Getting around San Francisco’s top sights is best done through organized tours – I’ve found them to be real time-savers. The Movie Sights tour stands out for film buffs, showing actual locations from famous Hollywood productions. For something quirky and intimate, those vintage VW bus tours past the Painted Ladies are a personal favorite – you’ll feel like a local cruising through the neighborhoods.
The Hop-On Hop-Off bus combined with a bay cruise delivers great value, letting you explore at your own pace while adding spectacular water views. When time allows, the full-day Grand City Tour that includes Muir Woods and Sausalito hits all the must-sees plus gives you that essential redwood forest experience.
Let’s look at our recommended tours for experiencing the best of San Francisco.
Key Points
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The San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour offers a highly rated 2-3 hour experience showcasing iconic Hollywood locations, with a maximum capacity of 13 travelers.
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The San Francisco Grand City Tour + Muir Woods and Sausalito provides a comprehensive 9-hour tour covering major landmarks, Muir Woods, and Sausalito at $155 per person.
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The Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tour and Bay Cruise offers flexible access to landmarks and a 60-minute bay cruise, starting at $99.99 per person for a 2-day tour.
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The Heart Of The City Bike Tour provides a 5-star rated experience focusing on diverse neighborhoods, limited to 9 participants for a more intimate experience.
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The Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour offers a small-group tour in a vintage Volkswagen bus, highlighting key sights and neighborhoods with entertaining hosts.
San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour
The San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour whisks visitors away on a captivating journey through the city’s cinematic history.
With a 5-star rating and over 1,000 glowing reviews, this 2-3 hour tour showcases the iconic locations featured in Hollywood blockbusters.
Led by knowledgeable guides, guests enjoy synchronized video clips and insightful commentary, as well as opportunities to snap photos at legendary spots.
Accommodating up to 13 travelers, the tour offers an engaging and entertaining experience for movie buffs and travelers alike.
Priced at $67 per person, the tour includes pickup, drop-off, and all taxes and fees.
Highly recommended for its exceptional value and quality, the San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour is a must for any visitor.
Read our full review: San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour Review
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San Francisco: Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tour and Bay Cruise
For those seeking a comprehensive way to explore the iconic sights of San Francisco, the Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tour and Bay Cruise offers a convenient and flexible option.
Priced from $99.99 per person, this 2-day tour allows visitors to hop on and off the buses, visiting major landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and Lombard Street.
The tour also includes a 60-minute bay cruise with views of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge.
With live narration in multiple languages and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, this tour provides an efficient and informative way to experience the best of San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tour and Bay Cruise Review
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Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour
Offering an intimate and immersive exploration of San Francisco’s iconic landmarks, the Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour transports guests on a vintage Volkswagen bus through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
With a maximum capacity of 8 travelers, the small-group tour provides access to local hotspots where larger vehicles can’t go. Highlights include the Painted Ladies, Golden Gate Bridge, and a variety of neighborhoods like Chinatown, North Beach, and Haight-Ashbury.
Guided by knowledgeable and entertaining hosts, the tour features 1960s and 70s music, snacks, and optional craft beer or wine.
Despite some feedback on the bus condition, the tour earns a 5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
Read our full review: Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour Review
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San Francisco City Tour Small Group Half-Day
Enjoy the vibrant heart of San Francisco on this guided half-day city tour. Priced from $79 per person, this 3.5-hour tour showcases the city’s iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, and Pier 39.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. Enjoy live English-language commentary, bottled water, and multiple stops at notable sites like Coit Tower and Alamo Square.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 19 reviews, this small-group tour is suitable for travelers of all types. Just note that it’s not accessible for wheelchair users.
Read our full review: San Francisco City Tour Small Group Half-Day Review
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San Francisco Small Group City Sightseeing and Alcatraz Tour
This comprehensive 4-hour tour offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods of San Francisco, culminating in a visit to the legendary Alcatraz Island.
Guests embark on a custom-made, open-air vehicle for an engaging city sightseeing experience led by a professional guide. Key highlights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Twin Peaks, and a pass-by of popular districts like Haight-Ashbury and the Castro.
After the city tour, visitors enjoy a self-guided audio tour of Alcatraz, learning about the prison’s captivating history from the perspectives of former guards and inmates.
With a 5.0 rating and 99% traveler recommendation, this small group tour provides an immersive and memorable way to discover the best of San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco Small Group City Sightseeing and Alcatraz Tour Review
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San Francisco City Tour
A comprehensive 3.5-hour San Francisco City Tour allows visitors to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.
Priced from $110 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a narrated journey through the city.
Highlights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Twin Peaks, Civic Center, Mission Dolores, Opera House, and the famous Painted Ladies on Alamo Square.
