WHERE TO FIND THE BEST VIEWS IN SAN FRANCISCO

Even though it’s a city, you might want to get out your hiking boots for a visit to San Francisco. The maps won’t tell you the truth: the dozens of hills around town make walking more exercise than a leisure activity. These hills can reach hundreds of feet in height, but if you’re looking for amazing views, there’s no other place like it.

You can trek to the top of Lombard Street to see some interesting driving maneuvers by the multitude of cars trying to get down the street or take the famous trolley from hill to hill with no exertion on your end. If you’re up for an adventure though, check out these amazing views on your next trip into town.

Twin Peaks

No, it’s not named after the paranormal mystery drama with the same name, but the views may seem otherworldly from this vantage point. At the top of the summit, you’ll have panoramic views of the city, from the top of the Golden Gate Bridge to the bay. Stroll along the pedestrian walkways around Twin Peaks Boulevard for even more spectacular views.

You can get vastly different perspectives throughout the day and evening with the bright lights that come on during the evening and illuminate the whole city. Visitors suggest coming on days with little or no fog for the best experience.

Top of the Mark

What’s better than a view? A view with some bubbles! Top of the Mark sits on the 19^th floor of the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins hotel. From this vantage point, you’ll have 360-degree views of the city and can glimpse the famous city skyline with the Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop.

The swanky restaurant is open every day and offers scrumptious dinner and brunch bites including marinated olives, loaded crab nacho, and smores fondue. On weekends, treat yourself to a champagne brunch at a table next to the floor-to-ceiling windows surrounding the restaurant.

Lands End

Take a casual hike through this park right on the bay. You’ll find numerous paths along the cliffs and around the shore to choose from. The stunning views of the bay are breathtaking and during spring, you may even see some whales hanging out by the Golden Gate Bridge. During low tide, you can glimpse numerous shipwrecks in the bay for some unique photographs.

Within the park are numerous landmarks and historical sites you can easily walk to. The ruins of the Sutro Baths lie just off the coast and were originally opened in 1896. After an arson in 1966, all that remain of the baths are stairs, passageways, and walls.

Bernal Heights Hill

A short climb to the top of this hill gives you great views of the surrounding Mission District and rolling hills. This hill is perfect for a picnic on a breezy day. Just down the hill you’ll find fun restaurants, bakeries, salons, and a wine and beer store if you want your picnic to be extra special.

The area has hosted a farmers’ market every Saturday since 1947, so make sure to go on the weekend and browse through a variety of stands and businesses selling everything from vintage furniture to exotic gems