Many of the best things to do in San Francisco cost little or nothing and happen outdoors. Riding a cable car is a classic, and the city's three lines are still part of everyday public transport; prepay with the MuniMobile app or a Clipper card to avoid queueing at the busiest stops. The Ferry Building Marketplace on the Embarcadero is the place to graze through local food, especially on Saturday mornings when the farmers market fills the plaza around it.
For views and fresh air, walk the Lands End Trail along the cliffs, with the ruins of the Sutro Baths and views of the Golden Gate, or head to Twin Peaks near the centre of the city for a panorama from Christmas Tree Point on a clear day. Pier 39 at Fisherman's Wharf is busier and more commercial, but the colony of sea lions on its docks is a hit with children. Plan outdoor activities around the weather, which can be foggy in the morning and clearer later, or the other way round, and always carry a warm layer. Comfortable shoes are essential, as the city is hilly and many of the best experiences involve walking.
5 places · Updated October 27, 2026
Our top 3 things to do in San Francisco
Thing to do
San Francisco's cable cars are the world's last manually operated cable car system, with three lines running from Market Street towards Fisherman's Wharf and Van Ness Avenue.
View details — Ride the San Francisco Cable CarsThing to do
The Ferry Building Marketplace is a restored 1898 ferry terminal on the Embarcadero with around 50 food shops and restaurants and a farmers market three days a week.
View details — Ferry Building MarketplaceThing to do
Lands End is a clifftop stretch of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area with a coastal trail, the Sutro Baths ruins and views across the Golden Gate.
View details — Lands End TrailThing to do
Pier 39 is a waterfront pier at Fisherman's Wharf with shops, restaurants, a carousel, the Aquarium of the Bay and a colony of California sea lions.
View details — Pier 39Thing to do
Twin Peaks is a pair of hills near the centre of San Francisco, rising over 900 feet, with sweeping views from Christmas Tree Point across the city and bay.
View details — Twin Peaks