Private tours in San Francisco cut through the tourist crowds and get straight to the good stuff. The best options focus on either wine country excursions or city history walks. Good private guides know their subject cold and adjust the pace to match your interests.
The standout tours include custom Napa Valley wine tastings (perfect for serious wine lovers) and in-depth neighborhood history walks, especially in the Castro district. These tours excel because they combine comfortable transportation with guides who share stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
Browse our carefully selected top tour recommendations below for the most rewarding private experiences in San Francisco.
Key Points
- San Francisco offers a variety of private tours, including wine tasting, craft beer, and historical/scenic experiences with customizable itineraries and knowledgeable local guides.
- Private tours provide intimate group sizes, comfortable transportation, and hands-on activities like winery visits and brewing demonstrations.
- Pricing for private tours in San Francisco ranges from $89 to $1,200 per person, with discounts available for larger groups and all-inclusive packages.
- Key destinations for private tours include the renowned Napa and Sonoma wine regions, as well as iconic San Francisco landmarks like Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Travelers consistently rate San Francisco’s private tours highly, with a 98% recommendation rate and positive reviews highlighting memorable experiences and engaging cultural insights.
Painted Ladies Private San Francisco Tour
The Painted Ladies Private San Francisco Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the iconic Victorian row houses of Alamo Square.
Aboard a restored vintage Volkswagen bus, guests can customize their experience to focus on the city’s highlights, including the Painted Ladies, Golden Gate Bridge, and Twin Peaks.
With a professional guide providing insightful commentary, travelers can access restricted districts and enjoy complimentary bottled water, local craft beer or wine, and snacks.
The tour accommodates up to seven passengers, making it ideal for families and friends seeking a personalized experience.
Flexibility in scheduling and a 24-hour cancellation policy add to the convenience of this highly-rated San Francisco tour.
Read our full review: Painted Ladies Private San Francisco Tour Review
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San Francisco : Downtown Private Walking Tour With A Guide
Explore the heart of San Francisco on this private walking tour of the city’s downtown. The 2-hour experience showcases iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, including Union Square, Chinatown, and the Embarcadero Farmers Market.
With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll gain insider insights into the city’s rich history and culture. The tour is fully customizable based on your interests, and you can choose to include public transportation if desired.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned San Franciscan, this private tour offers a personalized way to discover the city’s vibrant downtown. With flexible booking and free cancellation, it’s an excellent option to enhance your San Francisco experience.
Read our full review: San Francisco : Downtown Private Walking Tour With A Guide Review
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Full-day Private San Francisco to Napa Valley Tour by Luxury Car
On this full-day private tour, travelers can visit the world-renowned Napa Valley wine region from San Francisco in the comfort of a luxury vehicle.
The tour offers a hassle-free experience, with private transportation, tasting fees, and reservations included. Travelers can customize the itinerary based on their personal interests and enjoy a 100% recommendation rate from 64 previous guests.
The non-refundable tour costs $1,199.00 per group of up to 4 people, and gratuities are also included. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Operated by IBDC Premium Transportation, this tour provides an exceptional wine country experience without the need for a designated driver.
Read our full review: Full-day Private San Francisco to Napa Valley Tour by Luxury Car Review
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San Francisco: Castro & LGBTQ Private Walking Tour
Travelers seeking to enjoy San Francisco’s vibrant LGBTQ history can embark on a captivating 2-hour private walking tour of the Castro District. Priced from $89.91 per person, the tour is led by knowledgeable local guides and available in multiple languages.
Highlights include visiting Harvey Milk Plaza, the former residence of the pioneering LGBTQ activist, and the historic Castro Theatre. Guests will also learn about the origins and significance of the rainbow flag and the Castro’s role during the AIDS epidemic.
Customizable to individual interests, the private tour provides a personalized experience with the option of public transport. With wheelchair accessibility and a 24-hour cancellation policy, this tour offers a unique and flexible way to explore San Francisco’s LGBTQ legacy.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Castro & LGBTQ Private Walking Tour Review
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The Best Private Sonoma and Napa Wine Tour From San Francisco
Set out on a private wine tour that whisks you from San Francisco to the renowned wine regions of Napa and Sonoma.
