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• Things to Do in San Francisco Alone

40 Things to Do in San Francisco Alone: Solo Travel Tips

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: February 12, 2024

Are you planning to explore San Francisco alone? You will love the variety of attractions and other fun things to do here that are perfect for those traveling solo.

Some of my top picks include visiting Alcatraz, checking out the local bar scene, and soaking in the beauty of some of our Coastal Redwood trees.

Based on my experience as I explore SF quite a bit on my own, you'll find my options allow you to either meet others or truly explore on your own.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

1. Alcatraz Tour

This one is easy to do alone, as the ferry will take you to the island. Once you get there, you'll take the 35-minute self-guided audio tour, leading you around the island and prison.

As you go around this attraction, you'll get amazing views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin to the northwest, and Angel Island to the east.

And, if you decide you want to talk to someone, there are rangers on the island who will give you lots of information. You can join a group tour or continue exploring on your own.

Strangely enough, since it is a prison, it is incredibly peaceful if you are on your own.

>> Find out more about the popular day tour

>> Read more about what to expect on the night tour

2. Ferry Building

The San Francisco Ferry Building is always hustling and bustling, with loads happening every second of the day! So why do I recommend it to single people? For just that reason!

It is a total blast to sit there, either inside or out, and people watch as everything is going on. You can also take in the scenic views of the bay and the Bay Bridge as you enjoy the weather.

With so many amazing shops, it is the perfect place to shop for gifts for yourself or someone else. And, since there is so much great food, I often like to bring a book, buy something yummy, and just read and relax.

>> Check out this great Farmer's Market and Food Walking Tour of the Ferry Building

>> More about what there is to see and do here

3. Ghirardelli Square

The reason that I'm suggesting you check out Ghirardelli Square on your own is that you can taste and enjoy all the chocolate you want without anyone judging you! Just kidding (sort of).

I love that it's such a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a gorgeous area of the city. The courtyard is the perfect place to hang out, read, or watch the world go by.

It is a very safe area, so I usually don't have to worry about anyone bothering me.

This place offers a variety of local restaurants and other fun things to do. It also hosts special events, such as art shows, which I almost always enjoy going to alone so I can spend as much time as I want and not be influenced by others.

>> Tips to visit

>> More things to do around Fisherman's Wharf

Additional Tours from Fisherman's Wharf

4. san francisco's cable cars.

Why would I suggest going on a cable car by yourself? Because you will be able to get the full experience of the ride and see so much more than you would expect.

I often find that when I'm with friends, I miss so much of the scenery and what is happening around me as I'm talking and focusing on them.

However, when I'm on a cable car alone, I feel like I'm in a different world and can observe the people, the surroundings, and even the cable car itself.

This may sound a bit strange, but just looking around at the cable car lets me imagine what it was like back in the days when this was the main form of transportation. I think of the people, their clothes, where they were going, and their lives.

Taking a cable car by yourself may give you a little glimpse into how San Francisco used to be.

>> Find out more about our famous cable cars

5. Clam Chowder at Boudin Bakery

Most people think Fisherman's Wharf is utterly busy and full of tourists. And, to be honest, this can be true. But what most people don't realize is that Boudin is a perfect place to eat alone as you soak in the views.

I like sitting on the patio, outside the second floor that overlooks the San Francisco Bay, as I munch my Sourdough Clam Chowder Bowl.

It feels like such a treat to take in the view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Marin, and so much more while enjoying one of the city's signature dishes.

I also enjoy watching the bakers make the bread and the conveyer belt that brings the bread around through the window on the first floor.

>> More great places to try out tasty clam chowder

>> More about Boudin's Bakery

6. Golden Gate Bridge

There is nothing like experiencing the Golden Gate Bridge on your own. There is just something magical about traveling solo across it, as you can see and focus on so much more than if you are in a group.

I like taking my time looking in all directions. Towards the bay, you'll spot Alcatraz and the sprawling metropolitan Bay Area in the background.

Towards the Pacific Ocean, I can sometimes see birds, dolphins, or even whales.

When I'm with other people, we are usually too busy talking and might miss them.

Alone, I can also pay more attention to the feel of the bridge beneath my feet as it moves depending on the weather.

There is no other place like it to see a sunset in San Francisco when you are solo.

>> Everything you need to know to visit

>> Best places to photograph the bridge around SF

7. Cable Car Museum

For the same reason, I suggested taking a cable car solo, I suggest visiting the Cable Car Museum on your own. You can step back in time and into a different world.

Here you will learn about how the San Francisco Cable Cars came to be and their unique variations.

You'll get to walk around, enjoy many exhibits, and see classic cable cars that you won't see anywhere else in the world.

This includes some from the 1870s!

I love watching the engines and cable car wheels operating in real-time, with their massive cables pulling the cars across the city.

They remind me of all the hidden work that goes into these elegant machines and what it must have been like back when they were built.

It always leaves me in awe of this beautiful city's power and grace.

>> Find additional visiting tips

8. Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is located in Golden Gate Park.

As you would imagine, the park can get pretty busy and lively. However, the second you step in through the beautiful wooden gates of the Japanese Tea Garden, you'll think you've been transported to a different time and place.

I've always found it to be one of my favorite "getaways" when things get too busy. I love to walk around the perfectly manicured gardens, take a book, grab a seat, and read for a while.

I'm always amazed at how many different plants and trees there are here and how I almost always find something new when I come alone. It's a peaceful place to observe and meditate.

Without question, every time I visit this wonderful garden, I feel rejuvenated and relaxed.

>> More about what to expect when you visit

I think Pier 39 is highly underrated for those traveling solo.

There are so many things to do here that I think you'll love adventuring on your own. In fact, between shopping, eating, seeing live shows, and more, you'll wonder where the time went.

It may sound funny, but almost every time I go to Pier 39, I take a ride on the carousel there. It is beautiful, everyone is smiling and enjoying it, and I feel like a kid again.

And, if you want to take a break from everything, you can walk to the end of the Pier and watch the sea lions bark and fight for space on the docks.

The views are, of course, excellent too.

I also enjoy checking out the "Locks of Love" fence, where people put up locks with their names on them to signify their everlasting (I hope!) love for each other. It is fun to see new ones and guess where they are from.

10. Muir Woods Tour

You might be surprised, but I often see people taking the Muir Woods Tour alone. I think this is because it is so relaxing, beautiful, and such a memorable experience that they want to enjoy it fully without distractions.

The tour starts in San Francisco, where you hop on a bus and go through the Marin hills. The bus driver will give you lots of information, and you can enjoy the views along the ride.

When you get to Muir Woods, the walk through the forest surrounded by these massive redwoods is so peaceful. You will feel like you have stepped back into a different era and will love taking it in without distractions.

I also like that the tour stops in Sausalito, which allows you time to explore this small, but cute town.

>> Learn more about one of the top-rated tours to Muir Woods

>> Find out more about visiting

11. Ferry to Sausalito

Sausalito is a quaint waterfront village on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge. You can easily take the ferry here from San Francisco, which usually takes about 30 minutes.

The ferry is large enough that the waves shouldn't bother most people, and there are three decks. Depending on the weather, I usually sit at the top to get the best view.

I love Sausalito, whether I'm with people or flying solo. It is one of the most idyllic towns in the Bay Area. The main thoroughfare is right on the bay's edge, and you can see over to San Francisco as you walk by cute stores selling local goods.

It leaves every hour or so in the morning and evening but only every few hours in the mid-day, so you'll want to check the schedule.

>> Pick up tickets in advance for the Sausalito Ferry

>> Tips to take the ferry to Sausalito

12. Bay Cruise

Bay cruises are the best when I want to spend time alone. I like that everything is planned out for me in advance, including when to arrive, where to arrive, what will happen on the cruise, and when I get back.

I've done most of the bay cruises, and they all offer a little different. Sometimes I'll do a basic daytime cruise, but if I'm in the mood to watch the sunset, I'll take a twilight cruise.

And depending on the day, I might even go on one of the champagne brunch or wine-tasting excursions.

I like these since people are usually very friendly and open to talking if I choose to interact. It is also a safe way to meet people, as the staff is always nearby and ready to help.

>> Find details for the popular bay cruise

>> Additional bay cruise around SF

Additional Cruises I Think You Will Love

13. city lights bookstore.

I mean, where else would you want to go if you travel alone and want an authentic San Francisco experience? City Lights is famous thanks to Beat writers such as Jack Kerouac, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and many more.

The bookstore is loaded with books and other things you could spend hours just looking at and walking through. And, if you decide to read, you know you are in the perfect place.

There is no chance anyone will bother you as this is considered sacred ground for book lovers.

I also love that there is a cool art exhibit of a bunch of "flying books" just across the street. I love to bring a book (or buy one), sit there, read, and look up at them every so often.

Even if you are alone, you are always with your imagination!

>> Find some additional bookstores I love around SF

>> More about visiting North Beach

14. Vesuvio Cafe

Right beside City Lights Bookstore is the classic Vesuvio Cafe. This cafe contains all kinds of memorabilia from the Beat Generation, including posters, paintings, and more.

I like coming here because the people-watching is terrific. Being so close to City Lights, this location brings in folks from around the world and from every walk of life.

It is enjoyable to come in and imagine how intense and exciting it must have been back in the day when the Beats were here, having their discussions about revolutions and how they'd change the world.

If you talk to some of the people here, you might find yourself in really interesting conversations!

>> Additional details about the Vesuvio Cafe

15. Chinatown

Chinatown is a bustling place, making it easy to explore on your own since there is always something going on.

I love coming here because there are various things to do.

I can eat at a fantastic dim sum restaurant, do some shopping for friends or myself, or go to the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory and watch as they make fortune cookies at lightning speed!

I also like checking out all the street art and murals throughout the area. It is incredibly safe, and the people are very friendly, but I never have to worry about anyone bothering me.

>> Check out this great guided tour around Chinatown

>> More of what there is to see and do here

16. Crissy Field

Crissy Field is fantastic for when I want some getaway time to relax by myself because there is so much space to roam around here.

It is fun to wander around the beach, watch the wildlife, and enjoy the over 100,000 native plants planted during the restoration in 2001.

There are several paths that you can walk, jog, cycle, or scooter on.

Checking out the old buildings and visitor center is a great way to get lost in the past and learn simultaneously.

I personally love going to the Warming Hut when I want to grab a cup of coffee and, understandably, warm up when it is cold.

>> Pictures and visiting tips

17. Alamo Square Park and the Painted Ladies

Almost everyone knows of the "Painted Ladies" or the "Seven Sisters" since they have been photographed millions of times and were also featured on the TV show "Full House."

However, not everyone knows that there is a gorgeous park directly across the street from them.

The park is Alamo Square, and it is the perfect place to have a picnic or sit in the sun and enjoy the views of the city, looking out towards the Bay Bridge and East Bay.

I like to sit at this park because it usually isn't very crowded, and I can almost always get a place in the sun or under a tree, depending on the weather.

>> More about our Painted Ladies

>> More about visiting Alamo Square

18. Lombard Street

When you are in San Francisco, you have to visit Lombard Street! Known as the "Crookedest Street" in San Francisco, it is fun to walk up or down it or admire its steep, brick-lined curves from afar.

I enjoy it by myself because I can take all the time I want, check out all the flowers and trees, and not feel rushed or hurried to go anywhere else.

A lovely stairway goes along both sides of the street, and the views differ depending on which one you take.

A nice treat is that if you want to take some photos of yourself there, there are always other tourists around, and they are usually very friendly and happy to help. For all you know, you might make some new friends and decide to hang out with them!

If you plan to drive down Lombard Street, you can expect a pretty long wait, yet it is fun to see everything from a driver's point of view since you get to take the tight turns yourself.

19. Angel Island

Many people, including locals, don't know they can visit Angel Island in the bay. Because of that, it is a great place for solitude since there are so few people on the island.

It's a fun day solo trip since the only way to get there is by ferry ride. It is a beautiful island to hike on, with many paths and few people. You can also rent a bike if you want to see the island differently.

In addition to the incredible views of the bay, you'll want to stop at the island's cafe, visitor's center, and museums.

Angel Island functioned as an immigration station during the Chinese Exclusion Act, and you can still see the poems the detainees wrote on the walls.

Another reason it is a great place for solo travelers is because no one lives here, so it is very safe. It truly is a beautiful place for anyone traveling on their own.

>> More about what there is to see and do when you visit

20. Napa Wine Tour

If you are on your own and want to taste a bit of Napa's finest, taking a wine tour is probably your best bet to have fun and not worry about driving anywhere.

I like doing these tours because they pick me up in San Francisco, do all the driving, and allow me to taste some wine and have a yummy lunch. I don't have to worry about anything other than ensuring I'm where I should be at a specific time.

I've also met new friends since everyone seems to loosen up after a few drinks. Therefore, I like these tours since I can either stay alone or meet new people, depending on my desires for the day.

