San Francisco Travel Guide for First-Timers: Unforgettable Things To Do

Welcome to San Francisco, the city of fog, hills, and endless charm! I’ve lived in San Francisco for over a decade and love helping people plan trips to my favorite city on the planet.

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the Golden City. From iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge to hidden gems in the Mission District, there’s something magical waiting around every corner.

Let’s dive into the must-see spots and experiences for first-timers in San Francisco!

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Finding the perfect hotel can make or break your trip, especially in a city as dynamic as San Francisco. Whether you’re looking for luxury, eco-friendly vibes, or something more budget-friendly, these hotels are standout options that cater to different styles and needs.

1. The Fairmont San Francisco

If you’re craving luxury and history, The Fairmont San Francisco is the ultimate choice. Perched atop Nob Hill, this iconic hotel offers jaw-dropping views of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline.

The Fairmont is famous for its timeless elegance, with grand architecture and luxurious amenities like a full-service spa and the legendary Tonga Room tiki bar in the basement. Plus, it’s within walking distance of Chinatown and the cable car lines, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.

Why Stay Here?

• Historic charm with modern luxury.
• Stunning views of the city and bay.
• Central location near major attractions.

2. Hotel Kabiuku

Nestled in San Francisco’s vibrant Japantown, Hotel Kabuki offers a luxurious and culturally rich stay with excellent amenities. Its prime location provides easy access to Union Square and a plethora of local boutiques, gardens, and dining options.  With parking and convenient public transport links, exploring San Francisco’s key attractions is effortless from this stylish urban retreat.

Why Stay Here?

• Boutique vibes with personalized service.
• Quiet location for a more relaxed stay.
• Easy access to local gems and less touristy areas.

3. 1 Hotel San Francisco

Eco-conscious travelers, this one’s for you! 1 Hotel San Francisco is a sustainable luxury hotel located near the Ferry Building. With its woodsy, nature-inspired design and commitment to sustainability, this hotel feels like a serene escape in the heart of the city. Bonus: You’ll be steps away from the Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can indulge in some of the best food in the city.

Why Stay Here?

• Gorgeous, eco-friendly design.
• Prime location near the waterfront and Ferry Building.
• High-end amenities with a focus on sustainability.

Tips for Getting Around San Francisco

San Francisco is only 7×7 miles, but its steep hills and microclimates can make getting around a bit of an adventure. Here’s how to navigate the city like a pro:

1. Public Transportation

• Muni Buses & Metro: The Muni system is your go-to for getting around the city. It’s affordable and covers most neighborhoods. Download the MuniMobile app for easy ticket purchases.
• Cable Cars: Riding a cable car isn’t just transportation—it’s an experience! Hop on at Powell Street or near Fisherman’s Wharf for a scenic ride.
• BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit): If you’re coming from the airport or heading to the East Bay, BART is the fastest option.

2. Walking

San Francisco is a very walkable city, but be prepared for hills! Wear comfy shoes and layer up—fog can roll in quickly, even on sunny days.

3. Rideshares & Taxis

Uber and Lyft are widely available and convenient for getting to places that aren’t easily accessible by public transit.

4. Biking

Rent a bike to explore Golden Gate Park or ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. Just be mindful of the city’s steep hills and traffic.

5. Parking Tips

Driving in San Francisco can be tricky, especially with limited parking and steep streets. If you’re renting a car, look for hotels with parking options or use apps like SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance.

Avoiding First-Timer Mistakes in San Francisco

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s address a few common pitfalls I see visitors make:

• Layer Up! San Francisco isn’t the sunny SoCal you might imagine. We’re in NorCal, and “Karl the Fog” is a local celebrity. Pack layers, including a warm jacket or sweater, even in summer. Check out a detailed guide on what to wear in San Francisco for each season.
• Embrace Flat Shoes: San Francisco’s hills are no joke (some have a 31% gradient!). This is a walkable city, so comfy, supportive shoes are essential.These are my favorite travel shoes. 
• Bring a Portable Charger: You’ll likely be using your phone a lot for maps, photos, and apps. A portable charger will keep you powered up on the go.
• Venture Beyond Downtown: Don’t limit yourself to Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square. The west side of the city, including Golden Gate Park, Ocean Beach, and the Sunset District, offers incredible hidden gems.
• Skip the Rental Car: Parking is a nightmare, hotels charge exorbitant fees, and car break-ins are common. Public transportation and rideshares are your best bet.
• A Note on Homelessness: Like many major cities, San Francisco has a visible homeless population. Practice compassion, and if you feel unsafe, calmly move to a different area. 
• It’s “San Francisco,” Not “San Fran”: Locals cringe at those nicknames. Stick to “San Francisco,” “SF,” or “The City.”

