Things to do in
San Francisco Bay Area, California

Our most recommended things to do in San Francisco Bay Area, California

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

You will explore INSIDE the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island with America’s most ruthless criminals, including Al Capone. The ferry will leave on time at the specific time you booked. You have to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time at Pier 33. Walk, bike, take public transportation, or drive (as a last resort as it can be challenging to find parking), with easy access from anywhere around the Bay! On the island follow the Cellhouse audio tour “Doing Time” 45 minutes available in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. Also included is an amazing 1 hour SF Bay Cruise. Sail past the famous PIER 39 sea lions and along San Francisco’s historic waterfront, revealing the city’s fascinating skyline.You have the flexibility to go on your cruise on any day at any available departure. You will receive the schedule. Those are 2 separates tours.

San Francisco: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Open-top Bus

San Francisco: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Open-top Bus

Experience the best that the City by the Bay has to offer with the Big Bus San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off tour. This digitally-narrated tour takes you to the city's must-see landmarks and iconic attractions, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of San Francisco. Hop aboard the bus and prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge, a true San Francisco icon. As you cross the bridge, take in the breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the surrounding hills. This is a photo-opportunity not to be missed! As the tour continues, venture into the heart of the city and visit Union Square, the bustling shopping district. Here, you'll find an array of designer boutiques, high-end department stores, and trendy restaurants. Union Square is also home to the famous cable car turnaround, where you'll see the iconic cable cars in action. The tour also takes you through the historic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, the birthplace of the hippie movement. As you walk through the streets, you'll be transported back to the 1960s, with colorful Victorian houses, vintage clothing stores, and murals celebrating the Summer of Love. No trip to San Francisco is complete without a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf. Take in the sights and sounds of this famous waterfront district, where you can sample fresh seafood, browse local shops, and watch the sea lions basking in the sun. From here, you can also catch a ferry to Alcatraz Island or take a cruise around the bay. With the Big Bus tour, you have the flexibility to hop on and off at any of the 20 stops along the route, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. And with buses running every 10-15 minutes, you won’t have to wait long to continue your adventure. So whether you want to spend more time shopping in Union Square or exploring the Golden Gate Park, the Big Bus tour has got you covered.

San Francisco: California Sunset/SF City Lights Cruise

San Francisco: California Sunset/SF City Lights Cruise

During the winter months, our California Sunset Cruise transforms into the San Francisco City Lights Cruise. As the sun sets earlier, the city comes alive with twinkling lights, offering a stunning backdrop of illuminated landmarks. Whether you’re enjoying the glowing sunsets of summer or the cozy charm of winter, this cruise promises unforgettable views. Along the way, view numerous National Historic landmarks and San Francisco sights, including Coit Tower, the Transamerica Pyramid, St. Peter, Paul's Church, and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. After the sun sets, the city comes to life, and this 2-hour cruise offers a front-row seat to the iconic landmarks of the Bay, all illuminated against the night sky. On your way back to Fisherman’s Wharf, see many more famous sights, including the Presidio, the Marina District, and Fort Mason.

San Francisco: Alcatraz Island with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

San Francisco: Alcatraz Island with 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Discover the best of San Francisco with this combined ticket that includes a visit to Alcatraz Island, a 2-day Hop-on-Hop-off open-top bus ticket, Panoramic Sunset Tour, and a Chinatown walking tour. Plus, experience the thrill of either The Flyer or the 7D Experience, both located at Pier 39. Alcatraz Island Step foot on the notorious Alcatraz Island and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the iconic prison. As you explore the cells and grounds, listen to the gripping audio guide that reveals the tales of daring escape attempts and the lives of the inmates. Hop-on Hop-off Tour With your 2-day Big Bus hop-on-hop-off pass, have the freedom to explore San Francisco at your own pace. Hop on and off the bus as many times as you like and enjoy the informative and entertaining digital audio commentary. Chinatown Guided Walking Tour During your adventure, take a leisurely guided walking tour through the vibrant streets of Chinatown. Discover the rich culture and fascinating history of this unique neighborhood. Panoramic Sunset Tour Discover San Francisco by sunset on a panoramic tour of The Golden City. Engage with the history and hidden stories of the city with audio commentary and see sights like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Be sure to have your camera ready! Pier 39: The Flyer or the 7D Experience The Flyer takes you on a virtual journey across San Francisco's landmarks from a 50-foot screen with motion seats. Glide over the Golden Gate Bridge, China Town, Lombard Street, and the stunning Redwood National Forest. The 7D Experience is a high-tech ride combining a rollercoaster and a laser game. In a 20-person theater, you'll enter new dimensions on a massive 3D screen. Top sights: - North Beach - Chinatown - Embarcadero Center - Fisherman’s Wharf - Ferry Building - Union Square - Redemption Center - Civic Center - Alamo Square - Haight Ashbury - Golden Gate Bridge - Golden Gate Park - Palace of Fine Arts - Marina - Lombard Street - Pier 35 - Pier 39

