San Francisco

San Francisco, officially the City and County of San Francisco, is a commercial, financial, and cultural center of Northern California. Wikipedia.
When is your trip?
–

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Trip plannersUnited StatesCalifornia

San Francisco Trip Planner

Trip plannersUnited StatesCalifornia

San Francisco Trip Planner

Ready to plan your trip to San Francisco? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner.

Top attractions in San Francisco

Alcatraz Island
1. Alcatraz Island
4.7
(43701)
Historical place
Sights & Landmarks
Notorious prison & once home to Al Capone, now a museum with an audio tour, accessible by ferry.
Slide 1 of 8
💚 The island is a photographic paradise with amazing views of the city, the bay, gardens, and fully accessible structures in a state of beautiful decay. 💚 Audio tour: Highly recommended because it affords the unique experience of enjoying a tour, but can still wander around and explore at your own pace. Headphones with a pocket player device are handed out. The narrator leads visitors through the building discussing various points of interest while voice actors recreate infamous stories. The device has a simple pause/play button to control the pace or take a break to wander off the path. This tour is only in one main cell block, leaving the rest of the island to explore “device-free”. 💚 Efficient operation: One reasonably priced ticket includes island admission and ferry service from the clearly-marked Pier 33 terminal. Employees are moving visitors both quickly and pleasantly. 💚 Amenities: Restroom facilities available at the bottom of the island adjacent to the ferry terminal and also at the top of the island. Picnic tables adjacent to same ferry terminal. 💚 Available tram/shuttle taking visitors (only those with mobility issues) to the top of the island. ⛔️ Caution: Visitors must walk up steep roads to top of the island. Easy for savvy hikers, might be a challenge for some. Aforementioned tram available. Plan accordingly. ⛔️ Amenities: Limited benches. There is a “plaza” about halfway up the climb with benches, but some visitors probably could use more benches along a few other desolate stretches.
Troy W — Google review
If you are in San Fran, you have to visit Alcatraz. I used Alcatraz City Cruises and I recommend them. It is a smooth process getting to and leaving the island. Once you are on the island, you can take a guided audio tour or explore on your own. From a historical perspective, it is worth checking out and it gives you a really new perspective on how the "Rock" was used and how it has evolved over time. Being there and experiencing it is a lot different than reading about it or watching shows about it.
Brad M — Google review
What a wonderful time i had. Great tour. Thank you Brian Stannard for all you explaining and knowledge. I look forward to reading your book. What a time I also got to meet a former inmate William G Baker. #1259.
Jason H — Google review
This tour was a lot of fun. Enjoyed learning the history of the prison and hearing stories of other things that happened. A nice ride out and great photo ops. Book your tickets ahead and plan on spending at least 2 hours to do the walking tour and self guided tour.
Z — Google review
Loved it! The audio tour was really great and informative! Got a full walk through with the tour then you are free to wonder around and see more of the Island and can always go back and look at the block all over again if you want! Was a great time!! We did the night tour and it wasnt to packed.
Eggy — Google review
If you visit San Francisco this tour is a must. Recommend going on the Park ranger walk. It's very informative. The audio tour, while in the cell house was also well done. Park staff were very friendly. Take the time to enjoy this national land mark.
Mark B — Google review
We opted for the Behind The Scenes Tour and are very glad we did! We've been to numerous prison, penitentiary and jail museums and wanted to see all of this one, the alpha omega of prisons! The tour includes places not accessible without a guide so we got to see more than most. Our tour guide was amazing, he was very knowledgeable of both the military prison and the federal prison eras which was greatly appreciated. He eagerly answered questions and happily elaborated on any areas requested. Getting to go underground through the tunnel and mote and learning how they were used during both eras was fascinating. The behind the scenes part is pretty quick, we were whisked from one spot to the next and although our guide said he'd wait until the entire group was reassembled, he started way before we all got there! Had to be super quick up those steep hills! Also included was the Night Tour and the audio tour so it's a complete look at Alcatraz! We thoroughly enjoyed the Indian Occupation exhibit and highly recommend going through all of it, it's quite moving.
Cindy P — Google review
