If Southern California is all glamour and beaches, Northern California promises something wilder. Enjoy the edgy, artistic atmosphere of San Francisco, tour some of the best wineries in the country or escape into a wilderness shaped by volcanoes.
The Oakland Museum of California provides one of the best overviews of the region’s history. Follow the story of the state through chronological exhibits, from the traditional crafts and oral stories of Native American culture to the emergence of the tech industry in Silicon Valley.
Start your exploration of Northern California in stunning San Francisco. Riding the trams through the city centre is almost compulsory, as is getting a photo of the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge. Pick up some street eats in Chinatown or the Mission District, view artistic masterpieces at the de Young Museum and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art or simply relax in expansive, attraction-filled Golden Gate Park.
Northern California is also home to the charming and stylish state capital, Sacramento. Here you can trace the history of the Golden State at the State Capitol Museum and browse a treasure trove of antique engines at the California State Railroad Museum. Linger in the city to experience its artisan coffee and micro-brewed beer cultures.
Tour the wineries of the Napa Valley, one of the most prestigious wine-producing regions in the U.S. Enjoy outdoor tasting sessions with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Trek out into Northern California’s wilderness areas to find soaring mountain peaks and ancient trees. Marvel at gigantic sequoia in Redwood National Park or hike to the top of Lassen Peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park. The Shasta Cascades lie in the far north of the state and promise exploration in stunning scenery with very few crowds. Spend a day on the shores of Lake Tahoe, where you can ski in winter and kayak in summer.
Fly into San Francisco International Airport then drive north to the mountains and cliffs of the region. Northern California can be visited at any time of year, although some of the higher mountains become inaccessible through winter.