Offered in English and Italian, with German available upon request, the tour boasts an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating based on 51 reviews.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides excellent value for money and a memorable experience for visitors to San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco City Tour Review
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Official Alcatraz Tour and 90-Minute City Bucket List Excursion
For those looking to explore Alcatraz and the iconic landmarks of San Francisco, the “Official Alcatraz Tour and 90-Minute City Bucket List Excursion” offers an exceptional experience.
With 107 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour includes the Alcatraz tickets ($45.25 value) and a self-guided audio tour, along with live commentary, snacks, and bottled water.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Guests praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, the smooth ticketing process, and the value for money.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the city, this tour is an excellent way to discover the highlights of San Francisco.
Read our full review: Official Alcatraz Tour and 90-Minute City Bucket List Excursion Review
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San Francisco Grand City Tour + Muir Woods and Sausalito
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of San Francisco can embark on the “San Francisco Grand City Tour + Muir Woods and Sausalito” excursion. Priced at $155 per person, this 9-hour tour takes visitors to the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Twin Peaks, Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
The tour also includes a 1.5-hour visit to the serene Muir Woods and a 60-minute stop in the charming town of Sausalito. Travelers can expect transportation via air-conditioned coach, an English-speaking guide, and admission to Muir Woods.
While customer reviews are mixed, the tour offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see the best of San Francisco and its surrounding areas in a single day.
Read our full review: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Muir Woods and Sausalito Review
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Small-Group Half-Day Afternoon City Tour of San Francisco
Tourists seeking a comprehensive yet convenient overview of San Francisco can consider the Small-Group Half-Day Afternoon City Tour.
This half-day bus tour provides an efficient way to see the city’s top landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street. With live commentary from a professional guide, travelers can learn about the city’s history and highlights.
The tour offers hotel pickup and a maximum group size of 14, ensuring a personalized experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly.
With an average rating of 4.5 out of 250 reviews, the tour offers a great value at $79 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Small-Group Half-Day Afternoon City Tour of San Francisco Review
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San Francisco: Full-Day City Tour W/ Muir Woods & Sausalito
This full-day tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of San Francisco and its surrounding natural wonders.
Priced at Kč 4,013 per person, the tour lasts 9 hours and includes visits to Muir Woods, Sausalito, and a city tour. Guests can expect a live English-speaking guide, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and entry fees to Muir Woods.
The itinerary highlights include crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring the ancient redwoods of Muir Woods, and visiting Sausalito’s scenic waterfront.
The city tour covers major attractions like Union Square, Chinatown, Nob Hill, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
With an average rating of 4.4/5 from 27 reviews, this tour provides excellent value for money.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Full-Day City Tour W/ Muir Woods & Sausalito Review
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The Original City Loop Electric Bicycle Tour
Frequently, travelers to San Francisco embark on The Original City Loop Electric Bicycle Tour, a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks. This 1-hour and 25-minute tour covers significant sights, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Haight-Ashbury, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Guests ride electric bikes, making it easier to navigate San Francisco’s hills. The tour includes stops for learning and photo opportunities, and is suitable for moderately fit travelers aged 14 and above.
With a maximum group size of 14, the tours receive consistently excellent reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides and the convenience of the electric bikes. This tour is a must-do for visitors seeking an efficient and enjoyable way to experience the best of San Francisco.
Read our full review: The Original City Loop Electric Bicycle Tour Review
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San Francisco: City Tour With Alcatraz Entry Ticket
One of the most popular city tours in San Francisco is the “San Francisco: Alcatraz with SF City Tour“. Priced from $159 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience.
Visitors will enjoy a private tour of major attractions, including Union Square, Lombard Street, and the Golden Gate Bridge, led by an English-speaking guide. The tour also includes the award-winning audio tour of Alcatraz Island and free time to explore the island’s stunning views.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible for some participants, it’s not suitable for non-folding wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs, or mobility scooters.
Read our full review: San Francisco: City Tour With Alcatraz Entry Ticket Review
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Heart Of The City Bike Tour
Travelers rave about the Heart Of The City Bike Tour, a 5-star rated excursion that allows visitors to explore San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods at a leisurely pace.
The tour highlights include the Mission, Castro, Haight-Ashbury, and Alamo Square districts. Led by an experienced guide, the small group of 9 participants or fewer enjoys frequent stops for photos and rest.
Bike and helmet rental, hotel pickup and drop-off, and local knowledge are included. While food, drinks, and gratuities are excluded, the tour is accessible via public transportation and designed to be bike-friendly.
Participants must be at least 13 years old and in moderate physical condition, as the tour avoids steep hills.