We visited Alcatraz recently and really enjoyed the experience! The boat ride was pleasant, and once on the island we had access to a very informative audio guide that helped us understand how the prison operated during its time of use. I especially liked that you had to walk and listen at the same time, it made the visit more immersive! The ticket was a bit expensive, but we’re really glad we went!
Alizée D — Google review
Golden Gate Bridge
2. Golden Gate Bridge
4.8
(84659)
Bridge
Sights & Landmarks
Famed 4,200 ft art deco suspension bridge open to car, bike & foot traffic.
Slide 1 of 8
Visiting the Golden Gate Bridge is an unforgettable experience. Standing on or near this iconic landmark, you feel the scale and beauty of San Francisco in a way that photos just can’t capture. The view of the city skyline framed by the bridge’s signature orange towers is breathtaking, especially on a clear day. Walking or biking across gives a sense of accomplishment and offers unique perspectives of the bay, the Marin Headlands, and Alcatraz. Even just admiring it from nearby lookout points provides incredible photo opportunities. The atmosphere is lively with tourists from all over the world, yet the sheer grandeur of the bridge gives it a sense of serenity and awe. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, photography, or just to feel the iconic vibes of SF, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-visit landmark that truly embodies the spirit of the city.
Flora — Google review
The Golden Gate Bridge is simply Spectacular! I recommend visiting the visitors center at the south entrance. Here you can learn about the history of the bridge. Absolutely astonishing how these engineers and steel workers survived brutal cold elements to construct this bridge! Visit Fort Point National Historic Site at the base of the bridge for more Historic facts. Take the 1 hour bay cruise and the boat travels underneath the bridge for an unbelievable experience! I recommend driving to the north side of the bridge through the Marin Headlands and visit Golden Gate Bridge overlook it is a breathtaking view of the bridge and you can look into the city of San Francisco.
Robert C — Google review
The Golden Gate Bridge is absolutely stunning and one of the most iconic sights in the world. The bright red color, the ocean breeze, and the sweeping views of San Francisco Bay make it unforgettable. Walking or biking across is an amazing experience you can see the city skyline, Alcatraz, and the Marin Headlands all in one view. Whether it’s covered in fog or glowing at sunset, it’s always breathtaking. A true masterpiece of design and a must-see when visiting San Francisco!
Lg G — Google review
The Golden Gate Bridge was fantastic! Went during the week, not crowded. Was able to cruise across at our leisure and not worry about someone on our ass. Fisherman's Wharf was quiet, no lines. Food is always great in the area. And I'm talking about seafood. Everything is slowed down during the week. We really enjoyed our time there. Hotels were plentiful and cheaper. Looking forward to another visit.
Matt M — Google review
Immersive! A truly one-of-a-kind experience ! Driving across the Golden Gate Bridge was truly amazing and an experience I’ll never forget. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, the city skyline, Alcatraz, and the surrounding hills. The scenery is absolutely stunning, whether you see it in the morning shrouded in fog or at sunset when golden colors light up the sky. The bridge itself is an engineering masterpiece, perfectly complementing the natural beauty around it. Whether driving, walking, or just admiring it from a distance, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see destination that captures the magic of San Francisco!
Shay A — Google review
The Golden Gate Bridge is a fantastic experience. The architecture is impressive, and the bright orange color against the water makes for amazing photos. Whether you walk, bike, or just enjoy the lookout points, the views are breathtaking. It’s well-maintained, easy to access, and one of those places that truly lives up to the hype.
Mirza B — Google review
I absolutely loved riding my bicycle down this amazing and iconic feature of architecture in my great nation. I visited in 2011 and stayed 5 days in San Francisco. I loved every second of it. Beautiful town. Beautiful people.
The E — Google review
Amazing!!!! The bridge in San Francisco is truly beautiful, but the best time to visit it is when there is no fog. Otherwise, you won’t be able to get clear pictures. But it’s definitely something worth seeing.
Elisheva — Google review
Cable Car Museum
3. Cable Car Museum
4.7
(6666)
Rail museum
Transportation
Antique cable cars on exhibit in the historic building that houses the cable-pulling equipment.
Slide 1 of 8
