San Francisco
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in San Francisco

San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Cruise around the Golden Gate Bay on a boat tour. Enjoy informative commentary, see sights like Alcatraz Island, and purchase food and drink from the onboard bar. Launched in 1939 as part of the Golden Gate International Exposition, this 1-hour cruise has been a highlight of any visit to San Francisco for over 75 years. With 8-14 departures daily from Fisherman's Wharf, you will sail along San Francisco's breathtaking waterfront, under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and close to the notorious Alcatraz Island. Discover San Francisco's fascinating history, brought to life through audio commentary broadcast in 16 languages via personal audioguides. Look out for wildlife along the way, including pelicans, sea lions, and even dolphins and whales. Sail past the lively neighborhood of North Beach, the famous swimming clubs of Aquatic Park, the historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, and San Francisco Maritime National Park, before heading west towards Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy views of Crissy Field and the lush hillsides of the Presidio, before cruising under Golden Gate Bridge. Steam back into the Bay, traveling past the wildlife reserves of the Marin Headlands, and the legendary town of Sausalito, once home to the 1960s’ flower generation. With Angel Island State Park to your left, cruise around the infamous Alcatraz. After a full hour of exciting sights, the barking sea lions at Pier 39 welcome you back to Pier 43 1/2. A full bar with drinks, snacks, and merchandise, including logo wear, is available at reasonable prices on board the iconic Red and White vessels. Join us on our 5:30 departure for the "Happiest Hour on The Bay" enjoy discounted pricing on cocktails, beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks. Finish your day or start your evening with Red and White for the best views on board a piece of San Francisco history.

San Francisco: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Open-top Bus

San Francisco: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Open-top Bus

Experience the best that the City by the Bay has to offer with the Big Bus San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off tour. This digitally-narrated tour takes you to the city's must-see landmarks and iconic attractions, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of San Francisco. Hop aboard the bus and prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge, a true San Francisco icon. As you cross the bridge, take in the breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the surrounding hills. This is a photo-opportunity not to be missed! As the tour continues, venture into the heart of the city and visit Union Square, the bustling shopping district. Here, you'll find an array of designer boutiques, high-end department stores, and trendy restaurants. Union Square is also home to the famous cable car turnaround, where you'll see the iconic cable cars in action. The tour also takes you through the historic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, the birthplace of the hippie movement. As you walk through the streets, you'll be transported back to the 1960s, with colorful Victorian houses, vintage clothing stores, and murals celebrating the Summer of Love. No trip to San Francisco is complete without a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf. Take in the sights and sounds of this famous waterfront district, where you can sample fresh seafood, browse local shops, and watch the sea lions basking in the sun. From here, you can also catch a ferry to Alcatraz Island or take a cruise around the bay. With the Big Bus tour, you have the flexibility to hop on and off at any of the 20 stops along the route, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. And with buses running every 10-15 minutes, you won’t have to wait long to continue your adventure. So whether you want to spend more time shopping in Union Square or exploring the Golden Gate Park, the Big Bus tour has got you covered.

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

You will explore INSIDE the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island with America’s most ruthless criminals, including Al Capone. The ferry will leave on time at the specific time you booked. You have to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time at Pier 33. Walk, bike, take public transportation, or drive (as a last resort as it can be challenging to find parking), with easy access from anywhere around the Bay! On the island follow the Cellhouse audio tour “Doing Time” 45 minutes available in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. Also included is an amazing 1 hour SF Bay Cruise. Sail past the famous PIER 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline.You have the flexibility to go on your cruise on any day at any available departure. You will receive the schedule. Those are 2 separates tours.

San Francisco: California Sunset/SF City Lights Cruise

San Francisco: California Sunset/SF City Lights Cruise

During the winter months, our California Sunset Cruise transforms into the San Francisco City Lights Cruise. As the sun sets earlier, the city comes alive with twinkling lights, offering a stunning backdrop of illuminated landmarks. Whether you’re enjoying the glowing sunsets of summer or the cozy charm of winter, this cruise promises unforgettable views. Along the way, view numerous National Historic landmarks and San Francisco sights, including Coit Tower, the Transamerica Pyramid, St. Peter, Paul's Church, and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. After the sun sets, the city comes to life, and this 2-hour cruise offers a front-row seat to the iconic landmarks of the Bay, all illuminated against the night sky. On your way back to Fisherman’s Wharf, see many more famous sights, including the Presidio, the Marina District, and Fort Mason.

