Places to Visit in San Francisco

San Francisco Map of Attractions

To help you get your bearings, we’ve put together a map of tourist attractions in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge

When people think about what to see in San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge usually tops the list. This iconic red structure is not only the most famous sight in the city, but also one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Spanning 2,737 meters, it was once the longest suspension bridge ever built.

There are plenty of great ways to experience this top attraction in San Francisco. One of the best is by taking a bike ride from Fisherman’s Wharf to Sausalito. You’ll pass several must-see spots along the way, and rental bikes are easy to find across the city.

Planning to drive across? If you’re crossing the Golden Gate Bridge in a rental car, there’s a toll fee. You can pay it online in advance or afterwards through FasTrak. Just have your license plate number ready. Some rental companies can handle this for you, though they may charge a small service fee.

Wondering where to get the best view? Our favorite photo spot is Battery Spencer in the Marin Headlands. From here, you’ll see the bridge with the San Francisco skyline behind it—pure magic. But there are a few other amazing viewpoints too:

• Crissy Field Beach / Presidio Park
• Baker Beach
• Alcatraz
• Marshall’s Beach

Important: The Golden Gate Bridge is often wrapped in fog, especially in the morning. Check the forecast before you head out.

San Francisco: Bike rental for a day
Guided bike tour to Sausalito

Alcatraz

The only place in San Francisco that rivals the Golden Gate Bridge in fame is the infamous Alcatraz Island.

Originally home to America’s first lighthouse, it later became a federal prison where notorious inmates like Al Capone were held from the 1930s onward. While there were several escape attempts, none succeeded.

Today, one of the top attractions in San Francisco is a visit to Alcatraz. You catch a ~15‑minute ferry from Pier 33 and arrive on the island. Once there, you’re free to explore at your own pace. In the main cell block, you can visit the original cells, it’s fascinating.

Don’t skip the audio guide, which leads you through the historic buildings in about an hour. It’s available in several languages.

For more flexibility, GetYourGuide also offers combo options (e.g. Alcatraz plus a sightseeing cruise), saving you money and time.

Important: Book your Alcatraz tour well ahead of time. Tours often sell out months in advance.

Combo tour: Alcatraz ticket + Bay cruise in San Francisco

Cable Cars

The cable cars are hands down one of the most iconic ways to get around and a must-see attraction in San Francisco. These red and yellow streetcars have been climbing the city’s steep hills since 1873, still running on a cable system, which is where they get their name.

There are only three cable car lines left today, and we’ve marked them for you on the map above. Each one offers fantastic views of the city and is a great way to explore some of the top attractions in San Francisco.

A single ride costs $7. You can pay in cash on board (exact change only), or grab a ticket from one of the kiosks near the end stops. If you want a spot on the outer seats with the best views, try to get there early.

Curious about how it all works? Head over to the Cable Car Museum in Nob Hill, it’s one of the most interesting places to visit in San Francisco and gives a great behind-the-scenes look at this historic system.

Union Square

Union Square is the vibrant center of San Francisco. Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and buzzing with traffic, you’ll instantly feel the city’s energy the moment you arrive.

If you love shopping, you’re in luck. Union Square is packed with big-name stores like Tiffany & Co., Prada, and plenty of familiar favorites like H&M. You’ll also find a huge Macy’s department store right on the square.

Just around the corner is Market Street, another hotspot for shopping and people-watching and one of the best places to visit in San Francisco if you’re into city vibes.

And don’t miss the chance to grab a slice of cheesecake at the Cheesecake Factory overlooking the Dewey Monument, a classic thing to do in San Francisco, and yes, we absolutely went for it too!

Lombard Street

There’s no street more iconic among places to visit in San Francisco than Lombard Street. What makes it special? It’s one of the most winding street in the world, with eight sharp turns packed into just 150 meters.

Over time, it’s become a magnet for visitors. Colorful flowerbeds now line the curves, turning it into one of the best photo spots in San Francisco.

We recommend not driving down Lombard Street yourself. It’s often more crowded than usual city traffic, and that just adds stress. Even if you’re only after the perfect shot, try coming very early in the morning or late in the evening.

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is San Francisco’s waterfront heart and one of the top attractions. Here you’ll find plenty of souvenir shops and excellent seafood restaurants. It’s also the gateway for many tours around San Francisco, for instance to Alcatraz.

