The Best Things to do in San Francisco: Your Complete Travel Guide
San Francisco has a vast choice of things to do to suit all ages and tastes. This Californian gem is included in many of our multi-centre holidays to the US. You can visit world-renowned landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, take a ferry to Alcatraz - the infamous island prison, go hiking in stunning scenery, sample sumptuous wines and lots more besides.
Making your way around is also a lot of fun when you travel by cable car. They’ll help to prevent tired legs and flagging energy levels by taking you up and down San Francisco’s many steep hills. So whether you want a memorable city break or to venture further afield to experience the many natural wonders in the area, you’re sure to have a tremendous time.
There are also many walking tours, boat trips, open-top buses and other modes of transport to help you navigate the city and pack more into your holiday schedule.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best things to do in San Francisco for you to add to your itinerary when booking your next break with Viva Holidays. You only need a £49 deposit to secure your trip and start planning your adventure to this wonderful part of the world.
Whether you’ve been to San Francisco previously or are looking forward to your first visit, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression for all the reasons below and many more. Your next holiday is only a phone call away.
The Golden Gate Bridge
At 227.4 metres tall, it’s impossible to miss this amazing feat of engineering that spans the strait below (although it can get shrouded in fog some days!). The bridge was completed in 1937 and was named one of the seven wonders of the modern world. It’s also the most photographed bridge on the planet.
On a clear day, walking or cycling the 1.7 miles across gives you access to unique views and a chance to explore what lies beyond the city itself in Marin County. This historic landmark should be high on your list of best things to do in San Francisco.
Golden Gate Park
Spending the day in Golden Gate Park will give you a glimpse into a different side of San Francisco. So whether you’re looking to relax in quiet surroundings or try your hand at a new activity, there’s no shortage of options in this 1,017-acre urban oasis.
For example, there’s archery, a golf course, and tennis courts when you’re feeling sporty. If you’d like to enjoy a romantic picnic, highlights include the Japanese Tea Garden and the San Francisco Botanical Garden, among several other quiet spots.
Woodlands, windmills and a Bison paddock are just a few of the other things that attract people to this magnificent park.
Alcatraz Island
Hop on a boat and take the short trip to Alcatraz Island, home to the notorious prison and many famous inmates, including Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. Day and nighttime tours are available, with the latter allowing you to witness a special San Francisco sunset.
The island also has a lighthouse and gardens to explore. It’s also great for bird watching and enjoying views over to the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge. A visit to “The Rock” via ferry is one of the best things to do in San Francisco, making for a great trip that you’ll never forget.
Fisherman's Wharf
As its name suggests, Fisherman’s Wharf is found on San Francisco's waterfront. There’s a whole host of attractions and activities, whether you’re on a family holiday or travelling as a couple. For example, you can hire bikes and take to the city on two wheels for a different perspective. There are also boat tours and trips around San Francisco in vintage VW campervans.
As well as an abundance of shops and restaurants, you’ll find Madame Tussauds, the Aquarium of the Bay and the Cartoon Art Museum, among other fascinating things to see and do in this popular part of San Francisco.
Don’t forget to sample the fabulous fresh seafood while you’re here. And no trip to the area would be complete without snapping a few photos of the famous resident sea lions at Pier 39.
Ghirardelli Square is on the site of an old chocolate factory. It’s still providing visitors with mouthwatering experiences with tacos, seafood, steaks, craft beer and tea houses among the many delights on offer. It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy some al-fresco dining before browsing the various shops.
The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is also in the Fisherman’s Wharf area. Viewing the historic ships, maritime museum, and research centre gives you a great glimpse into the past. The 19th-century vessels you can explore include a steam ferryboat, a square-rigger and a scow schooner.
Best places to visit in San Francisco: Chinatown
If you’ve never been on holiday to San Francisco previously, you may be unaware that it’s home to the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. It’s a wonderful place to spend time and savour a whole new world of sights, sounds, tastes and smells without leaving California.
You’ll find independent boutiques, bakeries, tea houses, restaurants and much more to capture your attention as you wander through this engrossing area. There are also culinary tours of Chinatown available if you’d like to learn more about many traditional dishes and the popular places to try them.
Little Italy
Little Italy is also known as the North Beach neighbourhood and is a food lover’s paradise. From the finest pizza and pasta to delicious Italian coffees and gelato, the most difficult part about visiting is deciding what to try first.
Getting a magnificent taste of the Mediterranean on your San Francisco holiday is just another great reason to spend time here. And when the summer sun beats down, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re in Rome or another beautiful Italian city.
Napa Valley
San Francisco is well-loved by wine connoisseurs worldwide thanks to its proximity to Napa Valley. There are many fantastic wineries within the city, and you can also enjoy tours of the local vineyards to learn more about the production process and do some tasting, of course!
