07.08. San Francisco Tag 1

Let's start exploring the city! Since we're staying relatively central at Fisherman's Wharf, we decide to start on foot.

The first detour takes us to Lombard Street, a narrow, steep street laid out in switchbacks that is a popular photo spot. We walk from top to bottom, so we're initially surprised by the urban mountaineering here in San Francisco. The most direct route on the map can sometimes be very strenuous, although the street next to it remains almost flat.

We continue walking down Lombard Street towards Coit Tower and climb the 327 steps to enjoy the view of the city, from here you have a great panorama.

We then continue on foot through Chinatown, where we admire the various shops and the now increased number of people. The hustle and bustle of the various fruit and vegetable vendors is fascinating, and in the shops in between, you can buy opulent works of art...like a life-sized golden pig or a 2.5m tall Transformer.

Afterwards, we walk back to the Wharf and the famous Pier 39. We visit the Musée Mécanique, a curious collection of old, very old, and very, very old arcade games. Felix puts a few quarters into a 90s arcade racing simulator.

The sea lions at Pier 39 are only worth a quick look for us (we already know them ;) ), we prefer to watch the numerous visitors who almost fight for the best viewing spot to watch the animals sleep. There are numerous shops, attractions, and restaurants here, including the Hard Rock Cafe. We can't get a table there - so we go to the neighboring restaurant called 'Wakeboard', where the waiter is really excited to serve Austrians. 'I love your country!'

An impressive but very exhausting day comes to an end, we still have a lot planned for tomorrow...in the evening, we have tickets for the night cruise to Alcatraz.