>> Check out this highly-rated wine tour from SF

>> More about visiting Napa

21. Haight-Ashbury

Probably one of the most, if not the most, famous districts in San Francisco is the Haight-Ashbury. It is known as the place the hippies, and psychedelic rockers hung out in the 1960s and 70s. You can still feel the "vibe" in the air when you visit it.

I love that it is easy to get to from almost anywhere in SF. The people are mellow, and you won't be bothered as you walk from store to store or pop into the cafes and record shops.

Since there is so much to see and do here, take your time. The store owners and restaurant owners are used to people just browsing, so enjoy and chill out. If you decide to check out Golden Gate Park, it is an easy walk to the Panhandle.

>> Fun things to see and do here

22. Coit Tower

This is the place for you if you want quiet, beautiful art, and a fantastic city view.

Coit Tower is a large tower on a hill between North Beach and Fisherman's Wharf, so it is also reasonably easy to access on your own if you want to take a walk.

I love going here because people are usually fairly quiet since there are historical murals on the first floor painted in the 1930s. They are very pretty and interesting to walk around and check out.

If you want to be with other people, you might find other art lovers and can converse with them.

The next part of Coit Tower I love is going up to the second level and getting the amazing 360-degree view of the city.

It is the only place in the city that will give you this kind of view, and there is no time limit, so you can enjoy it and take all the time you need there.

Again, if you decide you want some company, there will be other tourists talking about their views and travels, and you can join in if you want.

>> Tips to visit Coit Tower

23. Mission District Food Walking Tour

This is a wonderful way to be alone in San Francisco but with others and get to "take in" great food and a terrific scene.

The Mission is a district focused on Latino and Latina heritage and a wonderful place to get photos of murals and art and eat some of the best food in the city.

This tour is one of my favorites since I can listen to the tour guide, hang out and people-watch while learning about the district, and also be able to interact with others depending on my feeling that day.

It usually lasts about 3 hours and, as mentioned above, you'll try some of the best Latin American food anywhere in the nation.

You'll go to an Italian delicatessen and learn about how this district came to be and what it means to the city in the past and today's world.

It is a relatively small group, so you can interact as much or as little as you want.

>> More about this fun walking tour in San Francisco

24. Walking Tours with SFCityGuides

As with the Mission Food Walking Tour above, the SFCityGuide tours are a perfect way to chill by yourself, learn about the city, and not stress about anything, as the guides are usually native SFers and love to share their knowledge with everyone.

You'll learn about specific neighborhoods, the 1906 Earthquake, and other events in the history of San Francisco. They are free, but they do ask for a donation of $10 to $12 per person.

Since you are on your own and they are a couple of hours, they are one of the best deals for tours anywhere.

Just so you know, even though I'm a local, I almost always learn something new on these tours and enjoy them.

>> What to expect, top tours, and more

>> Visit their site for additional details

25. Blue Heron Lake

Located in the gorgeous Golden Gate Park, Blue Heron Lake is a perfect escape from the business of the City. It is a man-made lake, and they did a fantastic job incorporating the best of everything in nature here.

You are more than welcome to walk around it and enjoy the scenery. If you want to hang out and sit on a bench and take in the beauty and clean air, go for it.

However, if you want to do a bit more, here are a few suggestions.

There is a nice hike you can take to the top of Strawberry Hill, you can rent a pedal boat and go out on the lake, chill out in the Chinese Pavilion, and do my favorite, watch the Huntington waterfalls on Strawberry Hill.

There are often other people cruising around, and most are pretty relaxed, so you can enjoy time alone or interact with others who love quiet. There is also a lovely cafe if you want to grab something to eat.

>> Things to do around Blue Heron Lake

26. SF Museum of Modern Art

Located in the South of Market District, this famous modern art museum is just a quick walk to Union Square (a great place for people to watch or do a bit of shopping).

There are several floors of artwork, which will give you ample space to spread out and find the right place for you no matter how often you visit it.

The museum has pieces from all over the world and from so many artists, it is impossible to list them. However, a few of my favorites are Henri Matisse and Diego Rivera.

They also have audio tours if you want to be in your own world. It is a great way to delve into art and peacefulness. You can listen to them right from your own phone too.

>> What to expect when you visit

27. Biergarten

If traveling solo in SF, you wouldn't think a beer garden would be on a list of things to do. However, it is a great place to people-watch, drink a few fantastic German beers, and meet some locals if you want to engage with others.

The beer is delicious here, and the food is out of this world. I love their Pork Belly Sliders, the "Currywurst," or a simple Beet Salad.

The locals, and other tourists, are usually in a good mood since they've had a few brews and might invite you to join them, or you might invite them to join you too.

It is a lot of fun and has a lot of great food and brews.

You will find this in the Hayes Valley district at 424 Octavia Street.

>> More places to grab a local beer in San Francisco

>> More fun things to do in Hayes Valley

28. Guided Bike Ride over the Golden Gate Bridge

I've previously mentioned going across the Golden Gate Bridge alone in San Francisco, but I don't want to ignore going on a tour with others.

It is a lot of fun seeing things through others' eyes, as you'll hear them talk about what they are seeing and doing, just as you are doing the same.

People are always friendly and in great moods on these tours, and the guides are always cheerful, friendly, and knowledgeable.

The interactions are up to you since no one will push you to talk to them or ride beside them.

But I've found it fun to ride beside someone and have a little conversation. Sometimes this even grows into something bigger, and we end up hanging out...heck, maybe we even go to the Biergarten listed above!

No matter what, it is a great way to learn about our famous bridge, and you can interact or enjoy it on your own.

>> More about this fun guided tour

>> More about cycling the Golden Gate Bridge on your own

29. Hop on Hop Off Bus

The Hop on Hop Off bus tour is a perfect way to spend 24 or 48 hours doing your own thing while learning all about the City by The Bay.

Since you can get on or off anywhere, you can enjoy the ride or hop off to visit a popular local attraction.

These bus tours are usually a great way to visit different areas of San Francisco and hop off in an area you might not otherwise stop at and enjoy.

People are almost always friendly, and many may be interested in places you are interested in. And, if not that, they may be locals with friends and know more about San Francisco and invite you to listen in or hang out.

>> More details about this Hop On Hop Off Tour

30. California Academy of Sciences

I always suggest checking out the California Academy of Sciences, whether with a group or alone and no matter how many times you've visited San Francisco, it is so amazing.

I love that it is in Golden Gate Park, which, as you've seen, gives you many chances to do things on your own, and it is another perfect place to spend time alone in San Francisco.

There is too much to do here to cover it all, but here is a quick recap: The four-story Osher Rainforest, the Morrison Planetarium, the Kimball Natural History Museum, and the Steinhart Aquarium, just for a start!

Trust me, you can spend the whole day here and feel like you are in your own world.

I've never been asked anything by anyone here, so if you want to invest time and be alone, you will love it here. Of course, some kids may make noise, but they move along pretty quickly.

>> Find skip the line tickets

>> More about visiting

31. Double Decker Night Tour

This is one of my favorite tours when I want to chill out (and trust me, you'll want to bring a jacket if you are sitting on the top bus deck!) and learn about a few districts in San Francisco all in one evening.

I like this one since it is 2 hours, and depending on the seasons, it can be at night or sunset, so I always get a different "view" of San Francisco.

If I want to be by myself, I can usually find a solo seat, or if I want more interactions, I can sit beside someone else or even sit near a group.

I've often found that groups will include solo people with a few "hellos" or "Where are you from?" but not be pushy or disturb me if I want to take in the views and information.

I like having that choice and a nice way of meeting new people if I'm feeling like it.

>> More about this fun tour

32. Ghost Tour

I love being spooked but knowing I'm safe, especially when I want to go out on my own. It's one of the reasons I think you'll love these ghost tours as much as I do.

Some of them run all year round, while others are special such as the ones that only run during Halloween.

There is a nice range to choose from, starting with the well-known "Alcatraz Night Tour," which happens almost most of the year. Then you have the Nob Hill Vampire Tour, the SF Ghose Tour, and more.

You will be more than able to hang out by yourself, listen to the guide and enjoy yourself, but you might also want to make some friends just in case it gets scary. Just make sure that the friends you make are alive and not ghosts!

>> Find out more about these fun ghost tours

33. Craft Beer Walking Tour

You might think that going on a craft beer walking tour is a strange way to fly solo, but you'd be wrong. I like this one because I get to meet new friends, and everyone is happy and friendly, but I can also walk off to the side when I need a break.

I love that it lasts about four hours, it goes to three breweries, and you'll get to choose what type of experience you want to have during this adventure.

The guides are always friendly and have loads of fun information, and I also get to learn about San Francisco landmarks while cruising around on it.

Since you can taste four or so beers at each location, this is a good way to meet some people and connect with others while having a great time.

>> Learn more about this guided tour

34. Beach Chalet

Step back in time and grab a window seat to watch the waves break over Ocean Beach. The Beach Chalet is on the most Eastern side of San Francisco.

It is a majestic building and restaurant if you want to escape the busyness of the city and enjoy some quiet.

I love that they have an on-site brewery, so you can take a few photos, or even selfies, with these one-of-a-kind brews while hanging out there.

I enjoy their sampler set as I like trying several different beers instead of sticking with one.

They also have a great selection of food from clam chowder in a sourdough bread to a steak and lobster place that you won't forget!

I also usually bring a book out with me and take time doing nothing but watching the waves and the surfers doing their thing.

And I can also go for a walk before or after on Ocean Beach depending on the weather.

>> More about what it's like to eat here

35. Amelie Wine Bar in Nob Hill

Amelie Wine Bar has won too many awards to mention, so I'll leave it to that.

Simply stated, if you love wine, love excellent food from recipes you've never imagined, and want to enjoy an incredible atmosphere, this is the place for you.

Their wine list will make your palette happy, as they have over 60 wines on tap and close to 100 by the bottle.

When I'm on my own, just like with the breweries, I love that I have so many wines on tap, as I'd prefer to taste and experience more than one type.

As stated, I'll sometimes go here by myself and chill, but I've also met others who love wine, and we can get into some fun discussions.

So, as with many other things to do solo in San Francisco, you can also make friends if you choose to do so.

They often have live music, and the atmosphere is very relaxed and stylish. Being that this is San Francisco doesn't mean you have to dress up to go here, but you can if you want.

>> Find a full list of great wine bars around SF

36. Concert at the Chase Center

Some of the biggest names in music come to San Francisco, and when they do, they often play at the Chase Center. As you may know, this is also home to the Golden State Warriors, so every seat is fantastic.

I love going here for concerts because I can enjoy the music alone, or if I'm feeling more interactive, I can talk to the people beside me.

I am often surprised that I may start thinking of just chilling by myself but then overhear someone talking about something interesting, and we get into a conversation.

It is a fun and relaxed way to meet some people and become friends, even if only for a concert, since both of you have a love for that band's music in common.

>> Upcoming shows and what to expect after you book your tickets

>> Additional upcoming shows around San Francisco

37. Presidio

Located on the Northwest side of the city, near the Golden Gate Bridge, the Presidio is one of the best places to relax, enjoy the quiet, and soak in some of the best views anywhere.

On the other hand, you can do so many things here it is incredible.

Some of these include exploring the old army batteries (it used to be a fort), checking out the amazing art by Andy Goldsworthy, and taking some selfies with the Star Wars statues at the Letterman Digital Arts Building.

There is so much to do in the Presidio that capturing it all is hard. To give you an idea, this ranges from a bowling alley to a military cemetery to the Interfaith Center at the Presidio Chapel and much more.

Simply stated, you could easily spend a day here, just walking around and enjoying everything, and be able to come back the next day for more!

38. Legion of Honor

The Legion of Honor is another of the can't miss museums in San Francisco. I love coming here to enjoy the artwork, the incredible design of the museum, and the views from it.

It is located just north of the Outer Richmond District, which is not very busy.

The galleries range from the ancient art of the Greeks and Romans up until the 20th Century Neoclassical Post Impressionism.

This means you'll see almost every era of art that you can imagine in every style possible. I especially love the 15th-century Spanish ceiling. If you want quiet and peacefulness, spend some time just looking at that.

Special exhibits come through often, and I try to make my way out to see them. It is usually a little busier, but since this is a highly respected museum, people are still respectful and quiet.

And the staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the art and will discuss it with you if you want to know more.

>> Additional tips to visit

39. Church of the 8 Wheels

Yep, you read that right. There is a "Church of the 8 Wheels" right here in San Francisco. Honestly, it probably isn't anywhere else. What is this about? It is a skating rink near the Painted Ladies and Alamo Square.

This Church is beloved by all as it allows for public skating and lessons. &ou can rent everything you need right there, so you don't have to worry about bringing your gear along on your vacation.

I love this place because people are always so happy and friendly and won't bother you if you want to do your own thing. They have special events and fun skate nights. Check the schedule to see when they are open and what is happening that night.

They even have events in different parts of the city, including the famous Sunday Skaters' Showcase in Golden Gate Park. Check out if you want to see people skating as you've never seen before!