There are in excess of 400 wineries in Napa Valley. One of the best ways to experience the area is to travel aboard the historic Napa Valley Wine Train, where you can dine, marvel at the outstanding views and sample a fantastic range of what the region has to offer, including its renowned Cabernet Sauvignon.
Craft beer tours
San Francisco also has a thriving craft beer scene. A great way to explore some of the city’s best bars on foot is to take a walking tour - if you’re into your beer, this tour is definitely one of the best things to do in San Francisco. Your guide will give you beer recommendations from the many on offer, and you’ll also get to meet new people.
When you’re looking to spend a few hours having fun and enjoying some of the best craft beers anywhere in the world, a walking tour will be right up your street. And when you’re done, there are loads of great options for food, from tasty takeaways to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Museums
When you’re seeking a spot of culture on your San Francisco holiday, the city has a great selection of museums. These include the de Young Museum, Legion of Honor, San Francisco Cable Car Museum, Musee Mecanique, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and the California Academy of Sciences.
You’ll find San Francisco’s Exploratorium at Pier 15. Featuring over 600 interactive exhibits, it’s the perfect place for curious minds of all ages. Science, history, nature, maths and much more are brought to life in a captivating, fun and memorable way. There are also free outdoor exhibits, so you can stop and play for a while, even if you’re just passing by.
So whether you’re a fan of fine art, transportation or natural history, there’s a wealth of paintings and exhibits to capture your imagination in these world-class museums.
Mission District
The Mission District is a lively and diverse neighbourhood that serves up a wonderful blend of best things to do in San Francisco, with a range of cultures, attractions and experiences. The vibrant street murals add a splash of colour to the area, where you’ll find ice cream parlours, bookstores, burritos, vintage clothing shops and a whole lot more.
And by night, you’ll be spoilt for choice by the number of brilliant bars and restaurants around. There are venues serving up classic cocktails and an abundance of local craft beers you can try for the first time.
Mission Dolores Park is a popular place for locals to hang out, play sports and walk their dogs. It also boasts some excellent views, so if you’re in San Francisco and the sun is shining, grab a picnic and head here to relax and enjoy simply doing nothing.
The Castro District
Commonly referred to as just “The Castro”, this is San Francisco’s gay district, located in Eureka Valley. Bars, theatres, restaurants and adult shops can be found in this neighbourhood. There’s even a GLBT Historical Society Museum which features exhibitions and programmes looking at GLBT culture in the United States over the years.
Lombard Street
While it’s commonly known as the ‘Crooked Street in the World’, Lombard Street doesn’t officially boast that accolade. However, with its spectacular views from the summit, eight hairpin bends and amazing mansions, it attracts huge numbers of visitors each year who are keen to grab a sensational snap to share on social media.
A visit to Lombard Street won’t take up much of your San Francisco getaway, but it’s definitely worth stopping by. Just remember it’s a residential street, so if it’s already crowded when you arrive, you may want to come back at a quieter time.
Watch a 49ers game
If you’re in the San Francisco area during the NFL season, you might want to experience the atmosphere at Levi’s Stadium. With a capacity of 68,500, it’s a vast arena that cost $1.2 billion to build.
The stadium is actually located in Santa Clara, so you’ll need to step out of the city to attend a game. It’s definitely worth it for sports fans though, especially if you’ve been to an NFL game before. The San Francisco 49ers moved into their new home back in 2014 after more than 40 years at Candlestick Park. American football games are a great spectacle and are one of the top things to do in San Francisco - and there’s plenty of entertainment on offer for kids and adults of all ages whilst you’re at the game.
Take a tour of Oracle Park
Home of the San Francisco Giants Major League Baseball team, Oracle Park is a waterfront stadium with a capacity of 42,300. The Giants have won eight World Series titles in their history.
As far as live sporting entertainment goes, a baseball game is hard to beat, and it’s best to book your tickets in advance to avoid any disappointment. Even if there’s no game on while you’re on holiday in San Francisco, it’s still worth paying a visit and booking a stadium tour.
Coit Tower
Taking a trip up Telegraph Hill to visit Coit Tower is another worthwhile thing to do in San Francisco. And it’s not just the mesmerising views that attract holidaymakers. On the tower's ground floor, there are eye-catching murals that showcase local life in the 1930s.
Telegraph Hill is also home to a flock of wild South American parrots, so it’s worth keeping a look out for them as you make your way to the tower on foot. Be aware that there are many steps to ascend if you decide to walk to the tower. However, there’s also a public bus service that will take you to the top.
Telegraph Hill and the Coit Tower provide great vantage points to see the city from a new angle. The tower itself stands at an impressive 210 feet and has been featured many times on the big screen in movies such as Dr. Doolittle and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.
