20 places to see in San Francisco

San Francisco is one of those cities that manage to feel compact and walkable while being packed with unique neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, these 20 places to see in San Francisco guide will help you get the most out of the City by the Bay.

Remember to bring a jacket with you – San Francisco is very windy, and it’s easy to get cold. Also, you may have heard about the crime and the homeless here. Those things are undeniably a part of the city. However, this shouldn’t discourage you from visiting San Francisco. Be careful with your belonging – never leave your luggage (or anything by that matter) in the car, even for short times -, and avoid certain areas such as Tenderloin, and you’ll have an amazing time here.

---

1. Golden Gate Bridge

No trip to San Francisco is complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge. Whether you walk, bike, or simply view it from a distance, it’s a must. To have nice views, try Crissy Field, to see the bridge from the city, and Battery Spencer, to have the city in the background.

2. Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the infamous former prison. The audio tour is immersive and eerie in the best way. Book tickets in advance unless going out of season!

3. Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39

It’s a touristy pier area, with many stores and restaurants, where you absolutely need to try the clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. Visit the sea lions, they like chilling near Pier 39 in the afternoon sun!

4. Lombard Street

Known as the “crookedest street in the world,” this scenic stretch features tight turns, flowerbeds, and a great photo op. Don’t forget to look at the other side too, as you get nice views from the city. And beware of the cars, those are roads with transit!

5. Painted Ladies

These iconic Victorian houses at Alamo Square are a picture-perfect spot with a great view of the skyline behind.

6. Chinatown

The oldest Chinatown in North America offers bustling markets, temples, bakeries, and excellent dim sum.

7. Coit Tower

This art deco tower provides panoramic city views and murals from the 1930s inside.

8. Twin Peaks

Head here for sweeping views of the city, especially during sunrise or sunset. On a clear day, you can see the Bay, downtown, and the Pacific.

9. Golden Gate Park

Larger than Central Park, it houses the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Museum, and botanical gardens.

10. Young Museum

Beautiful art museum. If you climb the tower, there’s an excellent view of the Golden Gate Park. It’s free for Bay Area residents on Saturdays.

11. Legion of Honor

Another excellent museum of art, located in the Lincoln Park. It’s free for Bay Area residents on Saturdays.

12. Japantown

Less known but worth a stop for authentic Japanese food, shops, and peaceful pagoda views in the plaza.

13. The Ferry Building

Browse gourmet food stalls and artisanal products in a beautifully restored terminal. Walk around the building to enjoy the breeze on a warm day!

14. Crissy Field

A waterfront path popular with joggers and dog-walkers, with unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Visit the open air exhibitions explaining the Golden Gate history and why the bridge was an engineering feat.

15. Presidio

A former military base turned historic park, home to scenic trails, and historic buildings.

16. Ocean Beach & Lands End

For a wilder side of San Francisco, head west to see rugged coastlines, crashing waves, and the ruins of the old Sutro Baths. It’s a favorite spot for engagement photoshoots, so you may see couples posing!

17. Drive through the Bay Bridge

While the Golden Gate Bridge gets most of the fame, don’t overlook the Bay Bridge. Driving into San Francisco from the East Bay offers one of the most striking skyline views of the city. If you’re renting a car, this is one scenic route you won’t want to miss.

18. Union Square

Union Square is the heart of San Francisco’s downtown shopping district, filled with high-end boutiques, department stores, and iconic hotels. It’s bustling and lively, but be cautious when walking nearby streets as it’s close to the Tenderloin neighborhood.

19. Transamerica Pyramid

This distinctive, futuristic building is one of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks. While you can’t go on top of the tower, it’s best admired from various vantage points, especially from Chinatown. Snap a few photos of this architectural icon as part of your city walk.

20. SFMOMA

SFMOMA is a premier destination for contemporary and modern art lovers. The museum features works by Warhol, Matisse, and Rothko, and its temporary exhibitions are always engaging. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid lines. The museum’s architecture itself is worth the visit!

Thank you for checking this 20 places to see in San Francisco guide! I hope you enjoy your visit to this very engaging city!