Top 15 Things to Do in San Francisco
San Francisco is cosmopolitan, open, and tolerant—making it a must-visit city on any West Coast tour. While the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and legendary Alcatraz Island are widely recognized, the city’s rich history and monumental landmarks offer so much more. Curious about things to do in San Francisco? Keep reading to discover the essentials!
No matter what catches your eye, first-time visitors can ease their way into the City by the Bay with a free tour of San Francisco or a private tour.
1. Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge may not be the longest bridge in the world, but it’s definitely one of the most iconic. This famous landmark was built between 1933 to 1937 and is universally recognizable by its vibrant red color and skyscraping towers stretching up to 300 meters (984 feet) high.
If you’re looking to take in the best views, there’s no shortage of options, but cruising through the bay is hard to beat. Sailing under the massive bridge offers a fresh perspective on this marvel of engineering—something you won’t get from the usual lookout spots.
Sail through the bay during the day or opt for a cruise at sunset for a breathtaking sight. What better way to experience Golden Gate Bridge than at golden hour, right? Check out the tours below and experience it for yourself.
In general, most San Francisco Bay cruises last between 1 and 2 hours. Some include audio guides and cafeteria services on board too.
2. Stroll through The Presidio for a Picnic
The Presidio of San Francisco is a massive Army base-turned-National Park that’s a hot spot for locals. Thanks to its sprawling green space covering 5 square meters (2 square miles,) there’s no shortage of spots to lay a blanket down and enjoy a meal.
Find a good patch of grass anywhere in the park for the perfect picnic, then head down Battery East Trail which leads directly to the Golden Gate Bridge. This particular trail is a great option for folks who want a calm walkabout without leaving the city.
3. Visit the Walt Disney Family Museum
The Walt Disney Family Museum gets a special shoutout. It’s right on the east side of Presidio Park, so combining a visit to both makes for an awesome day out. It’s a great San Francisco itinerary that both kids and adults will enjoy!
At the exhibit, find out which were the first Disney characters created and which ones have their own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Plus, take a look at how the Disneyland parks were conceptualized.
Book your ticket online to the Walt Disney Museum in San Francisco, and feel the magic.
4. California Academy of Sciences, a Complete Family Plan
If you’re really trying to fill your trip with amazing experiences, then add to your itinerary a visit to the California Academy of Sciences! Just a short 20-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from the Presidio, this iconic science and natural history museum is located in Golden Gate Park.
Book your ticket to the California Academy of Sciences and walk through an indoor rainforest or the colorful aquarium installations. Plus, head up to the Living Roof for more interactive exhibits that guarantee fun for all ages.
Pro tip: if you’re into art, don’t miss the de Young Museum just across the street. Not only is it a modern architectural marvel, but it also houses a significant collection of African and American art. Plus, the observation tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city!
5. Alcatraz Island, the Former Home of World Famous Criminals
Alcatraz Island housed a maximum security federal prison between 1934 and 1963. It came to be known for its famous escape attempts by big-name gangsters of the time. Today it’s one of the must-see historical places to visit in San Francisco.
Among the infamous prisoners, the most recognized is American gangster Al Capone. Visit this historic island with a 12-minute ferry ride and tour the main cell block and chow house. Don’t miss out on the 15-room Warden’s mansion ruins either!
Check out these tours and tickets to Alcatraz Island with Civitatis. You’ll find experiences ranging from helicopter rides to ferry transportation and tickets.
6. Lombard Street, the Crookedest Street in San Francisco
Lombard Street is known as the curviest street in the U.S., with 8 super tight hairpin turns that even made it onto The Simpsons. People keep coming back for the stunning views and the unique vibe.
It’s a pretty busy road with lots of cars, but it’s totally worth checking out—even if you just walk over to snap a pic. It’s one of San Francisco’s quirkiest spots, and you can find it between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets.
7. Fisherman’s Wharf and the Pier 39 Sea Lions
Just a few steps from Lombard Street, you’ll find Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco’s historic old port. It’s been around since 1853, originally a key trading hub and economic driver. By the mid-20th century, though, it became less relevant with new technologies.
