San Francisco isn’t just a city — it’s an experience. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in fog to the lively streets of Chinatown, this city is packed with culture, history, and stunning scenery at every turn. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a full week of exploring, there’s no shortage of things to do.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best places to see in San Francisco, organized by category: landmarks, nature, neighborhoods, museums, viewpoints, and hidden gems. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of how to plan your trip and make the most out of your time in this incredible city.
🏛️ Iconic Landmarks You Can’t Miss
San Francisco’s landmarks are world-famous — and for good reason. These spots are must-sees for first-time visitors.
1. Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is practically the face of San Francisco. Stretching 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate strait, its International Orange towers rise gracefully above the bay.
- Best Experience: Walk or bike across the bridge. It takes about 30 minutes to walk one way and gives you jaw-dropping views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the skyline.
- Pro Tip: Go early in the morning or around sunset to avoid crowds and see the bridge in its most dramatic light.
2. Alcatraz Island
Once home to America’s most notorious criminals (like Al Capone), Alcatraz is one of the most fascinating historic sites in the country. The ferry ride alone is worth the trip — you get 360-degree views of the bay.
- Don’t Miss: The audio tour, narrated by former inmates and guards, brings the prison’s chilling history to life.
- Book Ahead: Tickets sell out quickly, especially in summer.
3. Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
Sure, it’s touristy — but it’s also full of charm. Watch the sea lions lounging near Pier 39, sample clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls, and browse souvenir shops.
- Family Friendly: Street performers and aquarium visits make it a hit for kids.
- Photographer’s Favorite: The views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate from the pier are spectacular.
4. Lombard Street
Dubbed “the crookedest street in the world,” Lombard Street is a zigzagging stretch of road framed by colorful gardens.
- Best Way to See It: Walk down from the top. Driving can be chaotic with the tourist traffic.
- Photo Tip: Stand at the bottom looking up for the classic shot.
5. Coit Tower
Perched on Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower offers 360-degree views of the city. Inside, murals painted during the 1930s depict California life during the Great Depression.
🌳 Outdoor Spaces & Natural Beauty
San Francisco isn’t just an urban jungle — it’s also full of parks, gardens, and dramatic coastlines.
Golden Gate Park
This massive 1,000-acre park has something for everyone: tranquil gardens, lakes, trails, and two world-class museums.
- Highlights:
- Japanese Tea Garden – beautifully landscaped with bridges, koi ponds, and tea houses.
- de Young Museum – fine arts museum with a free observation tower.
- California Academy of Sciences – planetarium, aquarium, and natural history museum in one.
The Presidio & Crissy Field
Once a military base, the Presidio is now a sprawling national park area with forests, trails, and historic buildings.
- Crissy Field: Perfect for a flat, scenic walk with unbeatable views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Presidio Tunnel Tops: A newly opened area with playgrounds, food trucks, and picnic lawns.
Lands End & Sutro Baths
For a rugged coastal experience, hike the Lands End Trail — it winds along cliffs with sweeping ocean views. The Sutro Baths ruins add a touch of mystery and history.
Ocean Beach
San Francisco’s western edge has a wild, windswept beach that feels worlds away from downtown hustle. Great for sunrise runs or sunset walks.
🖼️ Museums & Cultural Attractions
Rainy day? Or just love learning? San Francisco’s museums are some of the best in the country.
- SFMOMA (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art): A must for modern art lovers.
- Exploratorium: Interactive science exhibits that make learning fun for all ages.
- Legion of Honor: European art in a stunning hilltop setting.
- Asian Art Museum: One of the largest collections of Asian art outside Asia.
🏘️ Neighborhoods Full of Character
San Francisco’s neighborhoods each have their own personality. Here are a few you should wander through:
- Chinatown: The largest outside Asia, with colorful gates, dim sum restaurants, herbal shops, and lantern-lined streets.
- North Beach: The city’s Little Italy, great for cappuccinos, pasta, and Beat Generation history.
- Mission District: Known for its vibrant murals, amazing Mexican food (try the burritos!), and hipster vibe.
- Haight-Ashbury: The birthplace of the 1960s Summer of Love — full of vintage stores and colorful Victorians.
- Castro District: A historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood with lively bars, theaters, and rainbow crosswalks.
🌅 Best Views & Photo Spots
San Francisco is ridiculously photogenic. Here are the best places to capture it:
- Twin Peaks: For a panoramic city view — especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
- Battery Spencer: Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s one of the best viewpoints for the bridge + skyline.
- Bernal Heights Park: A quieter, local favorite for skyline views.
- 16th Avenue Tiled Steps: Colorful mosaic staircase leading to sweeping views from Grandview Park.
🕵️ Hidden Gems & Offbeat Stops
If you’ve seen the main attractions, try these:
- Fort Point: A historic brick fort right under the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Treasure Island: Offers unique views of the Bay Bridge and the city skyline — and has a growing food scene.
- Wave Organ: A quirky acoustic sculpture on the bay that plays music with the tides.
- Seward Street Slides: Two long concrete slides tucked into a tiny park — bring cardboard for maximum fun!
🍽️ Food Stops You Should Try
No trip is complete without tasting the local flavors:
- Boudin Bakery: Famous sourdough bread.
- Swan Oyster Depot: Legendary seafood spot.
- Tartine Bakery: Must-visit for pastry lovers.
- La Taqueria: Possibly the best burrito in the Mission.
🗓️ Suggested Itineraries
One-Day Whirlwind
- Morning: Walk the Golden Gate Bridge, then explore Crissy Field.
- Afternoon: Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz ferry, and cable car ride.
- Evening: Sunset at Twin Peaks, dinner in North Beach.
Three-Day Adventure
- Day 1: Landmarks (Golden Gate, Lombard Street, Coit Tower) + Fisherman’s Wharf
- Day 2: Golden Gate Park (museums + gardens) + Haight-Ashbury + Mission murals
- Day 3: Presidio hike, Chinatown lunch, explore Castro & SoMa nightlife
✨ Final Thoughts
San Francisco is a city that rewards curiosity. Sure, you can stick to the top tourist sites — and they’re amazing — but the real magic comes from wandering side streets, trying new foods, and discovering unexpected views.
Whether you’re into history, food, nature, or art, this city has a corner for you. Pack layers (yes, it gets chilly even in summer), bring comfortable walking shoes, and let San Francisco surprise you.