A very educational Museum with lots of information on the fantastic little cable cars you can get throughout San Francisco. Highly recommend you ride the Cable Cars while you're here, they're incredible fun, and a good way to see the sights too. We paid $35 on the MUNI app for unlimited rides on both Buses and Cable Cars. If you ride the Cars and are then interested in learning how they work, then visiting this FREE museum is a must!
Mark L — Google review
💚 Fans infrastructure or public transportation history will be in heaven at this museum. 💚 Visitors are able to fully view the mechanics, in operation, powering the cable car lines throughout the city. 💚 The museum is full of displays and historic photos. Many with the sole purpose of explaining how the cable cars operate. 💚 Great gift shop! 💚 FREE admission!
Troy W — Google review
A real national treasure here! Over 150 years of history as the cable car was originally built in SF. The entrance to the museum is free and there's a very cool gift shop that only takes cash. We rode the cable car to Union Square and back afterwards and how much fun it was to be apart of historical continuity. I hope you enjoy this place as much as we did.
Asia P — Google review
Amazing displays, we can see the infrastructure powering the cable cars around town, as well as displays outlining the history of cable cars around San Francisco. this place is great for anyone who is interested in history and San Francisco!
Andrew — Google review
Amazing museum especially given its free entry. The historical information is pretty interesting. Enjoyed catching the cable car there, learning about how all the levers work and then watching the drivers in action.
Liz W — Google review
If you hate interesting in learning first hand how the cable cars work or are in the area, the visit is worth the time. The entrance is free and the museum provides easy to understand information regarding the operation of cable cars of San Francisco. There is a nice souvenir shop in the museum too.
Satyen J — Google review
It was really awesome to see the WORKING cables! Such cool history! And it's a free museum, so that's nice as well. We were able to walk through, taking in most of the info and history, in about 1.5 hours. But I enjoy reading that stuff so not everyone will take that much time here...
Lou H — Google review
There are lots of signs with all the details about the cable cars! You even get to see the very cables that run the city's cable cars today, which is really interesting!
Megan L — Google review
PIER 39
4. PIER 39
4.6
(134312)
Sights & Landmarks
Fishing pier
Bustling bayside pier featuring scenic views, sea lion sightings, eateries, shops & entertainment.
Slide 1 of 8
Just had an incredible adventure at Pier 39 with my family! 🎉 It was such a fun and exciting day, filled with sea lion watching and lots of very good food. 🦭 Every moment was memorable, and the atmosphere was fantastic. We captured so many pictures to remember this amazing day. Can't wait to come back for more adventures! Highly recommend it for a perfect family outing.
J M — Google review
Pier 39 is one of the most fun and lively spots in San Francisco! It’s full of energy, with beautiful views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. The atmosphere is festive, with street performers, music, and the famous sea lions lounging by the docks a highlight for everyone. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions for all ages. You can enjoy fresh seafood, take a boat tour, or just stroll around and take in the views. Everything is clean, safe, and well maintained, making it a perfect stop for tourists and locals alike. Pier 39 perfectly captures the charm and excitement of San Francisco a must-visit destination that combines great food, entertainment, and stunning waterfront
Lg G — Google review
Sea lions, sunsets, and a lively boardwalk vibe Pier 39 is one of those places that instantly feels alive, a mix of sea breeze, music, and the occasional bark of a sea lion echoing from the docks. I didn’t need to buy any tickets in advance; the main attraction, the sea lions, are free to watch if you find a good spot by the water. It’s one of those simple yet memorable moments where you just stand there, camera in hand, and enjoy their lazy, sun-bathing charm. The pier itself is full of options, cozy restaurants, souvenir shops, ice-cream stands, and smoothie bars. I didn’t get to try everything, but everything I did try, from snacks to smoothies, was genuinely good. The staff were friendly and helpful everywhere we stopped, which made the whole experience even better. Nearby, there are a few attractions like the Ferris wheel and some boat tours that might require tickets, but they’re optional. Honestly, just walking around the pier at sunset already feels like an experience on its own. If you’re coming by scooter or bike, I’d recommend checking how busy it is first. Scooters are manageable, but on crowded days, maneuvering a bike could be tricky. All in all, Pier 39 is more than just a tourist stop, it’s a place to slow down, take in the bay air, and feel the pulse of San Francisco by the water. 🌅