>> Visit their site for more details

40. Monterey & Carmel Guided Tour

For those that want to see the beautiful cities of Monterey and Carmel, I highly suggest taking this tour.

I love it since there is so much gorgeous scenery, you get to visit wonderful and lesser-known locations, and you can decide whether to talk to others or not, depending on your mood.

The tour will pick you up in San Francisco, cruise down the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway, and visit places such as Cannery Row, Old Fisherman's Wharf, 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach Golf Course, and Carmel-By-The-Sea.

You can also visit the incredible Monterey Bay Aquarium if you decide, and I highly suggest you do as it is unlike any other I've ever been to anywhere.

This is the perfect tour for someone flying solo since you can choose to watch the scenery and listen to the guide, or if you are sitting next to someone, you can converse with them during it.

From what I've found, people on this tour are very respectful since it is about 11 hours long, and they won't intrude or bother you if you want to take it all in yourself.

>> More about visiting the Monterey Bay Area

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

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How to Explore San Francisco Alone

How to explore san francisco as a solo traveler.

In this guide, we will equip you with practical tips and insider knowledge to make your solo adventure in the city a truly fulfilling experience. From uncovering local food markets and street food vendors to navigating public transportation and finding safe accommodations, we have curated a range of information to help you make the most of your solo journey. So, pack your curiosity and embark on a memorable solo trip through the picturesque streets of this captivating city!

• Dining as a Solo Traveler
• Traveling a New City Alone
• Lodging and Transportation by Yourself
• Local SF Insight for Travelers

Dining Delights: Navigating Food Markets and Restaurants

One of the joys of solo travel is the freedom to indulge in local culinary wonders – and usually without having to wait to be seated. As you explore San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods, seek out hidden gems like local food markets and street food vendors. These hubs of authenticity offer a chance to savor regional flavors and interact with the community. To make the most of your dining experiences:

When it comes to **research and exploration**, prioritize food markets and street food stalls known for their authentic offerings. The Ferry Building Marketplace and Off the Grid are great places to start your gastronomic journey. San Francisco’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of cultures, so don’t hesitate to explore different cuisines.

Embrace the art of solo dining by choosing cozy cafés and bistros. Bring a book or simply savor the moment as you enjoy your meal. This not only allows you to relish the flavors but also provides you with a chance to soak in the local atmosphere. The spacious and airy setup of Tartine Manufactory welcomes solo diners looking for freshly baked pastries, artisanal bread, and inventive breakfast and lunch options. Tucked in a historic building, Café Bastille captures the spirit of a traditional French bistro. The warm and intimate atmosphere is perfect for solo travelers seeking French classics and a cozy dining environment.

When choosing a restaurant for your solo dining adventure, consider eateries with communal seating or counter space. These settings encourage interactions with fellow solo diners or locals, leading to intriguing conversations and perhaps even new friendships. Liholiho Yacht Club is a vibrant restaurant that offers communal seating and a lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for solo diners. The Hawaiian-inspired menu features a fusion of flavors that will surely intrigue your taste buds. El Techo de Lolinda is a rooftop restaurant and bar offering Latin American cuisine and stunning views. The communal seating and lively atmosphere make it easy to strike up conversations with fellow rooftop enthusiasts.

Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with those around you. Engage with locals or fellow solo diners. Ask for recommendations, share stories, and forge connections over a shared appreciation for food. This can enrich your experience and provide valuable insights into the city’s culture.

And remember to indulge in San Francisco’s iconic treats like clam chowder in a sourdough bowl, Irish coffee, or the decadent delights of Ghirardelli chocolate. Exploring the culinary scene is not just about food; it’s about immersing yourself in San Francisco’s culture.

Exploring Attractions: Tours Tailored for Solo Travelers

San Francisco is a city brimming with attractions that cater to all types of explorers. For a solo traveler, joining a Gray Line of San Francisco tour can be an excellent way to uncover the city and northern California’s rich history, culture, and hidden treasures.

Look for curated tours specifically designed for solo travelers. These tours offer a chance to meet like-minded individuals while exploring iconic sites like Alcatraz Island , Golden Gate Bridge , and Fisherman’s Wharf . This is not only informative but also provides a sense of camaraderie with fellow travelers.

Our walking tours offer a more intimate experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in San Francisco’s charm while making new connections. Delve into the vibrant cultures of Chinatown , the Mission District’s street art scene, or the bustling markets of the city.

Lodging & Transportation: Your Solo Traveler Haven

Finding the right accommodation and navigating transportation can greatly impact your solo journey’s comfort and safety:

Research and choose accommodations in neighborhoods known for their safety and solo-traveler friendliness, Union Square, Nob Hill, and Marina District are excellent options that offer both convenience and security. With its playful design and communal spaces, Hotel Zeppelin offers a vibrant atmosphere for solo travelers. The lobby’s social spaces and occasional events provide opportunities to connect. A boutique hotel with cozy rooms , The Mosser offers a friendly atmosphere and a communal lounge area where guests can connect. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring the city.

Utilize San Francisco’s efficient public transportation system , which includes buses, cable cars , and the BART train. To streamline your travels, consider getting a Clipper Card , allowing you easy access to various modes of transportation.

Prioritize safety when using public transportation. Keep your belongings secure, avoid displaying valuables, and stay vigilant. Being aware of your surroundings is essential to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey.

For nighttime exploration, stick to well-lit and populated areas to enjoy San Francisco’s nightlife safely. Rideshare options provide a convenient way to travel late at night, giving you peace of mind.

Local Wisdom: Thriving as a Solo Explorer

Making the most of your solo trip involves embracing local tips and safeguarding your experience:

Staying safe while traveling solo in any city, including San Francisco, is of paramount importance. While crime rates may vary, practicing smart and cautious behaviors can help mitigate potential risks. Here are some tips for solo travelers to stay safe in San Francisco:

While San Francisco is generally safe, it’s wise to stay in well-traveled areas after dark**. Trust your intuition and avoid poorly lit or deserted streets. Always prioritize your safety and well-being. Familiarize yourself with the neighborhoods you plan to visit. Opt for hotels, hostels, or homestays in well-regarded and safe neighborhoods. Always be attentive to your environment. Avoid distractions like excessive phone use while walking and stay aware of who is around you.

Whenever possible, explore the city during daylight hours. Stick to reputable transportation options like registered taxis, rideshare services, Muni or BART . Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items like expensive cameras or jewelry. Use a crossbody bag or backpack that’s difficult for thieves to grab. Carry only essential items like your ID, credit cards, and a small amount of cash. Stick to well-populated and well-lit streets and trust your instincts. Keep yourself updated on the current safety situation in the city through local news, official government sources, and reputable travel advisories. Dress casually and blend in with the locals to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself as a tourist. And most importantly, let someone you trust know your daily itinerary and check in with them periodically, especially if you’re venturing into unfamiliar areas.

Remember that while it’s important to be cautious, solo travel can also be incredibly rewarding. By following these safety tips and using your common sense, you can minimize risks and have a memorable and enjoyable experience exploring San Francisco.

Utilize maps, navigation apps, and the city’s grid layout to confidently navigate your way around. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions if you find yourself needing guidance. San Franciscans are known for their friendliness and willingness to help.

San Francisco invites solo travelers to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with culinary delights, cultural exploration, and personal growth. By savoring local flavors, joining tailored tours, securing comfortable accommodations, and staying vigilant, you’ll make the most of your solo escapade in this enchanting city. So, pack your curiosity, your sense of adventure, and set forth on an empowering solo travel experience through the iconic streets of San Francisco. Your journey awaits!

San Francisco Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to San Francisco ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• One of the most densely populated cities in the U.S. ( 876,000 people packed into just 47 square miles!)
• Unofficial capital of Silicon Valley , the startup and tech center of the world
• Known worldwide as a hotbed for liberal values, good food, counter-culture – and the gold rush!
• Nicknames: SF, The City by the Bay, Frisco, Fog City.
• Pro tip: only tourists call it   “San Fran”

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  US Dollar  (USD)
• Spoken languages: predominantly  English
• Best time to visit: from  March  to  November  (Mediterranean climate)
• Arriving via airport: public transport (BART) is  $8.25 , taxi is  $50
• Uber and/or Lyft are often 30-40% cheaper than a taxi, and are very popular with locals.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers in San Francisco: Green Tortoise . Located on a hill in the historic North Beach neighbourhood, the Tortoise is a comfortable and clean base from which to explore. Plenty of activities for guests, and a daily free breakfast (important for all the walking you’ll do in SF). Book way ahead to make sure you get a spot – if there’s a conference in town, accommodation practically sells out.
• The area around Union Square is ideal for all-around convenience (just make sure you steer clear of the “Tenderloin” area – it can get a bit dangerous there at night).
• Chinatown and North Beach are more affordable, while still close to the main sights.
• Market Street and SOMA (South of Market) are more upscale (newer buildings, where most of the tech company offices are, etc.)
• Accommodation prices can spike suddenly if there’s a big tech conference in town – and there are multiple every year. Book early!

GETTING AROUND

• The systems for getting around town include Muni (light rail, buses, streetcars, cable cars) and BART (subway). Muni rides are $2.50 one-way, and transfers are available. While Muni will get you around town, BART can quickly get you to other points of interests in the Bay Area, such as Oakland and Berkeley. BART fares are calculated based on distance. You can buy a “Clipper” added-value card at most BART stations that will work on most of the transportation in SF.
• Taxis can be called at  415-333-3333 (Yellow Cab) or  415-282-4141  (Luxor Cab). Fares start at around $3.50, with an additional $2.5 for every mile. Many locals prefer Uber or Lyft .
• If you plan to travel out of the city (e.g. for a day trip out to Napa Valley), considering renting a Zipcar .

SAN FRANCISCO NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is  21 , last call is  1:30 AM.
• Hipster scene: bars in the  Mission ( 16th Street, between   Hoff and Guerrero )
• Night clubs to check out: Halcyon SF (house), Audio Nightclub (house), Underground SF (techno), Monarch. Check out the trusty 19.hz calendar for up-to-date events.
• A mix of tourists and locals: bars in North Beach ( walking directions ). Make sure you get a gelato if you’re in the area! Check out Comstock Saloon and The Devil’s Acre.
• Local crowd: bars along Polk Street (between Sutter and Pacific). Check out Harper & Rye.
• Great bars that locals love: Local Edition ($$ – cocktails), Rickhouse (Kearny St.), Bourbon and Branch, 15 Romolo, Stookey’s Club Moderne, and Trick Dog.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• The  Golden Gate Bridge  is a world-famous suspension bridge that opens up the San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean. Great to walk or bike across.
• The   historic  Ferry Building  is an active ferry terminal that doubles as a farmer’s market in the mornings.
• Built in the 1930s,  Coit Tower  is a great vantage point for cityscape viewing. 
• Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island for a tour of what used to be one of America’s highest security prisons. Tickets sell out fast, so book a few days in advance.
• Spend a day in Golden Gate Park . Recommended spots include the de Young Museum , Japanese Tea Garden , the SF Botanical Garden and the California Academy of Sciences .
• Other notable  museums include: Asian Art Museum , SFMOMA , and the Exploratorium (Science).

INTERESTING WALKS

• Walk along the waterfront from the Ferry Building to Fort Mason Green
• Check out Valencia, Guerrero, Dolores streets in the Mission District . Be sure to check out the street murals on Clarion Alley.
• Grand tour : Union Square, Chinatown, and North Beach/Telegraph Hill.
• Walk along Hayes Street to Alamo Square Park, and then to Japantown

LOCAL WISDOM

• San Francisco is one of the food capitals of North America. Try out some great meals while you’re in town – there’s something from every major world cuisine. Get the Yelp app for restaurant reviews and opening hours.
• SF is crazy about street festivals and  concerts . Popular events include: Bay to Breakers, the Folsom Street Fair, and Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. Check local listings to see what’s going on.
• San Francisco is often referred to as “America’s most beautiful city.” Each neighborhood offers a unique flair, and the year-round mild Mediterranean climate makes walking tours a pleasant experience.
• Bring a light  jacket  (it can get windy in the evenings). Don’t forget to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes – hills in SF can get very steep.
• Weirdness and diversity are embraced in SF. The city is best enjoyed with an open mind.
• If you want to check out the cable cars, try the (east-west) California Street Line . You won’t have to wait in line nearly as long. Rides are $6 one way ($12 round-trip).
• Great restaurants in San Francisco that locals love (this place is foodie heaven): El Aji Peruvian ($$), Freekeh (Middle Eastern), An | Japanese ($$$), Moku Yakitori-Ya, Wolfe’s Lunch ($), Chome (Japanese), China North Dumpling ($), Lupa Trattoria ($$), Sotto Mare ($$), Tawan’s Thai Food, Merchant Roots ($$), Hoi An 1608, Aaha Indian Cuisine, Doma Sushi, Betty Lou’s Seafood and Grill, Hon’s Wun-Tun House ($), Itria (Italian).
• Where to find good cheap eats : all over town!  Use Yelp  to check out what’s near you. For cheap (authentic) Chinese food, try Jackson St. (between Kearny and Grant) in Chinatown. If you’re craving Mexican food, head to the Mission District and get an authentic burrito – you can’t go wrong with Taqueria Cancun , El Farolito , or El Rancho Grande (multiple locations).
• Dangerous areas : SF is generally very safe. Areas to avoid at night: the Tenderloin  (bordered roughly by Geary, Van Ness and Market), and parts of SOMA (South of Market, between 6th and 9th).