San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat

San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat

Enjoy a 1-hour journey along San Francisco's historic waterfront and experience the thrilling history of the San Francisco Bay, with all the sound and glory it deserves. The 1-hour non-stop Bay Cruise takes you past the famous PIER 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline. Relax in comfort, with both indoor and outdoor seating, and enjoy a full narration describing major landmarks as you sail by. See sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the iconic San Francisco skyline as you go. Whether it’s your first time to San Francisco, or your 10th visit, the Bay Cruise is something you should experience at least once in your life. You will get a complimentary souvenir map, which is available in nine languages, and if you get hungry, there’s a full-service snack bar on board with food and drink available to purchase.

San Francisco: Alcatraz Island with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

San Francisco: Alcatraz Island with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Discover the best of San Francisco with this combined ticket that includes a visit to Alcatraz Island, a 2-day Hop-on-Hop-off open-top bus ticket, Panoramic Sunset Tour, and a Chinatown walking tour. Plus, experience the thrill of either The Flyer or the 7D Experience, both located at Pier 39. Alcatraz Island Step foot on the notorious Alcatraz Island and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the iconic prison. As you explore the cells and grounds, listen to the gripping audio guide that reveals the tales of daring escape attempts and the lives of the inmates. Hop-on Hop-off Tour With your 2-day Big Bus hop-on-hop-off pass, have the freedom to explore San Francisco at your own pace. Hop on and off the bus as many times as you like and enjoy the informative and entertaining digital audio commentary. Chinatown Guided Walking Tour During your adventure, take a leisurely guided walking tour through the vibrant streets of Chinatown. Discover the rich culture and fascinating history of this unique neighborhood. Panoramic Sunset Tour Discover San Francisco by sunset on a panoramic tour of The Golden City. Engage with the history and hidden stories of the city with audio commentary and see sights like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Be sure to have your camera ready! Pier 39: The Flyer or the 7D Experience The Flyer takes you on a virtual journey across San Francisco's landmarks from a 50-foot screen with motion seats. Glide over the Golden Gate Bridge, China Town, Lombard Street, and the stunning Redwood National Forest. The 7D Experience is a high-tech ride combining a rollercoaster and a laser game. In a 20-person theater, you'll enter new dimensions on a massive 3D screen. Top sights: - North Beach - Chinatown - Embarcadero Center - Fisherman’s Wharf - Ferry Building - Union Square - Redemption Center - Civic Center - Alamo Square - Haight Ashbury - Golden Gate Bridge - Golden Gate Park - Palace of Fine Arts - Marina - Lombard Street - Pier 35 - Pier 39

San Francisco: Alcatraz Ticket, Ferry, & Self-Guided App

San Francisco: Alcatraz Ticket, Ferry, & Self-Guided App

Embark on an exhilarating journey through history with our Alcatraz Highlights Tour! First, board a ferry and ride across the water to reach the infamous island that once contained America's most notorious criminals. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Alcatraz as you explore while listening to the app tour. Witness the chilling cells that housed Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly as you stroll past the imposing cell blocks. Be captivated by the echoes of the past as you wander through the eerie corridors and soak in the stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline. Don't miss your chance to uncover the mysteries and legends of America's most infamous prison on our Alcatraz Highlights Tour - a thrilling adventure you won't forget!

San Francisco: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

Explore the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island to learn about America’s most ruthless criminals, including Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly. Enjoy a ferry transfer from San Francisco and an admission ticket to the famous prison. Embark on a scenic 1-hour cruise of San Francisco Bay before or after your visit. Board the ferry and arrive on Alcatraz Island to begin your visit. Take advantage of an insightful and award-winning audio guide in multiple languages to immerse yourself in the dark history of Alcatraz and learn all about its old inmates and the many fateful escape attempts. Spend as much time as you'd like before taking the ferry back to the pier. Additionally, enjoy a 1-hour narrated sightseeing cruise of San Francisco Bay in a comfortable boat with both indoor and outdoor seating. Take in the scenic views and sail past famous San Francisco landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, the Bay Bridge and much more. Sail along the historic waterfront, past the famous Pier 39 sea lions and take in the city’s fascinating skyline from the unique vantage point of the San Francisco Bay.