With 175 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this tour offers up to 5 winery stops within 8 hours.
Customize your itinerary based on group preferences, with pickup and drop-off from your San Francisco hotel or residence.
Relax in a private vehicle as your knowledgeable, friendly chauffeur navigates the journey.
Savor a bottle of sparkling wine, and enjoy an optional group photo.
The tour costs start at $550 for up to 6 guests, with the flexibility to add extra time and wine tasting fees.
Get set for an exceptional wine country experience.
Read our full review: The Best Private Sonoma and Napa Wine Tour From San Francisco Review
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San Francisco : Highlights Private Walking Tour With A Guide
Explore the vibrant heart of San Francisco on this comprehensive 4-hour private walking tour.
You’ll start in the Financial District and venture through iconic neighborhoods like Union Square, Chinatown, Nob Hill, North Beach, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
The tour is customizable, allowing you to focus on your personal interests. You’ll have the option to visit landmarks, ride a cable car, and enjoy the stunning views.
The tour is available in multiple languages and is wheelchair accessible.
With the flexibility to book tickets for desired visits, this private experience provides a seamless way to discover the highlights of San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco : Highlights Private Walking Tour With A Guide Review
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Custom Private Tour in Convertible MINI Cooper
Foodies and adventurous travelers seeking a unique way to discover San Francisco’s highlights will delight in the Custom Private Tour in a Convertible MINI Cooper.
This 5-star rated tour offers a personalized experience, with a knowledgeable guide and the flexibility to customize the itinerary.
Explore iconic streets, visit cultural landmarks, and learn fascinating historical facts, all while enjoying the wind in your hair from the open-top MINI Cooper.
With door-to-door service, snacks, and the option to venture beyond the city, this tour provides an engaging and efficient way to experience the best of San Francisco.
Travelers highly recommend this one-of-a-kind adventure.
Read our full review: Custom Private Tour in Convertible MINI Cooper Review
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San Francisco : Half-Day Private Car Tour With A Guide
Travelers seeking a comprehensive yet flexible sightseeing experience in San Francisco can opt for the half-day private car tour with a guide. Priced from Kč 7,579 per person, the 7-hour tour offers a customizable itinerary that covers iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Painted Ladies, Fisherman’s Wharf, and more.
A knowledgeable local guide provides insights and recommendations throughout the journey. The tour includes hotel pickup, flexible stops, and a choice of languages. Guests can also request assistance with booking tickets and enjoy photo opportunities at each sight.
With free cancellation and the option to pay later, this private tour ensures a personalized and hassle-free exploration of San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco : Half-Day Private Car Tour With A Guide Review
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Nearly Private San Francisco Tour Including Sausalito
For those looking to experience San Francisco’s iconic landmarks and charming neighborhoods, the Nearly Private San Francisco Tour Including Sausalito provides a personalized and immersive sightseeing adventure.
With a maximum of six travelers, this small-group tour offers a uniquely intimate experience led by a knowledgeable local guide, Paul, who shares personal stories and historical insights.
Highlights include driving across the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring Lombard Street, and visiting the charming town of Sausalito, often missed by other tours.
Comfortable transportation, bottled water, and snacks ensure a relaxed and enjoyable journey.
Consistently praised for its excellent value, the tour’s personal touch and insider access make it a fantastic way to discover the best of San Francisco.
Read our full review: Nearly Private San Francisco Tour Including Sausalito Review
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San Francisco: DeLoach Vineyards Private Wine Tour
Immerse oneself in the captivating world of Sonoma’s renowned DeLoach Vineyards with this private wine tour.
Over 10 hours, a group of up to 6 people will savor the flavors of the Russian River Valley through a private tasting. They’ll learn about the artistry and passion behind acclaimed Sonoma wines and discover the timeless allure of the region.
Transportation to and from San Francisco or Napa, along with water, is included. Guests must be at least 9 years old, and smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited in the vehicle.
Reserve now and pay later to secure a spot, checking availability for the preferred starting time.