The standout attraction at Fisherman’s Wharf is Pier 39, where seals have made their home on the docks, now a permanent part of the scene.

Without doubt: Fisherman’s Wharf is the most touristy area in San Francisco, and it’s no longer much like the old fishing port. But the vibe, with street performers, musicians, and ocean views, feels like vacation in full swing.

Our tip: The lovely Ferry Building at Pier 41 hosts a Farmers’ Market every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday featuring local produce.

Boat Trip Through The Bay Area

If you want to see as much of San Francisco as possible in a short time, a boat trip through the Bay Area is one of the best things to do in San Francisco. The Bay Area is the stretch of water north of the city, framed by the Golden Gate Bridge and the Oakland Bay Bridge.

Starting from the piers, you’ll first get a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Once you’re out in the bay, the full San Francisco skyline opens up, including landmarks like the towering Transamerica Pyramid.

Along the way, you’ll pass by Alcatraz and Angel Island, as well as the Marin Headlands and the charming coastal town of Sausalito.

Our tip: The Golden Hour boat trip is especially magical!

Sunset boat trip through the Bay Area
Catamaran trip through the Bay Area in the afternoon

Hippie Neighborhood Haight-Ashbury

What surfers are to Los Angeles, hippies are to San Francisco. Back in the 60s and 70s, this neighborhood became a magnet for old-school hippies. Even music legends like Jimi Hendrix called it home.

Today, the flower power vibe has mellowed but is still alive. The streets are lined with record stores, second-hand boutiques, vegan cafés, and vintage shops. In short, Haight-Ashbury is now the alternative, trendy district of San Francisco.

The highlight here is Alamo Square’s Painted Ladies — a row of colorful Victorian houses that have become one of the most iconic places to visit in San Francisco.

Chinatown

There are many Chinatowns around the world, but none quite like San Francisco’s. Spanning 24 blocks, it’s one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in the United States and definitely one of the best places to visit in San Francisco.

Red lanterns hang between the buildings, street signs are written in Chinese, the air smells of fried noodles, and small shops sell everything from herbs to porcelain. The entrance to this vibrant neighborhood is the famous Dragon Gate. In short: visiting Chinatown feels like stepping straight into another world.

You’ll even find a fortune cookie factory here – the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory – where you can watch how the cookies are made and taste them fresh.

Our tip: Don’t just stick to the main streets. Some of the most authentic and delicious Asian food is hidden in the smaller side streets. Exploring them is one of the most rewarding things to do in San Francisco.

Mission District

The Mission District is San Francisco’s go-to area for nightlife. You’ll find bars and clubs downtown too, but while those tend to be fancier, the Mission District has a more laid-back and creative vibe. It’s one of the most vibrant places to visit in San Francisco after dark, with cozy bars, cool music venues, and regular live concerts and street festivals.

People of all backgrounds come together here, making it easy to meet locals and strike up a chat. During the day, they gather for picnics in the beautiful Mission Dolores Park – a must-see if you’re looking for relaxed things to do in San Francisco.

The Mission District is also known as San Francisco’s Latino neighborhood. So if you’re a fan of tacos and burritos, you’re in the right place. Some of the city’s tastiest spots are tucked away here, making it one of the top places to eat and visit in San Francisco.

Street Art in San Francisco

The Mission District is also where you’ll find most of San Francisco’s incredible street art. The best-known spots are Clarion Alley, Balmy Alley, and the 24th Street Corridor. Some murals are playful and colorful, while others carry strong political or social messages — a reflection of the neighborhood’s creative spirit.

You can also spot striking murals beyond the Mission District. In North Beach, you’ll find them tucked into the small alleys off Columbus Avenue, and recently, even Fisherman’s Wharf has joined in with its colorful Umbrella Alley. We also loved the murals in Chinatown, especially along Grant Street — definitely among the most interesting things to see in San Francisco.

If you’re curious about the stories behind these works, join a local street art tour. It’s a fascinating way to discover what inspires the artists and what moves the local community, one of the most unique things to do in San Francisco.

Street art and street food tour in the Mission District

Surfing at Fort Point

As passionate surfers, Fort Point was an absolute must for us in San Francisco. On certain days, a perfect wave forms right beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, without a doubt one of the most extraordinary surf spots on the California coast and a real hidden place to visit in San Francisco.

