Top 10 things to do in San Francisco
- Andrew
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
San Francisco had been on my travel bucket list for years, so finally visiting last year felt long overdue. We spent five nights in the city, giving us plenty of time to explore its different neighbourhoods, discover some of its famous landmarks and get a feel for the city beyond the usual tourist spots.
What surprised me most was how European San Francisco feels. Its compact, walkable neighbourhoods, steep streets that reminded me of Lisbon, and extensive network of trams and buses make it very different from many other American cities. Add in the colourful Victorian houses, incredible views and laid-back atmosphere, and it quickly became one of my favourite cities.
If you're planning a trip, these are my 10 favourite things to do in San Francisco:
1. Alcatraz Island
A visit to Alcatraz is essential. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the skyline and the island itself is atmospheric, with ruined buildings overtaken by seabirds. We visited at dusk to experience both daylight and nightfall and it was well worth it.
The guided tour brings the prison’s history to life, recounting stories of inmates, staff and the infamous escape attempt. Inside the cell blocks, the hourly locking of doors echoes through the building and gives a chilling sense of what life here must have been like.
2. Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is the city’s most iconic landmark. The official viewpoint is on the north side, but my favourite view was from Baker Beach where the bridge towers above you and Pacific waves crash onto the sand. Just one thing to note about the beaches around San Francisco- the water is always very cold with string currents so they're not suitable for swimming. Plenty of people go surfing though!
3. Palace of Fine Arts
In my opinion, this is the most beautiful building in San Francisco. Built for the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition, its neoclassical architecture, mirror-like pond and soaring colonnades make it a peaceful place to wander. Visit early in the morning or evening for a quieter experience.
4. Golden Gate Park
At over 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park is vast. It is home to the Botanical Garden, Japanese Tea Garden, Victorian Conservatory and several museums. The Japanese Tea Garden has an entry fee but I thought it was worth it to see one of the most authentic tea gardens outside Japan, with neatly trimmed trees, ponds and winding paths.
5. Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
This lively harbourfront feels like a traditional British seaside town, with colourful shops, cafés and even a penny arcade museum. Head to Pier 39 to see sea lions sunbathing or try classic clam chowder. Pier 45 also has historic US Navy ships open to visitors.
6. Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America and much larger than London’s. Beyond restaurants, you will find markets, herbal remedy shops, Chinese antiques and even a fortune cookie factory.
7. Mission Dolores Park
A small but scenic park offering one of the best skyline views, framed by palm trees and exotic planting. It is also popular with the LGBT community due to its proximity to the Castro district.
8. Lands End Trail
This spectacular coastal trail begins at Ocean Beach and loops around the headland to Eagles Point. Highlights include a tiny Camera Obscura, the ruins of historic bathing pools now inhabited by pelicans, wooded clifftops and hidden sandy beaches.
9. Muir Woods National Monument
Just north of the city, Muir Woods is one of the most accessible redwood forests. Despite its popularity, quieter trails are easy to find. Walking among towering redwoods, ferns and trickling streams feels like stepping into another world.
10. Lombard Street
Famous for its steep gradient and eight hairpin turns, Lombard Street is a fun walk, especially downhill, with colourful flower beds and views towards the bay.
Read my full California road trip story HERE
Final thoughts
San Francisco is one of those cities that deserves a place on any USA travel itinerary. With so many things to do in San Francisco, from exploring its famous neighbourhoods and landmarks to enjoying its incredible viewpoints, food scene and waterfront, five days is a great amount of time for a first visit, although you could easily spend longer. It’s a city I’d happily return to, and if you’re planning a trip to California, I’d definitely recommend adding San Francisco to your itinerary. Hopefully, my guide to the best things to do in San Francisco has given you plenty of inspiration for your own visit.
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