22 of the best things to do in San Francisco

No trip to San Francisco is complete without taking in the majestic sight of the Golden Gate Bridge. On a Princess® cruise, you’ll sail right under this iconic landmark to get a perspective you won’t see from anywhere else. For those wanting to explore further, the San Francisco Panoramic Night Tour offers an unforgettable evening view of the bridge lit up against the city skyline. You can also choose the City Drive & Golden Gate Bridge to admire the architecture up close. 

Want an even deeper experience? Princess offers a walking tour of the bridge, perfect for those looking to appreciate the beauty and history of this marvel at their own pace. If you’re up for adventure, why not bike or walk across the bridge yourself? And for a more laid-back afternoon, enjoy a picnic at nearby Golden Gate Park with the bridge as your backdrop.

There are plenty of exciting adventures in San Francisco, but you might want a quiet moment before your next adventure. And there’s no better place for that than the Japanese Tea Garden. 

You can explore this retreat nestled within Golden Gate Park on a Princess excursion that lets you enjoy the meticulously landscaped gardens, koi ponds and traditional Japanese architecture. 

The garden offers an oasis of calm, with winding paths that lead to beautiful pagodas, stone lanterns and the Moon Bridge. It’s the perfect spot to reflect and enjoy a cup of tea.

Pier 39 is one of San Francisco’s most iconic waterfront attractions. Here, you’ll find a lively atmosphere filled with a carousel, street performers and souvenir shops. As part of your Princess experience, you can watch the famous sea lions lounging by the pier or take a stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy the views of San Francisco Bay.

If you are looking for a good place to sample local seafood, Pier 39 offers a variety of restaurants where you can indulge in San Francisco's famous clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl or savor fresh Dungeness crab, a regional specialty. Before you leave, don’t forget to check out the shops and take a ride on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the bay.

The Presidio offers a blend of natural beauty and rich history typical of the San Francisco area with expansive parklands and incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge. A walk through this former military post will give you plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the bridge as your backdrop. 

Meet the locals as you explore the winding trails or enjoy a leisurely bike ride through towering cypress trees and rolling hills. As you explore, you’ll come across historic sites like Fort Point, a Civil War-era fort nestled beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Presidio Officers' Club, one of the oldest buildings in San Francisco.

Rising beside a tranquil lagoon, the Palace of Fine Arts is framed by grand, Greco-Roman columns and an imposing rotunda, creating a timeless atmosphere. Reflections of its towering architecture dance across the water, making it one of San Francisco's most visually appealing landmarks. 

Originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, this structure was designed to celebrate the rebirth of the city after the devastating 1906 earthquake. 

Whether you’re attending an event or simply taking a relaxing walk around the grounds, the Palace of Fine Arts is a must-visit stop. If your Princess cruise aligns with the dates, you might even be able to catch the annual Girls Festival, a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture.

Savor a sundae, pick up sweet souvenirs and take a photo in front of the chocolate wall — it's a chocolate lover's paradise at Ghirardelli Square! 

Once the site of the original Ghirardelli chocolate factory, this favored San Francisco location offers an opportunity to sample the decadent treats for which Ghirardelli is known and tour the historic factory.

Combine history, delectable treats and lovely waterfront views for a delightfully delicious San Francisco afternoon.

Step into the laid-back charm of Sausalito, where colorful houseboats float along the bay and art galleries line the streets.Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Sausalito provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with stunning waterfront views and art galleries. 

After visiting Sausalito, head back to the city and discover the famous Fisherman’s Wharf. With its fresh seafood markets and scenic views of Alcatraz and the bay, Fisherman’s Wharf is a favorite stop for both locals and visitors. Here, you can indulge in clam chowder or watch the street performers — all part of a waterfront experience that captures the lively spirit of San Francisco.

No trip to California is complete without exploring the world-renowned wine country, and Princess offers excursions to take you there. Just an hour north of San Francisco, you’ll find the landscapes of Napa Valley and Sonoma, where rolling hills meet endless rows of vineyards. During guided tours from Princess, you’ll visit some of the region’s most famous wineries, sampling award-winning wines while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

In addition to wine tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to tour the vineyards and cellars, learning firsthand about the winemaking process from grape to glass. Some excursions even offer exclusive tastings paired with local artisanal cheeses and chocolates, adding a touch of indulgence to your day. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to unwind in the countryside, a trip to Napa and Sonoma with Princess can be a perfect mix of flavor, history and natural beauty.

For one of the best sunset spots in San Francisco, head to Baker Beach. This wide, sandy stretch offers unbeatable views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a great place to set up a picnic, take a leisurely stroll or simply relax while soaking in the scenery. 

Feeling adventurous? Try boogie boarding in the waves or join one of the beach yoga sessions. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky lights up behind the bridge, creating a perfect backdrop for photos. It’s a peaceful and easily accessible escape, just a short ride from your port.

What better way to experience the city than by walking in the footsteps of your favorite characters? Relive the action-packed scenes of Ant-Man or amble down the heartwarming streets featured in The Pursuit of Happyness. 

From the Victorian homes featured in Full House to the sweeping cityscape shots in Planet of the Apes San Francisco has played backdrop to many well-known movies and TV shows over the years. Exploring these sites will add a cinematic layer to your visit.

