Hotels near Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill

Crowning Telegraph Hill above North Beach, the 64-metre Coit Tower was built in 1933 with a bequest from socialite Lillie Hitchcock Coit, and its observation deck gives one of the finest 360-degree views in San Francisco - the bridges, the bay, Alcatraz and the downtown skyline all at once. The fluted concrete column is a beloved Art Deco landmark.

Inside, the ground floor is wrapped in vivid 1930s murals painted by local artists under a New Deal programme, depicting California life and labour. The walk up through the Filbert Street Steps and the hidden gardens of Telegraph Hill, home to a flock of wild parrots, is half the pleasure.

Pro Tip: Walk up the leafy Filbert or Greenwich Street Steps rather than driving - parking at the top is very limited - and listen for the wild parrots. Pay for the lift to the observation deck for the full panorama, and go on a clear afternoon.