Photograph by: Sandro

Best Things to Do in San Francisco

Featured San Francisco Travel Tips
  • Plan a picnic and soak up the sun at Marshall Beach
  • Stroll through the architectural beauty of The Palace of Fine Arts
  • Watch the sunrise at Sutro Baths & Land’s End
  • Take in the iconic view of the Golden Gate Bridge from Baker Beach
  • Capture memories on a Flytographer photoshoot
  • Experience a Chinatown food tour

Since 2013, Flytographer has captured millions of vacation photos all around the globe and know our customers have the best travel tips to share! Explore their favourite things to do in San Francisco, best restaurants in San Francisco, and general travel tips to get fresh inspiration and start planning your trip to San Francisco.

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Anna's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

La Mediterranee in the Fillmore Mission Curry House in the Mission

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Beach Picnic at Marshall Beach Visit the Legion of Honor Go to Spark Social for outdoor food, drinks & mini putt

What is your best overall travel tip for San Francisco?

Visit the more local & quiet neighborhoods for a more authentic SF feel. These include the Mission, Marina, Hayes Valley, Japantown

Hometown Shoot in July

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Cheri in San Francisco for Flytographer

Alyson's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

With kids, we love the Bay Area Discovery Museum! We also love the SF Zoo & Gardens as well as the California Academy of Science. Visiting the life size gingerbread house (made with real gingerbread and candy!) at The Fairmont Hotel is a Christmas treat.

Hometown Shoot in December

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Alfredo in San Francisco for Flytographer

Renee's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

We love using Gourmet Food & Wine Tours in the town of Sausalito across from SF. This way we get to eat in 4 amazing restaurants with delicious food and wine pairings, walking through this European-like village in the course of 3 hours for lunch.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Alcatraz, The Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and our Culinary Pairing tour with Gourmet Food & Wine Tours.

What is your best travel tip for San Francisco?

Stay in Sausalito, ferry to San Francisco for anything you want to do in the city - if you want better prices for parking and ease of getting around with views to die for!

Visited San Francisco in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Sandro in San Francisco for Flytographer

Nancy's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

My favorite thing to do is start at the Saturday morning Farmer's Market at the Ferry Building; grab a coffee, a fresh pastry and peruse all of the local produce. Stop into Book Passage to pick up the latest read and jump on the ferry to Tiburon. For the cost of a commute you'll get to cruise across the SF Bay past Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Once in Tiburon, head to lunch at Malibu Farm and enjoy the views across the Bay.

Visited San Francisco in October

Photo Shoot Location: Sutro Baths & Land's End

Sandro in San Francisco for Flytographer

April's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Cioppino's in San Francisco is a culinary gem that deserves all the accolades. I recently had the pleasure of indulging in their clam chowder, and it was a revelation. The rich, creamy broth was a perfect canvas for the plump and tender clams, all expertly seasoned. It's a bowl of comfort that transports your taste buds to seafood paradise. The ambiance at Cioppino's is charming, and the staff is welcoming, making it an overall delightful dining experience. If you're in San Francisco and craving sensational clam chowder, this is the place to be!

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Our visit to San Francisco was filled with unforgettable experiences. Attending a 49ers game at Levi's Stadium was an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The atmosphere, the passionate fans, and the thrill of the game created memories we'll cherish forever. Pier 39 was a vibrant hub of entertainment and exploration. From the sea lions basking in the sun to the eclectic shops and delicious seafood, it was a joyful journey into the heart of the city's culture. The Alcatraz tour was a haunting and captivating journey into history. Walking through the corridors of the infamous prison, learning about its notorious inmates, and taking in the stunning views of the Bay Area made it an educational and fascinating adventure. These three experiences combined to give us a well-rounded and unforgettable taste of San Francisco, a city that truly has something for everyone.

What is the best tip for travelling with kids to San Francisco?

Traveling with kids to Alcatraz and Pier 39 in San Francisco was an adventure that we'll always treasure. Exploring the infamous Alcatraz Island with our little ones was both educational and exciting. They were fascinated by the history of the prison, and the ferry ride to the island provided beautiful views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge. Pier 39 was a family-friendly delight. The sea lions were a big hit with our kids, and we spent hours watching their playful antics. The vibrant atmosphere, carousel rides, and street performers added to the fun. We also enjoyed indulging in delicious clam chowder and fish and chips at one of the many waterfront eateries. To satisfy our kids' appetite after a day of exploring, we headed to In-N-Out Burger. The simple yet tasty menu and the classic burger joint vibes made it a perfect choice. Our little ones devoured their burgers and shakes, making it a memorable end to a fantastic day of family adventures in San Francisco.

Visited San Francisco in October

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Katherine in San Francisco for Flytographer

Andrei's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What is the best tip for a romantic getaway in San Francisco?