San Francisco’s neighborhoods are as diverse as the people who call this city home, and each one offers its own unique history. Princess offers a variety of city and walking tours that take you through some of the most popular areas — like the bohemian Haight-Ashbury, where music, art and the remnants of the 1960s counterculture still thrive. 

For a different experience, explore the Mission District, famous for its colorful murals and vibrant Latino culture. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon at Dolores Park or admiring local street art, you'll get a deeper look into the heart and soul of San Francisco when you explore its diverse neighborhoods.

If you’re looking for high-end shopping, fine dining or the latest fashion trends, Union Square is the place to be. This bustling plaza is home to some of the most luxurious stores in San Francisco, including designer boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Chanel, as well as flagship department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. 

After your cruise, explore the variety of stores to find the perfect souvenir or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the upscale restaurants or cafés that line the square.

Known as the "crookedest street in the world," Lombard Street is one of San Francisco’s most recognizable sights. You've likely seen pictures of the winding road, lined with vibrant flowers and picturesque homes. 

Whether you drive or walk down this steep, zigzagging street, you’ll be treated to unique views of the city and plenty of photo opportunities. For those on a Princess excursion, this stop offers the chance to experience the street’s sharp turns firsthand while learning about its engineering.

Perched along the coastline, San Francisco’s historic military forts stand as silent sentinels, offering a window into the city’s storied past. From the cannon-lined walls of Fort Point to the scenic bluffs of Fort Baker, these preserved landmarks transport you back to a time when they guarded the bay’s entrance. 

Fort Baker was once an active Army post and now serves as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Fort Point is located directly beneath the bridge, and it acts as a dramatic setting where history and modern engineering meet.

Ready to walk on the wild side of San Francisco? The Lands End Trail is where rugged cliffs meet jaw-dropping coastal views, offering a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs. As you wind your way along the trail, you’ll see the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge and even a glimpse of shipwreck remnants from San Francisco’s maritime past. 

With landmarks like the historic Point Lobos Lighthouse and the mysterious Sutro Baths ruins along the way, this hike is more than just a walk in the park — it’s a journey through history. And the well-marked paths are easy to follow, so you can customize your route based on your pace.

Step into San Francisco’s Little Italy to feel transported to a charming European village. The North Beach neighborhood is bursting with charm, thanks to its Italian cafes, authentic restaurants and vibrant street life. Savor a plate of fresh pasta at a cozy trattoria or enjoy a perfectly brewed espresso at an outdoor café for a real taste of Italy right in the heart of the city.

Of course, there is plenty to explore beyond the food. Don’t miss a visit to Coit Tower, where you can soak in panoramic views of the city and bay, or plan your trip around the North Beach Festival, one of the oldest street fairs in the country. With its European flair and friendly, laid-back vibe, North Beach is the perfect spot to relax and experience a slice of Italian culture.

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, San Francisco’s secret rope swings offer Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. These hidden gems can be found in various scenic spots around the city, where you can swing high above the trees and enjoy a different view of the bay and the skyline. 

Some of the best-known locations include Billy Goat Hill, where you’ll find sweeping views of downtown framed by eucalyptus trees, and Kirby Cove, which offers a new perspective of the Golden Gate Bridge from a quiet beach. If you’re up for a mini-scavenger hunt during your visit, these rope swings add a bit of lighthearted fun to your Princess cruise itinerary.

San Francisco is a treasure trove of world-class museums that cater to every artistic taste and curiosity. The Legion of Honor Museum houses a large collection of European masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt, Monet and Rodin. Set overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, the museum itself is as impressive as the art within.

If you’re drawn to the avant-garde, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is the place to be. Explore cutting-edge exhibits featuring works by contemporary artists like Frida Kahlo and Jackson Pollock. With seven floors of innovative art and ever-changing exhibits, SFMOMA is guaranteed to leave you thinking outside the frame.

For a more hands-on experience, head to the California Academy of Sciences, where families can explore everything from a living rainforest to an underwater aquarium. Or stop by the Aquarium of the Bay for a closer look at the marine life that thrives in the waters surrounding the city.

San Francisco is filled with a variety of experiences that every visitor should try at least once. From riding the famous cable cars up and down the city’s steep hills to exploring the hidden mosaic staircases of the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, these classic activities capture the true spirit of the city. 

If you’re a fan of the city’s eclectic style, visit the Ferry Building Marketplace to enjoy gourmet treats from local vendors while admiring views of the Bay Bridge. And no trip to San Francisco is complete without a stroll along the Embarcadero, where you can take in the waterfront sights and discover public art installations along the way.

When you cruise with Princess, San Francisco becomes so much more than just a departure point — it serves as your gateway to an extraordinary experience. From marveling at the Golden Gate Bridge to exploring the rich history of this city, visitors to San Francisco will find the perfect blend of culture, adventure and sightseeing. And with Princess, you can explore it all with ease, whether you're staying in the city before your cruise or experiencing its top attractions during a port of call.

A cruise from San Francisco with Princess allows you to start your journey in one of California’s most exciting cities. With immersive excursions, world-class dining and easy access to must-see landmarks, Princess ensures your time in San Francisco is nothing short of spectacular.

Learn more about cruises from San Francisco and start planning your next great adventure.