Top 10 Things to Do in San Francisco

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Beautiful San Francisco, with stunning bay views, eclectic architecture and historic landmarks, it’s one of the most popular destinations in the country. Don’t let San Fran’s popularity draw you away though, tourists do not flood the streets and you will be mingling with locals in no time.

Home to Silicon Valley, San Francisco embraces its tech culture, while also showing off world-class arts, culture and hospitality. You can spend hours walking the streets and taking in the scenery, and with a Starbucks on every corner to fuel you, why not?

Here’s our list of the Top 10 Things to Do in San Francisco:

Image: Golden Gate Bridge
  • Golden Gate Bridge
    The Golden Gate Bridge is iconic – at its completion in 1937, it was the longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world. Spanning 1.7 miles (2.7 km), you will be able to admire this beauty from many vantage points, including the Visitor Center, Fort Point, Marin Hedlands, Baker Beach and Marshall’s Beach. It’s free to walk or bike across the bridge, although there is a toll if you drive. If you are walking, a round trip will take about 1.5 – 2 hours, and bike riding is about 25 minutes one-way.
Image: Alcatraz Island
  • Alcatraz Island
    A visit to Alcatraz Island is a must. Experience the raw history of the prison through a guided audio tour, where you will roam the cellhouse and grounds, learn about life on the island, and hear gripping tales of how prisoners tried to escape. Alcatraz Cruises run daily tours to the island, but it is recommended you book in advance to avoid lengthy wait times. More information about tours at Alcatraz Island here.
  • Lombard Street
    San Francisco is known for its hilly landscape, and Lombard Street is where you will see how steep it really can be. Lombard Street features eight sharp turns and is famously known as one of the most crooked streets in the world. Admire the view from the top of the street or look up and see the zigzag road from the bottom.
  • Cable Cars
    Enjoy a uniquely San Francisco experience with a cable car ride. It is the last manually operated cable car system in the world, with three routes available to ride in the city. The cable car definitely makes it easier to get around if you want to avoid walking some of San Fran’s steep roads, and it only costs $3 for a single ride! More information about San Francisco’s Cable Cars here.
Image: Muir Woods National Monument
  • Muir Woods National Monument
    Set aside half a day to visit the Muir Woods National Monument and walk among beautiful redwood trees. Located about 35 minutes from the city centre, Muir Woods is best accessible via car, although some public transport options are available. There are various walking/ hiking trails that are accessible for most fitness levels, including a 30 minute loop, 1 hour loop and 1.5 hour loop, as well as more advanced trails. Entry costs $15 for adults, with children under 15 free. More information about the Muir Woods National Monument here.
  • Twin Peaks
    Twin Peaks is a pair of summits in San Francisco, and is a popular destination due to the sweeping views of the city (perfect spot to catch the sunrise or sunset). Twin Peaks is accessible via car, or you can walk up from Grand View Avenue and 24th Street in about 20 minutes. Pack a picnic and enjoy the view!
  • Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
    Fisherman’s Wharf features an abundance of bars and restaurants, boutique shops, entertainment experiences and more. Pier 39 is the most popular area of the wharf, where you will find the San Francisco Carousel, Aquarium of the Bay and plenty of attractions for the whole family – see if you can spot any sea lions or whales! Fisherman’s Wharf also holds The Cannery Shopping Center and nearby Ghirardelli Square, and make sure you check out the Musee Mecanique (a vintage penny arcade and museum).
Image: Fisherman’s Wharf
  • San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
    Get your arts and culture fix at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Boasting an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, there are plenty of exhibitions to gaze at that will appeal to all tastes, including photography, abstract art, sculptures, paintings and other mediums. Browse the current exhibitions here and see opening times.
  • Union Square
    Union Square is a shopping precinct in downtown San Francisco, with a great selection of high-end and boutique shops to visit, as well as excellent dining options. Union Square is accessible via public transport, or if you’re driving, there are plenty of car parks available too. More information about Union Square here.

Drop us a line with your favourite destinations in San Francisco.