THE 15 BEST Things to Do in San Francisco
Things to Do in San Francisco
Expect to get your steps in (or hop on a cable car), while spotting iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge or taking a day trip to Alcatraz. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at San Francisco.
- fromper adultC$328
- fromper adultC$138
- Likely To Sell Outfromper adultC$199
- Sightseeing Cruisesfromper adultC$55
- Bus Toursfromper adultC$91
- Private and Luxuryfrom
C$242per adultC$223 - Culinary Toursfromper adultC$128
- fromper adultC$178
- City Toursfromper adultC$122
- Bike Toursfromper adultC$159
Pedal the Golden Gate
Napa & Sonoma wine adventures
Historic Sites
Historic Sites
Iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic bay views, bike rentals for scenic rides, and photo-worthy vista points from both ends. Celebrated for its distinctive architecture and engineering.
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Trams
Historic cable cars traverse the city's steep hills, providing scenic views and a unique ride through vibrant neighborhoods and close to major landmarks.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks
Iconic zigzagging road with eight hairpin turns, lined by picturesque homes and lush gardens, providing a scenic drive or walk with stunning bay views and a peek at Coit Tower.
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Marinas
Bustling waterfront with diverse dining, unique shops, and lively street performers. Home to playful sea lions and scenic views for memorable moments.
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Speciality Museums
Admission tickets from C$35
Neighbourhoods
Iconic sourdough bakery with clam chowder amid a bustling waterfront neighborhood, featuring sea lion sightings and a lively mix of shops and street entertainment.
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Arenas & Stadiums
Waterfront stadium with a family-friendly vibe and a dedicated beer garden. Features picturesque views of the bay, vibrant atmosphere for baseball fans, and a scenic outfield walkway.
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Serene Beaux-Arts landmark enveloped by lush gardens and a peaceful lake, ideal for leisurely strolls and photography amidst architectural splendor.
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Science Museums
Interactive science hub with a blend of exhibits, from a vibrant rainforest and aquatic life to a planetarium. Features unique attractions like an albino alligator and earthquake simulator.
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Lookouts
Panoramic vistas await at this scenic overlook with short hikes to multiple peaks. Wind-swept heights offer unique city views, intensified by mystical fog on cooler days.
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Other Top Attractions around San Francisco
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travellers are saying
- GJ730Glasgow, UK228 contributionsOur favourite experience in san francisco. Really good, fascinating, and very interesting book tickets online and opt for first ferry, when island less busy.Written November 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- GJ730Glasgow, UK228 contributionsDefinitely worth a visit. Easy to get to via public transport. We walked whole bridge, though if you are short of time just walk to middle and back.Written November 26, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Baco13Nottingham, UK42 contributionsA must do attraction in San Francisco. Loved riding the cable cars, the drivers were friendly and the cars a novelty. We downloaded the muni app to book, but ticket machines are available at the main stop or you are able to pay cash to the driver.Written November 16, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Dan SMaidstone, UK145 contributionsI’d heard a lot about this street
Photography does not do it justice
It’s slightly mad but definitely worth a visit
It’s free to walk or drive
Walking it is quite physical. But definitely recommendedWritten November 11, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - gino_o@hotmail.com65 contributionsNice place, nice shops and restaurants. It's a shame about the many drug addicts and homeless people hanging around there.Written November 20, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- dustythoughtsManchester, CT2,234 contributionsThis museum is jam-packed with interesting information, memorabilia, and other assorted items associated with Walt Disney and his family - sketches, pictures, miniature trains, and video reels. It's amazing how much they were able to squeeze into this museum without making it overwhelming. Two floors of exhibits took us two hours to view, and even then we missed a few things. This museum really highlighted how much Walt Disney was able to accomplish in his 65 years!Written October 18, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- XoelDallas, TX175 contributionsA must-visit spot in San Francisco, filled with seafood stands, unique shops, and waterfront views. Be mindful of the time you visit, as many shops open at 10 a.m., so arriving later ensures a fuller experience. From fresh clam chowder in sourdough bowls to fun souvenir shops, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to spot sea lions or enjoy views of the Bay!Written October 31, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- KMB_GAFort Myers, FL1,251 contributionsCame for a Giants game and was not disappointed. Being right on the water alone made the stadium unique and beautiful. Loved the exterior and all of the plagues and important history throughout the outside of the ballpark (and really nice statues). The inside is just as great. So many places to choose from for food…and many relevant, local food options to get a taste of San Fran while you’re there. Views from the seats are stunning; this is a stadium where the nosebleed seats aren’t a bad thing. My only major complaint is their team store was tiny and didn’t offer a variety of merch like others I’ve seen. The Braves and the Rays store both put theirs to shame. Luckily, I’m there for the game experience and the store is the least of my worries. The game day experience was perfection!Written November 3, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Sergei PT600 contributionsLots to do in the Golden Gate Park, right next to the Golden Gate Bridge and options of restaurants and shops.
You can choose to go to the Science Museum, the Botanical Garden, Japanese Garden, among others. Really nice place.
Good parking, inside or outside.Written November 12, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - dustythoughtsManchester, CT2,234 contributionsThis breathtakingly gorgeous theatre only goes to show that art isn't just limited to a typical art museum - you can find beauty anywhere! It's an open-air theatre with beautiful architecture and places to sit and reflect. It was busy when we were here, but it didn't get noisy or crowded, as there was plenty of space.Written October 18, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- dustythoughtsManchester, CT2,234 contributions