18 best things to do in San Francisco
Ranked by how often travelers include them in real TravBuddy trips — with costs, timings and tips.
The top things to do in San Francisco include Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower, PIER 39, plus 15 more. Each stop below is rated by real travelers and drawn from actual TravBuddy itineraries, so you see what people genuinely spend time on — not a generic list.
1.Golden Gate Bridge
4.8Landmark85,521 reviews~20011:30 AMWitness the grandeur of the Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic symbol of San Francisco. Walk or bike across it for breathtaking views of the bay and city skyline.
Tip: Walk at least to the first tower for the most impressive views and photo opportunities.
2.Coit Tower
4.6Landmark15,770 reviews~1009:30 AMAscend to Coit Tower, an art deco landmark offering panoramic views of the city and bay. The murals inside depict scenes of Californian life during the Depression, providing a fascinating cultural insight.
Tip: Take the bus or walk up Telegraph Hill (it's steep!) for the best experience. Try to time your visit for sunset to see the city lights come alive.
3.PIER 39
4.6Landmark1,36,988 reviews~20011:00 AMStart your day at the iconic PIER 39, a bustling marketplace with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, famous for its resident sea lions. It's a quintessential San Francisco experience.
Tip: Walk to the end of the pier to see the sea lions basking in the sun.
4.Golden Gate Park
4.8Park44,179 reviews~20011:00 AMSpend the morning exploring the vast and diverse Golden Gate Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Discover hidden gardens, serene lakes, and open spaces, offering a true escape into nature within the city.
Tip: Rent a bike to cover more ground, or focus on one specific area like the Japanese Tea Garden or the California Academy of Sciences.
5.The Painted Ladies
4.4Landmark27,570 reviews~50011:00 AMVisit the iconic Painted Ladies, a row of colorful Victorian houses with the San Francisco skyline as a backdrop. This classic photo opportunity is a must-see.
Tip: Walk up Alamo Square Park for the best photo opportunities.
6.Crissy Field
4.7Park6,028 reviews~50012:00 PMStroll through Crissy Field, a former airfield transformed into a beautiful park with walking paths, beaches, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
Tip: This is a fantastic spot for photography, especially with the Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop.
7.Fort Point National Historic Site
4.8Historic Site3,950 reviews~50005:00 PMVisit Fort Point, a historic brick fortress nestled directly beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, offering a unique perspective of the bridge and a glimpse into military history.
Tip: Join a ranger-led tour to learn fascinating details about the fort's history and architecture.
8.Lands End Labyrinth
4.7Viewpoint1,206 reviews~50011:00 AMHike to the Lands End Labyrinth, a hidden gem offering stunning coastal views and a serene, meditative experience. It's a rewarding walk with incredible photo opportunities.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and be aware of steep sections of the trail.
9.Alcatraz Island
4.7Island44,575 reviews~4111:00 AMTake a ferry to the infamous Alcatraz Island, a former federal prison with a fascinating and eerie history. Explore the cell blocks, hear stories of notorious inmates, and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.
Tip: Take the audio tour; it's incredibly well-done and brings the prison's history to life.
10.de Young Museum
4.6Museum9,459 reviews~3011:30 AMVisit the de Young Museum, a prominent fine arts museum located in Golden Gate Park, showcasing American art, international textiles, and art of Africa and Oceania.
Tip: The observation tower offers free panoramic views of the park and city. Check for special exhibitions.
11.Mission Dolores Park
4.7Park16,239 reviews~20004:30 PMUnwind at Mission Dolores Park, a popular gathering spot offering stunning city views, lush green lawns, and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for an afternoon stroll or picnic.
Tip: Grab some artisanal snacks or a local beer from a nearby deli to enjoy in the park.
12.Lands End Lookout
4.8Viewpoint8,442 reviewsEmbark on a scenic coastal trek along the Lands End Trail, offering dramatic cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. Discover the Sutro Baths ruins, an eerie yet beautiful historical site.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. The trail can be uneven in places. Keep an eye out for migrating whales during certain seasons.
13.Battery Spencer (ai_suggested)
4.8Viewpoint5,290 reviews~20001:00 PMHead to Battery Spencer, located on the Marin Headlands side of the Golden Gate Bridge. This former military fortification offers some of the most iconic and unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge, especially with the city in the background – a true nature and landscape photographer's dream.
Tip: Parking can be limited, so consider going early or using ride-sharing.
14.Asian Art Museum
4.6Museum4,231 reviews~2011:00 AMImmerse yourselves in the rich artistic traditions of Asia at the Asian Art Museum. Its vast collection spans 6,000 years of history and culture.
Tip: Check their website for special exhibitions or events that might be happening during your visit.
15.Angel Island State Park (ai_suggested)
4.8State Park2,337 reviews~1502:30 PMCatch a ferry to Angel Island State Park, often called the 'Ellis Island of the West.' This natural gem offers incredible hiking and biking trails, picnic spots, and panoramic views of the entire Bay Area, making it a perfect nature escape.
Tip: Rent a bike on the island or bring your own to explore more easily.
16.Clarion Alley Mural Project
4.5Landmark1,290 reviews~20002:00 PMDiscover the vibrant street art of the Mission District at the Clarion Alley Mural Project. This ever-evolving outdoor gallery showcases political and socially conscious murals.
Tip: Take your time walking through the alley to appreciate the intricate details and powerful messages of the art.
17.Presidio Tunnel Tops
4.9Park1,278 reviews~2505:00 PMDiscover the newly opened Presidio Tunnel Tops, a magnificent green space offering incredible views, gathering areas, and food trucks, connecting the Presidio to Crissy Field.
Tip: Check out the mobile food vendors for a diverse range of dinner options with a view.
18.Balmy Alley Murals
4.5Street Art999 reviews~20010:30 AMExplore Balmy Alley in the Mission District, a vibrant outdoor gallery showcasing a rich history of murals, primarily reflecting political and social themes.
Tip: Take your time walking through the alley to admire each mural. Look for newer pieces alongside historic ones.
Things to do in San Francisco: quick questions
How many days do you need in San Francisco?+
Most travellers spend about 4 days in San Francisco, based on real trips planned on TravBuddy.
What are the top things to do in San Francisco?+
Top experiences in San Francisco include Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower, PIER 39, Golden Gate Park.
What are some offbeat places to visit in San Francisco?+
Beyond the usual spots, travellers in San Francisco also visit Fort Point National Historic Site, Crissy Field.
Where should you eat in San Francisco?+
Popular places to eat in San Francisco include Ferry Building Marketplace, Fog Harbor Fish House.
How do you reach San Francisco?+
Travellers reach San Francisco from cities like Delhi — compare trains, buses and flights with live fares on the route pages.
Plan your San Francisco trip
Turn these into a day-by-day San Francisco plan
Tell the AI your dates, budget and pace — it slots these into an optimised day-by-day itinerary with timings, stays and live fares. Free.
Plan my San Francisco tripRanked from 18 places that appear across real TravBuddy trips to San Francisco and traveler ratings. Entry fees and timings change — confirm ahead for closures.