Read our full review: Heart of the City Bike Tour Review
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San Francisco Private 2 or 3 Hour City Tuk Tuk Tour W/ Fun Guide
Guests seeking a unique and entertaining way to explore San Francisco’s renowned landmarks can embark on the private San Francisco Private 2 or 3 Hour City Tuk Tuk Tour W/ Fun Guide.
This open-air experience accommodates up to 6 passengers and showcases highlights like Chinatown, North Beach, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline.
Travelers can choose a 2, 2.5, or 3-hour tour, with heated seats and blankets ensuring comfort. The fully guided tour departs from Fisherman’s Wharf and offers Instagram-worthy photo stops.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and positive guest feedback on knowledgeable, friendly guides, this personalized tuk-tuk tour provides an engaging and memorable way to discover the best of San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco Private 2 or 3 Hour City Tuk Tuk Tour W/ Fun Guide Review
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San Francisco: Small-Group City Tour by Vintage VW Bus
For those seeking a unique and immersive way to explore San Francisco’s beloved landmarks, the San Francisco: Small-Group City Tour by Vintage VW Bus offers an exceptional experience.
This 2-hour tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s historic neighborhoods and hidden gems, all while riding in a fully restored vintage Volkswagen bus.
Along the way, participants can capture stunning photos of the Golden Gate Bridge and the iconic Painted Ladies.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the small-group setting ensures a personalized and interactive experience.
Complimentary water, snacks, and afternoon tours even include beer and white wine.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Small-Group City Tour by Vintage VW Bus Review
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San Francisco 2 or 3 Hour Private Group Open-air Jeep City Tour
The San Francisco 2 or 3 Hour Private Group Open-air Jeep City Tour provides an exhilarating and personalized exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks. Boasting 66 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate from travelers, this tour offers a badge of excellence and flexibility to customize the route.
Accommodating up to 6 guests, the private Jeep experience includes photo stops at the Golden Gate Bridge and the ability to access areas larger tours cannot, such as Lombard Street. Praised for knowledgeable and friendly guides, the tour provides breathtaking views and local insights, making it a great choice for all ages and special occasions.
Priced from $169 per person, this tour is an excellent way to discover San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco 2 or 3 Hour Private Group Open-air Jeep City Tour Review
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San Francisco: City Highlights Walking Tour
Offering an immersive journey through San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks, the City Highlights Walking Tour invites visitors to discover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 211 travelers, this 3-hour guided walking tour takes guests to must-see destinations like Chinatown, North Beach, and the Financial District.
With a knowledgeable local guide providing insightful commentary, travelers can expect to learn fascinating facts and gain a deeper understanding of San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this walking tour promises an engaging and memorable experience.
Read our full review: San Francisco: City Highlights Walking Tour Review
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San Francisco Private City Tour
Ideal for those seeking a personalized exploration of San Francisco, the Private City Tour offers a comprehensive and flexible sightseeing experience. Boasting a 4.5-star rating from 40 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour provides a tailored itinerary, complete with a knowledgeable and friendly guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and refreshments.
Guests can customize the tour to focus on iconic landmarks and hidden gems, while enjoying opportunities for memorable group photos. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and operates in all weather conditions, making it a convenient choice.
With prompt communication and efforts to accommodate guests, this tour promises a satisfactory experience for those eager to discover the best of San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco Private City Tour Review
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San Francisco Ultimate City Tour With Bay Cruise Option
Frequently lauded as one of the best city tours in San Francisco, the San Francisco Ultimate City Tour with Bay Cruise Option provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
At $69 per person, the 4-5 hour tour offers a chance to discover the Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Lands End, and Twin Peaks, among other highlights.
With English-speaking guides, scenic views, and optional add-ons like a bay cruise and bike rental, the tour caters to diverse interests.
Though fog can impact visibility at times, customers generally praise the knowledgeable guides and value for money, making this a top choice for first-time visitors.
Read our full review: San Francisco Ultimate City Tour With Bay Cruise Option Review
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Private City Tour of San Francisco
The Private City Tour of San Francisco provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
With 86 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this private tour offers a customizable itinerary, perfect for time-pressed or first-time visitors.
Highlights include seeing major attractions like Coit Tower, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Fisherman’s Wharf, all while traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour allows for photo stops and personalized experiences, and pickup is available from a location of your choice within the city.
Although not wheelchair accessible, stroller and infant seats are available.
Priced starting at $305 per group of up to 3, the tour offers free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee, making it a highly recommended option for an immersive San Francisco experience.
Read our full review: Private City Tour of San Francisco Review
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The Sum Up
San Francisco offers a diverse array of city tours to suit various interests and budgets. From movie sights to hop-on hop-off buses and bay cruises, visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Whether seeking a small group experience or a private tour, there’s a San Francisco city tour to match one’s preferences.