Best things to do in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks – the Golden Gate Bridge. But there’s a lot more to this city than this architectural feat. Experience a whole host of charming boroughs and districts all with their own cultural identity and feel, excellent culinary experiences and, of course, the notorious Alcatraz prison.

Our guide will take you through the best things to do in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA, USA

Even if you do nothing but admire it when you come to San Francisco, a visit to the world’s most photographed bridge is a must. The iconic orange towers have stood at 746 feet tall above the San Francisco Bay since 1937.

You can drive (or walk) over the one-mile-wide (1.6 km) strait that connects San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. While doing so, take in wonderful views of cityscapes on one side, nature on the other and the deep blue water below. Don’t forget a visit to the Bridge's Welcome Center for all the historical information and mementos.

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Alcatraz

Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA, USA

Alcatraz Island is home to the infamous former maximum-security prison in the middle of San Francisco Bay. It was first used as a military prison in 1859 with the first permanent garrison. The cold water and fast currents made it an isolated and hostile base.

Take a ferry to the island where you can enjoy a self-guided audio tour, narrated by former inmates and guards. Hear their stories of escape attempts, riots, and the famous 19-month long occupation of the island by Native Americans. If you’re feeling brave you can even take a spooky night tour.

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Hop on a cable car

For an authentic San Franciscan experience, take a journey on a cable car. This form of transport has become synonymous with the city itself. Invented in San Francisco by Andrew Smith Hallidie in 1873, the design was inspired by early mining conveyance systems and has stood the test of time. The cable car system even survived the San Francisco fires of 1906, being named a National Historic Landmark in 1964.

There are three cable car lines in the city running on two routes. Take a trip from Powel and Market to Fisherman’s Wharf or California and Market to Van Ness Avenue. You can buy single rides or one to seven-day passports – whatever works best for your trip in the Golden City.

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Ferry Building Marketplace

1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA

The historic Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. It was opened in 1898 as the transportation focal point for travelers arriving by train. The iconic clocktower has stood over the waterfront for more than a century.

The building underwent four years of restoration, reopening in 2003 as a world-class public food market. You’ll find the Farmer’s Market brings a special energy to the area, taking place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays throughout the year. Market days are a fantastic time to try out the best of the Bay’s cuisine and see produce from local artisan growers, farmers, and producers.

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Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf

The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

Pier 39 is home to some beautiful and lively California sea lions. The sea lions started ‘hauling out’ (temporarily leaving the water) after the Lomo Prieta earthquake hit in 1989. They completely took over K-Dock by January 1990. This bay has been a home for them for over 30 years.

Enjoy al fresco dining, sample the city’s freshest seafood, shop and enjoy family activities and more at the adjoining Fisherman’s Wharf. Take a scenic walk along the waterfront, chat to the local fishermen or take a motorcoach ride beyond the iconic Golden Gate.

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The Painted Ladies

Steiner Street & Hayes Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA

A visit to the iconic Painted Ladies or Postcard Row means you’ll be stopping by one of the prettiest blocks in the city. The stunning historical, privately owned homes were built between 1892 and 1896. They’re painted in pastel hues and have been used numerous times to depict a perfect neighborhood scene on TV, in movies and adverts.

If you are driving out of the city or to the Golden Gate Bridge, you can easily make a little detour and stop at the Painted Ladies. Why not stretch your legs and enjoy a stroll while admiring this historical row?

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Golden Gate Park

501 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA

This glorious park features more than 1,000 acres of rolling hills, tree groves, lakes, waterfalls, meadows, wildlife and a wealth of hidden treasures. It’s without a doubt, one of the most iconic parks in the US.

Welcoming 24 million visitors each year, the Golden State Park is one of the best things to do in San Francisco. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike or take a segway tour though the three-mile-long urban park. Look out for the Japanese Tea Garden, Victorian Conservatory of Flowers, Bison Paddock and the California Academy of Sciences.

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Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA, USA

If you have the chance on your San Fran visit, take a drive out to the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz. It’s about 75 miles – taking under 90 minutes by car. Experience the best of the stunning beaches, vibrant downtown and rich cultural heritage.

Cited by many as California’s most walkable city, Santa Cruz is known for its surf/hippy culture and relaxed, laid-back vibe. There’s plenty of restaurants, bars, coffee shops and parks – and of course an array of gorgeous beaches. There’s plenty of walking spots and scenic driving routes too.

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San Francisco is a bucket list city with a raft of iconic historical and cultural places to visit. From theatre to art, it’s well worth adding to your travel list.

Learn more about San Francisco

There are some incredible places to eat and stay in San Francisco. Get up to speed with everything you need to know before your trip to The Golden City:

• Best restaurants in San Francisco
• San Francisco driving guide
• San Francisco’s neighborhoods