San Francisco: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

San Francisco: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

Explore the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary on Alcatraz Island to learn about America’s most ruthless criminals, including Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly. Enjoy a ferry transfer from San Francisco and an admission ticket to the famous prison. Embark on a scenic 1-hour cruise of San Francisco Bay before or after your visit. Board the ferry and arrive on Alcatraz Island to begin your visit. Take advantage of an insightful and award-winning audio guide in multiple languages to immerse yourself in the dark history of Alcatraz and learn all about its old inmates and the many fateful escape attempts. Spend as much time as you'd like before taking the ferry back to the pier. Additionally, enjoy a 1-hour narrated sightseeing cruise of San Francisco Bay in a comfortable boat with both indoor and outdoor seating. Take in the scenic views and sail past famous San Francisco landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, the Bay Bridge and much more. Sail along the historic waterfront, past the famous Pier 39 sea lions and take in the city’s fascinating skyline from the unique vantage point of the San Francisco Bay.

San Francisco: Napa Valley Winery Tour with Tastings

San Francisco: Napa Valley Winery Tour with Tastings

Discover Napa Valley on a guided tour from San Francisco. Visit two select wineries and taste a variety of wines with an expert host for an experience sure to impress both novices and wine connoisseurs alike. Start your afternoon with a picturesque drive over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and take in breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline. Then, journey through the charming seaside town of Sausalito, known for its stunning vistas and Mediterranean-inspired architecture. During your journey to the wineries, admire the sight of lush, vine-covered hillsides. Your host will guide you through each winery and give you an inside look at their family histories, fermentation processes, barrel-aging, and bottling techniques as you meet the winemakers. After learning about the winemaking process, taste some award-winning varietals, with 3 to 5 tastings at each winery. Savor the unique flavors and aromas of signature blends. Finally, enjoy a scenic drive back over the Golden Gate Bridge, watching the sunset on the Pacific Ocean.

San Francisco: Go City Explorer Pass with 2-5 Attractions

San Francisco: Go City Explorer Pass with 2-5 Attractions

Explore San Francisco at your own pace and according to your interests with an easy-to-use sightseeing pass. Select 2, 3, 4, or 5 must-see, must-do attractions and tours from a comprehensive choice of over 30 things to do in San Francisco. Save up to 50%* off on top attractions, compared to buying separate tickets. Ride the hop-on-hop-off Big Bus tour and get to know the city, enjoy a San Francisco bay cruise, visit informative museums, rent a Go Car for an hour, experience the thrills of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, and much more. Choose from popular things to do in San Francisco including: • Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus 1-Day Classic Tour • California Academy of Sciences • Exploratorium • Aquarium of the Bay • Escape from the Rock • The Flyer SF & 7D Experience • San Francisco 4-Hour Bike Rentals with Unlimited Biking • San Francisco Zoo • Six Flags Discovery Kingdom • San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) • Ride the San Francisco Cable Cars with the 1 Day Muni Pass! • The Walt Disney Family Museum • All-Day Comfort Bike Rental by Blazing Saddles • USS Pampanito • GoCar 1 Hour Tour • And more! Please note attractions and tours are subject to change. Check your included digital guide for an up-to-date attraction line-up including opening times and instructions on how to access each attraction with your pass before you go. *Saving based on itineraries on the local partner's website.

San Francisco: Golden Gate Cruise & Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

San Francisco: Golden Gate Cruise & Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Make your way around San Francisco with a 1-day hop-on hop-off bus ticket and sail around San Francisco Bay with a 1-hour Golden Gate bay cruise. Hop off to explore the city's best highlights or stay on the double-decker bus to take in 360-degree panoramic views of the city. Golden Gate Bay CruiseSail past the lively neighborhood of North Beach and take advantage of the bar onboard with drinks, snacks, and merchandise available to purchase. Admire the famous swimming clubs of the Aquatic Park and the historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier. Take in idyllic views of Crissy Field and The Presidio of San Francisco before the stunning image of the Golden Gate Bridge comes into view. Cruise straight under the bridge as the sun shines and waves lap against the boat. Travel past the wildlife reserves of the Marin Headlands to reach the shores of Sausalito, once home to the Flower Children. With Angel Island State Park to your left, finish your cruise outside the infamous Alcatraz prison. 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off BusThe route of the hop-on hop-off bus includes stops at iconic landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Little Italy. This flexible approach to sightseeing allows you to enjoy your day at your own pace.