From San Francisco: Muir Woods and Sausalito Half-Day Trip

From San Francisco: Muir Woods and Sausalito Half-Day Trip

Explore the ancient groves of coastal redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument alongside an expert guide on a half-day tour. Then discover the charming streets of Downtown Sausalito on a relaxed half-day tour. After a pick-up from a central San Francisco hotel, head north over the bridge and into the Marin Headlands. If the fog is clear, you might get a chance to stop and take some pictures of the bridge up close. When you arrive in Muir Woods, take an hour and a half to roam through this ‘living museum’ where you can glimpse the towering trees that used to dominate the west coast from Santa Barbara to Washington. Following your exploration of Muir Woods, hop back in the coach for a quick ride over to Sausalito. Enjoy a 15-20 minute, narrated in-coach tour through the beautiful seaside Mediterranean-style town, and then some free time to walk around. After about 45 minutes in Sausalito, hop back in the coach for a trip back across the Golden Gate Bridge, or opt for a ferry ride back to San Francisco. You'll be dropped back off at your pick-up point. This half-day tour is a great way to see all the highlights of the northern San Francisco Bay in a limited amount of time. 

From SF: Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias Hike & Pickup

From SF: Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias Hike & Pickup

Begin your Yosemite National Park day tour by getting picked up at select San Francisco hotels. Cross the Bay Bridge and drive through the Central Valley to the town of Oakdale where you will stop for a short break. Start your day in the park at Tunnel View. Then, go to Bridalveil Falls for a quick walk to the base of the roaring waterfall. Next, proceed onto Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. After, enjoy some free time where you will get a chance to picnic at the base of Yosemite Falls, by a river, or in a granite-enclosed meadow. Chances are high that you will see rock climbers in the spring or fall, bears in the summer, and spectacular ice formations in the winter. After regrouping, head to El Capitan, the center of the rock climbing universe. Depending on the season, you may see some climbers on the rock, but they will appear smaller than ants on the 3000-foot (914 meters) rock. Enjoy a photo stop at Valley View and then head to the Tuolumne Grove to take a one-mile (1.6 km) hike to see a grove of 1500-year-old giant sequoia trees. Please note that the hike to the sequoias may not be available during the snow season. After the hike, head back to San Francisco with a restroom stop along the way.

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Our most recommended things to do in San Francisco

San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Cruise around the Golden Gate Bay on a boat tour. Enjoy informative commentary, see sights like Alcatraz Island, and purchase food and drink from the onboard bar. Launched in 1939 as part of the Golden Gate International Exposition, this 1-hour cruise has been a highlight of any visit to San Francisco for over 75 years. With 8-14 departures daily from Fisherman's Wharf, you will sail along San Francisco's breathtaking waterfront, under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and close to the notorious Alcatraz Island. Discover San Francisco's fascinating history, brought to life through audio commentary broadcast in 16 languages via personal audioguides. Look out for wildlife along the way, including pelicans, sea lions, and even dolphins and whales. Sail past the lively neighborhood of North Beach, the famous swimming clubs of Aquatic Park, the historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, and San Francisco Maritime National Park, before heading west towards Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy views of Crissy Field and the lush hillsides of the Presidio, before cruising under Golden Gate Bridge. Steam back into the Bay, traveling past the wildlife reserves of the Marin Headlands, and the legendary town of Sausalito, once home to the 1960s’ flower generation. With Angel Island State Park to your left, cruise around the infamous Alcatraz. After a full hour of exciting sights, the barking sea lions at Pier 39 welcome you back to Pier 43 1/2. A full bar with drinks, snacks, and merchandise, including logo wear, is available at reasonable prices on board the iconic Red and White vessels. Join us on our 5:30 departure for the "Happiest Hour on The Bay" enjoy discounted pricing on cocktails, beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks. Finish your day or start your evening with Red and White for the best views on board a piece of San Francisco history.

San Francisco: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Open-top Bus

San Francisco: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Open-top Bus

Experience the best that the City by the Bay has to offer with the Big Bus San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off tour. This digitally-narrated tour takes you to the city's must-see landmarks and iconic attractions, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of San Francisco. Hop aboard the bus and prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge, a true San Francisco icon. As you cross the bridge, take in the breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the surrounding hills. This is a photo-opportunity not to be missed! As the tour continues, venture into the heart of the city and visit Union Square, the bustling shopping district. Here, you'll find an array of designer boutiques, high-end department stores, and trendy restaurants. Union Square is also home to the famous cable car turnaround, where you'll see the iconic cable cars in action. The tour also takes you through the historic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, the birthplace of the hippie movement. As you walk through the streets, you'll be transported back to the 1960s, with colorful Victorian houses, vintage clothing stores, and murals celebrating the Summer of Love. No trip to San Francisco is complete without a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf. Take in the sights and sounds of this famous waterfront district, where you can sample fresh seafood, browse local shops, and watch the sea lions basking in the sun. From here, you can also catch a ferry to Alcatraz Island or take a cruise around the bay. With the Big Bus tour, you have the flexibility to hop on and off at any of the 20 stops along the route, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. And with buses running every 10-15 minutes, you won’t have to wait long to continue your adventure. So whether you want to spend more time shopping in Union Square or exploring the Golden Gate Park, the Big Bus tour has got you covered.

