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 feat of engineering. Whether you’re looking to fill a 1-day San Francisco itinerary or explore the city over several days, our suggestions have got you covered. Experience a whole host of charming boroughs and districts, all with their own cultural identity, 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

For San Francisco sightseeing, 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.

Tick off your San Francisco bucket list by driving or walking 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

Moving on to another of San Francisco’s points of interest is Alcatraz Island – 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 looking for things to do in San Francisco at night, a spooky night tour offers both unparalleled views of the illuminated Bay Area and an atmospheric exploration of Alcatraz.

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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 and has become one of the more unique things to do in San Francisco. 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 Powell 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 San Francisco itinerary.

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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 San Francisco’s points of interest that’s hard to miss. It was opened in 1898 as the transportation focal point for travelers arriving by train. The iconic clock tower 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. Visitors looking for exciting indoor things to do in San Francisco will enjoy the energy of the Farmer’s Market that takes 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 Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. They completely took over K-Dock by January 1990. This bay has been a home for them for over 30 years.

Fisherman’s Wharf offers experiences worthy of the top 10 things to do in San Francisco – enjoy al fresco dining, sample the city’s freshest seafood, shop and experience family activities and more at 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, 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 to stretch your legs as you discover the Painted Ladies, one of San Francisco’s points of interest.

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Golden Gate Park

501 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA

Looking to escape the bustle of Downtown? Visiting the family-friendly Golden Gate Park is one of the best things to do in San Francisco with kids. This glorious park features more than 1,000 acres of rolling hills, tree groves, lakes, waterfalls, meadows, wildlife and a wealth of hidden treasures to explore. It’s without a doubt one of the most iconic parks in the US.

Welcoming 24 million visitors each year, the Golden Gate Park is also one of the best free things to do in San Francisco. Take a stroll, rent a bike, or take a segway tour through 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

Renting a car gives you the perfect opportunity to experience day trips from San Francisco. Explore more of California and 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 are plenty of restaurants, bars, coffee shops and parks – and of course an array of gorgeous beaches. There are 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 attractions. From theatre to art, it’s well worth adding to your travel list.

Learn more about San Francisco

Now that you’ve explored the best things to do in San Francisco, why not explore 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