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San Francisco, United States of America - Things to Do in San Francisco

Things to Do in San Francisco

San Francisco, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

San Francisco is a captivating city perched on rolling hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. Known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, historic cable cars, and diverse neighborhoods, the city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and innovative spirit. From the bustling Fisherman's Wharf to the bohemian Castro district, each neighborhood tells its own unique story. The city's compact size makes it ideal for exploration, whether you're riding the famous cable cars up steep hills, wandering through the colorful Victorian houses of the Painted Ladies, or sampling world-class cuisine in Chinatown. San Francisco's mild Mediterranean climate, progressive culture, and stunning bay views create an unforgettable urban experience that captures the essence of California's free-spirited lifestyle.

Top Things to Do in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge and Crissy Field

Walk or bike across the world's most photographed bridge, offering breathtaking views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. The nearby Crissy Field provides perfect picnic spots and additional vantage points for photography. The bridge's Art Deco design and International Orange color make it spectacular at any time of day.

Booking Tip: Bridge walking is free, but bike rentals cost $30-40 per day. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Many bike rental shops offer guided tours for $50-70 including bike rental.

Alcatraz Island Prison Tour

Explore the infamous former federal prison that housed notorious criminals like Al Capone. The audio tour, narrated by former inmates and guards, brings the prison's dramatic history to life. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and bay.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost $45-65 and sell out weeks in advance, especially in summer. Book online at least 2-3 weeks ahead. Night tours ($55-75) are less crowded and more atmospheric but only available select evenings.

Cable Car Rides and Lombard Street

Experience San Francisco's historic cable car system, a moving National Historic Landmark that's been operating since 1873. Ride to the famously crooked Lombard Street, known as the 'most winding street in the world' with its eight hairpin turns through beautiful gardens.

Booking Tip: Single rides cost $8 cash only (exact change required). Day passes are $25 and include all public transit. Board at Powell Street or California Street terminals for shorter waits, and avoid rush hours.

Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39

Visit the bustling waterfront district famous for its sea lions, street performers, and fresh seafood. Pier 39 offers shopping, dining, and entertainment with stunning bay views. Don't miss the hundreds of California sea lions that have made the docks their home since 1989.

Booking Tip: Free to explore, but parking costs $25-35 per day. Arrive early morning to see sea lions at their most active and avoid crowds. Many restaurants offer happy hour specials 3-6 PM with discounted seafood.

Chinatown and North Beach Food Tour

Explore the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, followed by the Italian-American neighborhood of North Beach. Sample dim sum, fortune cookies (invented in SF), authentic pasta, and local sourdough bread while learning about the city's immigrant history and culinary traditions.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but guided food tours cost $60-90 per person and include 6-8 tastings. Book tours that start around 11 AM to hit lunch specials. Look for small group tours (12 people max) for better experiences.

Getting There

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the main gateway, located 13 miles south of downtown with BART train connections taking 30-45 minutes for $10. Oakland International Airport (OAK) and San Jose Airport (SJC) are alternative options with shuttle services available. Amtrak serves nearby Emeryville with bus connections to the city, while driving from Los Angeles takes about 6 hours via I-5 or the scenic Highway 1 coastal route. The city is also accessible by Greyhound bus and various ride-sharing services from neighboring cities.

Getting Around

San Francisco's public transportation system includes buses, cable cars, light rail (Muni Metro), and BART for regional connections. A Clipper Card offers convenient payment across all systems, with day passes starting at $25. The city is very walkable despite its hills, and ride-sharing services are abundant. Cable cars are iconic but primarily serve tourists, while regular Muni buses and trains are more practical for daily transportation. Driving can be challenging due to steep hills, limited parking ($3-8 per hour), and heavy traffic, making public transit the preferred option for most visitors.

Where to Stay

Union Square
Fisherman's Wharf
Nob Hill
SoMa (South of Market)
Castro District
Marina District

Food & Dining

San Francisco's culinary scene is world-renowned, from Michelin-starred restaurants to innovative food trucks and farmers markets. The city is famous for sourdough bread, Dungeness crab, and Mission-style burritos. Chinatown offers authentic dim sum and regional Chinese cuisine, while North Beach serves traditional Italian fare. The Mission District is the epicenter of the city's burrito culture and trendy restaurants. Don't miss the Ferry Building Marketplace for artisanal foods and local producers, or the numerous food halls like Oxbow Public Market. The city's commitment to farm-to-table dining and sustainable seafood makes it a paradise for food enthusiasts, with options ranging from $5 food truck meals to $300 tasting menus.

Top-Rated Restaurants in United States

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Peppermill and Fireside Lounge

4.5 /5
(19043 reviews) 2
bar night_club

Moonshine Grill

4.6 /5
(7161 reviews) 2
bar

The Southern Gentleman

4.8 /5
(4877 reviews) 2

The Guenther House

4.5 /5
(4678 reviews) 2

Canlis

4.6 /5
(2800 reviews) 4
bar

Whiskey Bird

4.8 /5
(2525 reviews) 2

When to Visit

San Francisco enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate year-round, but the best time to visit is September through November when the weather is warmest and driest. Summer (June-August) can be surprisingly cool and foggy, especially in the mornings, with temperatures rarely exceeding 70°F. Spring (March-May) offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds and blooming flowers throughout the city. Winter is the rainiest season but temperatures remain mild (50-60°F), making it ideal for indoor attractions and lower hotel rates. Pack layers regardless of season, as the city's microclimates can vary dramatically between neighborhoods, and the famous fog can roll in quickly.

Insider Tips

Download the Citymapper app for real-time public transit information and walking directions that account for San Francisco's steep hills
Many museums offer free admission for SF residents and discounted days for visitors - check individual websites for 'Community Day' schedules
Avoid driving in downtown areas during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) when traffic is heaviest and parking is most expensive

Explore Activities in San Francisco