Alain M — Google review
My family and I really enjoyed our day stroll at Pier 39. The weather was perfect when we visited! It was a bit crowded in some areas, but we still found plenty of nice spots to sightsee and walk around. There are lots of great food options and cafés to choose from. Finding a restroom was a bit of a challenge, but overall, it was still a wonderful day!
BA — Google review
I squeezed in a quick visit during a long business trip, and it ended up being one of the highlights of my week. The energy here is amazing—shops and restaurants stay open late, so whether you want a great meal, a last-minute souvenir, or just a relaxing place to take in the views, there’s something for everyone. Perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who still want a memorable experience. I’m already planning to return on my next trip—this place easily makes the “worth the stop” list.
L O — Google review
Fun place to spend a little time. Easy shopping. Got to see some sea lions and had a yummy bowl of chowder in a bread bowl and freshly made donuts. Great view of Alcatraz at one end and San Francisco at the other!
Justin C — Google review
The typical place for all tourists to visit at least once. A few carnival-style rides & attractions for kids, Bubbz Gumps restaurant a Mexican & surf themed casual restaurant & bar ,biscoff cafe , Hard Rock cafe. There is a In & Out burger joint just a little further back past the ship wheel.
Paul S — Google review
Visiting fisherman’s wharf was probably the highlight of our San Francisco trip. So many cute shops, the best place to buy any souvenirs for your family and friends. The Biscoff Café was so good as well as the ice cream shops. Highly recommend!
Arshdip S — Google review
Fisherman's Wharf
5. Fisherman's Wharf
Sights & Landmarks
Neighborhoods
Fisherman’s Wharf, on the northern waterfront, is one of the city's busiest tourist areas. Souvenir shops and stalls selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls appear at every turn, as do postcard views of the bay, Golden Gate and Alcatraz. There’s also a colony of sea lions to see and historic ships to tour. At Ghirardelli Square, boutiques and eateries reside in the famed former chocolate factory.
Lombard St
6. Lombard St
4.6
(3083)
Notable street
Sights & Landmarks
Street with scenic steep section featuring 8 hairpin turns & views of the bridge, Coit Tower & bay.
Slide 1 of 8
A really special street with lots of sharp turn and being very steep. It was beautifully decorated with blossoming flowers. You can enjoy a good city view from there as well.
Lawrence T — Google review
This is a must-see attraction in SF. Everyone loves to see or drive down this path. The view was gorgeous from the top, and the flowers were in bloom. Great pics to take, and I preferred to walk to really take it all in.
I C — Google review
Beautiful street but not worth the hype. It was so busy with tourists and cars. Worth going for the view on top of the steps
H M — Google review
Nice views from top and bottom of the street. Likely more picturesque in the spring with all of the flowers in bloom
Brad H — Google review
This is my third time to this attraction. The scenery here is still pleasing to the eye. I like to see tourists from all over the world being intoxicated in this way. It is very romantic.
Shenhs E — Google review
This is a must see. Everyone should experience this beautiful street. We walked down and back up and also drove down this street. Highly recommend doing all three. The flowers we so amazingly beautiful.
David C — Google review
Great to see absolute disaster cars everywhere. Honking. People taking illegal turns I don’t blame them some of the time it’s a nightmare to get down the road. I got there from the top maybe it’s better at the bottom? But I didn’t bother was complete mess. The traffic cops do there best but it’s overwhelming.
C B — Google review
Beautiful spot, the only downside is that the bushes are so tall so you can’t really get a close up photo of the curved street but it’s worth going if you’re visiting SF.
Kayla T — Google review
Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more
What users say about the app
Love love love! ❤️ Planning travel has actually been fun instead of tedious because of this app.
J
Julie G.
Exactly what I needed to plan a trip. I can’t imagine anyone not loving this app!
J
Jen S.
Wanderlog makes planning a trip so effortless. Seriously, this app does it all!
B
Brad C.
This site and app let me do all the planning for our 15 day trip in a little over 6 hours! I can’t recommend it enough!
A
Amanda W.
Amazing!! The organization this app provides has taken a huge weight off my shoulders.
G
Garrett V.
This is the crème de la crème of planning apps! Don’t think about it - just click download right this minute.
C
Chris C.

