Cable cars, the Golden Gate Bridge and sea lions on the pier. Here's what San Francisco is like with the family, when to go and how long to stay.
Check entry rules on GOV.UK before you book.
September and October are the warmest, sunniest months. Summer is surprisingly cool and foggy, so pack jumpers. Winter is mild but brings most of the year's rain.
Hire bikes and ride across to Sausalito, then take the ferry back.
Hang on as they climb the city's steep hills.
A boat to the old island prison. Book weeks ahead.
Hundreds of hands-on science exhibits on the waterfront.
A rainforest, aquarium and planetarium in one building.
Hundreds of noisy sea lions lounging on the docks.
Yes. It's compact, full of hands-on museums, and the views are amazing. Some downtown streets are rough, so plan routes and stay in areas like Fisherman's Wharf or the Marina.
Four or five nights, often as part of a California road trip with Yosemite or the coast.
Most British passport holders, children included, apply for an ESTA online before they fly rather than a visa. Check GOV.UK for the current rules.
Yes, Muir Woods is about 40 minutes north. You need to book parking or a shuttle ahead.
Put San Francisco on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.