San Francisco Private Walking Tour With Local Guide
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the heart of San Francisco with our Golden Icons & Waterfronts Walking Tour — a 3-hour journey through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks. From the world-famous Lombard Street, with its breathtaking views and famous twists, to the bustling charm of North Beach and Chinatown, every stop brings the story of San Francisco to life. Stroll through historic Washington Square, admire the Coit Tower murals, and enjoy the scenic waterfront along the Embarcadero Promenade. End your adventure at the lively Pier 39, where you can spot sea lions and take in panoramic bay views.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this intimate walking tour offers a deeper connection to the city. Explore local favorites, discover hidden gems, and see the city through the eyes of an expert guide. Book now and uncover the Golden Gate City’s most treasured sights, sounds, and stories!
Available options
San Francisco Private Walking Tour With Local Guide
What's included
Custom Requests Available
ITMI Certified Guide
Private Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your tour at the top of the world’s most crooked street, winding dramatically through the neighborhood’s lush gardens and offering sweeping views of the bay. The mix of sharp turns, vibrant flowers, and Victorian homes makes this street a San Francisco icon.
2
Stop 2
Known as the city’s Little Italy, North Beach is a lively neighborhood filled with charming cafés, historic landmarks, and Italian restaurants. As you stroll through, you’ll encounter the literary history of the Beat Generation and local gems like City Lights Bookstore.
3
Stop 3
This picturesque park is the heart of North Beach, framed by tall trees, benches, and the grand Saints Peter and Paul Church. A perfect stop to relax, the square is often filled with families, musicians, and street artists creating an inviting atmosphere.
4
Stop 4
Venture slightly uphill to this 210-foot tower, where the stunning murals inside tell the story of California’s early days. From the top, enjoy 360-degree views of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the bay, with panoramic sights that stretch for miles.
5
Stop 5
As you descend from Coit Tower, enjoy the scenic steps lined with colorful homes and manicured gardens. Keep your eyes peeled for the wild parrots of Telegraph Hill, who have made this area their home, adding a whimsical touch to the historic neighborhood.
6
Stop 6
Walk along the waterfront where the bay breeze fills the air, and watch the ferry boats come and go. The promenade is home to quirky street musicians, performers, and views of the Bay Bridge, giving a refreshing atmosphere that’s quintessentially San Francisco.
7
Stop 7
Walk through the Dragon Gate and into San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest in North America. Here, you’ll find colorful markets, herbal shops, and bustling eateries, with its rich culture and history dating back to the Gold Rush era.
8
Stop 8
End at this bustling waterfront shopping area, home to vibrant shops, restaurants, and the famous sea lions lounging on the docks. A lively spot for photo ops, Pier 39 offers beautiful views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge, along with a fun, festive atmosphere.
What's not included
Food And Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Lombard Street (top of the curvy section).
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
