chinatown – the largest of its kind outside of Asia and the oldest in North America. As soon as you pass the eye-catching Dragon Gate, you enter a completely different world. From all the Chinese signs to little shops full of traditional lampions, snacks, souvenirs and things you didn't even know you need, everything's different and everything's exciting! The American way of life? Not here! This place is a bit more colourful, way narrower and definitely a lot more Asian. Absolute must-do: grab a snack at the Good Mong Kok Bakery. The queues may be long, but it's totally worth it. From dim sum to bao buns, egg tarts and more, you can get it all to go, and it's all perfect for your excursion through Chinatown. And the view of SF's skyline makes it the whole experience even better!

Nature or city? That's the question here! If you need a break from the urban jungle, the Presidio National Park at the northern end of San Francisco is exactly where you want to be. Here, you'll find tons of hiking and mountain biking trails winding their way through the green landscape. Whether it's a relaxing walk or a more challenging hike, in this park, you can do it all! If you want to find out about the various things to do here, the best place to do so is the visitor centre. The park also includes the famous Bakers Beach below the Golden Gate Bridge, which is a perfect place to watch the sunset. And if you prefer to stay in the city, then you'll definitely want to pay a visit to the Painted Ladies. You'll get the best view of the colourful Victorian houses, which stand in stark contrast to the countless skyscrapers, from Alamo Square. As you admire them, you might notice that they look familiar to you. And no wonder! After all, these lovely buildings have served as a backdrop for more than 70 films and TV series.