The wave breaks directly in front of Fort Point, a historic military fort. Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s worth coming here just to watch and enjoy the stunning views of the bridge, one of the top attractions in San Francisco.

Important: This surf spot is only suitable for experienced surfers and works only under specific conditions. We weren’t so lucky during our visit, there wasn’t a single wave all week!

North Beach

San Francisco’s Little Italy is called North Beach, a charming neighborhood just north of Chinatown. As soon as you arrive, you’ll see why it earned that nickname; the Italian flags on the lampposts are just the beginning.

Here you can indulge like you’re in Bella Italia! Sip an authentic espresso at Café Trieste, enjoy pasta at Mama’s (where a real Italian mama still does the cooking), grab a pizza at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, or treat yourself to gelato at one of the many ice cream shops on Columbus Street. In short: you’re in foodie heaven!

Absolute must-sees in North Beach are Café Vesuvio and the Zoetrope Café. Both are worth visiting not only for their beautiful architecture but also for their long-standing connection to San Francisco’s history and creative spirit. If you’re looking for authentic local charm, these are definitely among the best places to visit in San Francisco.

Twin Peaks

If there’s one thing San Francisco has plenty of, it’s amazing viewpoints, and the Twin Peaks are right at the top of the list of top attractions in San Francisco.

As the name suggests, the Twin Peaks are two hills located in the western part of the city. Just follow Twin Peaks Boulevard until you reach Christmas Tree Point on the northern peak.

There’s not much up there apart from a parking lot, but the view is incredible: you can see the entire city, the Golden Gate Bridge, and even the Bay Area. The best time to come is at sunset, provided the city isn’t wrapped in fog, which happens quite often here.

Our tip: Take an Uber to Twin Peaks. The parking area fills up quickly, and getting here by public transport can be quite a challenge.

Coit Tower

The Coit Tower is one of the classic places to visit in San Francisco. At just 64 meters tall, it’s not particularly high, but it stands proudly on Telegraph Hill, which rises another 90 meters above the city.

You’ll find the tower at the top of Filbert Street, one of San Francisco’s steepest streets, with an impressive 31.5% incline. If you’re up for a bit of exercise, you can easily walk up from Chinatown or Fisherman’s Wharf in about 25 minutes. Alternatively, bus number 29 also goes up to Coit Tower.

An elevator takes you to the viewing platform, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panorama. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, making it one of the absolute things to see in San Francisco.

Marin Headlands

We already mentioned the Marin Headlands in our No. 1. Most visitors head straight to the first viewpoint at Battery Spencer just behind the Golden Gate Bridge to snap that classic photo.

But it’s worth spending more time exploring the Marin Headlands, one of the best places to visit in San Francisco if you love nature and sweeping views. There are some fantastic hiking trails here. We chose the Coastal Trail, which rewards you with stunning views of San Francisco all the way.

From there, we continued to Rodeo Beach. It’s a great spot to dip your feet in the water and watch surfers catching waves. On the way back, we made a quick stop at the old World War II bunkers scattered across the hills.

You’ll find a detailed trail map of the Marin Headlands on the National Park Service website, a great resource when planning things to do in San Francisco beyond the city center.

Walt Disney Family Museum

At the Walt Disney Family Museum, kids can meet their favorite characters from the Disney universe, including the beloved Mickey Mouse.

Don’t expect a mini Disneyland here, though. This museum focuses on the origins of Disney’s success story. You’ll find original cartoon sketches, classic animation reels, storyboards from legendary films, and old audio recordings of iconic cartoon sounds.

One of the highlights is a large 3D model of Disneyland, a fascinating look into Walt Disney’s vision.

Adults will especially enjoy learning about Walt Disney’s life, how the idea for Mickey Mouse was born, and how those early animated films were technically brought to life. It’s one of the most inspiring places to visit in San Francisco for both families and film lovers.

Tickets for the Walt Disney Family Museum

Children's Creativity Museum

The Children’s Creativity Museum is one of the most fun places to visit in San Francisco with kids, especially on a rainy day.

As the name suggests, creativity has no limits here. In the ArtLab, kids can get crafty with all kinds of materials, and where else can they paint entire walls?

What makes this museum special is its tech side. There’s a music studio where little ones can compose their own songs, and an animation studio where they can make short Lego movies.

