10 Must-See Sights in San Francisco

Anyone planning a visit to San Francisco will soon discover just how much there is to see in the famous “City by the Bay”. While the city itself is small compared to some others it offers more than most for visitors and locals alike to experience. But with so much to choose from where do you start? Whatever your interests I’ve got you covered with my list of 10 Must-See sights of San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge

A list of things to do in San Francisco would never be complete without the Golden Gate Bridge. Whether you want to cross it, sail under it, or just get a photo of it, it’s the one sight everyone wants to tick off their list.

The famous 2.74km (1.7 mi) big red bridge spans the Golden Gate strait and connects San Francisco to Marin County in the north. It’s said to be the most photographed bridge in the world and it’s not hard to see why. With the variety of viewpoints available around the city and the ever-changing moods created by the city’s famous rolling fog, it’s a photo op you won’t want to miss.

If you’re wanting to cross the bridge there are a number of ways you can do that too. If you don’t have your own car you can join a tour bus, take a taxi/rideshare or jump on public transport. There are also bike tours and walking tours available that you can join. Alternatively, make your way to the Welcome Centre and take a stroll as far as you feel like.

The Original City Loop Bike Tour run by Dylan’s Tours is a great option for taking in some of the city’s top sights as well as multiple view points of the bridge and includes a stop at the Welcome Centre.

Fisherman’s Wharf

This fishing community turned tourist attraction is one of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods. With something for everyone, this bayside precinct is a hub for many of the area's attractions and tours.

Visit Pier 39 to take in the amazing views of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. While you’re there pay a visit to the resident sea lions who call the docks their home. Pier 39 also offers plenty of options for shopping, dining and entertainment and is home to the Aquarium of the Bay.

The Fisherman’s Wharf area can be a great location to base yourself on a visit to San Francisco with many attractions and activities at your doorstep. It’s also a food lover's dream with some of the best seafood dining options in the city. Don’t forget to stop in at Boudin’s to watch their famous sourdough being made and enjoy some clam chowder served in a bread bowl.

Alcatraz

Located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island is San Francisco’s number one attraction. Known by many as “The Rock”, the island was most famous as a federal prison that housed the likes of gangster Al Capone. These days it’s part of the Golden Gate National Recreation area and welcomes more than 1.4 million visitors every year.

Tours depart from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, located on San Francisco’s famous Embarcadero. Audio tours of the main cell block give you an opportunity to learn about the island’s fascinating history, infamous inmates and legendary escape attempts.

The island has also been the backdrop for a number of Hollywood movies including Escape from Alcatraz, Birdman of Alcatraz and of course 90’s action-thriller The Rock starring Sean Connery and Nicholas Cage. Movie fans can enjoy trying to spot the location of their favourite scenes as they make their way around the island.

For a different experience (and my favourite option), join an Alcatraz Night Tour.

Cable Cars

A city’s public transportation would rarely be a must-see but a ride on San Francisco’s famous cable cars is a bucket-list stop for many when visiting the city.

The cable car system was established in 1873 and while only 3 of the original 23 lines are still in operation it’s pretty easy to catch a ride. Routes operate north/south between Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf as well as east/west along California Street. Depending on the time of day queues can be long, especially at the end of the line at Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square. To avoid the lines try walking one or two stops down the line rather than jumping on at the very start. If you’re more interested in the ride than the destination jump aboard the California Line, it's generally not as busy and still offers great views as you travel over Nob Hill.

For information on tickets to ride the cable cars as well as all other transport options available for visitors go to the SFMTA website.

Coit Tower

Perched on top of Telegraph Hill, the 64m (210ft) high Coit Tower is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The tower was built in 1933 as a tribute to Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy eccentric and patron of the city’s firefighters. A short elevator ride will take you to the observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of the city and bay area.

After soaking in the scenery make your way back down to the waterfront via the famous Filbert Street Steps. If you’re lucky you may spot the local parrots that call this area home as you snake your way down the hillside through the lush greenery.

Union Square

San Francisco’s city centre is historic Union Square. A popular destination for visitors who want to experience the best shopping and dining the city has to offer. Home to the largest collection of shops, hotels, theatres and bars, it’s a popular location to base yourself when visiting San Francisco.

For serious shoppers, Union Square is home to designer boutiques as well as shopping centres housing some of the largest department stores in the country. For a birdseye view of the square stop for lunch at the Cheesecake Factory located inside Macy’s. The 8th-floor terrace provides great views over Union Square and the surrounding area.

Chinatown

San Francisco boasts the oldest Chinatown in North America and it’s well worth a visit. Best explored by foot, Chinatown begins at the Dragon’s Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street and is a unique neighbourhood made up of 24 city blocks. You can choose to explore on your own (a great free option) or join one of the many tours available.

Chinatown offers visitors an array of exotic shops, world-class restaurants, food markets, temples and shrines and even small museums. Shop for traditional herbal remedies, take part in a cultural festival, learn how fortune cookies are made or simply enjoy a delicious dim sum lunch.

Bay Cruises

Don’t miss the opportunity to get out on the water when visiting San Francisco. A bay cruise gives you a different perspective of the city and lets you get up close to some of the big attractions. You’ll truly appreciate the size of the Golden Gate Bridge as you sail under its massive span. And if you don’t have time to tour Alcatraz Island the view from the water is still a highlight. Keep your eyes peeled for the local sea life too, seals can often be spotted playing in the bay.

Lombard Street

San Francisco is well-known for its super steep streets, but have you heard of the “Crookedest Street in San Francisco”? Located between Hyde and Leavenworth streets, Lombard Street boasts eight sharp zig-zag turns in only 125m (412ft).

If you’re willing to wait a while for your turn you can drive down this unusual street but I prefer to watch the chaos unfold from below rather than have to keep my eyes on the road. For great views over Telegraph Hill and the bay start on Hyde Street then make your way down the stairs and enjoy the beautiful garden beds that surround the switchbacks.

Muir Woods

The old-growth redwood forest at Muir Woods National Monument is definitely a must-see when visiting San Francisco. Located 20 minutes from the city, Muir Woods is home to the mighty redwoods. Standing up to 76m (250ft) tall the trees range from 400 to 800 years old and are the tallest tree species in the world.

A stroll through these impressive woods is a welcome break from the hustle of the city. Follow the aptly named Redwood Creek as it winds its way through the groves and marvel at the incredible height of the canopy above. It’s not until you get up close that you appreciate the true scale of these amazing trees.

The main trail through the park is paved and mostly level with options to suit everyone. Choose the 30-minute, 1 hour or 90-minute loop or there is a longer hiking trail that makes its way into Mount Tamalpais State Park.

Hidden Gems

If it’s not your first time to San Francisco or maybe the “must-sees” aren’t your thing, check out some of the city’s hidden gems for something new. One of my favourites is the Point Bonita Lighthouse on the tip of the Marin Headlands. With stunning views, unique historical features and a chance to spot some local wildlife, it’s a great spot to add to your itinerary.

For more hidden gems check out this great post by Redfin - Hidden Gems in San Francisco: Golden Activities in the Golden City

With so much to see and do in San Francisco it’s impossible to cover it all with just 10 stops but hopefully my list of must-see spots will inspire you on your next visit to the city.

Have you been to San Francisco? What’s your “Must-do” recommendation? Let me know in the comments!