Chinatown

Visited San Francisco in September

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Alfredo in San Francisco for Flytographer

Sarah's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

N/A

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

The bridge Pointe reyes

Visited San Francisco in August

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Katherine in San Francisco for Flytographer

Manami's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Trattoria Contadina is a great Italian restaurant!

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Just walk in the city is always fun! You will feel different vibe when you go to different neighborhood and see different restaurants!

What is your best travel tip for San Francisco?

Be careful with the weather. It can be really cold!

Visited San Francisco in May

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Katherine in San Francisco for Flytographer

Roxanna's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Hillstone Restaurant was a great place to grab lunch and drinks before heading out to Alcatraz.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Filoli is a nice, quiet place to visit with family. Very beautiful and serene.

What is the best tip for travelling with kids to San Francisco?

Don’t spend too long in the car, just pack a stroller.

Visited San Francisco in March

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Katherine in San Francisco for Flytographer

Chau's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Ariscault Bakery - best french croissants ever!

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Walking around the Pier and sightseeing with my family when they visit. Always fun cute boutiques and great finds on gifts.

Hometown Shoot in January

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Lydia in San Francisco for Flytographer

Ariel's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Love shopping for beautiful things at BiRite Market on Divisadero. Bar Crudo is consistently awesome, and always love the vibe at Nopa, especially before seeing a show at The Independent when it's full of music lovers having a great meal together (or afterwards - as they are open late!).

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

We love walking Lands End Trail, through Golden Gate Park or McLaren Park. There is an amazing walk through the Presidio past some Andy Goldsworthy artwork and through forests and cemeteries that's also pretty spectacular.

Hometown Shoot in December

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Sandro in San Francisco for Flytographer

J'mee's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Marufuku Ramen- this ramen was mind-blowing. We now know why there is always a wait and are so upset that we were staying about 2 blocks away and could've eaten here multiple times. Sweet Maple- The portions here are massive and you will leave full but defeated because you can't finish everything. The deep-fried french-toast was amazing!! The SM Omurice was one of the most unique and mind-bending dishes we've had in our travels. The demi-glaze was EVERYTHING and brought new heights to this dish. Even though you might be able to replicate the Millionaire's bacon yourself, get it anyway. Super delish! Fillmore Street Bakery- everything was so buttery, sensational, and comforting. We visited here 3 times during a 6 day stay. The mocha was also surprisingly good. We didn't even bother to go a block up to visit the actual talked about coffee shop in the area.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

We loved going to Lands End- this place is breathtaking and we only wished we had spent more time out there. Chinatown food tour- even though it rained the whole three hours of this walking food tour we learned so much cool history and left with full stomachs as well as new friends. I would take this tour twice in a heartbeat.

Visited San Francisco in December

Photo Shoot Location: Palace of Fine Arts

Emily in San Francisco for Flytographer

Seth's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Luisa’s Italian restaurant, Chinalive, and Harris’ Steakhouse

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Alcatraz, Big Bus Night tour, and Sausalito

Visited San Francisco in October

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Sandro in San Francisco for Flytographer

Christina's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Walking around the Castro area!

Visited San Francisco in September

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Katherine in San Francisco for Flytographer

Nancy's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

All of the restaurants were good!!

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Photo shoot -of course and travel on highway 1

What is your best travel tip for San Francisco?

Changing weather -be prepared-

Visited San Francisco in July

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Joseph in San Francisco for Flytographer

Krystyn's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Hang Ah Tea Room is the oldest dim sum house in America and it does not disappoint. It's hidden in an alley off a playground in Chinatown. Its no frills, but the food is amazing. The have an amazing hot sauce for sale, just make sure you get the small size to get it through TSA.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Head off the touristy areas and go to Golden Gate Park and hit up the museums there, such as the California Academy of Sciences. It's a great way to get away from crowds and see something new and interesting. Also, take a step off of the cable cars and hit the cable car museum (it's one of the stops). It's an interesting little stop on how the cable cars actually work and to see the mechanisms behind it.

What is the best tip for travelling with kids to San Francisco?

There's so much to do with kids! You can ride the cable cars or get out into nature up in Muir Woods. There are so many areas in the city that are kid friendly that allow them to have a great time, eat fantastic food, and learn more about new things. I never expected to take my son to San Francisco for his first real vacation rather than Disneyland, but he had a great time and we made some great memories and saw an absolutely beautiful area of the country.

Visited San Francisco in April

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Emily in San Francisco for Flytographer

Joe's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Sotto Mare

Visited San Francisco in November

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Joseph in San Francisco for Flytographer

Megan's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Sky Cafe - 100% vegan, owner/staff were incredible - very friendly and talented! Amazing food!! Mouth waters just thinking about it.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Golden Gate Bridge, of course.