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

You will explore INSIDE the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island with America’s most ruthless criminals, including Al Capone. The ferry will leave on time at the specific time you booked. You have to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time at Pier 33. Walk, bike, take public transportation, or drive (as a last resort as it can be challenging to find parking), with easy access from anywhere around the Bay! On the island follow the Cellhouse audio tour “Doing Time” 45 minutes available in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. Also included is an amazing 1 hour SF Bay Cruise. Sail past the famous PIER 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline.You have the flexibility to go on your cruise on any day at any available departure. You will receive the schedule. Those are 2 separates tours.

San Francisco: California Sunset/SF City Lights Cruise

San Francisco: California Sunset/SF City Lights Cruise

During the winter months, our California Sunset Cruise transforms into the San Francisco City Lights Cruise. As the sun sets earlier, the city comes alive with twinkling lights, offering a stunning backdrop of illuminated landmarks. Whether you’re enjoying the glowing sunsets of summer or the cozy charm of winter, this cruise promises unforgettable views. Along the way, view numerous National Historic landmarks and San Francisco sights, including Coit Tower, the Transamerica Pyramid, St. Peter, Paul's Church, and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. After the sun sets, the city comes to life, and this 2-hour cruise offers a front-row seat to the iconic landmarks of the Bay, all illuminated against the night sky. On your way back to Fisherman’s Wharf, see many more famous sights, including the Presidio, the Marina District, and Fort Mason.

San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat

San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat

Enjoy a 1-hour journey along San Francisco's historic waterfront and experience the thrilling history of the San Francisco Bay, with all the sound and glory it deserves. The 1-hour non-stop Bay Cruise takes you past the famous PIER 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline. Relax in comfort, with both indoor and outdoor seating, and enjoy a full narration describing major landmarks as you sail by. See sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the iconic San Francisco skyline as you go. Whether it’s your first time to San Francisco, or your 10th visit, the Bay Cruise is something you should experience at least once in your life. You will get a complimentary souvenir map, which is available in nine languages, and if you get hungry, there’s a full-service snack bar on board with food and drink available to purchase.

San Francisco: Alcatraz Island with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

San Francisco: Alcatraz Island with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Discover the best of San Francisco with this combined ticket that includes a visit to Alcatraz Island, a 2-day Hop-on-Hop-off open-top bus ticket, Panoramic Sunset Tour, and a Chinatown walking tour. Plus, experience the thrill of either The Flyer or the 7D Experience, both located at Pier 39. Alcatraz Island Step foot on the notorious Alcatraz Island and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the iconic prison. As you explore the cells and grounds, listen to the gripping audio guide that reveals the tales of daring escape attempts and the lives of the inmates. Hop-on Hop-off Tour With your 2-day Big Bus hop-on-hop-off pass, have the freedom to explore San Francisco at your own pace. Hop on and off the bus as many times as you like and enjoy the informative and entertaining digital audio commentary. Chinatown Guided Walking Tour During your adventure, take a leisurely guided walking tour through the vibrant streets of Chinatown. Discover the rich culture and fascinating history of this unique neighborhood. Panoramic Sunset Tour Discover San Francisco by sunset on a panoramic tour of The Golden City. Engage with the history and hidden stories of the city with audio commentary and see sights like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Be sure to have your camera ready! Pier 39: The Flyer or the 7D Experience The Flyer takes you on a virtual journey across San Francisco's landmarks from a 50-foot screen with motion seats. Glide over the Golden Gate Bridge, China Town, Lombard Street, and the stunning Redwood National Forest. The 7D Experience is a high-tech ride combining a rollercoaster and a laser game. In a 20-person theater, you'll enter new dimensions on a massive 3D screen. Top sights: - North Beach - Chinatown - Embarcadero Center - Fisherman’s Wharf - Ferry Building - Union Square - Redemption Center - Civic Center - Alamo Square - Haight Ashbury - Golden Gate Bridge - Golden Gate Park - Palace of Fine Arts - Marina - Lombard Street - Pier 35 - Pier 39

