San Francisco, Los Angeles and Las Vegas

Day 1-3   San Francisco

Arrive into San Francisco this morning and begin your tour exploring the sights and sounds of one of California’s most beautiful and friendly destinations. Once a city riding high on the excitement and wealth of the dot com explosion, San Francisco has mellowed into a characterful and cultural location. It’s filled to the brim with breath-taking attractions, fun-filled activities and fantastic outdoor pursuits. Head to the Museum of Modern Art, Muir Woods to admire the redwood trees or the fascinating neighbourhoods, such as Japantown and Chinatown.

We suggest combining two of the city’s top attractions on your second day with a hop on/hop off trolley tour through the city and a tour of the infamous Alcatraz. You can take a walking tour of this renowned prison, before returning to the city to make the most of the vibrant cafes, bars and restaurants.

On day three, why not take a trip to Muir Woods or head across the bay to Sausalito which is a unique village of quaint shops, waterfront restaurants and art galleries. Or you could head to the wine country of Sonoma or Napa Valley, where the Mediterranean climate makes them the perfect environment for grape-growing.

Day 4-6   Los Angeles

Fly to the ‘City of Angels’ – Los Angeles. This entertainment hub teems with fun activities and cultural hotspots to explore. Head to the art galleries, such as the J.Paul Getty Centre or the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or the theatre to see both well-known productions and locally-produced shows.  If you’re travelling as a family, be sure not to miss Universal Studios Hollywood – a haven for kids and adults alike, and Disney California. And no trip to L.A would be complete without stopping by Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame and Venice Beach Boardwalk.

Head to the downtown area to visit Bunker Hill/Angels Walk, the Performing Arts Centre, Chinatown, Olveras Street and the great Downtown shopping districts. Be sure not to miss Beverly Hills, said to form a ‘Platinum Triangle’ with Bel Air and Holmby Hills – some of the most luxurious and affluent neighbourhoods in the city. If you want designer shopping, head to Rodeo Drive – made famous by the film ‘Pretty Woman’ and a haven for retail therapy.

You could visit beautiful Santa Monica with Third Street Promenade and Venice Beach. In Hollywood, seek out the world-renowned Hollywood Boulevard and the TV Studios for a touch of showbiz glamour to your day. On your final day in this bustling and beautiful city, we suggest heading to the original Disney Park in Anaheim, south of Los Angeles. With plenty of rides, attractions and experiences, it’s a great day out for the whole family.

Day 7-9   Las Vegas

Fly east to Las Vegas – a city that’s world-renowned for being exciting, bustling and glamorous. Begin with a walk down the famous Strip, taking in the glitzy sights along the way. This adult playground is far more than just a gambling mecca though, with wonderful restaurants, museums and shopping opportunities. The hotels here are spectacular too, from Caesar’s Palace and its designer fashion stores, Mandalay Bay with its wave pool and sandy beaches, or the luxurious Bellagio, with a world-class spa and elegant décor.

Find time to see the dancing fountains at the Bellagio and erupting volcanoes at The Mirage. And don’t miss out on downtown’s Fremont Street Experience, a fun experience for all pedestrians.

You may want to head out of the city to see some of Nevada’s attractions, such as Lake Mead or Hoover Dam. The Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest state park and a breath-taking sight in itself, filled with jagged walls and sand dunes that date back more than 150 million years. No visit here would be complete without seeing The Grand Canyon – take it in from a unique perspective, with a helicopter or airplane tour over the top.

Day 10   Departure

Today head to the airport for your flight home