Recommended trip duration: 3-4 days

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Solo Travel in San Francisco

San Francisco in the USA is one of those travel wish list places that you may have dreamt of visiting. This iconic city has been the home to many movies and is known for the Golden Gate Bridge. If you're searching for an American destination, one of the best places to visit is San Francisco, California. If you're planning a trip to San Fran, below is our guide on things to do alone in San Francisco, where to stay when you solo travel San Francisco and how to get around. Just read the relevant section or the full article for your San Francisco solo female travel.

N.b. By booking through this page for your solo trip to San Francisco you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping.

• Things To Do in San Francisco Alone

San Francisco Tours

Best area to stay in san francisco, where to stay in san francisco, getting around san francisco, when to visit san francisco, plan a trip to san francisco, related posts.

San Francisco is a reasonably safe city but as with any other city, there are areas that you may want to avoid. The Tenderloin is a colourful area with good nightlife and theatres but both this area and neighbouring Civic Centre are places to be careful in at night. There can be pickpocketing in the city and if you have brought a car, be aware of break-ins which are common.

There are a large number of homeless people in San Francisco especially within the Tenderloin area and you may be approached by panhandlers asking for money. If you are unsure whether to give them money, there is the option of donating to a homeless organisation.

There are plenty of iconic sights in ‘ Frisco ‘ that you'll need at least 3 nights to explore the city (more if you want to see Alcatraz too). Here are my favourite must-visit places and things to do in SF alone. 

Things To Do Alone in San Francisco

The golden gate bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge is the most iconic part of San Francisco. It's like how you think of the Eiffel Tower when you think of Paris. Thus, you should make sure that you visit the Golden Gate Bridge in some way.

The best way to get to it is by walking to and across it. It should take you an hour to make a round trip to the bridge. However, that's not counting a leisurely walk where you stop and take your time on the bridge.

We mentioned earlier the need for a windbreaker because the ferry ride can be pretty cold and wet when you're headed to Alcatraz Island. Ensure that you bring your windbreaker with you when you go on a historical tour of the island. Also, make sure that you get a reservation as the ferry ride is a popular activity.

If you want an expansive view of San Francisco, you should make the trip up Coit Tower and admire the view from there. You can get a view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and more from up there. The tower is a memorial for the brave volunteer firefighters who had perished during San Francisco's five significant fires.

One of the most popular solo things to do in San Francisco by yourself is to take a trip to Pier 39, especially if you want to spend a leisurely day admiring sea lions and eating at seafood restaurants. But there are also other things you can do at Pier 39 if you have plenty of time. For example, you can go on a whale tour, try the carousel, rent a bike, and even do wine tasting inside a boat.

Chinatown is a popular feature in many areas of the United States, but some are more popular than others. Aside from the NYC Chinatown, the Chinatown in San Francisco is also a famous fixture area. If you're craving Chinese food and want to enjoy a slice of Chinese culture while in San Francisco, there's no better place to go to than Chinatown.

The Mission District

The Mission District is known for its Chicano or Mexican-American community. If you want to have a taste of Mexican cuisine and experience the local nightlife or explore bookstores and galleries, this is the place to be! No wonder The Mission District is famous among hipsters.

Palace of Fine Arts

If you want to have a slow and relaxing day, there's no better place than the Palace of Fine Arts . The Palace of Fine Arts certainly looks like a palace or something straight out of a fantasy-romance novel. With its fascinating architecture and the lagoon as well, you'll feel like you're in a magical land. Plus, the entrance is free unless you attend any specific exhibitions or shows there.

Walking is one of the best ways to explore San Francisco but one noteworthy mode of transportation are the cable cars . Although they're not exactly a “place,” they're still a unique San Francisco feature. It's like your SF tour is not complete without riding the cable cars.

Haight-Ashbury

The Haight-Ashbury area may seem unassuming, but this area holds a lot of history. Aside from the many colourful Victorian homes to admire, you might also happen upon the Haight-Ashbury Street Fair . You can also explore different cafes and pubs while at Haight-Ashbury. It's certainly a place that will give off a youthful vibe that you can feel in the air.

Get Your Guide – If you're unsure of what to do alone in San Francisco, Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day tours in worldwide destinations including San Francisco. Choose from a Golden Gate Bay cruise, an ultimate San Francisco electric bike tour, or Alcatraz tickets and Chinatown walking tour. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo including a Lake Tahoe 3-day camping tour, a trip to Muir Woods, the Giant Redwoods and the town of Sausalito. It’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for all GYG tours

Viator – Viator is similar to Get Your Guide. They are an American company and a tour platform with more than 345,000 tours and worldwide activities. Choose from an Alcatraz Island and San Francisco grand city tour, a Big Bus San Francisco hop-on hop-off open top tour, or a sunset catamaran cruise on San Francisco Bay. They also include a San Francisco CityPASS from $75.00. Read my Viator review or click the link below for all their tours. * Check rates and availability for all Viator tours

Day Trips From San Francisco 

Many of us enjoy a glass of wine when we're on vacation, so since you're travelling to San Francisco, it would be a mistake not to go to the wine region on a wine country tour. You can even go on a trekking trip in the wine regions. But if you want to explore Napa Valley without sweating, you could consider booking a day tour such as this one . 

Intrepid San Francisco

If you’re searching for some company to explore the USA with, Intrepid Travel is a responsible travel company that offers active tours within San Francisco and its surrounding area. Choose from a 6 day walk Yosemite National Park adventure or a California Sonoma getaway, cycle Napa Valley and Sonoma in a week or join an under 30’s tour and travel from LA to San Francisco over 11 days.

Explore the Wild Western USA over 11 days or San Francisco to Vegas visiting parks, canyons and valleys over 9 days. On each tour, you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Intrepid operate a flexible booking policy so you can change your travel plans up to 21 days before departure. Read the review here or click on the link below for all tours.  *  Click here for San Francisco itineraries, prices, and start dates

San Francisco is a vibrant city with many neighbourhoods that are great for solo female travellers. As well as Union Square, which is great for shopping and also a transport hub making it easy to get to places from here, I've listed other recommendations below. As with any city, avoid walking alone late at night and be aware of your surroundings. 

Nob Hill: This neighbourhood is known for its luxurious hotels and high-end restaurants. It's centrally located and has excellent public transportation options.

Russian Hill: This neighbourhood is situated on a hill with stunning views of the city and the bay. It's also home to Lombard Street, the “most crooked” street in the world.

Marina District: This neighbourhood is popular among young professionals and has a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Hayes Valley: This neighbourhood is known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. It's a great place to stay if you're looking for a more relaxed vibe.

Pacific Heights: Known for its beautiful Victorian homes and stunning views of the city, Pacific Heights is a  quieter neighbourhood that's great for solo travellers who want to explore on foot.

San Francisco has so many options for places to stay. You can find international chains such as the Hilton and InterContinental, 2-star travel inns, motels, and hotels from 3-star to 5-star.  Plus there’s Airbnb which offers rooms in San Fran with a local as well as rental accommodation in San Francisco on a short-term basis. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment. 

If you're looking to meet others, consider a hostel but look for evening activities to make it easier to mingle with others. I stayed at the Hi Hostel Downtown and didn't find it very sociable so choose a smaller one if you want company.  

Below are our recommended solo female-friendly accommodations as recommended by our Girls about the Globe community. For all other accommodations in San Francisco, click on the link below.  * Check rates and availability for all accommodation in San Francisco

HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel – $

This downtown hostel is only 5 minutes walk from Union Square with restaurants nearby. It is the only hostel in the city that has free parking and even its own theatre room. There is a kitchen so you can cook your own meals as well as a laundrette to wash your clothes. If you need to work there is a quiet room or you can hang out with others in the common area.

You can store your valuables in the lockers when you go and sightsee and they also provide free earplugs if you’re a light sleeper. Choose from a bed in a 4-bed female dormitory room, a 4-bed mixed dorm room, a queen room or a twin room with an en suite. * Check rates and availability for HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel

White Swan Inn – $$

For those who prefer to stay in a Bed and breakfast San Francisco, the White Swan Inn is in a great location near Union Square and only 10 minutes walk from Chinatown. Breakfast is included and rooms come with their own fireplaces, a mini-bar, a coffee machine and a flatscreen TV.

Join one of their curated walks or if you love books, just get cosy in the library and borrow a novel or two. The White Swan Inn has been named one of the 21 best hotels in San Francisco but if you are a light sleeper, be aware that the walls are thin so bring some earplugs. Choose from a deluxe king or queen room, or a luxury king room. *  Check rates and availability for White Swan Inn

Palihotel San Francisco – $$

This 3-star boutique hotel is centrally located close to Union Square, and 5 minutes away from the BART station. The hotel has a nice vibe, there is a 24-hour concierge and the staff are all friendly and welcoming. Rooms come with a minibar and you receive a discount for the onsite restaurant if you choose to dine at the hotel. Choose from a queen room, a king room, a king suite or a superior suite.

• Prices from £166/$234 USD per night for a dorm bed
• To book, check prices or availability for Palihotel San Francisco

Renting a car is not the best course of action in San Francisco. Since you're by yourself anyway, it would be more convenient to get around by going on foot or through public transportation. There is a metro system here and buses that run throughout the city. From Union Square to Fishermans Wharf by bus, for example, takes less than 20 minutes and costs $3 on the bus.

San Francisco is known for its cable cars, so you should take the chance to ride one when you're there. If you are planning on using public transport, you can buy the Clipper Card, a pre-loaded card that gives you access to the buses, metro, train and cable cars. Read more…

For those who prefer the freedom of the open road consider hiring an RV and driving yourself around the USA stopping in San Francisco on the way. As a solo traveller, you’ll have plenty of space for your accommodation, your own transport and possibly a kitchenette too.

RVshare allows you to compare RV rates from different brands and find local owners near you. In most cases, they deliver to a specific location or park, so the home-away-from-home will be ready and waiting for you on arrival. Plus, you can bring your pet! Prices start from $75 a night. * Book a campervan with RVshare

You shouldn't assume that San Francisco has the same climate as the rest of California so prepare for San Francisco's weather. It's not all bright and sunny, and things can get chilly. The best time to go when you solo travel San Francisico is usually from September to November. This is when it is at its warmest and there are fewer people visiting.

Expect rain from December to February but whenever you decide to travel bringing a windbreaker and a jacket with you is essential when you're headed to San Francisco. You'll especially appreciate it should you ever plan on going on a ferry ride headed to Alcatraz. The chart below shows the annual temperature in San Francisco to help you plan your trip. 

• Can I drink the water? Yes, the tap water is good to drink.
• Is tipping expected? Yes as tipping is part of American culture so you should tip everyone. In restaurants and bars tipping is expected between 10-25%, taxi drivers 10-15% and your tour guide 15-20%
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price. 
• Any ATMs? Yes.
• Which side of the road do they drive? The right-hand side.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes! San Francisco is one a vegan-friendly city and is good for vegetarians and vegans,
• Any seven wonders of the world? The Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. 

Budget – $150 a day 

Do I need a visa? Yes, for British Citizens and other nationalities. 

Vaccinations Required  

Airlines to San Francisco

The Best Time to Go – September 

Which Plug Do I Need?  

UNESCO Sites in San Francisco  

Events and Festivals in San Francisco  

Local Cost Guide  

Local Customs & Etiquette 

Sacred Sites in San Francisco (& USA)  

• Free Things To Do in New York in 24 Hours
• Solo Travel in The USA
• Solo Travel in Los Angeles
• Solo Travel in Las Vegas

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Home > United States > 37 Things To Do Alone in San Francisco: Solo Travel in San Francisco

37 Things To Do Alone in San Francisco: Solo Travel in San Francisco

By Dymphe / March 19, 2023

The things to do alone in San Francisco are wonderful if you're in the city by yourself. Solo travel in San Francisco is very fun because of all the activities!

San Francisco is a beautiful city in the state of California. It's one of the most amazing cities to travel to in the United States . The city is home to many famous sights, such as the Golden Gate Bridge.

If you're looking for a city to visit by yourself, San Francisco is perfect! That's because you can find many activities here that are great when you're alone.

For example, there are many fun ways to make new friends. You can go to live jazz performances with a group. That's great if you like music. Or you can drink coffee with a group.

There are also tours that are perfect for solo travel in San Francisco. For example, you can do a Segway tour of the city. Or you can do a GoCar tour of the Golden Gate Bridge & Lombard Loop. This is so much fun and it's a great way to learn about the city!

