Not your basic prison

Alcatraz is one of the most famous penitentiaries in the world. Located a rock island in middle of San Francisco bay, just north of the downtown, the prison has held several well-known crooks, such as Al Capone and Robert Franklin Stout (”Birdman of Alcatraz”).

The cool waters and currents in the bay made the prison almost impossible to escape. Several inmates tried, but only two succeeded to get to the shore, just to be immediately returned.

The prison is a chilling experience. The cells are very small and without any extra items. As an additional torture San Francisco is just a few stone throws away and you can see the city from the prison yard.

www.nps.gov/alcatraz. Ferries from pier 41, Blue & Gold +1 415 705 5555.