San Francisco: Alcatraz Ticket, Ferry, & Self-Guided App

San Francisco: Alcatraz Ticket, Ferry, & Self-Guided App

Embark on an exhilarating journey through history with our Alcatraz Highlights Tour! First, board a ferry and ride across the water to reach the infamous island that once contained America's most notorious criminals. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Alcatraz as you explore while listening to the app tour. Witness the chilling cells that housed Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly as you stroll past the imposing cell blocks. Be captivated by the echoes of the past as you wander through the eerie corridors and soak in the stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline. Don't miss your chance to uncover the mysteries and legends of America's most infamous prison on our Alcatraz Highlights Tour - a thrilling adventure you won't forget!

San Francisco: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

Explore the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island to learn about America’s most ruthless criminals, including Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly. Enjoy a ferry transfer from San Francisco and an admission ticket to the famous prison. Embark on a scenic 1-hour cruise of San Francisco Bay before or after your visit. Board the ferry and arrive on Alcatraz Island to begin your visit. Take advantage of an insightful and award-winning audio guide in multiple languages to immerse yourself in the dark history of Alcatraz and learn all about its old inmates and the many fateful escape attempts. Spend as much time as you'd like before taking the ferry back to the pier. Additionally, enjoy a 1-hour narrated sightseeing cruise of San Francisco Bay in a comfortable boat with both indoor and outdoor seating. Take in the scenic views and sail past famous San Francisco landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, the Bay Bridge and much more. Sail along the historic waterfront, past the famous Pier 39 sea lions and take in the city’s fascinating skyline from the unique vantage point of the San Francisco Bay.

From San Francisco: Muir Woods and Sausalito Half-Day Trip

From San Francisco: Muir Woods and Sausalito Half-Day Trip

Explore the ancient groves of coastal redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument alongside an expert guide on a half-day tour. Then discover the charming streets of Downtown Sausalito on a relaxed half-day tour. After a pick-up from a central San Francisco hotel, head north over the bridge and into the Marin Headlands. If the fog is clear, you might get a chance to stop and take some pictures of the bridge up close. When you arrive in Muir Woods, take an hour and a half to roam through this ‘living museum’ where you can glimpse the towering trees that used to dominate the west coast from Santa Barbara to Washington. Following your exploration of Muir Woods, hop back in the coach for a quick ride over to Sausalito. Enjoy a 15-20 minute, narrated in-coach tour through the beautiful seaside Mediterranean-style town, and then some free time to walk around. After about 45 minutes in Sausalito, hop back in the coach for a trip back across the Golden Gate Bridge, or opt for a ferry ride back to San Francisco. You'll be dropped back off at your pick-up point. This half-day tour is a great way to see all the highlights of the northern San Francisco Bay in a limited amount of time. 

From SF: Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias Hike & Pickup

From SF: Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias Hike & Pickup

Begin your Yosemite National Park day tour by getting picked up at select San Francisco hotels. Cross the Bay Bridge and drive through the Central Valley to the town of Oakdale where you will stop for a short break. Start your day in the park at Tunnel View. Then, go to Bridalveil Falls for a quick walk to the base of the roaring waterfall. Next, proceed onto Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. After, enjoy some free time where you will get a chance to picnic at the base of Yosemite Falls, by a river, or in a granite-enclosed meadow. Chances are high that you will see rock climbers in the spring or fall, bears in the summer, and spectacular ice formations in the winter. After regrouping, head to El Capitan, the center of the rock climbing universe. Depending on the season, you may see some climbers on the rock, but they will appear smaller than ants on the 3000-foot (914 meters) rock. Enjoy a photo stop at Valley View and then head to the Tuolumne Grove to take a one-mile (1.6 km) hike to see a grove of 1500-year-old giant sequoia trees. Please note that the hike to the sequoias may not be available during the snow season. After the hike, head back to San Francisco with a restroom stop along the way.

Frequently asked questions about San Francisco

What top attractions are a must-see in San Francisco?

The must-see attractions in San Francisco are:

See all must-see sights in San Francisco

What are the best day trips and excursions from San Francisco?

The best day trips and excursions from San Francisco are:

See all day trips and excursions from San Francisco on GetYourGuide

Insider tips: Planning a trip to San Francisco

There's good reason so many people have left their hearts in San Francisco. The stunning views, rolling hills, historic culture, and more make the city one of the most exciting to visit in the United States. To help you make the most of your time in San Francisco, we've enlisted help from travel expert Cathy from Mummy Travels. Read the tips below for your next visit.