And there's much more! For example, you can join a chocolate truffles workshop. Or if you want to see nature, you can see beautiful botanical gardens.

There are also great options if you want to see art, such as visiting the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco. And if you like cooking, there are great options as well, such as a Thai cooking class.

Here are the best things to do alone in San Francisco!

Table of Contents

1. Join a Silent Disco Beach Yoga Class: Relaxing Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco

Doing silent disco beach yoga at baker beach is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco.

For this, you go to Baker Beach where you do a yoga class.

Moreover, you wear headphones through which you listen to very relaxing sounds. This makes the experience amazing.

What's great as well is that this experience takes place all year long. That's because the weather in San Francisco is great, even in winter!

Also, you take part in this experience with other people. This social aspect is also great during solo travel in San Francisco.

2. Do a GoCar Tour of the Golden Gate Bridge & Lombard Loop

Another one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco is doing a GoCar Tour of the Golden Gate Bridge .

This is a lovely experience that you can do on your own.

You ride a GoCar through the city. And for this, you do a GPS-guided tour.

The GoCar tells you exactly where you need to go, which is a great experience!

Through this, you discover the city in a unique way!

What's great is that the GoCar not only tells you where to go. It also tells stories about the places that you visit. Through this, you can learn a lot about the city, which is awesome! This makes it very interesting for solo travel in San Francisco.

Besides that, you go to places in the city where you have beautiful views.

3. Do a Food Tour of North Beach and Little Italy: Fun Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco If You Love Food

Another one of the best activities during solo travel in San Francisco is doing a food tour. A food tour of North Beach and Little Italy that is.

During this tour, you do tastings at various food venues in this part of the city.

A guide takes you on a walking tour through the city to the food venues.

Along the way, you learn about the food and the history of North Beach and Little Italy. This makes the tour also very interesting!

Some of the things you try during this tour are great coffee, pizza, olive oils, chocolate, and bread.

Also, you do this tour with other people with whom you have the food. Eating in the company of others is so much more fun during a solo trip! So this is another reason why this is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco as well!

4. Join a WaterBike Fitness Class on the Waters of San Francisco

Another one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco is doing a WaterBike Ride of SF .

During this fitness class, you ride a SpinOut WaterBike, which is awesome!

These water bikes allow you to see the city from the water while riding special bikes that float.

Furthermore, you do this experience with other people, which I like. This social element is great for solo travel in San Francisco.

Keep in mind that if there are no other people that booked the experience, you have to book 2 spots as a solo traveler. On the page of the experience, you can see time slots that others already booked.

5. Do a Tour of Alcatraz Island: Interesting Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco

One of the best things to do alone in San Francisco is going to Alcatraz Island.

Alcatraz Island is where you can find the former infamous prison. This prison is where some of the most dangerous criminals of the United States were.

Nowadays, you can visit the island and learn more about it.

For this, you need to buy a ticket in advance.

This ticket includes a ferry cruise from San Francisco to Alcatraz Island.

Furthermore, when you arrive at the island, you can do an audio tour of the place.

This is very interesting and a great way to learn about the island during solo travel in San Francisco. That's because you can do it completely on your own!

What's great is that the audio tour has a lot of different languages. So if there is a language you are more familiar with than English, you can do that!

6. Enjoy Live Jazz Performances With a Group

If you like jazz, blues, and world music, this might be one of the best groups for solo travel in San Francisco for you!

You can join the " Live Jazz (& Blues) Meetup Group ".

This group hosts events where you go to lovely live music performances in the city.

You do this together with other people, which is a lovely social activity!

Because of this, the group is great for discovering new music and meeting others at the same time! It's wonderful if you want to make some new friends.

7. Do a Segway Tour of San Francisco

Doing a Segway tour of SF is another one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco.

During this experience, you hop on a Segway and ride through the city and see various sights.

For example, you see Fishermen's Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island.

Not only is this a great way to discover the city, but it is also a fun activity in itself. That's because riding a Segway is a lot of fun regardless of the place where you do that.

Furthermore, what's great as well is that you do a group tour. Thus, you do this tour with other people. This allows you to socialize, which is lovely during solo travel!

8. Walk Through the Golden Gate Park: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco To Relax

When you are doing solo travel in San Francisco, you should visit the Golden Gate Park for sure. This is one of the most relaxing things to do alone in San Francisco.

Going here for a relaxing stroll on your own is awesome!

You find here many walking paths and some beautiful nature.

Also, you find some awesome gardens and other attractions at the park. For example, there are some museums here.

9.Do a Chocolate Truffles Workshop

Doing a chocolate truffles master class in San Francisco is great!

During this experience, you work with dark chocolate to create delicious truffles.

In total, you learn how to make 3 different types of this delicious treat!

You'll learn new skills, try out delicious treats, and meet others, which is awesome!

10. Take a Relaxing Stroll Through the San Francisco Botanical Garden

Going to the San Francisco Botanical Garden is another one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco.

You can find here a lot of beautiful nature. And a lot of variety in nature as well.

In total, you find here almost 10,000 different species of plants. And these plants are from all around the world.

These plants are wonderful to see! And going here for a relaxing walk while doing so is great during solo travel in San Francisco! You feel very relaxed for sure!

11. Have Food Together With Others in Chinatown

Here's a great solo activity if you like Chinese food.

Through the " Chinatown Supper Club ", you can discover Chinese restaurants that are great!

This group hosts meetups that are wonderful for this.

During these meetups, you go to various Chinese restaurants with other people in SF.

This makes it a very social experience! Moreover, you may make some new friends when you go to these meetups!

12. Have Coffee With Other People in San Francisco: Lovely Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco To Make Friends

If you love coffee, this is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco for you!

You can join the " Bay Area Coffee Lovers 20s/30s " group.

Through this group, you can go to various coffee shops in the Bay Area with others.

This is great to try out new coffee spots. And it is also a very social activity that allows you to meet new people and make new friends! So it's perfect for solo travel in San Francisco if you want to meet others.

13. Join a Walking Tour Where You See Beautiful Stairways

One of the most unique things to do alone in San Francisco is " Hidden Stairways of San Francisco ".

During this experience, you walk for 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) through the city.

On the route, you go to several hidden stairways that look amazing.

They have mosaic-tiled steps that are very pretty and unique.

Besides that, you learn about the story of these stairways, which is very interesting.

What's great as well is that you go to places where you can get a panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge and more places.

Furthermore, you visit some gardens that are hidden gems are well! This also makes it fun for solo travel in San Francisco.

14. Explore Movie Sights in San Francisco Through a Tour

The filming of many famous movies took place in San Francisco. It's very fun to see these places.

For example, scenes for Full House, Hulk, The Princess Diaries, and many more were all shot here.

Through the San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour you can go to all the places where filming took place. This is very interesting!

This makes the tour much different from other tours in the city. You visit some great neighborhoods along the way.

Furthermore, what's great is that this is a group tour. And thus, you do it with other people and this is a social experience.

15. Tour the Cartoon Art Museum: Great Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco If You Like Cartoons

If you like cartoons, you should definitely visit the Cartoon Art Museum ! It is one of the best activities for solo travel in San Francisco in that case!

You can learn here about comics and cartoons, which can be very interesting. At the museum, you can find thousands of objects.

16. Go Hiking With a Group of Other People

If you like hiking, this is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco for you.

You can join the " Urban & Bay Hikers (Hiking) " Meetup group.

This is a group that organizes hikes in the entire Bay Area.

What's great is that there are hikes through urban areas, as well as through all sorts of parks outside of the city.

This variety makes joining this group wonderful!

Besides that, there is a large variety in the length and difficulty of the hikes.

17. Do a Cruise of the Golden Gate Bay: Unique Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco

Doing a Golden Gate Bay cruise is amazing during solo travel in San Francisco.

During this experience, you sail along the waterfront of the city. And you go underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. Furthermore, you sail around Alcatraz Island, which is incredible!

Seeing all these places from the water is great to experience.

What's great about this cruise as well is that there is audio commentary in a lot of different languages. This makes it possible to learn more about the city.

Also, this makes the cruise fun when you are all by yourself. You can listen to the audio and take in the beautiful sights of the city! Because of that, it is definitely one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco!

18. Do a Thai Cooking Class on a Rooftop in San Francisco

One of the most unique solo activities in San Francisco is a Thai cooking class on a rooftop in SF .

During this experience, you learn how to cook Thai food. During this, you learn to prepare a three-course meal that is very delicious.

This is both very interesting and a lot of fun!

Also, you can eat the food after cooking it, which is great as well.

During solo travel having food together with others is lovely too.

19. See an Art Exhibition at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

If you like modern art, going to SFMOMA is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco for you!

This is a lovely modern and contemporary art museum in the city.

What's great is that there are many temporary exhibitions here. Each exhibition is interesting. And through each exhibition, you can discover new art and artists, which is awesome!

On your own, you can take in the art, and have the best experience at the exhibitions. This makes the activity great when you're alone.

20. Take a 3-Hour Sausalito Cycle Tour

Another one of the best solo activities in San Francisco is doing a 3-hour cycle tour of Sausalito .

During this experience, you follow a guide by bike and discover some interesting sights of SF!

This includes riding across the Golden Gate Bridge, which is awesome!

Moreover, you ride from San Francisco to Sausalito, which is great.

Another lovely thing about this activity is that it takes place with other people. During solo travel in San Francisco, this social element is awesome!

21. Walk Through the Sculpture Garden of the de Young Museum

Another place where you should go is de Young Museum.

This is a lovely fine arts museum that you can find in Golden Gate Park. So if you are walking through Golden Gate Park, you can also go here.

You find a large variety of art at the museum.

For example, there is American art from the 17th to the 21st century. Furthermore, you find contemporary art from all over the world here. And there is much more!

What's great too is that you find a sculpture garden at the museum. Here you can go for a relaxing stroll and discover awesome sculptures! Going to the sculpture garden is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco for sure.

22. See Plants at the Japanese Tea Garden: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco If You Love Nature

When you are doing solo travel in San Francisco, you should visit the Japanese Tea Garden for sure!

This is a beautiful garden with a Japanese design.

You can find this place at Golden Gate Park, where you can also find other solo activities that are great!

23. Learn to Make Macarons During a Class With a Pastry Chef

Another one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco is doing an SF macaron class by a pastry chef .

During this experience, you learn everything there is to know about making macarons.

For those that don't know it, macarons are a delicious French pastry that comes in a large variety.

These macaron classes are very interesting and you learn a lot of new skills.

Besides that, you can meet other students that take part in this baking class, which is lovely as well!

Furthermore, at the end of the class, you leave with your own box of macarons! These you can then eat when doing the rest of your solo travel in San Francisco.

24. Explore the City on Your Own With a Self-Guided Tour of San Francisco

If you want to discover the city on your own, you can do that through a self-guided tour.

For this, you only need your smartphone and off you go!

You can get self-guided San Francisco tours from GPSmyCity .

There you can choose a tour for a particular part of the city. Also, there are tours that focus on a specific theme in the city.

For example, there is a tour that focuses on street art. And there is a tour that focuses on shopping in Chinatown.

All these tours are fun. And what's great is that you can choose the one you like most.

You can then walk a certain route and learn about the places that you visit through the tour.

What's great about a self-guided tour as opposed to a regular walking tour, is that you are in control. For example, you can decide yourself how long to spend at each spot!

25. Take Part in a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in San Francisco

A great way to discover the city during solo travel in San Francisco is the following activity.

Doing a hop-on hop-off tour of San Francisco is a wonderful way to get to know the city.

You ride a bus through San Francisco, during which you see the best sights of the city.

The bus follows a route that goes along a lot of different sights.

Some of the sights are the Transamerica Pyramid and the Golden Gate Bridge. But there are many other sights that this tour covers.

During the tour, you get audio commentary that tells you a lot of things about the places that you visit!

Furthermore, you can leave the bus when you want to explore a certain sight. If you then want to continue your tour through SF, you can hop-on another bus, and go to the next sight!

Because you can hop-on and hop-off, you can explore a lot of great sights through this tour. It's definitely one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco to see the sights.

Moreover, this is very convenient when you are on your own in SF. That's because it makes further exploring beyond the tour much easier.

26. Join a Book Club and Read Bestsellers: Great Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco If You Like Books

If you like reading or want to read more, you can join the " SF Bestseller Book Club ".

This is a lovely book club where you read books and discuss them together with other people in the city.

This particular group focuses on books on the NY Times Fiction bestseller list. And this includes both current books, as well as books that were best sellers in the past. This is very interesting!

Not only is this group great because of the books, but it is also great because of the social aspect.

You meet others and discuss the books together, which is a lovely social activity. You might even make some new friends after joining this group.

What's also great is that meetings take place in restaurants. If you want to have food at the same time, you can do so!

27. Do a Tour of the San Francisco City Hall

At the San Francisco City Hall, you can find the government of the city and the county.