San Francisco Zoo
Open all year round, San Francisco Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals. It’s a fantastic place to explore if you’re on holiday as a family. There are all sorts of exotic and endangered creatures to visit, including the eastern mountain bongo (a species of antelope), a red-footed tortoise and insects known as thorny phasmids.
With 250 different species to discover, you can happily spend the entire day here. San Francisco Zoo is set over 100 acres of land and also has beautiful gardens where you can have a picnic before going to see more incredible animals.
Baker Beach
After a busy day sightseeing, making your way to Baker Beach is a wonderful way to relax. Escape the city and get unrivalled views of the Golden Gate Bridge or grab some food and watch a stunning sunset. It’s worth noting that swimming here is advised against because of the strong currents.
There are several other brilliant beaches in the area, including Ocean Beach, Thornton State and Crissy Field East Beach. While there are plenty of things to see and do in San Francisco, it’s nice to get into nature as well.
Twin Peaks
Speaking of the great outdoors, Twin Peaks is a pair of spectacular summits providing panoramic views of San Francisco, standing at over 900 feet high. Many people come for the views, but there’s also great hiking in the 64-acre park.
There's a lot of amazing wildlife to be found, as well as several different plant species you may not have come across before. So, if you’ve got a head for heights, we’d thoroughly recommend making time to visit Twin Peaks.
Ferry Building Marketplace
If you want a taste of the real San Francisco, a trip to Ferry Building Marketplace is an absolute must. There’s a bountiful selection of artisan food and drink producers as well as many interesting shops to browse.
It’s also home to a farmer’s market, and on a nice day, the al fresco dining is one of the city’s most popular spots. The building itself dates back to 1898 and has a fascinating history.
Best things to do in San Francisco: Hiking in the hills
If you’re feeling energetic on your escape to San Francisco, there are many magnificent hiking trails. These are a great way to immerse yourself in nature and provide a captivating contrast to busy days sightseeing.
San Francisco has 48 hills in total, so there’s no shortage of options. Some of the most popular hiking trails include Mt. Davidson, the Batteries to Bluff Trail, Glen Canyon Park and Lovers’ Lane Trail at the Presidio.
The list above only mentions some of the many trails. If you’re looking forward to hiking in the San Francisco area, it’s best to do your own research in advance, so you can plan the right route based on your experience and interests.
Sunset catamaran cruise
San Francisco’s sunsets are pretty special. And there’s no better way to experience one than sailing around San Francisco Bay, passing under the imposing Golden Gate Bridge. You can choose to stay inside or stand out on deck and grab some once-in-a-lifetime photographs and videos of the various landmarks and city skyline.
These cruises are a perfect way to round off a romantic evening or spend a memorable final night in San Francisco. While you can also enjoy stunning sunset views from many of the city’s beaches, there’s something magical about being out on the water.
Whale tours
Going on a voyage from San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean makes for a memorable experience. There are whale-watching tours that allow you to see majestic humpback and grey whales up close.
These tours also provide a unique way to see the city and wider area from a fresh perspective. Depending on the weather and time of year you set sail, you might also be lucky enough to see dolphins and porpoises. These tours are typically two to three hours long but will leave a lasting impression on you and give you a great story to tell family and friends when you return home.
Angel Island
Catch the ferry from Pier 41 in San Francisco and take a day trip to Angel Island. It has a rich history, and as such, there are many buildings to explore, including the US immigration station, Fort McDowell and Fort Reynolds, various gun batteries and the visitor centre.
If history’s not your thing, it’s still worth visiting Angel Island for its scenic beauty and wildlife. It’s been a state park since the 1960s and is home to an array of amazing animals on dry land and in the surrounding waters. These include mule deer, sea lions and moles.
You can easily spend all day on Angel Island because it has so much to offer. Then, after a busy day on your feet, it’s only a short sail back to the mainland, where you’ll find lots of popular restaurants to satisfy your appetite.
Secure your holiday to San Francisco with Viva Holidays
We can’t possibly cover all of the best things to do in San Francisco in one article. However, we hope this has given you a glimpse of what to expect and showcased what a superb city it is. And remember, San Francisco will be just one of the destinations in your multi-centre holiday, so there will be many more attractions and sights for you to enjoy during your time away. If you’ve got any questions about the city or your accommodation, please don’t hesitate to ask.
At Viva Holidays, we know you’ll likely be considering a few options when choosing the right company for your San Francisco getaway. We work hard to bring you the best multi-centre holiday deals combined with outstanding customer service. For example, we have San Francisco holidays that also include time in New York City, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Cancun and Los Angeles.
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“Shambhavi very patiently explored lots of options for me whilst I planned our first ever multi-centre trip; understood what was important to us and gave great guidance when I was uncertain which way to go.” Julie Fletcher.
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