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While you can definitely drive yourself around during your visit to San Francisco, it may be more trouble than it’s worth. Traffic isn’t terrible—at least, not compared to any other city—but the hills can be intimidating, and parking always seems a little sparse and/or expensive. So why not take advantage of those historic streetcars and cable cars? Visitor Passports can be purchased for 1 ($21), 3 ($32), or 7 ($42) consecutive days of use, and will grant you access to their Muni, Muni Metro, and (yes) streetcars and cable cars. There are also options that include admission to points of interest around the city, like the Aquarium of the Bay and the de Young Museum. If you just aren’t into the public transportation scene, the usual rideshare services operate here as well.

Take in the Outdoors

When one thinks about San Francisco, the gorgeous Golden Gate Bridge is typically the first thing that comes to mind. That’s certainly a massive draw for anyone who visits the Bay Area, but the entire region is quite beautiful. Here’s some fantastic spots to visit:  

•   The Presidio of San Francisco- From the Ohlone people to the Spanish to the U.S. Army, this National Historic Landmark has been part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area since 1994. With over two dozen trails and overlooks for hiking, paved roads for cycling, and a place for boardsailing and kite surfing, you might find it hard to decide what to do here. They even have a golf course, tennis courts, bowling alley, and athletic fields for those looking to play some sports.

•   Yosemite and Wine Country Tours - Let’s not forget how close San Francisco is to wine country and the gorgeous Yosemite National Park. If you happen to be staying in the area for more than a couple of days, you might consider venturing out for a day or two to see the redwoods, taste some wine, or maybe both!

•   Sailings and Cruises - Don’t worry—you can also spend some time on the water. Visitors to the area have some pretty spectacular options for how they want to take in the beautiful bay. Dinner and dancing cruises, sunset sailings, and champagne brunch boat tours are just a sample of the choices available.

Don't Forget the History & Art

Last, but absolutely not least, incorporating history and/or art into your visit is a must. San Francisco has so much to offer in these areas that even a themed trip could fill several blocks in the itinerary with them. So go ahead, go crazy!

•   Walking tours

•   Haight-Ashbury - ’60s rock n’roll/The Summer of Love

•   Alcatraz - former Civil War fortification/military prison/infamous penitentiary

•   Chinatown - largest Chinese enclave outside of Asia

•   Historical LGBT - stomping grounds of civil rights leader Harvey Milk

•   Fisherman’s Wharf - full history going back to the Gold Rush

•   The Presidio - a deeper view into all that history mentioned above

•   Museums

•   de Young Museum - American art, textiles, and anthropological pieces, as well as special installations

•   California Academy of Sciences - scientific research and education facility

•   SFMOMA - nonprofit modern art museum

•   Legion of Honor - world-class fine art with a focus on ancient Near East and Mediterranean pieces, along with European decorative arts, sculpture, and paintings

Of course, this is far from everything there is to do in San Francisco. For more information on everything from flights, hotels, activities, and tours, check out Travelocity.com.

Need insider tips on must-see attractions in San Francisco? Check out our San Francisco travel guide!