It is a very impressive building to see, which is why I recommend going here during solo travel in San Francisco.

What's great is that you can do a public tour of the building. This tour is one of the most interesting things to do alone in San Francisco. If you like learning new things, it's amazing.

During these tours, which take one hour, you get to see the building from the inside. Besides that, you learn a lot of things about the city and the body that governs the city.

28. Walk Through Chinatown During a Walking Tour

Chinatown in San Fransisco was the first Chinatown in the United States. You can find here a lot of Chinese venues, such as restaurants and shops.

It is great to do a walking tour of SF's Chinatown !

During the walking tour, you learn about a lot of sights in this part of the city.

You go to some of the most popular sights, but also to hidden gems in Chinatown.

Furthermore, you sample fortune cookies, go to food markets, and you can also do a dim sum lunch when you upgrade!

29. Tour the Legion of Honor of San Francisco: Nice Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco For Those Who Love Art

The Legion of Honor is a museum where you can find a lot of beautiful art. If you love art, this is one of the things to do alone in San Francisco you'll love!

You can find here art that spans a period of more than 5,000 years. Furthermore, you find here sculptures, jewelry, paintings, and more!

Also, there is art here by some very famous artists. Some of these artists are Van Gogh, El Greco, Degas, Monet, and others.

Going here is a must when you are doing solo travel in San Francisco!

What makes it even better is that you can do a public tour of the museum. During this, a docent shows you the best objects and tells you all about them. Furthermore, you can ask this person all the questions you might have.

If you prefer to explore the museum on your own, but want to do a tour, you can do an audio tour.

This is also a great experience, as it allows you to explore the museum's collection. But you can do it all by yourself!

30. Do a Sailing Tour of the Bay

Another one of the best solo activities in San Francisco is a bay sailing tour in SF .

During this experience, you board the Privateer. This is a great sailboat.

From the sailboat, you can get beautiful views of the city, which is awesome!

Through this tour, you can see the city from a whole different perspective.

Besides that, you get 2 free drinks during the tour, which is great as well!

Some of the places you visit during this tour are the Bay Bridge, Sausalito, and Angel Island.

31. Relax During a Hiking and Meditation Experience in the Forest

A great way to relax during solo travel in San Francisco is through the following experience.

You can do the awesome " Hike & Meditation in Presidio Forest " experience.

During this, you first do an easy 15-minute hike through Presidio Forest.

Then the experience continues with a guided meditation session. A guide helps you with meditation and this will be very relaxing for you for sure!

After meditating for about 30 minutes, you end with a discussion about meditation.

This experience is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco if you want to relax!

32. Learn to Make Ramen in San Francisco: Perfect Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco If You Like Food

Another one of the best food-related solo activities is a " Ramen Making Party in Mission ".

You'll learn how to make your own ramen noodles in the Mission neighborhood.

Moreover, you'll learn everything there is about creating ramen noodles from scratch.

You then combine these ramen noodles with other food and have a delicious meal! Doing this during solo travel is amazing, as you have food in the company of others!

33. Take Part in a Half-Day Tour to Muir Woods & Sausalito

Another one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco is going outside of the city. To be more specific, you can do a half-day tour of Muir Woods and Sausalito from SF .

At the Muir Woods National Monument, you can see amazing redwood trees, which are huge trees! Seeing these trees is amazing.

Besides that, you go to Sausalito where you can shop, sightsee and look at incredible views.

34. Join the San Francisco Love Tour

When you are doing solo travel in San Francisco, you can do the San Francisco Love Tour .

This is a sightseeing tour of the city that you do from a '70s-era VW bus.

You'll learn about the hippies in the past of SF and the hipster atmosphere of present-day SF.

During this tour, you'll visit many neighborhoods of the city. Here you go to specific sights that relate to this.

Furthermore, you do this tour with other people on the same bus. This makes it a social activity as well!

35. Have Fun With Other Women in San Francisco

If you want to explore the city with others, you can join the " Bay Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (21-30's) " group. This is very fun for solo travel in San Francisco!

The group hosts a variety of events that take place at a lot of places in the city.

Because of that, this group is ideal for getting to know the city.

Besides that, it is a group through which you can connect with others and make new friends, which is awesome!

36. Run With Others in San Francisco: Active Thing To Do Alone in San Francisco

If you want to get active when you are in SF, you can join the " SF Fun Run " Meetup group. This is one of the most active things to do alone in San Francisco!

This group is great if you like running and want to have fun at the same time.

Through this group, you can go to meetups where you meet at a bar, then go for a run, and end at the bar to socialize with others! This is great for meeting new friends and getting active at the same time!

37. Participate in a Pottery Class in San Francisco

If you want to do pottery during solo travel in San Francisco, this is the activity for you!

You can do the " Pottery in the Mission " experience.

During this, you'll learn all the basics of pottery, and you'll end up with beautiful clay pieces.

Your pieces will be ready about 3 weeks after the experience. That's because the finishing process takes a long time.

What makes this one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco as well is that you do it with others. You make clay pieces while working next to others, which is great. This allows you to socialize during this experience as well!

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A Solo Traveler's Guide to San Francisco

Senior Travel Writer

San Francisco is a mixed bag in the best way possible: serene water views from east to west, quirky, inclusive neighborhoods, and refined white-tablecloth restaurants. It’s an Instagrammable smorgasbord, so don’t be surprised if visitors photobomb your selfies with the Golden Gate Bridge or Fisherman’s Wharf.

What’s the vibe for solo san francisco travelers.

San Francisco draws all kinds, from sports fans and tech geniuses to foodies and LGBTQ travelers. Solo travelers won’t have trouble finding spots to mingle, be it on a whale-watching tour or scoping out the hottest restaurants and bar-hopping the Mission District’s lively artery, Valencia Street.

A San Francisco solo trip overview

Where to stay in San Francisco as a solo traveler

Steep streets – with architecture ranging from Queen Annes to modern marvels – typify San Francisco. Artsy neighborhoods abut lush green spaces. Even on the foggiest day, the sound of the streetcars, the salty smell of the waterfront, and the colorful homes remind you why San Francisco has won the hearts of many. We love these neighborhoods…

With old Victorian residences, upscale cuisine, and swanky neighbors, Nob Hill is a ritzy affair. Unpack your threads for a relaxed wine-bar evening. A cable car ride downtown makes a night on the town effortless. For the best hotels, consult our guide to the best hotels in Nob Hill, San Francisco .

Outer Richmond

Swap city for nature’s embrace in Outer Richmond, a sleepy neighborhood stretched between Golden Gate Park and the Presidio, promising hours of outdoor exploration. The beaches, Lands End, and quiet cafes are all within walking distance.

Stay South of Market to explore the city’s modern heart: gay bars, art galleries, museums, and breweries all call the neighborhood home. It’s the best place to catch a ballgame, dance the night away, and mingle with locals without exhausting your energy or budget. We’ve hand-picked the best hotels in SoMa .

Hayes Valley

Hayes Valley is a great hideaway beyond the waterfront. Here, you’re off of the tourist drags yet still close enough to court the gaily colored facades of the Painted Ladies when the mood strikes. Your tastebuds will appreciate the tightly packed restaurant scene, while your wallet will appreciate the manageable room rates.

For more San Francisco hotel information – and inspiration – see our guides to cheap , boutique , and luxury places to stay .

What to do in San Francisco as a solo traveler

Exploring everything within the 7×7 takes more than a long weekend. After you’ve ridden the cable cars, watched drivers navigate the crooked hairpin turns on Lombard Street, and eaten your weight in fresh seafood, add these experiences to your itinerary.

1. Close down a karaoke bar in Japantown

Architectural Landmark

2. Improve your inner shutterbug

3. hike along the lands end trail.

Hiking Trail

The looping 3.5mi (5.6km) Lands End Trail rewards with amazing views of the Pacific and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s wild, windy, unpaved – and popular. Take it slow, admiring historical landmarks such as Sutro Baths, and shipwrecks just beneath the surface.

You’ll hike the Lands End Trail as part of your visit to San Francisco on Culture Trip’s seven-day California Dreamin’ trip .

Eating and drinking in San Francisco

Frequent flyers swear by the one-of-a-kind Mission burrito – swaddled in a tortilla, as it has been since its birth in the Mission District. The more adventurous start the day over a rebel within: a soft-boiled egg oozing from a sausage muffin. The reputations of the Wharf, Japantown, and Chinatown make cioppino, steamed dumplings, and ramen obligatory orders.

The Golden City won’t leave you thirsty, either. Many boozy beverages have official – and unofficial – origins in San Francisco. The house cappuccino, which predates its cousin the Irish coffee, is made without actually using coffee. The pisco punch was a Gold Rush-era favorite born here. Now the cable car (rum, cinnamon, citrus) is becoming a modern icon.

Stay safe, stay happy

Traffic is a bit of a dance – it’s wise to not step on the toes of the locals. With many one-way streets, stress may ride shotgun if you’re driving. Be quick on your feet as well; popular throughways like Valencia Street are pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly, yet steady vehicle streams persist.

Getting around San Francisco as a solo traveler

Make your way on foot or by public transport – streetcars and bus routes cover the city. Taxis will do the job if you prefer an expensive transfer. And remember, this is an exceptionally bicycle-friendly city.

Cultural need-to-knows

Fitting in means keeping an open mind, from culinary offerings to lifestyles. This culturally rich city includes diverse Asian populations, a strong LGBTQ community, and a generally liberal perspective.

This is an updated rewrite of an article originally by Brett Gordon .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in calistoga, california.

The Best Hotels With Suites to Book in San Francisco

The Best Beach Hotels to Book in California, USA

Guides & Tips

The solo traveler’s guide to lake tahoe.

A Solo Traveler's Guide to California

The Best Accessible and Wheelchair-Friendly Hotels to Book in California

The Best Family-Friendly Hotels to Book in San Diego, California

The Best Vacation Villas to Rent in California

The Best Hotels to Book in Santa Ana, California

The Best Hotels in Santa Maria, California

See & Do

Off-the-grid travel destinations for your new year digital detox .

Not-to-miss activities in San Luis Obispo County

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

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16 Things to Do Alone in San Francisco | 2024 (with Photos)

Ata Ahmadi - Travel Writer

Last Updated: January 15, 2024

Hey! How's it going? I'm Ata, a passionate traveler and adventurer. I've explored the vibrant streets of San Francisco extensively, and in this article, I've curated 16 incredible experiences with captivating photos that will make your solo trip to the city unforgettable.

Welcome to San Francisco, a vibrant city on the west coast of the United States that offers endless opportunities for solo adventurers.

From riding the iconic cable car to immersing yourself in the city's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, this article will take you through our list of incredible things to do alone in San Francisco.

Get ready to embark on a solo journey filled with exploration, inspiration, and the captivating charm of this remarkable city.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

• Golden Gate Bridge

Top Choice Hotel

The Mark Hopkins San Francisco

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

The Bar None

Best Time to Visit

Sunny, mild, and bustling Bay Area city.

Average Temperature

Mild, with temperatures ranging from 55 to 70°F.

Transportation Options

Buses, trams, trains, bikes, scooters, ferries, rideshare, walking.

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

San Francisco, United States of America, is a vibrant city that has a lot to offer. One must-visit destination is the Golden Gate Bridge, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the city and the Pacific Ocean while feeling the cool breeze on your face.

Exploring the iconic neighborhoods of San Francisco, such as Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, is a must for an authentic experience, where you can indulge in diverse cuisines and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Light layers of clothing for the unpredictable weather.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses for the sunny days.

What Not to Miss

• Alcatraz Island
• Fisherman's Wharf
• Cable car ride

What to Avoid

• Crowded tourist spots
• Rush hour traffic
• Walking alone at night in certain areas

Table of Contents

1. Explore San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge

One of San Francisco's most iconic landmarks, the Golden Gate Bridge , is a must-visit for any traveler.

Explore this magnificent suspension bridge, known for its striking orange-red color and breathtaking views of the bay.

Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to traverse the Golden Gate Bridge, immersing yourself in its grandeur and capturing stunning photographs along the way.

Don't forget to visit the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center for interesting exhibits and information about the bridge's history and construction.

Exploring the Golden Gate Bridge is a quintessential San Francisco experience not to be missed.

2. Marvel at the Painted Ladies in Alamo Square

Marvel at the iconic Painted Ladies in Alamo Square , a must-see attraction for solo travelers visiting San Francisco.

These picturesque Victorian houses , with their vibrant colors and ornate architectural details, form a beautiful backdrop against the city skyline.

Take a stroll through Alamo Square Park, find a spot on the grass, and admire the stunning row of houses known as the " Postcard Row ."

Capture memorable photos of this quintessential San Francisco sight and soak in the charm and elegance of these historic homes.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply appreciate picturesque scenery, the Painted Ladies are a sight that should not be missed.

3. Take a Solo Trip on San Francisco Cable Cars

San Francisco's cable cars are an iconic symbol of the city, offering a nostalgic and enchanting way to explore its vibrant streets. Traveling solo on a cable car is a wonderful experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unique charm of San Francisco.