Must-Do San Francisco Experiences for First-Timers

Here are the top things I recommend for anyone visiting San Francisco for the first time:

Iconic Landmarks and Views In San Francisco

• Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge: This is a quintessential San Francisco experience. Whether you walk, bike, or simply admire it from a viewpoint (like Battery Spencer for that classic photo), the bridge is a must-see. 
• Explore Golden Gate Park: This massive park is larger than Central Park and packed with attractions. Don’t miss the Japanese Tea Garden, the San Francisco Botanical Garden, and the de Young Museum (for art and city views).
• Ride a Cable Car: A ride on these historic vehicles is a quintessential San Francisco experience. For the most scenic route, try the Powell-Hyde line. 
• Visit Alcatraz Island: Take a ferry to this former prison and explore its fascinating (and often haunting) history with the self-guided audio tour. Book tickets well in advance! 
• Painted Ladies at Alamo Square: See the famous Victorian houses from Full House and enjoy stunning city views. 
• Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill: This art deco tower offers panoramic city views and beautiful murals inside. 
• Lyon Street Steps: For amazing photos and views overlooking the Marina and Cow Hollow. 

San Francisco Neighborhood Exploration

• Stroll Through the Mission District: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its colorful murals, trendy shops, and incredible Mexican food. Don’t miss Dolores Park and the Mission Dolores Basilica. 
• Wander Through North Beach: San Francisco’s “Little Italy” is full of charming cafes, authentic restaurants, and literary history. Visit City Lights Bookstore and Caffe Trieste. 
• Explore Haight Street: Step back in time to the Summer of Love in this iconic neighborhood. 
• Outer Sunset: this area feels more like Santa Cruz. Come for the beach, laid back surf shops and wine bars. 
• Relax In The Marina: some of the best brunch and happy hour spots in California can be found in the Marina, plus the Palace of Fine Arts and epic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Unique Experiences In San Francisco

• Ferry Building Marketplace: Indulge in artisanal eats and local flavors at this historic waterfront marketplace. 
• Land’s End & Sutro Baths: Hike the scenic trails of Lands End and explore the ruins of the Sutro Baths for stunning coastal views. 
• Picnic in a Park: Embrace the local culture by having a picnic in one of San Francisco’s many beautiful parks. Dolores Park is a popular choice. 
• Thrifting on Haight Street: Explore the unique thrift shops on Haight Street.Watch out New York City, this is thrifting can rival you. 
• Catch a Giants Game: Enjoy a baseball game at Oracle Park, which offers stunning bay views. 
• James Turrell Light Space: A secret light art installation outside the DeYoung Museum, a truly hidden gem in the Bay Area. 
• Dutch Windmills: Visit the Dutch Windmills in Golden Gate Park, especially during the spring tulip bloom. 
• The Bison Paddock: See the bison herd in Golden Gate Park. 
• Exploratorium After Dark: If you’re visiting without kids, experience this interactive science museum’s adults-only night. 

A Few Things to Skip (or Approach with Caution) In San Francisco

• Cable Cars (with caveats): While iconic, cable car lines are often very long. If you really want to ride, go early on a weekday and board in the middle of the route, not at the turnarounds.
• Fisherman’s Wharf: This area is very touristy. While it has some attractions (like Ghirardelli Square for a free chocolate), don’t spend too much of your time here.
• Napa Valley: you deserve a rad wine country trip that’s more than a rush day trip from San Francisco city. Make this a dedicated trip instead of taking one of those 1-day bus tours. 

Your Unforgettable First Trip to San Francisco

San Francisco is a city that will capture your heart with its stunning views, rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and incredible food. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the city like a local, experience its most iconic sights, and discover its hidden gems. So, pack your bags, prepare for an adventure, and get ready to fall in love with San Francisco!

I hope this San Francisco travel guide helped you plan your perfect trip!