Read our full review: San Francisco: DeLoach Vineyards Private Wine Tour Review
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Napa and Sonoma Private Wine Tasting Tour and Luxury Car Service
Embark on an unparalleled private wine tasting tour through the renowned Napa and Sonoma Valleys.
This custom-tailored experience offers the opportunity to tour vineyards, explore barrel rooms, and savor a range of local wines. Enjoy the luxury of private transportation in a premium vehicle with hotel pickup included.
While tasting and booking fees are at your own expense, the tour price starts at $699 for up to 4 guests. Though not wheelchair accessible and with a minimum age of 21, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 98% of travelers recommending it.
Personalized service and knowledgeable drivers ensure an unforgettable wine tasting adventure.
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San Francisco: Francis Ford Coppola Winery Private Tour
Step into the cinematic world of winemaking with a private tour and tasting at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Napa Valley.
This 10-hour experience costs $1,200 for up to 6 participants and includes transportation from San Francisco, wine tasting, and a guided tour of the state-of-the-art winemaking facilities.
Witness the meticulous process of crafting acclaimed wines and enjoy a private group experience with an English-speaking guide.
The tour duration at the winery is 1.5 hours, and only two group tours are offered per day.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, this tour provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the art of winemaking.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Francis Ford Coppola Winery Private Tour Review
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Vantigo – The Original San Francisco 4 Hour VW Bus Private Tour
For those seeking an intimate and engaging way to explore San Francisco, Vantigo’s four-hour private tour in a vintage Volkswagen van offers a unique and personalized experience.
The tour covers 14 distinct districts, including Chinatown, North Beach, and the Financial District, with stops at iconic landmarks like the Palace of Fine Arts and Sutro Baths.
Travelers can access areas inaccessible to larger buses and enjoy photo opportunities, bottled water, snacks, and optional beer and wine.
Vantigo’s tour is highly recommended, with a 5-star rating and a badge of excellence based on 62 reviews.
Flexible pickup and drop-off, as well as free cancellation, make this tour a convenient and enjoyable option for exploring San Francisco.
Read our full review: Vantigo – The Original San Francisco 4 Hour VW Bus Private Tour Review
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From San Francisco: Sonoma Private Wine Tour With Tastings
Travelers seeking an immersive wine tasting experience can embark on a private tour through Sonoma Valley from San Francisco.
The 10-hour journey takes visitors through the picturesque rolling hills and vineyards, where they’ll sample top wines at local wineries. The group is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience led by an expert guide.
Guests can relax in a comfortable vehicle, learning about Sonoma’s rich winemaking history. The tour includes transportation, wine tastings, and admission fees, with pickup and drop-off in San Francisco and Napa.
With a flexible cancellation policy and no upfront payment required, this private tour offers a hassle-free way to explore Sonoma’s renowned vineyards.
Read our full review: From San Francisco: Sonoma Private Wine Tour With Tastings Review
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From San Francisco: Private Wine Tour to Guerneville
Guests seeking an immersive wine tasting experience in the Russian River Valley can embark on a private tour from San Francisco.
The 10-hour tour is limited to 6 participants, providing a small group experience with a live English-speaking guide. Visitors will enjoy private wine tastings at 3 acclaimed wineries, including Seghesio Family Vineyards and Korbel Champagne Cellars, while learning about the winemaking process from passionate vintners.
The tour includes transportation in a luxury vehicle, covering the stunning Napa and Sonoma vineyards. Priced at €1,247.87 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: From San Francisco: Private Wine Tour to Guerneville Review
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Yosemite Adventure: Full-Day Private Tour From San Francisco
A private full-day tour from San Francisco takes visitors on an immersive adventure through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Yosemite National Park.
This 14-15 hour excursion includes pickup from your hotel and the opportunity to hike among the park’s iconic giant sequoia trees. Guests can expect breathtaking vistas, with the tour priced from Kč 4,991 per person.
This small-group experience provides a personalized and in-depth exploration of one of America’s most treasured natural wonders. With ample time to soak in the stunning scenery, this private Yosemite tour offers an unforgettable day trip from the city.