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Other notable attractions

Golden Gate Park
Park
Sights & Landmarks
The city's 1,017-acre oasis draws hikers, bikers, art lovers & music fans, plus gardens & museums.
San Francisco Bay Area
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
The San Francisco Bay Area is a region in Northern California spanning the city of San Francisco and surrounding counties. On a peninsula, hilly San Francisco is known for its cable cars, Victorian houses and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. North, the Sonoma and Napa valleys are renowned wine-producing regions with hundreds of hillside vineyards. Gourmet food is showcased in Oxbow Public Market in the city of Napa.
Ferry Building
Historical landmark
Shopping
Vendors sell produce, cheese, coffee, candy & prepared food in this soaring, restored 1898 space.
Oracle Park
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Home to the San Francisco Giants, this ballpark with bay views offers tours & hosts special events.
Chinatown
Sights & Landmarks
Neighborhoods
This is one of the oldest and most established Chinatowns in the U.S. Beyond iconic Dragon’s Gate, a bustling maze of streets and alleys brims with dim sum joints and other traditional eateries. Also found are herbalists, bakeries, souvenir shops, and dark cocktail lounges and karaoke bars. There are ornate temples, including the landmark Tien How, as well as the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum.
Twin Peaks
Park
Sights & Landmarks
Renowned, 180-degree views of the Bay Area are offered at this 64-acre park with hiking trails.
California Academy of Sciences
Science museum
Museums
Natural history museum with an aquarium, planetarium & scientists conducting a variety of research.
Coit Tower
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Storied 1930s-era building known for its WPA murals, 360-degree views & resident flock of parrots.
Palace of Fine Arts
Event venue
Concerts & Shows
This Greco-Roman palace & architectural attraction hosts an ever-changing roster of performing arts.
Cable Car Museum
Rail museum
Transportation
Antique cable cars on exhibit in the historic building that houses the cable-pulling equipment.
Best-of categories in San Francisco
Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes
Photo spots
Cheap eats
Breakfast and brunch
Bakeries
Breweries and beer
Romantic places

Top searches in San Francisco

Popular road trips from San Francisco

Slide 1 of 30
San Francisco to
Las Vegas
San Francisco to
Los Angeles
San Francisco to
San Diego
San Francisco to
Monterey
San Francisco to
Seattle
San Francisco to
Yosemite National Park
San Francisco to
Vancouver
San Francisco to
Sacramento
San Francisco to
Calistoga
San Francisco to
Santa Cruz
San Francisco to
Greater Palm Springs
San Francisco to
Sedona
San Francisco to
Portland
San Francisco to
Santa Barbara
San Francisco to
Reno
San Francisco to
San Antonio
San Francisco to
Grand Canyon National Park
San Francisco to
Phoenix
San Francisco to
Tucson
San Francisco to
San Simeon
San Francisco to
Victoria
San Francisco to
Banff National Park
San Francisco to
Denver
San Francisco to
Page
San Francisco to
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
San Francisco to
Paso Robles
San Francisco to
Yellowstone National Park
San Francisco to
Death Valley National Park
San Francisco to
Anaheim
San Francisco to
Santa Fe

All road trips from San Francisco

Explore nearby places

All related maps of San Francisco

San Francisco throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in San Francisco?

Get inspired for your trip to San Francisco with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

Q&A about San Francisco

View more questions
What are must-see spots and must-do activities during a two-day stay in San Francisco?
I like Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf. They're touristy for a reason. 😉 i love the sea lions. I also had an amazing dinner in Chinatown- don't remember which restaurant, but I liked it there.
F
Frederick Pagac
View 3 responses
Where can I find solo activities and Mexican food spots in San Francisco?
La Corneta Taqueria (415) 469-8757 https://goo.gl/maps/bvmh2u4EQHR66AE46 They have a couple of locations. Bombass Mexican food!
L
Lamont Bernier
View 4 responses

Weather in San Francisco

Here's the historical average temperature in San Francisco over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in San Francisco in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December
Monthly temperature highs and lows in San Francisco
Ready to plan your trip to San Francisco?
Use our free trip planner for the easiest way to plan your vacation. No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Add places from guides with 1 click

We crawled the web so you don’t have to. Easily save mentioned places.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

Import flight and hotel reservations

Connect or forward your emails to get them magically added into your trip plan.

Expense tracking and splitting

Keep track of your budget and split the cost between your tripmates.

Checklists for anything

Stay organized with a packing list, to-do list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Get personalized suggestions

Find the best places to visit with smart recommendations based on your itinerary.
Plan on the go with our free travel app
With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.
Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.
Get the iOS app from the App StoreGet the Android app from Google Play

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Get the iOS app from the App StoreGet the Android app from Google Play
0 places saved to your trip to San Francisco