San Francisco is one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world, yet the Europeans first set eyes on it from inland, not by sea. The US government unsuccessfully tried to buy the bay from the Mexican government in 1835. Unable to do so they seized it instead in 1846 during the Mexican – American War.  The city's population was 800, yet four years later, after the Gold Rush, it stood at an astonishing 110,000!  More than 800 ships, abandoned by their crews, bobbed up and down in the bay. In 1906 tragedy struck as an earthquake destroyed three-quarters of the city.

The city established a reputation from the 1950s to the 1970s as a centre for the counter-culture. In the 1950s, it was the Beat Generation and in the Sixties the hippies, LSD, rock music and then gay rights. Harvey Milk was among the first openly gay elected public officials in US history in 1977. The following year, in time-honoured American fashion, he was shot dead at City Hall.

San Francisco has a darker side too. It was home to the Alcatraz Island penitentiary, America’s toughest prison was closed down in 1963.

Our best value sample itinerary from £1589

10 Days to West Coast USA

Day 1:
Transatlantic flight to San Francisco, meet your transfer to take you to your accommodation and check in. In the evening possibly take a ride on the world-famous San Francisco trams.

Day 2:
In the morning take a four hour guided coach tour of San Francisco including Union Square, China Town, the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf with a view of Alcatraz Island. Afternoon transfer to Oakhurst.

Day 3:
Full day in Yosemite National Park. This is one of the most magnificent parks in California. Take in its beautiful sights such as Mirror Lake, El Capitan and Granite domes, Sentinel Dome & Half Dome that rise 3,000 and 4,800 feet, respectively, above the valley floor. Overnight in Fresno/Visalia (seasonal).

Day 4:
Morning transfer to Las Vegas. Spend the full day and night in Vegas. With so much to see and do, rise early to fit in as many sights and spectacles as possible such as the lion habitat at MGM, the rollercoaster's at New York New York & Sahara and The Fremont Street Experience. We suggest a visit to the Bellagio Water Show featuring an outdoor music and light show with a dancing waterfall.

Day 5:
Morning transfer to Grand Canyon National Park. One of nature's most awe-inspiring sights, this geologic wonder carved over billions of years is a canyon of 277 miles long, 18 miles wide and nearly a mile deep. Late afternoon transfer to Williams/Flagstaff (subject to availability).

Day 6:
In morning depart for Anaheim. Visit on route Calico Ghost Town. Step back in time with a visit to this restored mining town, experience the gold rush days, and learn how people lived during this exciting time. The town has a museum, static displays and actors in period costumes, train and stagecoach rides plus much more including staged gunfight scenes. Overnight Anaheim.

Day 7:
Start the day early with a four hour guided coach tour of Los Angeles. See the world famous Kodak theatre and Walk of Fame in Hollywood, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills and the beaches & pier of Santa Monica. Spend the afternoon in Universal Studios and the evening exploring City Walk. Take in the amazing rides and attractions based on household favourites from King Kong to Jurassic Park, from Shrek to The Simpsons. Overnight Anaheim.

Day 8:
Spend the full day in Disneyland. Visit the eight themed areas, inc. Frontierland, Adventureland, Mickey's Toontown, and Main Street, U.S.A. Stay for the evening and experience the magic of a Disney fireworks show. Overnight Anaheim.

Day 9:
Morning at leisure before meeting your transfer to the airport for your return overnight flight home.

Day 10:
Arrive back in the UK in the morning.