Top Things to Do in San Francisco: A Walkable Route of Must-See Spots
You can let GeoQuestr guide you through the city as you learn more about these amazing places along the way.
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San Francisco's steep hills, colorful Victorian houses, and waterfront views make it one of the most photogenic cities in the world. Below is a route-style list of stops from the bay to the bridge.
1. Fisherman's Wharf & Pier 39 — The Waterfront Start
Begin at Fisherman's Wharf, the touristy-but-fun waterfront district where sea lions bark on the docks and clam chowder comes in sourdough bread bowls.
Why it's worth it:
- The sea lions at Pier 39 are genuinely entertaining
- Ghirardelli Square has free chocolate samples
- Views of Alcatraz from the pier set the scene for the day
2. North Beach — San Francisco's Little Italy
Walk south to North Beach, the Italian-American neighborhood that was also ground zero for the Beat Generation. City Lights Bookstore is a literary landmark.
What to do here:
- City Lights Bookstore — browse the shelves where Kerouac and Ginsberg hung out
- Climb Telegraph Hill to Coit Tower for panoramic views
- Grab a cannoli or espresso from one of the Italian bakeries
3. Chinatown — The Oldest in North America
Continue through the Dragon Gate into Chinatown, the oldest and one of the most vibrant Chinese communities outside Asia.
Don't miss:
- The narrow alleys (Ross Alley, Waverly Place) are more interesting than the main streets
- Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory lets you watch cookies being made by hand
- The temples and herb shops feel like a different world
4. Painted Ladies & Alamo Square — The Postcard View
Head west to Alamo Square for the iconic view of the Painted Ladies — the colorful Victorian row houses with the modern skyline behind them.
Good mini-plans:
- The park is perfect for a picnic with the famous view
- Walk the surrounding streets to see more Victorian architecture
- This is one of San Francisco's most photographed spots
5. Golden Gate Bridge — The Walk You Have to Do
Make your way to the Golden Gate Bridge and walk across. The 2.7km span offers views of the Pacific, the Bay, and the city that are worth every step.
Why people love it:
- The fog rolling through the towers is quintessential San Francisco
- Battery Spencer on the Marin side has the best photo angle looking back
- Crissy Field beach below is a peaceful alternative vantage point
6. The Mission — Murals and Culture (Add-On)
If you have extra time, head to The Mission District for some of the best street art in the country. Clarion Alley and Balmy Alley are outdoor galleries.
Best for:
- Mission-style burritos (the ones that started the trend)
- Dolores Park for views and people-watching
- A completely different energy from the waterfront
Simple Day Plan (Works for Most Visitors)
- Fisherman's Wharf & Pier 39 (morning)
- North Beach (mid-morning + coffee)
- Chinatown (lunch)
- Painted Ladies & Alamo Square (afternoon)
- Golden Gate Bridge (late afternoon walk)
- Optional: The Mission (evening)
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