Spending some time in San Francisco is on most travelers bucket list. And for a very good reason. Being so close to nature and the city at once is incredible and i think you should have experienced it once in your life.

But what to do when in San Francisco?
Here a list with the best and most beautiful things and places to visit while spending time in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge

Of course you can’t miss this one, the iconic Golden gate bridge. Between San Francisco and Marin county, With a total length of 1.7 miles you can drive, bike or walk across this most photographed bridge in the world. Be amazed by the views on one side of the bridge by ocean and mountains, and if you walk across have the most amazing view over the city and sky scrapers. A must visit when in San Francisco. Also experience a beautiful sunset dow at the beach underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, this will be one you won’t ever forget.

Fisherman’s Wharf

San Francisco’s most famous waterfront, the Fisherman’s wharf. Experience some good food at outdoor selling stands selling crab or go eat at the restaurants the catch of the day. Enjoy the view and relax.

Alcatraz island

1.5 miles from the shore is Alcatraz island, this island used to be a military and federal prison. Prisoners like Al Capone we’re locked up in here. This is now open to the public if you like to explore the depths of the prison and get a tour.

Spend time at union square

One of the more popular neighborhoods in San Francisco, with a active night life. There is always something happening to keep you busy, and an impressive place to wander around between all those high skyscrapers and big buildings. Also a good place for shopping.

Go for a car ride around the city or
ride the San Francisco cable car

San Francisco is known for their very steep hills and colorful houses next to it. A beautiful sighting, that you can enjoy by driving trough or book a tour on the San Francisco cable car, the last manually operated system in the world left. Stunning views from above the hills with a look out over San Francisco. And of course for the sporty ones between us you can also walk up on the hills.

Visit the Marin headlands

A little bit out of San Francisco but still in the bay area. Beautiful nature with amazing views over the Golden Gate Bridge. Hike in to nature and be on the lookout for animals. An amazing experience with a bit of an escape from the city.

Catch waves

San Francisco is also known for their surfing culture. Some of the most famous waves you will find here, like Mavericks on Halfmoon bay. Not a wave for a beginner surfer and definitely only a wave for professionals as this wave can get up to 15 meters high, worth a visit on a high day to watch the professionals. There are a lot of other surf spots around and beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Visit a real surfers village, Bollina’s

one of our favorite spots in the bay area, a real old school surfers village surrounded by nature. Catch some of the best waves here and enjoy a day on the beach. For dinner you will find some cozy little restaurants with amazing food for a good price. A perfect place to stay in your van for a couple of days, and go for some hikes. Definitely worth a visit when your around.

Have you ever been to San Francisco? Or are you planning to go there? There is so much to do in San Francisco, it’s a city for adventurous travelers with so many beautiful sightings. One of my favorite city’s in the U.S. Your time here will be well spent.

What to do in San Fransisco