Still, Fisherman’s Wharf is a great spot for dining, especially if you’re into fish and seafood. Its seaside charm is perfect for a bit of shopping or a relaxing sunset stroll.
And don’t miss Pier 39—it’s the highlight of the Wharf. You can get up close with the famous sea lions and enjoy some fun with these lively local residents!
8. Chinatown and Little Italy, San Francisco’s Contrasting Spots
San Francisco is home to one of the largest Chinese communities outside of Asia and the oldest Chinatown in North America. In fact, it is said that the first fortune cookies were created here— fun fact right?
Just like its East Coast counterpart, New York, the Italian neighborhood is right next to Chinatown. Little Italy stands out for its food scene, but also for landmarks like the church of St. Peter and St. Paul, where Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio had their wedding photos taken.
You can explore both neighborhoods on a guided tour or sink your teeth into a food tour of San Francisco for a culinary trip around the world. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
9. Transamerica Pyramid
While it may not be one of the tallest buildings in the world, the Transamerica Pyramid is a must-see in San Francisco and is a defining symbol of the city’s skyline.
Standing at 260 meters (853 feet) it was the tallest skyscraper in the city until 2018, when it was surpassed by the 326-meter (1069-foot) Salesforce Tower. Though tourists can’t enter the building, its distinctive and original design makes it an architectural icon that draws countless admirers every day.
10. Union Square, the Best Place to Stay in San Francisco
Many tourists choose to stay in Union Square when they visit San Francisco, and it’s easy to see why. With its central location and hassle-free connections, Union Square makes for a great launch point for exploring the city. With diverse shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, and endless nightlife events, this area offers everything a newcomer might need.
As an added bonus, this square is one of the best places to see in San Francisco at Christmas, when it gets decked out with holiday cheer, featuring a gigantic Christmas tree and an ice skating rink!
11. Castro Neighborhood, the LGBTQIA+ Epicenter
The Castro neighborhood is known for its historical significance in the LGBTQIA+ movement and as a safe space for the community. In The Castro, everyone is more than welcome to enjoy the relaxed and liberal atmosphere.
Along these streets lived Harvey Milk, who served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. He was the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in the United States. Aside from its rich history, The Castro is packed with charming restaurants and cafes and its early 20th-century theater stands out.
Bonus Tip: Seward Street Slides
Unlock your inner child and head over to the Seward Street Slides, just a 10-minute walk from the Castro. This hidden gem in San Francisco is made up of 2, steep, cement slides, and adds an extra layer of adrenaline to your West Coast visit.
When we say it’s a hidden gem, we really mean it. Tucked away behind winding streets, it can be hard to find, but well worth the effort. Grab a piece of cardboard, the essential piece of equipment for a successful ride, keep your arms tucked in, and race to the bottom!
12. Painted Ladies (Houses)
No trip to San Francisco is complete without seeing the Painted Ladies—the colorful Victorian houses you’ve probably spotted in shows like Full House and Charmed.
Although there are several houses of this style in the city, the Seven Sisters of Alamo Square are the most famous and photographed. These houses, constructed over 100 years ago, have witnessed some major historical events. They’ve survived two massive earthquakes, a fire, and 2 World Wars!
The houses were repainted in the 1960s, breathing new life into the classic Victorian architecture. The sight of these Victorian houses with the skyscrapers of San Francisco in the background is a real beauty, not to be missed on your trip!
13. Haight-Ashbury, the Hippie Neighborhood
Another of the most famous neighborhoods to see in San Francisco is Haight-Ashbury, epicenter of the hippie movement of the 60s. This neighborhood is packed with vintage shops, record stores, and street art at every turn. It’s also home to iconic landmarks tied to music legends like Janis Joplin and the Grateful Dead, too!
Although you can walk around the neighborhood on your own, you can also do it accompanied by a guide enjoying a complete tour of San Francisco. Hit all the top spots in one day!
14. Explore the Mission
Not far from Haight-Ashbury lies the Mission, an equally bohemian neighborhood and San Francisco’s oldest neighborhood. The area’s history dates back to the 18th century, when Spanish missionaries settled in these lands to begin their evangelization missions, giving it its name.
