SAN FRANCISCO - What to see and do in the City by the Bay?

January 28, 2026

Planning to visit San Francisco? Here are some essential tips for your stay.

Where to stay?

Union Square / Financial District: The city's central and lively area. Close to major shopping brands, numerous restaurants, and, most importantly, very well served by MUNI (buses, streetcars) and the famous Cable Cars. Ideal for those who want to be at the heart of the action and optimize travel to all points of interest; however, be cautious in this neighborhood at night, as it can be "strangely frequented."
Fisherman's Wharf / North Beach: If you want to be as close as possible to the tourist atmosphere and the seaside (and the sea lions at Pier 39!), this area is for you. It is the perfect place for maritime excursions (Alcatraz, cruises) and for capturing the "seaside" spirit. You will find many hotels here, but be aware that it is often more expensive and very crowded.
BONUS - Marina District / Cow Hollow: These neighborhoods offer a more residential and chic ambiance, with beautiful homes and stunning views of the bay and the Golden Gate. Less central, but perfect for a quieter and more elegant stay, provided you are willing to accept a few extra minutes of travel to downtown.

Public Transportation (MUNI/BART): The MUNI network (buses, streetcars, light rail) is very well-developed and serves major neighborhoods well. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) is perfect if you are arriving from the airport (SFO) or if you wish to visit the bay (Berkeley, Oakland).
- The advantage: The Clipper Card (a rechargeable transport card) greatly facilitates travel. There are Visitor Passports (1, 3, or 7 days) that can include unlimited access, including to the famous Cable Cars.
The Cable Car: Much more than just transport, the Cable Car is an attraction in its own right! It will allow you to climb the city's steep hills with historical charm. Note that a single ride is expensive if you do not have a pass.
Walking: San Francisco is a human-scale city; many sites are accessible on foot. Prepare yourself, however, for many climbs and descents!
A Car? No thanks (in the city): Renting a car is not recommended for getting around downtown: parking is difficult and expensive, and traffic is dense. Keep it only if you plan on excursions outside the city (Napa Valley, Carmel, etc.).

The Golden Gate Bridge: The most famous landmark! Whether from the Presidio, Battery Spencer (for the best view), or by cycling across it (to Sausalito), do not miss this architectural marvel.
- Tip: The fog is frequent; prioritize the morning or late afternoon, and bring a light jacket!
Alcatraz Island: The most famous former federal prison in the world. The audio-guided tour is fascinating.
- Tip: Book your tickets several weeks (or even months) in advance, as spots go very quickly during the tourist season!
Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39: The lively wharfs, seafood restaurants, the famous sea lions lounging around, the Musée Mécanique... It is the ideal place for a touristy and gourmet day.
Lombard Street: Nicknamed "the crookedest street in the world." Admire it from the bottom, or dare to drive down it if you are patient!
The Painted Ladies (Alamo Square): These colorful Victorian houses are famous, notably thanks to the series Full House. It is the ideal spot for a postcard photo with the skyline in the background.
Golden Gate Park: Larger than Central Park in New York, this green lung houses museums (De Young, California Academy of Sciences), gardens (Japanese), and vast spaces for relaxation.

NBA: The Golden State Warriors are one of the most recent dynasties in the NBA. Born in Philadelphia, the franchise moved to San Francisco and then to Oakland, becoming the Golden State Warriors to represent all of California. It returned to the City by the Bay in 2019. They revolutionized the game with their ultra-fast style and abundance of three-point shots, largely thanks to superstar Stephen Curry. They play at the Chase Center, an ultra-modern arena located in the Mission Bay neighborhood, right next to the water.
MLB (Baseball): The San Francisco Giants are a historic Major League Baseball franchise. They share a history of relocation with the Warriors, having played in New York until 1957 before crossing the continent to establish themselves on the West Coast in 1958. They play at Oracle Park, often considered one of the most beautiful stadiums in the league, famous for its breathtaking view of the bay and McCovey Cove (a body of water where home runs sometimes land).
NFL (American Football): The San Francisco 49ers are a legendary American football team. Their name refers to the gold seekers (the "forty-niners") of the 1849 California Gold Rush. They experienced a remarkable "dynasty" in the 80s and 90s, winning 5 Super Bowls with legends like Joe Montana. Although they represent San Francisco, they play their home games at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, in Silicon Valley, about 72 km south of downtown.

Ferry Building Marketplace: Located on the Embarcadero, this former ferry terminal is a trendy gourmet market, ideal for lunch or buying local products.
Chinatown: For an Asian culinary immersion, it is the oldest Chinatown in North America.
Mission District: The Mexican neighborhood, famous for its burritos (try the Mission Burritos!) and its Latin American cuisine.
Ghirardelli Square: A former chocolate factory at Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for sweet tooths (ice cream and chocolate).

North Beach: The birthplace of the Beat Generation, it offers many historic bars and jazz clubs.
Rooftops: Many hotels around Union Square and the Financial District offer rooftop bars with stunning views of the city.
Microbreweries: The craft beer movement is very present in the Bay Area. The SoMa (South of Market) neighborhood is full of them.