San Francisco: Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour w/Alcatraz Option

San Francisco: Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour w/Alcatraz Option

Take a small-group day trip by bus around San Francisco. See the Golden Gate Bridge, spend time at the Muir Woods National Monument, and enjoy lunch in picturesque Sausalito. Meet outside Fisherman’s Wharf at your chosen tour time. After a brief roll call, you’ll board the bus and travel to your first stop. Over the next 6 hours, you’ll be treated to stories about the neighborhoods, diversity, and geography of the area.  You will exit the bus at several stops for photo opportunities and exploration, enjoy lunch in Sausalito, and then spend over an hour in the beautiful Muir Woods National Monument. At the end of your amazing adventure, you’ll be dropped off at the same location where you boarded the bus.  Here are the places you will explore (photo stops noted by *): • Fisherman's Wharf - One of San Francisco's most popular destinations. From beautiful old shipyards to Boudin's Bakery and the smell of fresh clam chowder, Fisherman's Wharf has it all • Chinatown - Boasting the largest Chinatown in the United States, this 24-block mecca is bustling with energy, amazing food, and unique shops that give this area its charm • North Beach - Voted as one of the USA's ten great neighborhoods, North Beach is best known as the home of Little Italy. From delicious restaurants to authentic sidewalk cafes and bakeries, you will feel the charm of San Francisco as soon as you arrive • Pacific Heights* - Offering one of the most scenic outlooks in all of Northern California, Pacific Heights is home to Billionaire's Row, featuring the estates of politicians, tech titans, and other San Francisco celebrities  • Presidio - Former military base, now a beautiful park that includes Crissy Field, Fort Point, Lucasfilm's headquarters, and the Walt Disney Museum • Golden Gate Bridge - Declared "one of the 10 wonders of the modern world," the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most recognized symbols of San Francisco • Muir Woods* - Muir Woods National Monument is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful trees in the world. Many consider this stop to be the highlight of their trip. The National Monument entry fee is an additional expense to the paid on the day. • Fort Point* - Located just beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point gives you a front-row seat to the Bay and is a great photo stop. This former military fortification was used during WWII • Sausalito* - Located just across the Golden Gate Bridge, this artistic enclave has the setting and beauty of a European Mediterranean town. Enjoy your lunch on the San Francisco Bay Alcatraz (Optional): At the end of your day you can add the Infamous Alcatraz Island tour to your visit. You will board the ferry for the Official Alcatraz Day Tour. This former federal prison was once home to infamous criminals Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and it is a must-do while visiting San Francisco. You can add this option to your package at checkout!

San Francisco: Electric Bike Day Rental

San Francisco: Electric Bike Day Rental

See San Francisco in an ecologically conscious way, while comfortably negotiating the city’s famous hills with your electric bike. With your all-day rental bike, cruise along the car and pedestrian-free waterfront of San Francisco Bay and ride along the city’s bike paths. Enjoy a brand new fleet of bikes that provide an active way to experience San Francisco. Take the less-traveled routes through the city on a self-guided tour. Feel the e-Moto battery kick in as you pedal, propelling you towards your destination. The electric bikes have a range of 16-20 miles on a full charge and feature a full-comfort seat, hand shifters, and brakes. Bike through Golden Gate Park and along the coast, through the Headlands, into Muir Woods, or to Mt. Tam. Take a ride across the Golden Gate Bridge into Sausalito. From the bridge, take in the views of the bay, the ocean, and the San Francisco skyline.

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What people are saying about San Francisco Bay Area, California

Overall rating

4.5
(2,617 reviews)

Alcatraz was amazing. I would have liked an earlier ferry to spend more time exploring. It's a must go see. it was a pain having to keep going back to the big bus shop to get tickets but it was on our doorstep so it wasn't too bad. Great value for money and great way to see San Francisco.

I loved the commentary from our host the lady was superb and the bus driver was amazing too. I enjoyed learning about the history of San Francisco and the various activities places we visited was worth it.

Very enjoyable boat trip the lights of San Francisco. I would recommend and I would do it again

It was a great experience especially the Golden Gate part of the route

value for money. commentary Great insight into the city