Experiences
Things to do in San Francisco: Alcatraz, the Golden Gate and the cable cars
The foghorn moans across the bay, the cable car clings to the hill and the prison island sits grey in the water. How to experience San Francisco.
The ferry docks and you walk up the hill to the cellhouse. On the audio guide, former guards and inmates describe life behind bars, while San Francisco lies tantalisingly close across the water.
San Francisco is a compact city of steep hills, Victorian architecture and one of the world's most famous bridges. It is also the starting point for the Pacific Coast Highway and Big Sur and a natural part of any trip to Yosemite.
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How to do it
Book Alcatraz early. There is only one official ferry operator, departing from Pier 33, and tickets often sell out.
Buy a transit day pass that includes the cable cars if you will be riding a lot.
Pack layers. The fog can make summer days chilly, especially by the water.
Walk as much as you can. Many of the best places are close together, but the hills are steep.
Alcatraz
Alcatraz was a federal prison from 1934 to 1963, and some of America's most notorious inmates were held here. The cellhouse audio tour is one of the best in the country. Take an early ferry, or try the night tour for a moodier atmosphere and sunset over the bay.
The Golden Gate and the rest of the city
Golden Gate Bridge: walk or cycle across, and see it from Battery Spencer on the north side for the classic shot.
The cable cars: the Powell-Hyde line has views over the bay and Alcatraz.
Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39: sea lions on the docks and clam chowder in a bread bowl.
Chinatown and North Beach: dim sum and Italian coffee bars side by side.
The Ferry Building: a food market by the water.
The Painted Ladies: the Victorian houses at Alamo Square.
Golden Gate Bridge
Fog often rolls in under the bridge in the afternoon. Photo: Umer Sayyam / Unsplash
Book experiences: See tickets and experiences in San Francisco
Where to stay in San Francisco
Stay at Fisherman's Wharf to be close to the Alcatraz ferry. Nob Hill offers classic atmosphere with the cable car right outside.
Fairmont San Francisco
Views over the city from Nob Hill. Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Fairmont San Francisco: a Nob Hill classic
The Fairmont sits at the top of Nob Hill, where the cable car lines cross. A grand old hotel with views over the city and the bay.
Book your stay: See rooms at Fairmont San Francisco
Argonaut Hotel
A maritime hotel by the water. Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Argonaut Hotel: maritime charm at Fisherman's Wharf
The Argonaut is at Fisherman's Wharf, a short walk from Ghirardelli Square and the Hyde Street Pier, with a nautical feel and brick walls. You can walk to the Alcatraz ferry from here.
Book your stay: See rooms at Argonaut Hotel
Hotel Zephyr: playful by Pier 39
Hotel Zephyr is a few minutes from Pier 39 and the sea lions, and works well for families.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Zephyr San Francisco
When is the best time to visit San Francisco?
September and October are often the warmest and clearest months. Summer can be surprisingly cool and foggy. Spring and winter are milder than most people expect, with some rain.
When should you book?
Alcatraz: several weeks ahead, more in high season.
Hotels at Fisherman's Wharf: a few weeks ahead.
Bike hire for the Golden Gate: on the day or the day before.
Frequently asked questions about Alcatraz and San Francisco
Where should I stay in San Francisco?
Stay at Fisherman's Wharf, for example at the Argonaut Hotel or Hotel Zephyr, to be close to the Alcatraz ferry. The Fairmont on Nob Hill offers classic atmosphere and a cable car at the door.
Do you need to book Alcatraz in advance?
Yes, it is strongly recommended. Tickets often sell out weeks ahead. Always buy from the official operator.
How long does an Alcatraz visit take?
Allow two and a half to three hours including the ferry and the audio tour.
Can you walk across the Golden Gate Bridge?
Yes, there is a pedestrian path and a cycle path across the bridge. Many people hire bikes, ride to Sausalito and take the ferry back.
When is the best time to visit San Francisco?
September and October are often the warmest and clearest. Summer can be cool and foggy.