As you board the vintage car, the conductor's cheerful call of "all aboard" signals the start of your adventure. Feel the gentle swaying of the car as it navigates the city's famous hills , passing by renowned landmarks like Union Square and Lombard Street.

The vibrant ambiance and breathtaking vistas make it an ideal backdrop for those who travel solo to capture awe-inspiring photographs and forge unforgettable memories.

The cable cars from Union Square also provide an opportunity to connect with fellow travelers, as you share stories and engage in conversations with people from all walks of life.

Whether you're exploring the city or simply enjoying the ride, the cable car offers a sense of freedom and independence that perfectly complements a solo trip to San Francisco.

4. Join a Walking Tour to Discover San Francisco's Neighborhoods

For those engaging in solo travel and looking to explore the vibrant neighborhoods of San Francisco, joining a walking tour is an excellent option.

These guided tours provide an opportunity to delve into the city's diverse communities , such as the Mission District, North Beach, and the Castro.

Immerse yourself in the local culture, discover hidden gems, and learn fascinating stories from knowledgeable tour guides. Stop for a bite to eat at the Ferry Building.

Whether you're interested in street art, culinary delights, or historical landmarks, a walking tour allows you to navigate the city with ease and connect with other travelers.

Free walking tours are a fantastic way to experience the essence of San Francisco while traveling solo.

5. Visit Alcatraz Island on a Solo Adventure

Embark on a solo adventure to Alcatraz Island , the infamous former federal prison located in the San Francisco Bay.

Catch a ferry ride to the island for the Alcatraz tour and explore the cell blocks, the eerie corridors, and the captivating history of this iconic landmark.

As you step foot in the same cells that once housed notorious criminals, you'll feel a sense of intrigue and fascination.

The audio tour provides a chilling narration, bringing the stories of Alcatraz to life. Visiting Alcatraz Island solo allows you to immerse yourself in its captivating atmosphere and reflect on the history and resilience it represents.

6. Join a Tour and Make New Friends

Engaging in solo travel in San Francisco? Joining a small group tour is a fantastic way to make new friends and enhance your overall experience.

By opting for a group tour, you'll have the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers who share similar interests and a sense of adventure.

Whether you're exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods on a walking tour, visiting popular attractions, or embarking on an outdoor adventure like a segway tour, the camaraderie, and shared experiences can create lasting bonds.

From lively conversations to shared laughter, you'll find yourself immersed in a supportive and friendly environment, making your solo trip even more enjoyable and memorable.

7. Explore the East Bay for a Change of Scenery

For a change of scenery during your solo trip to San Francisco, consider exploring the East Bay . Cross the Bay Bridge and venture into a whole new world of charming neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and stunning landscapes.

Visit the vibrant city of Oakland, known for its thriving arts scene and diverse culinary offerings.

Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Berkeley and Emeryville , filled with unique shops and cafes. Take a hike in the picturesque hills of the East Bay Regional Park District or enjoy waterfront views along the Oakland-Alameda Estuary.

The East Bay offers a refreshing and exciting alternative to the hustle and bustle of San Francisco.

8. Relax at Baker Beach and Enjoy the Pacific Ocean Views

Unwind and rejuvenate at Baker Beach , where you can bask in the serene beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

As a solo traveler, this coastal haven provides the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun, stroll along the sandy shores, and revel in the majestic views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Whether you choose to lounge on the beach, take a leisurely walk, or simply admire the iconic bridge from afar, the beach offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Take a moment to appreciate the natural wonders and let the rhythmic sound of the waves wash away any worries, creating a tranquil experience for your solo adventure in San Francisco.

9. Take a Guided Muir Woods Tour

Embark on a guided Muir Woods tour and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of one of nature's wonders.

This excursion takes you on a journey through the majestic coastal redwood forest, where you'll encounter towering trees that have stood for centuries.

As you wander along the peaceful trails, your knowledgeable tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the flora, fauna, and history of Muir Woods.

Marvel at the sheer grandeur of the ancient trees, their sun-dappled canopies create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

The guided tour ensures you make the most of your visit, allowing you to fully appreciate the tranquility and magnificence of Muir Woods. So, join a guided tour and let the beauty of nature captivate your soul.

10. Explore the Wine Regions Near San Francisco

Embark on a solo exploration of the wine regions near San Francisco and indulge in a delightful journey through scenic vineyards and charming wineries.

Just a short distance away, you'll discover renowned wine regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma County, where you can have a lovely day tour.

Take leisurely drives through picturesque landscapes, visit boutique wineries, and sample exquisite wines. Enhance your experience by stopping at a cozy wine bar to savor the flavors of the region.

Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply appreciate the art of winemaking, exploring the wine regions near San Francisco alone allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and flavors of this renowned wine region.

11. Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture at the de Young Museum

Immerse yourself in art and culture at the de Young Museum , an iconic institution located in the city's Golden Gate Park.

During your solo travel, relish the freedom to explore the museum's extensive collection at your own pace.

Marvel at masterpieces from various periods and cultures, including contemporary art, American paintings, and African art. Admire the stunning architecture of the museum and take in panoramic views of the city from the observation tower.

With rotating exhibitions and special events, the museum offers a rich and immersive experience for solo travelers seeking artistic inspiration and cultural enrichment.

12. Explore the Palace of Fine Arts

Visiting the Palace of Fine Arts alone offers a serene and contemplative experience in the heart of San Francisco.

This architectural masterpiece, nestled amidst lush gardens and a picturesque lagoon, showcases classical Roman and Greek-inspired structures .

As you stroll through the grounds, you'll be captivated by the grandeur of the rotunda, the tranquil beauty of the surroundings, and the reflection of the stunning structures in the calm waters.

The Palace of Fine Arts provides an ideal setting for introspection, photography, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

It's a must-visit destination for those embarking on solo travel, seeking beauty, tranquility, and a touch of artistic inspiration.

13. Explore the Vibrant Fisherman's Wharf

Explore the vibrant and bustling Fisherman's Wharf as a solo traveler in San Francisco. This iconic waterfront neighborhood offers a plethora of attractions and activities to enjoy.

Stroll along the bustling piers, savor fresh seafood at renowned restaurants, and browse the unique shops and boutiques.

Visit the historic Ghirardelli Square and indulge in delectable chocolates. Immerse yourself in the maritime history of the area at the Maritime National Historical Park . Catch breathtaking views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Whether you're strolling along the waterfront, indulging in delicious seafood, or exploring the nearby attractions, Fisherman's Wharf offers a variety of things to do alone in San Francisco.

14. Discover the Beauty of Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is a true gem in San Francisco not too far from the Golden Gate Bridge, offering a sanctuary of natural beauty and recreational activities.

Spanning over 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park is home to lush gardens, tranquil lakes, and scenic trails. Discover the beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden , explore the enchanting Botanical Garden , or rent a paddleboat on Stow Lake .

With its diverse attractions, including the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park provides endless opportunities for solo travelers to immerse themselves in nature, culture, and relaxation in the heart of San Francisco.

15. Take a Bay Cruise for Spectacular Views

Take a bay cruise alone in San Francisco and treat yourself to spectacular views of the city's iconic landmarks and the stunning San Francisco Bay.

Board a boat and set sail on the tranquil waters of the Bay Area, gazing at the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, the shimmering Bay Bridge, and the picturesque skyline.

As you cruise along, feel the refreshing breeze on your face and capture breathtaking photos of the city's most famous sights from a unique vantage point.

Whether you opt for a narrated audio tour or a leisurely cruise, a bay cruise offers an unforgettable experience that allows you to appreciate the beauty of the city's Bay area in all its glory.

16. Indulge in Culinary Delights in San Francisco's Neighborhoods

Visit San Francisco and indulge your taste buds as you embark on a culinary adventure in the city's diverse neighborhoods.

From the lively Mission District to the bustling North Beach, the city offers a plethora of dining options.

Savor authentic Chinese food in Chinatown , sample delectable seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, or explore the trendy eateries in the Mission.

With an abundance of food trucks, hole-in-the-wall gems, and Michelin-starred restaurants, San Francisco's culinary scene has something to satisfy every palate.

Embrace the freedom of solo dining and treat yourself to a gastronomic journey through the city's flavorful neighborhoods.

FAQs about Things to Do Alone in San Francisco

Let's have a look at some frequently asked questions about things to do alone in San Francisco.

Is San Francisco fun alone?

San Francisco is a vibrant city that offers plenty of excitement for solo travelers. From exploring iconic landmarks like Coit Tower and the Financial District to enjoying the food scene at the Ferry Building and Ghirardelli Square, there's something for everyone. The city's big-city atmosphere, beautiful art, outdoor seating options, and even a visit to Angel Island ensure a fun and memorable experience.

How can I have fun on vacation alone?

When vacationing alone, there are numerous ways to have fun. Stroll along Ocean Beach, visit the iconic "Full House" location, people-watch, and join a tour for a wonderful way to meet fellow travelers, explore Market Street, immerse yourself in modern art, enjoy live music, and navigate the city via the BART station. Solo travel offers the freedom to enjoy your vacation on your own terms.

Can I walk alone in San Francisco?

San Francisco is generally safe for walking alone, and many solo female travelers enjoy exploring the city on foot. There are plenty of fun things to do alone in San Francisco, from riding the iconic cable car to experiencing San Francisco’s weather. Whether you're visiting San Francisco for the first time or returning, there are plenty of exciting things to do alone in San Francisco.

How do I spend a day alone in San Francisco?

Spending a day alone in San Francisco offers endless possibilities. Start by exploring the city's iconic landmarks like Coit Tower. If you are a female traveler connect with other women travelers through meetups. Indulge in the culinary delights at the Ferry Building, hop on a cable car for a fun ride, and discover the many fun things the city has to offer.

Summing Up: Things to Do Alone in San Francisco

San Francisco offers a plethora of activities for solo travelers to enjoy. From riding the iconic cable car to exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, there are countless things to do alone in San Francisco.

Whether it is visiting popular attractions or discovering hidden gems, the city caters to the independent spirit of solo travel. Explore San Francisco and its diverse cultural offerings and scenic beauty while you solo travel.

San Francisco boasts a welcoming atmosphere and solo-friendly options, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable solo travel experience.

Explore San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge

Marvel at the Painted Ladies in Alamo Square

Take a Solo Trip on San Francisco Cable Cars

Join a Walking Tour to Discover San Francisco's Neighborhoods

Visit Alcatraz Island on a Solo Adventure

Explore the Palace of Fine Arts

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Solo Female Travel , North America , Travel Destinations

California love: the ultimate guide to solo female travel in san francisco.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Updated: 8 November 2022

Even though I’m a fearful flyer, landing in gorgeous San Francisco, descending over the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, fills my heart with joy. If I wasn’t so attached to New York, then I would live in San Francisco. Not even kidding.

If you’re looking for a city escape, then solo female travel in San Francisco is incredible. I speak from personal experience here. If someone offered me yet another plane ticket back to this beautiful part of California, I’d be long gone, because my solo trips to San Francisco have both been that  amazing.

When I embarked on my first solo trip San Francisco, I had many fantastic opportunities unfold including chances to meet a lot of amazing people at my hostel, eat a lot of fresh seafood and chocolate, learn all about one of the most notorious prisons in history, and experience an American life far different from my daily existence on the east coast in good ol’ New Jersey.

My week in Bay Area wasn’t nearly enough.

Table of Contents

Your Guide to Solo Female Travel in San Francisco

Without a doubt, San Francisco is the perfect solo female destination for any woman looking for a new adventure. Whether you are spending 2 days in San Francisco or a week, you’ll find something new and magical. 

Furthermore, solo female travel in San Francisco is safe and easy. Even if you feel anxiety before travel, this destination will still suit your needs and make you feel empowered as a traveler.

Ultimately San Francisco is a beautiful action-packed city with amazing hills and views of a sweeping bay.

In my honest opinion, I seriously think San Francisco is the most picturesque city that I have visited in the United States. It’s a playground for a solo female traveler looking for a chic and exciting holiday!

Is San Francisco cheap? Uhhhh, no, but we can talk about budget options later.

Solo Travel San Francisco: My Experience

As for my own visit, I decided to check out San Francisco in April over my school’s Easter Break. I hadn’t done much solo travel around the US, and I wasn’t sure if it would be as exciting as solo travel in Europe.

Talk about misconceptions! Spring was an especially wonderful time to see all San Francisco has to offer, although I’m sure any time of the year would be enjoyable for visitors. A solo trip to San Francisco was just what the doctor ordered, haha.

Below are some of my (great) suggestions for solo female travel in San Francisco. It’s a special destination and holds a place in my heart, but as always, a little careful planning goes a very long way!

It’s a smart idea to utilize local guides to San Francisco to ensure you see the best attractions and neighborhoods, especially if you only have limited vacation time available.

So begin your research and enjoy! Visiting San Francisco alone will absolutely brighten your life, I promise!

