What to do in San Francisco? Our top 10

Birthplace of the hippie movement in the 1970s, San Francisco is the most European and most tolerant of American cities. Travellers often include it in their American west coast road trip itinerary, either as a starting point or to end their trip in style.

Allow at least 2 days to visit San Francisco to have time to discover its main attractions.

What to see and do in San Francisco? Here is our top 10 so you can come back with lasting memories of "The City by the Bay".

#1. The Golden Gate Bridge

A true architectural feat, the Golden Gate Bridge is said to be one of the most photographed structures on the planet.

If you'd like to learn more about its construction and history, visit the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Centre.

The ultimate experience is to cycle across it to the charming town of Sausalito. At 2.7 km long, this ride is sure to leave lasting memories. A word of advice: bring a light sweater or jacket as it can be very windy on the bridge. To make the experience even more glamorous, arrange to do it at sunset.

If you rent a car in San Francisco and drive south across the bridge (into San Francisco) you'll have to pay a toll of about $8. The toll can be paid in advance or up to 48 hours after at a cash payment location, on the website, or by phone. Don't wait for your car rental company to charge you because the bill will be much higher.

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#2. Alcatraz Prison

In the middle of San Francisco Bay lies the most feared island of the 1930s and the most famous penitentiary in the world: Alcatraz.

A tour of Alcatraz Prison is a must during your trip to San Francisco. I suggest you plan ahead and book your tickets on the website of Alcatraz Cruises, the only company authorized to dock on the island. Tickets can be purchased 3 months in advance.

Several types of tours are offered: the day tour includes a self-guided tour of the prison, the island and its gardens, and an informative video. The night tour offers the same things, but at nightfall the atmosphere is quite unique. Finally, the "behind the scenes” tour is done with a guide who will take you to areas that are not usually open to the public.

#3. Fisherman’s Wharf

Formerly part of the city's fishing port, known for its wide variety of seafood and especially for its crab, Fisherman’s Wharf has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco.

This family-friendly spot is also the starting point for many excursions, such as cruises on the bay, another item on our list of things to do in San Francisco. It's a lively area where you can enjoy free performances by street artists and stock up on souvenirs in the many shops lining the streets.

Be sure to stop by Pier 39 to see the famous sea lions basking in the sun. It's also the perfect place to take a break in one of the area's many cafes and restaurants. Some of them offer great views of the bay and Alcatraz.

#4. Alamo Square

For a remake of the “Full House” credits scene, head to Alamo Square, which is definitely one of the most photographed spots in San Francisco.

You'll love the beautiful “Painted Ladies” on Steiner Street. And if the weather is clear, you'll have a superb view of the downtown skyscrapers in the background. They make a striking contrast with the pretty Victorian houses in their pastel colours.

After taking a few photos, time for a relaxing break in the park before continuing your exploration of San Francisco.

Just a few blocks from Alamo Square is Hayes Valley, which has become one of the city's most trendy neighbourhoods.

#5. Chinatown

You're about to discover one of San Francisco's most historic neighbourhoods: Chinatown, home to the world's largest Chinese community outside of Asia. Enter through the “Dragon gate” located at the corner of Grant Avenue and Bush Street, and you'll immediately feel the change of scenery. 

A real city within the city, Chinatown enchants with its colourful facades, thousands of lanterns and countless small shops. Don't hesitate to go into the small grocery stores, authentic shops and restaurants to discover the atmosphere within. 

Make a stop at Hang Ah Tea Room, which has been serving some of the best dim sum (a Cantonese specialty) in San Francisco since it opened in 1920.

If you're there in the morning, head to Portsmouth Square, known as the Heart of Chinatown, to watch local residents practicing Tai chi. 

#6. San Francisco Bay cruise

A San Francisco Bay cruise offers a different perspective on the city, with breathtaking views of downtown, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

Departing from Pier 43 1/2 at Fisherman's Wharf, the boat passes the North Beach area before heading towards the Golden Gate Bridge. Note, however, that it is often foggy in SF, so to avoid disappointment, check the weather forecast beforehand as it is quite likely that the bridge will be invisible due to the fog. 

On the way back, you'll pass by the Marin Wildlife Area and the pretty town of Sausalito.

#7. Cable car ride through the streets of San Francisco

Although the cable car is a traditional mode of daily transportation for San Francisco locals, it has become one of the icons of the city and the ultimate experience for visitors to San Francisco.

The best time to board is early in the morning, otherwise you'll need to be patient and wait for your turn.

There are 3 cable car routes. The Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines serve Chinatown, Downtown / Civic Center, Financial District, Nob Hill, North Beach, Russian Hill and South Of Market (SoMa). The California Street line serves Chinatown, Downtown / Civic Center, District financier, Nob Hill, Pacific Heights, Western Addition.

In 2022, the price of a single ride on the legendary cable car was $8 per person (free for children under 4).

#8. Market Street

They say that Market Street is to San Francisco what Fifth Avenue is to New York.

Okay. Having visited both, I must admit I'm more impressed by Fifth Avenue than Market Street, but to each her own.

The street begins across from the Ferry Building in the north-east of the city. Shops, restaurants, banks... you'll find everything you need there. It's a great place for shoppers and also for taking public transportation to another part of San Francisco. 

The further south you go, the less interesting the street becomes.

#9. Lombard Street

Lombard is a long street, but it's the section between Hyde Street and Leavenworth Street that is one of our must-sees when visiting San Francisco.

This street in the Russian Hill district is famous for the eight hairpin bends that were designed to reduce the hill's steep grade. The "Crookedest Street in the World" has become a San Francisco legend.

In addition to its unusual design, the street is lined with lush flowers and shrubs, making it a very photogenic spot. For the best photos, you should go to the bottom of the street. And if you want the pleasure of driving down it, make sure you get there early. Otherwise, you'll be better off walking.

#10. Haight Ashbury

While there are many neighbourhoods in San Francisco, Haight Ashbury is one of the most eclectic.

Immerse yourself in the hippie culture of the 1960s and 70s. The hippies may be gone, but the smell of patchouli lingers on...

You will see the old homes of 1960s singers like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead.

Vintage boutiques, record shops, bookstores... let yourself be caught up in the relaxed atmosphere and take your time to wander through the streets.

Locate of the top sights in San Francisco

Have I forgotten anything?

Feel free to complete our list of top San Francisco sights - share your experiences with us in the comments below!