If you’re planning a day trip to San Francisco—or even if you live there and think you’ve done it all—these tours will totally surprise you (in the best way!). Sure, the city’s famous for its big-ticket sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, but these unique experiences go way beyond the postcard version. I’m talking retro VW rides, ghost hunts, hidden stairways, and food tours that’ll have you dreaming about dumplings for days.
Don’t want a tour? See my picks for the Best Things to do In San Francisco on your own.
Top San Francisco Tours
San Francisco Love Tour
Climb aboard a groovy little 1970s VW bus—complete with shag carpet and classic rock tunes—and explore the city like it’s 1969. This small group tour (just 6 people max!) cruises through iconic neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury, the Castro, and the Mission, all while your guide shares quirky stories and local history. You’ll roll past former homes of legends like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, snap photos at Dolores Park, and soak in some of the best Golden Gate views around. It’s the perfect mix of retro vibes and city sightseeing—and seriously, it’s just fun.
➞ Book tour here
San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour
Calling all movie buffs! This tour is like watching a film reel of San Francisco’s greatest hits—except you’re in it. You’ll visit 50+ filming locations from movies like Vertigo, Mrs. Doubtfire (side note: my husband was an extra in this movie!), and Full House, all while cruising around in a comfy bus. Clips from the movies play as you pass each site, and your guide (a local actor!) spills fun behind-the-scenes details. It’s such a playful, cinematic way to see the city—even if you’ve been here a dozen times.
➞ Book tour here
Tea & Dim Sum in Chinatown Food Tour
This 3-hour Chinatown Tea & Dim Sum Tour was such a fun way to experience one of San Francisco’s most historic neighborhoods through its food and culture. Even though I live nearby, I hadn’t explored Chinatown like this before—and I’m so glad I did.
We started with a tasty dim sum spread at House of Dim Sum (think Chinese-style tapas!), followed by fresh, warm cookies straight from the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. After grabbing brown sugar pearl lattes, we wandered through historic alleyways while hearing stories about Chinatown’s past—hidden gambling dens, sailors, and even 10-cent barbershops.
The highlight for me? Cantonese roasted duck at Grant Place Restaurant, served with fluffy bao and spicy green beans. We ended with a tea tasting featuring ginseng oolong and herbal blends—and a warm custard tart to finish.
➞ Book tour here
San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise
There’s no better way to end a day in San Francisco than out on the water during golden hour. This sunset catamaran cruise from Pier 39 was such a peaceful, beautiful way to wind down. We sailed past Alcatraz, right under the Golden Gate Bridge, and watched the city skyline light up as the sun set—pure magic.
You can relax inside or feel the breeze on the open deck. A complimentary drink is included, and there’s a full bar if you’re in the mood for something extra. You can even spotted a few sea lions along the way!
➞ Book tour here
Hidden Stairways of San Francisco
This walking tour through the Inner Sunset is a peaceful 2-mile stroll through one of San Francisco’s most creative (and often overlooked) neighborhoods, filled with colorful staircases, tucked-away gardens, and charming little streets that most visitors miss.
You will climb the famous mosaic steps, wander quiet hills with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park, and hear some really cool stories about the area’s history and local art scene. The small group size (just 10 people max) keeps it relaxed and personal, with plenty of time to snap photos and soak it all in.
And the cutest part? You might even go home with a tiny succulent as a souvenir.
➞ Book tour here
North Beach & Little Italy Walking Tour
If carbs are your love language (same), this North Beach walking tour is calling your name. You’ll sip strong coffee, munch on fresh focaccia and Italian pastries, and pop into family-run delis for meats and stories passed down through generations. It’s part foodie adventure, part history tour, and totally delicious.
➞ Book tour here
Ultimate Electric SF Bike Tour
Want to see a lot of the city without breaking a sweat? This electric bike tour is the way to go. You’ll zip up and down San Francisco’s famous hills, cross the Golden Gate Bridge (yes, on a bike), and roll through neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury and the Presidio. Your guide shares fascinating stories as you ride, and there are plenty of stops for snacks, photos, and wow-worthy views. It’s active but easy—and such a fun way to cover ground fast.
➞ Book tour here
Ghost Hunt in SF Chinatown
Here’s something totally different: a ghost-hunting night tour through San Francisco’s spookiest spots. You’ll explore haunted alleys in Chinatown, visit historic sites, and use your very own EMF detector (yep, just like the pros). The guide dives into creepy tales from the Gold Rush days and beyond—some will give you goosebumps, some will make you laugh. It’s eerie, a little educational, and 100% memorable.
➞ Book tour here
Short Golden Gate Bay Cruise
Short on time but want the full San Francisco bay experience? This one-hour cruise has you covered. You’ll sail past Alcatraz, Angel Island, Sausalito, and under the Golden Gate Bridge—aka, prime photo ops every few minutes. The narration shares cool facts and local stories, and you can sit inside or enjoy the breeze up top. It’s easy, scenic, and super flexible with open tickets that let you go when it works for you.
➞ Book tour here
San Francisco Walking Food Tour
Let’s just say… don’t eat before this one. This walking tour through the Mission District dives into one of the city’s tastiest, most diverse food scenes. You’ll try everything from Mexican street food to Italian sandwiches and even a secret surprise dish (I won’t spoil it!). Your guide gives the lowdown on the neighborhood’s rich cultural history, and the group stays small so it feels like exploring with friends. If you love food with a side of storytelling, this one’s a must.
➞ Book tour here
Traveling Soon? Use my Favorite Resources for Booking Your Trip!
Book Your Flight
Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine, because it checks dozens of airlines so you can easily find the best fare deals. You can also select ‘cheapest month’ to find the lowest fares for your destination (I use this all the time!).
Book Your Accommodations
I use both Booking.com and Expedia for hotels, because each offers a couple different hotel choices and I like to compare the reviews on each one. If you have a group or are looking for more of a home atmosphere, head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Book Your Rental Car
If love the freedom to explore like I do, driving from place to place is the best option! I always book with Discover Cars for the best prices and top brand options.
Book Some Fun Tours!
Viator and Get Your Guide are my go-to search engines for cool bucket list experiences! Each one can have different tours, so check both—why limit yourself, right?
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel can be unpredictable. Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation, an injury, or (ugh) theft, things happen. That’s why I recommend never leaving the country without travel insurance. Here are my faves: Safety Wing and World Nomads.
Get Packing & Travel Essentials Ready
Check out the Bucket List Journey Amazon Store to find all my favorite travel essentials. Everything from Packing cubes, to travel adapters and toiletry containers to walking shoes.
*Lastly, check travel.state.gov for visa requirements and safety information.
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