What should I do on my first trip to San Francisco?

Start by soaking up San Francisco's atmosphere - you can't miss a look at the Golden Gate Bridge, but it's fun wandering around Pier 39 to spot the sea lions, browsing at the Ferry Building, eating and enjoying street arts in the Mission District - or hop on a cable car to beat those famous hills.

What are some hidden gems to see in San Francisco?

Head out towards the yacht harbor for a unique performance as the wave organ transforms the sound of the tide into music - it's easy to wander along to the beach by Crissy Field and get great views of the bridge too. Set aside plenty of time to explore the Golden Gate Park - it's huge and you can spot everything from American bison to windmills, a Japanese garden, 19th-century Conservatory of Flowers, the San Francisco botanical gardens, a classic carousel, lake, and several museums.

How much time should I spend in San Francisco?

Set aside at least three days to see your top sights and do some exploring, but if you're determined to pack as much in as possible, you can happily fill a week. Realistically, it's not possible to fit everything into one trip but if you break the city down into districts, you can make the most of your time. Allow half a day for Alcatraz alone, and for any of the major attractions, but leave time to wander along the beaches, soak in the views, browse the shops and try some of the city's great food rather than filling every minute of your itinerary.

What food is San Francisco known for?

You could happily eat your way around San Francisco with great artisan food and local producers - make sure you stop for some fresh seafood at Fisherman's Wharf and try a Mission Burrito in the Mission District, as well as checking out the treats in the Ferry Building. If you're craving Chinese, Japanese and Italian food, you'll be spoiled for choice in Chinatown, Japantown, and North Beach.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit San Francisco?

You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to places to stay, so it's worth considering how much you're happy to travel. Union Square is a great central spot for hotels, and if you're traveling with younger kids, Fisherman's Wharf is touristy but close to a lot of attractions. For more budget accommodation and self-catering, look at the neighborhoods outside the center but make sure they have good transport links - Noe Valley is another great option for families, as it's easy to explore from but makes a chilled out base.

What is the best way to get around San Francisco? 

San Francisco is one city where you'll find yourself using most transport to get around - there's a great public transport network, which is easiest to get across the center (and the cable cars are attractions in their own right) but if you're trying to pack a lot in, a car will come in very handy. Only the very fit would fancy cycling up the city's hills, but a bike tour over the Golden Gate Bridge is a fantastic experience. Once you've got from A to B, walking is the best way to soak up the sights and the atmosphere though.

What are the best months to visit San Francisco?

San Francisco is best in spring and autumn (fall) - May-June and September-October usually have good weather without the crowds (though the famous fog is usually around in June too) and you'll miss the worst of the rain. 

What are the best things to do with kids in San Francisco?

San Francisco is a fantastic city for families - there are quirky spots to discover like the golden fire hydrant, Seward Street and Bernal slides, and the 16th Avenue mosaic steps, along with fun sights including the twisty Lombard Street and sea lions at Pier 39. Even the tours have a unique touch: a fire truck city tour beats a bus hands down. You could climb onboard a submarine or a 19th-century ship, there are two aquariums and zoos, plus some fabulous interactive museums to explore. And that's all before you hit the beach.

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What people are saying about San Francisco

Overall rating

4.6
(18,054 reviews)

Dominic is hands down one of the best tour guides I’ve ever encountered. He made this experience truly unforgettable. His passion and knowledge added incredible value to the tour. I especially appreciated the intimate group size of just six people, which made it feel more personal. We learned so much about San Francisco and visited so many iconic landmarks in just two hours. We even had the chance to take pictures by the bridge and in front of the Full House house. I highly recommend this tour—it’s worth every penny! Dominic also went above and beyond by providing us with a list of must-visit places for the rest of our trip. Thank you, Dominic!

Bryan was a terrific guide, very knowledgeable, and eager to please by allowing us to request stops for pictures. He showed clips of each movie right before arriving at each location, so it was easy to make connections to the scenes. Would definitely recommend this tour because several places of interest were easier to visit than using the hop-on hop-off bus, in addition to other notable places that are not, or barely mentioned in blogs and tourist brochures.

Very happy tour experience, our tour guide Apolo was very knowledgeable and did his job decently, rearranged the order of visiting sports as we took longer than expected time in Stanford university, he’s very patient with us as we have a young kid. Thank you! Highly recommend from me!

Our guide was amazing, knowledgeable and nice. This tour is a must in SFO.

Closer to points of interest and slowing down for picture opportunities