Ah, San Francisco. This colorful city is one of my most favorite in the world; from the culture to the food to the relaxed vibe, you’ll feel right at home. Just don’t call it San Fran.
There are hundreds of incredible events happening at any time across the city from shopping to historical experiences to outdoor adventures. There’s always something to discover, which means you’ll want to return to San Francisco over and over again. How do you narrow down your itinerary for your first visit? By exploring the classics, of course!
When is the Best Time to Visit San Francisco?
Though San Francisco is in California, it is to the north of the state and can get chilly. Visit from September – November for warm temperatures and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay On Your First Time in San Francisco
I stayed at the Beacon Grand (formerly known as the Sir Francis Drake) in Union Square, which was a short ways away from most of the sites in the city.
The Nob Hill and Financial District neighborhoods are a little bit more north and even closer to the sites with easy accessibility around town.
How To Get Around San Francisco
San Francisco is a very walk and bike-friendly city, so you can explore lots on foot!
The city offers public transport in the form of Muni buses, metro trains, and of course, the famous cable cars.
It’s also easy to book an Uber or Lyft from anywhere. I would not recommend driving or bringing your own vehicle as the steep hills and narrow roads can be difficult to navigate and car break-ins being on the rise.
Here are things that you should definitely add to your itinerary for your first visit:
First: Get a San Francisco City Pass
I’m a huge advocate of the city pass for any traveler’s first visit to a new city. These passes include most (if not all) of the city’s major sites at discounted rates, meaning getting the most out of your trip!
The San Francisco City Pass saves travelers 42% or more on admission to some of the best San Francisco has to offer. Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, take a one-hour bay cruise, and see the wildlife at the Aquarium of the Bay with your pass!
Sample the Iconic Cuisine
No visit is complete without sampling some of the local specialties! San Francisco is famous for their sourdough and seafood. Adding time to explore these delicious cuisines into your plans is easy – there are over 3,000 places to eat in the city by the bay. Stop in for a relaxed dinner at a restaurant, or pick up a crab roll along the Fisherman’s Pier and continue exploring.
Have a Picnic with the Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a historical landmark – Victorian and Edwardian homes near Alamo Square in San Francisco. These homes have appeared in many shows and movies, including the opening credits of Full House.
Pack some sandwiches and enjoy a picnic in the park across from the Painted Ladies for some great San Francisco views!
Experience the Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden was originally created as a cultural exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition. After the event, landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara expanded and managed the tea garden until 1942 when he and his family were forced into an internment camp.
Today, visitors can wander through the gardens and take in the beautiful Japanese architecture, koi ponds, and cherry trees.
Visit Alcatraz Island
The most famous prison in the US is Alcatraz Island. A short ferry ride through the bay will take you to this small island that housed prisoners like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. Several prisoners attempted to escape by leaping into the water and swimming for shore – do you think you could have made it?
Alcatraz night tours are also offered with additional programs and presentations that are only available after sunset.
Pier 39
Pier 39 is a must-do on every trip to San Francisco. This scenic shopping center has restaurants, rides, and cutest of all – sea lions who call the docks home.
If you’re planning on a short stop to Pier 39, there are quick service restaurants to fuel up at like Crepe Cafe, Lappert’s Ice Cream Shop, or Wipeout’s Hot Dog Cart. However, you should do yourself a favor and get some fresh seafood at one of the table service restaurants. There’s nothing like fresh crab on the pier!
Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge
Of course, you’re going to want to visit one of the most recognizable sights in the world, but the best way to fully take in the bridge is via bike! I loved my tour with Bay City Bikes. Exploring the city by bike gives you time to take in the sites and a workout too!
If you’re not much of a cyclist, there are lots of viewpoints to snap a great pic of the bridge.
- Fort Point National Historic Site
- Baker Beach
- Battery Spencer Observation Deck
Take in the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
Visit the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre and admire the gorgeous Grecian architecture. Did you know that George Lucas based the design of Star Wars’ R2D2 on the architecture of this building?
Explore Fisherman’s Wharf
The iconic Fisherman’s Wharf is a world-famous attraction, but offers plenty of hidden gems for guests to discover. Located in the most visited neighborhood San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf it easy to get to no matter where you are staying in the city.
Get your crab and sourdough fix, shop for vintage posters at Real Old Paper, or play games at the penny arcade, Musée Mécanique!
San Francisco is a beautiful city with things to do for every group of travelers from girls’ trips to family reunions. Time to pack your bags and head for SFO!
Are you planning to explore more of California? Check out these other Golden State guides:
10 Must Dos in Disneyland’s Galaxy’s Edge
7 Tips for Your First Coachella
If you’re ready to travel on a budget, check out the best travel credit cards and start racking up those points!