There’s also a charming antique carousel with wooden horses outside. If you already have a museum ticket, you can hop on for a discounted $3 ride, definitely a fun thing to do in San Francisco with kids.

Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is the green heart of San Francisco, much like Central Park in New York. Covering more than 1,000 hectares, it’s one of the largest urban parks in the world and a must for anyone looking for peaceful things to do in San Francisco.

There’s room for everything here: kids can run around, you can enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and recharge.

There’s also a lot to discover. We especially loved the Japanese Tea Garden and the Botanical Garden. If you’re in the mood for culture, check out the de Young Museum or the California Academy of Sciences, both located within the park grounds. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in San Francisco.

Sausalito

Sausalito is a charming and slightly sleepy town just across the Golden Gate Bridge. If you’re looking to escape the city for a bit, this is the perfect place to visit in San Francisco for a relaxed afternoon. You can enjoy a delicious meal, unwind on the beach, and take in the beautiful skyline views.

The town’s most famous sight is its collection of more than 400 colorful houseboats. A walk along the piers gives you a glimpse of local life, each boat is uniquely decorated and full of character.

To get there, take the ferry from Pier 41 across the Bay. The ride itself is one of the top attractions in San Francisco, offering stunning views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. Or, as mentioned in our No. 1 highlight, rent a bike and cross the bridge on two wheels, an unforgettable thing to do in San Francisco.

Ferry ticket from San Francisco to Sausalito

Silicon Valley

Google, Facebook, Apple – Silicon Valley, about a 30-minute drive south of San Francisco, is home to some of the world’s biggest tech companies.

You can visit the garage where HP was founded or see the house where Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak built the first Apple computer. The futuristic Apple Infinite Loop is definitely worth a stop.

Our favorite spot was the Google Campus. You can hop on one of the colorful Google bikes and explore the area. What employees get to enjoy here is pretty mind-blowing, there are even beach volleyball courts on campus!

Of course, not every company is open to the public. But even just walking around gives you a feel for the unique atmosphere of innovation here – a glimpse into the technology of tomorrow. It’s easily one of the most fascinating places to visit in San Francisco’s surroundings.

Stanford University

If you’re heading to Silicon Valley, make sure to stop by Stanford University – it’s right on the way and one of the top attractions near San Francisco.

Stanford is among the most prestigious universities in the United States. The campus feels more like a Mediterranean resort than a university – where else do palm trees grow right next to the library?

For the best view of the campus, head up to the 14th floor of the Hoover Tower. Entry costs just $5 and the panorama is absolutely worth it.

General Tips For Your San Francisco City Trip

Finally, here are a few personal tips to help you plan your visit and make the most of all the amazing things to do in San Francisco. Let’s go!

#1 Stay in a central hotel

Let’s be honest: San Francisco isn’t a cheap destination. You’ll find more affordable options further out, but then you’ll spend at least an hour commuting into the city.

We recommend spending a bit more and staying somewhere central – it’ll save you time and energy for exploring all the top attractions in San Francisco.

Here are our top 3 hotel tips for San Francisco:

CitizenM: Stylish boutique hotel right on Union Square, in the heart of San Francisco.

Staypineapple: Design hotel in Nob Hill, a central neighborhood full of beautiful old Victorian houses.

The Clancy: Trendy hotel in SoMa, especially popular with younger travelers.

Looking for more hotel tips for San Francisco? Check out these articles:

#2 Book your ticket to Alcatraz early

Alcatraz is one of the few top attractions in San Francisco that requires a ticket – and they sell out fast! During high season, Alcatraz tickets are often booked up to three months in advance.

There are also great combo tours. Perfect if you want to experience several things to do in San Francisco in just one day.

Book your ticket for Alcatraz here
Book an Alcatzar combo tour with Sausalito and Muir Woods

#3 Save money and time with a San Francisco City Card

Several City Cards are available for San Francisco. You buy one pass and get free entry or discounts on many places to visit in San Francisco, including museums, ferry rides, and city tours.

#4 How much time should you plan for San Francisco?

You can see the main things to see in San Francisco in about two days.

But there’s enough to explore for a whole week, especially with the many beautiful day trips around San Francisco.

What are your San Francisco highlights?

These were our top 22 places to visit in San Francisco. Have you already been to the Golden City? Share your favorite things to do in San Francisco in the comments!