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San Francisco: Private Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour
This private tour offers an immersive experience, taking visitors to the serene Muir Woods National Monument and the charming seaside town of Sausalito.
Priced at $599 for up to 8 participants, the 4-hour tour includes pickup from any San Francisco location, expert local guidance, and private transportation.
Explore the Muir Woods’ stunning coastal redwoods, learn about the biology of Sequoia Sempervirens, and discover Sausalito’s picturesque views of the San Francisco Bay.
The tour can be customized, and participants have the option to enjoy a meal with skyline views.
With an impressive 5/5 customer rating, this private tour is a must-consider for those seeking an intimate and enriching experience in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Private Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour Review
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Yosemite, Giant Sequoias, Private Tour From San Francisco
For those seeking an intimate and immersive experience in Yosemite National Park, this private tour from San Francisco offers a captivating journey.
Priced at $1,200 for up to 5 participants, the 14-hour excursion showcases the park’s iconic sights, including the towering Giant Sequoias and breathtaking views from Glacier Point.
Travelers will explore Bridalveil Falls, Tunnel View, and other scenic highlights, all while enjoying the comfort of a private SUV or minivan.
With a knowledgeable guide fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, this tour provides a personalized and flexible experience.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, this highly-rated tour is an excellent way to discover the wonders of Yosemite.
Read our full review: Yosemite, Giant Sequoias, Private Tour From San Francisco Review
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San Francisco: Holiday Lights Private Group Jeep Tour
Explore the twinkling lights of San Francisco on this private group Jeep tour during the holiday season. Priced at $410 for up to 6 participants, the 1.5-hour tour takes you from Fisherman’s Wharf to Pier 39, showcasing the city’s festive displays.
Sip hot cocoa, enjoy candy canes, and sing along to holiday tunes as you admire the Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, and the Embarcadero’s dazzling lights. The knowledgeable guide will share insights about local attractions.
With complimentary Santa hats, blankets, and rain ponchos, you’ll stay warm and cozy throughout the experience. This tour’s free cancellation policy and pay-later option make it a convenient choice for your holiday adventures in San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Holiday Lights Private Group Jeep Tour Review
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From San Francisco: Private Beer and Wine SUV Tour
Interested in discovering Northern California’s celebrated craft beer and wine scene? Consider the Private Beer and Wine SUV Tour from San Francisco.
This 8-hour private experience allows you to customize your itinerary, visiting preferred wineries and breweries. Priced at $745 for up to 6 participants, the tour includes a chauffeured SUV, bottled water, and optional photo stops at iconic locations like the Golden Gate Bridge.
Explore renowned wineries and popular craft breweries, with the flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences. This tour is wheelchair accessible, with English, Spanish, and Russian-speaking drivers available.
An excellent option for a personalized beer and wine adventure from San Francisco.
Read our full review: From San Francisco: Private Beer and Wine SUV Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to My Specific Interests?
Yes, most private tour companies allow you to customize the tour to your specific interests. They’ll work with you to create an itinerary that caters to your preferences and ensures you have an engaging and personalized experience.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tours?
The maximum group size for private tours typically ranges from 2 to 8 people, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience. Many tour providers offer the flexibility to accommodate larger groups upon request.
Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions for the Tours?
The tours typically don’t have age or mobility restrictions, but some activities may require moderate physical ability. Guests should consult with the tour provider to ensure the tour is a good fit for their needs and abilities.
Can I Request a Specific Language or Multilingual Guide?
Yes, you can request a specific language or multilingual guide for your tour. Many tour companies offer guides fluent in multiple languages to accommodate diverse preferences and needs of their customers.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Surcharges for the Private Tours?
Yes, there may be additional fees or surcharges for private tours. These can vary based on the tour company, the guide’s language skills, group size, and any specialized equipment or transportation required. It’s best to check with the tour provider for full pricing details.
The Sum Up
San Francisco offers a variety of private tour options to suit different interests. From exploring the iconic Painted Ladies to wine tasting in Napa Valley, these tours provide a customized and intimate experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in the city’s LGBTQ history or the natural beauty of Yosemite, there’s a private tour that can cater to your preferences and make your trip to San Francisco truly memorable.