San Francisco Self-Guided Audio Drive: Explore at Your Own Pace
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San Francisco Self-Guided Audio Drive: Explore at Your Own Pace

Active
(8 reviews)
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore all that San Francisco has to offer, from the twists and turns of Lombard Street, through the bustling streets of Chinatown, and to the top of Telegraph Hill! This comprehensive self-guided audio tour of San Francisco covers everything from the Painted Ladies to the Golden Gate Bridge. This self-guided driving tour allows you to explore San Francisco with maximum flexibility and value.

Purchase one tour per car. Everyone can listen at the same time!

After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point.

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

Available options

San Francisco Self-Guided Audio Drive: Explore at Your Own Pace

What's included

Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Next, our SF tour brings us to the famous Lombard Street. For one block, this road turns into the “most crooked street in the world!” You’ll make EIGHT hairpin turns within that one block! Drive carefully!

2

Our drive through San Francisco brings us past a magnificent marble building: the San Francisco City Hall! As we drive, we'll learn all about how this city was founded and why it grew.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Our San Francisco exploration begins at one of the city's most iconic stops: the Painted Ladies! As we drive past, we'll admire these striking buildings and learn about how they came to be painted in such vivid colors. As we continue driving, we'll dive into what makes SF the city that it is: its past, its present, and the promise of its future.

NOTE: The tour is over 17 miles long, with more than 43 audio stories, and takes about 3-4 hours to complete.

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

4

Next, we'll head up one of SF's famous hills: There’s a phenomenal view of the bay and of the city skyline once you’re up there.

5

We'll climb to the top of Coit Tower and get a great look at San Francisco from above. As we get back to the tour and continue driving, we'll learn all about the city's rapid real estate growth and the housing crisis it currently faces.

6

Our tour of SF brings us to one of the city's most active neighborhoods: Chinatown. As we drive, we'll learn all about the impact of Chinese and Asian immigrants on San Francisco.

7

As we drive towards Chinatown, we'll pass a strange sight: a huge, glass pyramid. We'll learn all about this building's strange history as we pass.

8

Next, we'll see two iconic symbols of San Francisco's Chinatown: the Chinatown Mural and the Old Chinese Telephone Exchange.

9

We'll then be able to jump out of the car for an optional walk around this bustling neighborhood, exploring its vast selection of foods, drinks, and desserts.

10

We'll exit SF's Chinatown through the Dragon's Gate. As we drive, we'll learn about another iconic San Francisco feature: the cable car!

11

The Dragon Gate is a south-facing gate at the intersection of Bush Street and Grant Avenue, marking a southern entrance to San Francisco's Chinatown, in the U.S. state of California.

12
Stop 12 Pass by

As we make our way to the waterfront, we'll dive into San Francisco's maritime history... and its (literal) gold-digging past. This will finally bring us to the Embarcadero. From here, we can explore the wonders of the nearby Ferry Building or make our way to Fisherman's Wharf for a glimpse of the infamous Alcatraz!

13

Embark on this iconic trip over San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge from the Embarcadero at either the Ferry Building or Fisherman's Wharf. As we follow the waterfront, we'll learn all about "the most famous bridge in the world" and how it almost didn't exist!

14
Stop 14

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Union Square stands as a historic beacon, echoing tales of yesteryears. A fusion of art and flair, this vibrant epicenter boasts iconic landmarks, from its famous Dewey Monument to the surrounding theaters that have entertained generations. With a plethora of upscale shops, art galleries, and bustling cafes, it’s more than just a square—it's a cultural melting pot, reflecting the city's rich tapestry of innovation and tradition.

15
Stop 15

As we turn the corner along the waterfront, we'll catch our first glimpse of SF's Golden Gate Bridge. We'll learn all about the money problems, construction problems, aesthetic problems, engineering problems, creative problems, and even life-endangering problems that this bridge overcame.

16
Stop 16 Pass by

We'll pause at Crissy Field for phenomenal views of the Golden Gate Bridge. During this break, we'll understand why this "golden" bridge is red, what it's massively popular opening week was like, and how it's a modern marvel of transportation today.

17

Now it's time to actually cross over the bridge! We'll pass the Golden Gate Welcome Center on our way over, learning all about this bridge's epic construction history. As we cross, we'll also understand why this is a favorite setpiece for Hollywood!

18

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a modern and contemporary art museum located in San Francisco, California. A nonprofit organization, SFMOMA holds an internationally recognized collection of modern and contemporary art, and was the first museum on the West Coast devoted solely to 20th-century art.

19

San Francisco is a technology hub without rivals, and the upcoming Uber and Twitter headquarters prove it! As we drive through the city, we'll learn all about San Francisco's relationship with technology, Silicon Valley, and more.

20

Our scenic tour towards, and across, SF's Golden Gate Bridge ends on the other side, at the Golden Gate View Point.

What's not included

Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
No in-person guide is provided.

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0
6 reviews
5★
2
4★
3
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How To Access: After booking, you’ll get an email and text with setup instructions and password (search “audio tour” in emails and texts). • Download the separate tour app by Action • Enter the password sent by email and text. • MUST download the tour while in strong wifi/cellular. • Works offline after download.
How to start touring: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction.
Go to the starting point No one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided Enter the first story’s point and the audio will begin automatically Follow the audio cues to the next story, which will also play automatically. Enjoy hands-free exploring. If you face audio issues, contact support. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
Travel worry-free: Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace. Skip anything you don’t care about or explore bonus content for everything that interests you
Savings tips: Driving tours: purchase just one tour for everyone in the car
Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.
Audio Setup: Connect your phone to your car's stereo system using Bluetooth, USB, or AUX. For the best experience, consider using headphones for walking tours. Audio playback is compatible with Apple CarPlay, with navigation features coming soon. Support for Android Auto is also on the way.
For the best experience, please use an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, an Android device running version 9 or later, or an iPad/tablet with GPS and cellular connectivity, as these are recommended for navigation.