If you want to try the best Mexican tacos in town, this is your chance! But there’s more than a deeply-rooted Latino culture in the Mission. Walk down Clarion Alley and see urban art murals that attract visitors year-round. Then again, what better way to learn about the neighborhood’s history than with a free tour of the Castro and Mission District?
15. Sausalito, an Absolute Must-See in San Francisco
If you have some extra time, consider booking a trip to Sausalito, a peaceful seaside town just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from San Francisco. With its charming blend of small beaches, houseboats, and art galleries, it’s the perfect escape from the city.
You won’t regret taking a stroll through this picturesque spot! Here are some of the best guided tours to make the most of your visit
Bonus Tip: Marin Headlands
The Marin Headlands National Park is a local favorite, offering unbeatable views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco city skyline. While visiting Sausalito, why not rent a bike and ride over to the park? You’ll get a more peaceful view of the iconic bridge, away from the crowds—perfect for soaking in the scenery!
How to Get Around San Francisco
Transportation in San Francisco is easy, hassle-free, and offers plenty of options for travelers. From buses, to light rails, trolleys to the BART system, getting around San Francisco is a breeze—easier than trying to stay warm in shorts during a San Francisco summer!
If you’d rather skip public transport and just stroll around comfortably, the San Francisco sightseeing bus is a good alternative. Plus, an added bonus is that you can bundle your ticket to combine the tour bus with a visit to Alcatraz.
The Best San Francisco Bay Cruises
The city overlooks the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay itself. It’s one of the best ways to see the stunning skyline and there’s no shortage of cruises for all tastes.
A go-to cruise among first-time visitors is the San Francisco Bay cruise which takes you along the San Francisco waterfront for a special view of Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate, and Alcatraz Island. Add an extra layer of magic to your cruise and catch one of the most romantic sunsets in the world with a sunset cruise.
Don’t miss out on your perfect cruise adventure! Check all the different San Francisco Bay cruise varieties available with Civitatis.
Public Transport: From Cable Cars to Ferries
Transportation in San Francisco is varied and reliable, making renting a car completely optional. Individual rides on buses and rails cost just $2.50 whereas the iconic cable car rides come in at $7 per ride. In our opinion, it’s more economical to purchase a Muni Passport (San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency) available in 1, 3, or 7-day periods.
The San Francisco Cable Cars deserve a special mention as a major tourist attraction in their own right. Dating back to the end of the 19th century, these historic cars were designed to navigate the city’s steep slopes. The high repair costs and switch to electric streetcars nearly ended the cable car system, but it was saved as a National Historic Landmark. Today, only the Power-Hyde, Powell-Mason, and California Street routes are still running.
If you want a hassle-free ride from the San Francisco airport to downtown, you can book a shuttle service for a smooth one-way or round-trip. No need to worry about connections or handling your luggage!
Bike Around for Sustainable Traveling
Peddling your way through the City by the Bay is by far one of the most sustainable modes of transport. Not to mention, it’s an incredibly bike-friendly city with plenty of roomy bike lanes throughout. Mix things up and add a little sporty spice to your visit.
You can either rent a bike in San Francisco or take a guided bike tour, the choice is yours!
Save in San Francisco
One of our favorite ways to explore a city is by taking a free tour. Check out the various free tours available in San Francisco with Civitatis and get a taste of the city’s famous city streets. At the end of the tour, you get to set the price!
Adding to our recommendations, we can’t skip a shout-out to our favorite tourist passes: the Go City San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass, Explorer Pass, and San Francisco CityPASS®. These three passes are great for travelers planning to visit lots of museums and monuments. You can choose a GoCity card, available for 1 to 5 days, or go with CityPASS, which lets you pick specific monuments to visit.
If you’re traveling from outside the United States, don’t let a slow internet connection slow you down. Opting for an eSIM card will keep you connected, so navigating through the city is a breeze.
With so many things to do in San Francisco, it’s no wonder travelers often return to the West Coast destination year after year.
No matter how many times you visit, we always recommend checking out the full list of tours, guided visits, and activities in San Francisco that we offer through Civitatis. On every visit, you can count on plenty of things to do in San Francisco!