Visited San Francisco in September

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Marisa in San Francisco for Flytographer

Katie's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

House of Nanking is hands down the best restaurant in San Francisco - probably in the entire state of California. This hidden gem provided a fabulous experience. The owner/chef took our order personally and we relinquished all control, allowing him to send out any dishes he saw fit. The only direction we provided was that I am vegetarian and we enjoy spicy foods. Each dish that came out was more magnificent than the last. He even created some brand new dish that he called a "mother son meal" since I am expecting a baby soon. It was a deceivingly large vessel that housed eggplant and light vegetable dumplings in a sweet brown sauce. We ate a ton and didn't feel as such because each dish was so light and airy. We almost went back the next day for more, but wanted to expand our SFO horizons. I highly highly recommend this restaurant!

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Visiting Ghirardelli Square was a fun stop. The area is beautiful, right off the water with stunning brick buildings. And at 8 months pregnant, a gargantuan ice cream and chocolate experience was definitely a highlight! The Palace Hotel is a stunning spot to stay or even grab a drink. Built in 1875, this hotel has beautiful architecture at every turn. The Pied Piper restaurant offered the perfect spot for an appetizer and drink before heading out to explore. At 8 months pregnant, I was thrilled to find mocktails available on the menu to avoid having to order just another glass of water! A bay cruise afforded us a unique perspective on the city. We sailed underneath the Golden Gate Bridge as well as around the island of Alcatraz in addition to up and down the coastline. We were also able to hear a narrated history of the city and sights as we sailed. We spent a lot of time simply wandering around the city. It's such a vast area that you could roam for days and find all kinds of new locales to enjoy.

What is the best tip for going on your babymoon to San Francisco?

Lots of water and comfortable shoes! In any city you'll probably be walking a lot, but especially in San Francisco, the terrain can be treacherous for an expectant mother. There are several bus tours around the city that can provide an easy option for exploration if physically roaming the city proves too difficult. Bring a jacket! Even in summer, San Francisco can be quite chilly. Between the clouds and the cold ocean breezes, there were times when the city was downright freezing.

Visited San Francisco in July

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Lydia in San Francisco for Flytographer

Lindy's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Not in SF, but across the bay in Oakland, a place called Jack London Square had some of the best Thai food I have ever tasted. Restaurant was called Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine. In SF, a place called Roxanne's Cafe, just up the street from the main entrance to Chinatown is amazing. Good prices too.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Golden Gate Bay Cruise that left from the Wharf was beautiful and worth the money. Chinatown - must do! But be mindful of all of the SF hills. It can be exhausting.

Visited San Francisco in July

Photo Shoot Location: Baker Beach

Lydia in San Francisco for Flytographer

Brad's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

If you think the famous Golden Gate Bridge looks great from the city, you should see it from just the other side in Marin County. All the best postcard views are just over the bridge itself from the Marin Headlands where you can get up close and personal with the bridge from heights as high as the bridge itself.

Visited San Francisco in March

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Kelly in San Francisco for Flytographer

Brad's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

We made an effort to really explore outside the usual city limits on this trip and found ourselves heading up more into Marin County where the famed Muir Woods are. Situated right off Highway One in that sweet spot where there are only the sort of gems hidden by lack of good cell signal, is Hog Island Oyster Co's outpost. Be sure to swing by for the freshest oysters and best seafood!

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Point Reyes is not talked about enough for those venturing to the bar area! There is some truly breathtaking landscape and scenery just right outside the city.

What is your best travel tip for San Francisco?

Rent a car and explore outside the city if you can!

Visited San Francisco in March

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Kelly in San Francisco for Flytographer

Melissa's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

Foreign Cinema. Festive Mission District location, great food and drinks, they show movies in the courtyard, which is fun. Our first date was here so it is also a sentimental favorite.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Walking along The Embarcadero, baseball games at Oracle Park (go Giants), MOMA, hanging out at Dolores Park (incredible views of the City)

Hometown Shoot in March

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Cassie in San Francisco for Flytographer

Samantha's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What is your best overall travel tip for San Francisco?

Go with the person you love, and you'll never have to leave your heart in San Francisco again.

Visited San Francisco in September

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Cassie in San Francisco for Flytographer

Anna's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What are the best places to eat and drink in San Francisco?

La Mediterranee in the Fillmore Mission Curry House in the Mission

What are the best things to do in San Francisco?

Beach Picnic at Marshall Beach Visit the Legion of Honor Go to Spark Social for outdoor food, drinks & mini putt

What is your best overall travel tip for San Francisco?

Visit the more local & quiet neighborhoods for a more authentic SF feel. These include the Mission, Marina, Hayes Valley, Japantown

Hometown Shoot in July

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Cheri in San Francisco for Flytographer

Heather's Travel Tips for San Francisco

What is your best overall travel tip for San Francisco?

Take advantage of the cable cars! The hills in SF are NO JOKE!

Visited San Francisco in February

Photo Shoot Location: Crissy Field & Palace of Fine Arts

Catie in San Francisco for Flytographer

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