Meeting point

Start on Steiner St at Alamo Square Park, San Francisco. This is the suggested starting point; we’re not affiliated with nearby businesses, and their staff won’t have tour info. The audio starts automatically—check your email/text for setup (best done on Wi-Fi). Valid for 1 year.

Important notes

1. Find The Setup Instructions NOW:
• Download the App: actiontourguide.com/app
• Find Your Password: Search your email or text messages for “Action Tour Guide”
• Enter Password: Open the app and enter your 8-digit password
• Download the Tour NOW while you have Wi-Fi or cell service
• Offline Ready: Once downloaded, the tour works without internet
• Need Help? Visit: actiontourguide.com/redeem

2. Download The Tour NOW:
• Download NOW over WiFi or cellular data ahead of your trip.
• Don’t wait until travel day - your tour is VALID FOR ONE YEAR from purchase.
• Your password redemption is limited to the number of travelers booked. Please enter the same password on each device.

3. Audio Tour Tips:
• This is a self-guided audio tour - no one will meet you at the starting point.
• Entrance and attraction tickets are not included. Please book those separately.
• Curious how it works? Watch a quick video here: actiontourguide.com/tutorial
• For the best audio, connect to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, or listen from your phone speaker.
• CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t supported yet.
• Valid for 12 months - listen to your tour on any day without changing your travel date or rebooking!

4. Help & Support:
• Visit our FAQs: actiontourguide.com/faq
• Chat online: actiontourguide.com
• Call: 1-714-333-0534
• Email: support@actiontourguide.com

About San Francisco

San Francisco, a city nestled between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, is renowned for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, steep rolling hills, and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its progressive values, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class cuisine, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Golden Gate Bridge

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Spanning the Golden Gate Strait, it connects San Francisco to Marin County and offers stunning views of the city and bay.

Architecture/Historical 1-2 hours for a visit, longer for a walk or bike ride Free to visit, $10-$15 for parking

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is a former federal prison that housed some of America's most notorious criminals. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction offering guided tours and exhibits about its history.

Historical/Museum 2-3 hours for a tour $45.60 for adults, $30.25 for youth (12-20)

Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is a large urban park spanning over 1,000 acres. It features gardens, museums, lakes, and recreational facilities, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature/Park Half-day to full day Free to enter, varies by attraction

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling waterfront district known for its seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and attractions like Pier 39 and the Sea Lions.

Entertainment/Shopping/Dining Half-day to full day Free to explore, varies by attraction and dining

Chinatown

San Francisco's Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest in North America. It offers a vibrant cultural experience with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Cultural/Historical Half-day to full day Free to explore, varies by dining and shopping

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sourdough Bread

San Francisco is famous for its tangy, chewy sourdough bread, made with a unique local yeast strain. It's often served with butter or used for sandwiches and clam chowder.

Bread Contains gluten, can be made with or without dairy

Dungeness Crab

Dungeness crab is a local delicacy, known for its sweet, tender meat. It's often served steamed, grilled, or in crab cakes, crab louie, or cioppino.

Seafood Contains shellfish

Mission Burrito

The Mission burrito is a large, hearty burrito filled with rice, beans, meat, cheese, and salsa. It's a popular takeout item and a staple of San Francisco's food scene.

Main Course Contains gluten, can be made with or without meat

Ghirardelli Chocolate

Ghirardelli chocolate is a beloved San Francisco brand, known for its rich, creamy chocolate. It's available in various forms, including bars, squares, and ice cream sundaes.

Dessert Contains dairy, may contain nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Marin Headlands Kayaking in the San Francisco Bay Biking across the Golden Gate Bridge Spa day at a luxury hotel Picnic in Golden Gate Park Wine tasting in Napa Valley Visiting museums and galleries Attending a performance at the San Francisco Symphony

Best Time to Visit

September to November

This period offers pleasant weather with less fog, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during these months.

13-22°C 55-72°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Tagalog, Russian
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Pacific Standard Time (PST, GMT-8) or Pacific Daylight Time (PDT, GMT-7) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

San Francisco is generally a safe city for tourists, with a strong police presence and a commitment to public safety. However, some areas can be risky, especially at night, and visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or touristy areas
  • • Use common sense and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe

Getting there

By air
  • San Francisco International Airport • 22 km (14 miles) south of downtown
  • Oakland International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) east of downtown
By train

Emeryville Station, Richmond Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station, Salesforce Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

BART is a fast and efficient way to get around San Francisco and the Bay Area. It connects the city to airports, suburbs, and regional destinations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

North Beach Haight-Ashbury Mission District Castro Marina District

Day trips

Sausalito
15 km (9 miles) north of San Francisco • Half day to full day

Sausalito is a charming waterfront town known for its historic homes, art galleries, and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. It's a popular destination for cycling, dining, and shopping.

Napa Valley
80 km (50 miles) north of San Francisco • Full day or overnight

Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine region known for its award-winning wineries, picturesque vineyards, and gourmet dining. It's a popular destination for wine tasting, dining, and relaxation.

Muir Woods National Monument
25 km (15 miles) north of San Francisco • Half day to full day

Muir Woods National Monument is a protected redwood forest located just north of San Francisco. It's home to some of the tallest and oldest redwood trees in the world, offering a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.

Festivals

San Francisco Pride • June Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival • August Union Street Italian Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Use public transportation, biking, or walking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
  • Layer your clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable and change quickly
  • Try the local specialties, such as sourdough bread, Dungeness crab, and Mission burritos
  • Visit popular attractions like Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking
  • Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 5-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 1
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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