If you're on the way to San Francisco, be sure to pack your most comfortable walking shoes. An adventurous trek awaits you, as you explore the hills of this welcoming Northern California town. Prepare for sensational dining, picturesque views and excitement around every corner-

The best place to start exploring San Francisco is aboard their world famous Cable Cars, often considered San Francisco's moving landmark. Try not to fall off when the driver screeches his way down Lombard Street. While not the steepest street in this city, Lombard is known as one of the 'crookedest' streets, especially the part below Hyde Street. Enjoy the incredible views of the San Francisco Bay while the cable car wends its way down to the waterfront.

Start your day at Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39, along the Embarcadero - the main street of this beautiful waterfront district. Street performers entertain and souvenir shops beckon, but one attraction you will not want to miss is the loud bunch of playful seals that congregate just off Fisherman's Wharf. A couple of platoons have been taken over by these basking seals, and you can watch them sunbathe, swim, and fight from the pier. It is an amazingly entertaining show, and entirely free! While sometimes labeled a tourist trap, this colorful area is still the best place to grab some a hot cup of clam chowder in a sourdough bowl.

Once an illustrious chocolate factory, now a one-of-a-kind urban retail oasis, Ghirardelli Square is one of San Francisco's most precious jewels. Get in some shopping here before catching the ferry to Alcatraz, the former prison that remains one of the city's most popular attractions. Visitors can spend as long as they wish on self-guided tours of the cells that once housed criminals like Al Capone.

After Alcatraz, hail a cab and ask the driver to take you to the Golden Gate Bridge. No trip to San Francisco would be complete without a walk across this 8,891 foot-long marvel of engineering. Not only is this bridge one of the most photographed sites in the world, it offers awe-inspiring views of the bay and the adjacent hills that lead into Sausalito. Spend the afternoon walking the bridge and then wind your way into this waterfront village. Take in the art galleries, boutiques and scenic vistas, enjoy a fabulous seafood dinner at historic Cliff House, and take the Golden Gate Ferry back towards the neon lights of Ghirardelli Square.

Hop on a Powell Line Cable Car and be sure to get off at Union Square. One of the city's three original parks, this elegant square is ringed with tempting shops and the city's best hotels, including Sir Francis Drake Hotel. Shoppers will find a great selection of high end shops, like Tiffany & Co, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. The nearby theatre district and Museum of Modern Art are also nearby, offering a cultural flavor of this amazing city.

Many cities have a Chinatown of their own, but none are quite like San Francisco's. With some of the best Chinese food you will find anywhere, San Francisco's Chinatown has a flavor all its own. Catch a glimpse of the 'real Chinatown' in its side streets, shops and open air markets.

There is far more to do while in San Francisco, including museums, great restaurants, and entertainment, so be sure to set aside enough time to take it all in.