Solo Trip to San Francisco Suggestions

Prepare for san francisco’s weather.

Be aware of San Francisco’s overall temperature even in “sunny” summer.

And, mostly importantly, make sure you pack for said-weather in San Francisco! Sure, California is synonymous with “fun in the sun,” but San Francisco is a different beast entirely from the southern part of the state.

Now it’s true you can enjoy many sunny days. I didn’t experience a drop of rain in April. Blue skies everywhere!

Nonetheless, you need to bring a jacket , preferably with you at all times! Due to San Francisco’s location on the bay, the winds’ chill isn’t something you want to trifle with. You can even have brisk days in July and August.

Especially don’t forget a windbreaker on the ferry ride to Alcatraz! You’ll freeze without one. I don’t care how bright the sun is shining. Bring. A. Jacket. To. Alcatraz.

Accommodation for Solo Travelers

Most of the time, you want to meet other cool travelers when you’re exploring a new place completely by yourself.

So, if you’re a solo female traveler and don’t mind sharing space, hostels in San Francisco provide great options. I stayed at USA Hostel located in Lower Nob Hill. It turned out to be the perfect choice for me! I met travelers of all ages at this hostel so you won’t feel out of place regardless if you’re young or old.

There are also planned activities for each day of the week, as well as free breakfast for travelers who are looking to save a couple of bucks.

If you’re over the hostel scene, explore TripAdvisor to find the perfect boutique hotel for you! San Francisco has no shortage of accommodation for all price ranges.

Hostel Suggestions for San Francisco

• FOUND San Francisco:  Only a 5 minutes from Union Square, this hostel combines budget and luxury! Very close to the BART station, too! (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
• HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel:  Fisherman’s Wharf is, admittedly, a very touristy area, but this affordable hostel places you in the heart of everything (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
• Pacific Tradewinds Hostel:  This highly rated hostel is only a 4 minute walk from San Francisco’s lively Chinatown! Very social hostel with tons of activities. (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )

Neighborhoods for Visiting San Francisco Alone

Among the many advantages and disadvantages of solo travel , feeling overwhelmed by the many places to go is high on the list.

So are you not sure where to start? Check out these neighborhoods! 

Favorite Districts and Neighborhoods

Chinatown: San Francisco has one of the coolest Chinatown’s in the country! Take a walk. Even better, get lost!

Haight Ashbury:  This neighborhood was the birthplace of the counterculture movement in the 1960s. You can also visit the beautiful Painted Ladies near Alamo Square Park (more on them later!). And the cool vintage shopping options? Amazing! Your credit card will be … very happy. Gulp.

The Mission:  I didn’t spend too much time here, but it’s definitely a funky neighborhood that boasts plenty of delicious and authentic Mexican food for your stomach. Nom, nom, nom. There are plenty of activities to do in the Mission District so you won’t be disappointed!

Union Square and Financial District:  Union Square is where most of the best hotels are located. My hostel was only a few blocks away and it turned out to be the perfect central location. You can find lots of great shopping in this area including an iconic Saks Fifth Avenue.

(More Super) Fun Things to do Solo in San Francisco

Need some solo things to do in San Francisco? Look no further! My many suggestions are all listed below. Feel free to tweak them according to your own personal interests.

Suggestions for Things to Do Alone in San Francisco

Alcatraz Penitentiary: This. Is. The. Best.

I am serious, the Alcatraz Tour was one of the biggest highlights of my trip. The audio tour was one of the best that I have ever taken in my years of travel. The visit is also thought-provoking and makes you think about prisoners’ rights in the United States. Totally a great visit.

Just make sure you reserve a space on a ferry way, way, way in advance. Keep in mind that Alcatraz Island is a National Park. Don’t litter and respect all wildlife. And, uh, I don’t think I need to say this, but don’t attempt to swim in the bay. The currents are very dangerous.

For more reading, check out my post called “Is Alcatraz Worth Visiting?”

Coit Tower:  Go to Coit Tower a 210-foot tower in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood for some of the best views of San Francisco.

City Lights Booksellers and Publishers:  Calling all book nerds! San Francisco is home to one of the most famous bookstores in the country. City Lights Booksellers and Publishers was founded in 1953. It is independently owned and specializes in world literature and politics. A treat for all readers.

A Free Walking Tour:  My hostel offered a wonderful free walking tour in the morning. Free walking tours are excellent ways to learn all about a new city’s history. They also provide an overview of neighborhoods and give solo travelers a chance to meet people. On my tour, I chatted with three awesome girls, and we spent the remainder of the day together. It was freakin’ wonderful.

Ghirardelli Square:  Mmm, do you love chocolate? Then you must visit Ghirardelli Square for your chocolate fix! I ordered a chocolate milkshake and it was divine even though it was so delicious that I couldn’t finish it, haha! Your sweet tooth will be in heaven here.

The Golden Gate Bridge :  Um. I don’t think I need to say more, do I? The views of the Golden Gate Bridge are iconic for good reason! You can’t miss them especially on a sunny afternoon! Keep in mind the Golden Gate Bridge is a far walk. Feel free to rent a bike or hop on the trolley when you go visit the bridge.

Lombard Street:  Not a street I’d wanna drive on though plenty of tourists do! Make sure to see this steep, one-block road with a crazy eight –  eight! – hairpin turns.

Ogle at the Painted Ladies: We’re all familiar with the Painted Ladies, all lined in a row on Steiner St & Hayes St.I would love to move into one of these brightly painted Victorian houses. Can you say cuuuuuuuuute?

Seals in Fisherman’s Wharf:  Fisherman’s Wharf can be a little tacky and touristy, but I didn’t mind, haha. My favorite part of the wharf was Pier 39. Why? Adorable seals everywhere! Take plenty of pictures.

Trolley Ride:  You can’t come to San Francisco and not do a trolley ride! I loved going up and down the hills, and laughed for practically the entire time I was on the trolley. Personally, I recommend you stand outside. Much more liberating.

Other Important Solo Travel Information

Is san francisco safe to travel alone.

Ahhhh. Time for the biggest question of all:  Is San Francisco safe to travel alone? 

As solo female travelers, we care a lot about safety on the road. This is a topic I extensively cover in my beginners guide to solo female travel.   Honestly, I thought San Francisco was fine regarding safety, but I’m used to big American cities like Philadelphia and New York. Simple street smarts should prevent too much trouble.

My one concrete piece of advice would be to avoid the Tenderloin either alone or at night. This neighborhood is very close to Union Square so it’s easy to mistakenly stumble into. A few pals and I, uh, accidentally wandered through this area after chowing down on a good meal in the Mission District. I wasn’t afraid but definitely uncomfortable.

So why avoid the Tenderloin area?

Right or wrong, the area is known for drug dealers, prostitution, and homelessness. I don’t speak ill of anyone, but your safety takes priority.

If you want to help San Francisco’s homeless population, then research some reputable charities in the area and donate your time or money to them.

Over all, going to San Francisco alone is safe. Don’t lose sleep over it, girl.

Easy Day Trips from San Francisco

Honestly, while you could just relax and do things alone in SF for the entirety of your visit, you don’t want to miss out on the many day trips near San Francisco. Here are a couple of my favorite ideas!

Solo Travel San Francisco: Day Trip Ideas from the City

Berkeley:  Known for its renowned university, a visit to Berkeley is perfect for intellectuals who want more quirkiness on their solo getaway.

Concord:  If you’re a fan of tacos, then you don’t want to miss the legendary Taco Trail in Concord. Feel free to eat until your heart is happy and content! And hit up Hurricane Harbor if you’re visiting in summer. Concord is great for solo travel.

Napa Valley: You are so close to one of the best wine regions in the nation. Enjoy it. However, public transportation options to Napa Valley are quite limited. Plus the wineries are spread out. You can rent a car, but I personally recommend taking a wine tasting tour for convenience’s sake. Carefully read reviews before making your choice.

Calistoga:  If you’re seeking an area that less touristy than Napa itself, then spend a couple of days unwinding in the city of Calistoga. You can enjoy plenty of beautiful nature and spas.

Muir Woods:  The redwoods are a natural wonder you shouldn’t miss. The trails are easy to follow, and you’ll enjoy some fantastic views of these unique gigantic trees.

Sausalito:  I absolutely fell in love with Sausalito on my solo trip. I felt like I had been dropped into a beautiful Mediterranean paradise … in the United States! Sausalito has many eating and shopping options, and provides an easy escape from the big city. It’s only a quick ferry ride across the scenic bay — which makes Sausalito a great time if the sun is shining.

Tri-Valley:  Do you want to explore another wine region that isn’t as busy as Napa? Then venture further out to the Tri-Valley . Visit wineries in Livermore. Learn about literature in Danville. Eat ice cream in Pleasanton. And so much more! 

Packing Essentials for San Francisco

I talk extensively about what to pack for San Francisco on this blog, but I’ve also included some quick suggestions in this post, most importantly shoes!

The BEST Shoes for San Francisco

I know what you’re thinking: solo female travel in San Francisco, huh? I gotta look extra cute!

Oh god, please don’t make my mistake and actually pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes for your adventure in San Francisco instead.

What did I do wrong?

On my biggest walking day, I chose to wear adorable open-toed shoes with a fat heel. They were super cute and matched my dresses … but walking to the Golden Gate Bridge from Fisherman’s Wharf wearing those heels? I was ready to chuck them in the bay because my feet were so pissed off.

As you sightsee, forget the “cuteness” and bring the most comfortable pair of sneakers you own with you. Trust me.

I absolutely love Clarks Loafers and Merrell sneakers for traveling in bigger cities! Check them out!

Other Important Items

• High Quality Camera:  Photos may not do a justice, but a good camera can help capture your travel memories. My recommendation is Sony’s a6000 Mirrorless Camera for great shots!
• San Francisco Guidebook:  Like any big city, San Francisco has a ton to see and do, and every solo traveler is different! Invest in Lonely Planet’s San Francisco pocket guide to make your trip perfect!
• Sunglasses:  You will spend a lot of time outside in San Francisco. Be sure to pack sunglasses to protect your eyes on the days fog is not an issue, haha.
• Travel Insurance: Even though San Francisco is pretty safe, anything can happen on the road! This is why I always buy  travel insurance . Discover that policies are reasonably priced, too. All in all, I feel so much more comfortable knowing my trip is insured. 
• Windbreaker Jacket: Like I mentioned earlier, San Francisco can feel chilly, especially on the bay. No matter what time of year, always bring a windbreaker to keep yourself warm from the winds.

How to Navigate San Francisco Alone

San Francisco is easy to explore without a car, unless you’re venturing somewhere else in the Bay Area. Here are the main ways that you will get around. 

Transportation Advice

Rent a Bike:  Bike rentals exist all throughout San Francisco. I know my hostel easily arranged bike rentals for visitors. Bikes will keep you mobile, but again, stay aware of the hills. I don’t know if I would’ve had the physical energy to bike or not.

Take the Cable Cars:  The Cable trolleys, like I said, are a fun way to navigate San Francisco. They don’t go to all relevant places and are pretty packed at times, but riding a cable car is a “must do” in San Francisco.

Take the BART:  Honestly, I only took the BART coming from San Francisco’s airport. It’s an easy way to get downtown when you first arrive in this gorgeous city.

Ride Share:  Uber or Lyft is a simple app and request away! These are especially useful for going out at night!

Do you think solo female travel in San Francisco sounds like fun? Have you ever been to San Francisco? Did you like it?

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

4 thoughts on “ California Love: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in San Francisco ”

I’m going to San Francisco in February! I just have a few days there and will be travelling solo. What parts of the city are best to stay in? And how did you find transport and getting around the city?

Hey Rachel, amazing post! I’m going to San Francisco in June and now I can’t wait! Is there a pass/transit card you can purchase that includes the trolleys?

Great post. I have two questions since i am maybe going to SF. Can you do a daytrip to Napa? And can you do the Miur woods solo? Or do you need a group?

Thanks for the great post! I’m planning a solo trip to SF in July! Did you stumble across any great restaurants for solo dining? Particularly seafood 🙂

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23 Solo Date Ideas In San Francisco For A Little Me Time

When in doubt, go it alone! From exercising to exploring, here are some of our favorite solo date ideas in San Francisco.

Calling all San Franciscans who want to enjoy a little me time! Whether you simply prefer going solo, or you need some time to be with yourself, there are plenty of things to do alone in San Francisco and the rest of the Bay Area. Take this as your friendly reminder to get out of the house and take yourself on a solo date–you may just find an awesome new hobby or escape. Thanks to our Instagram followers who gave us some great ideas to fill out this list. Read on for the best places to be a party of one in San Francisco.

Table Of Contents

Shopping alone in San Francisco

Exploring alone in san francisco, exercising alone in san francisco, restaurants and bars to try alone in san francisco, 1. discover a new vintage shop.

Vintage clothing is always in. Whether you’re trying to channel the bright ’80s vibe, nail that ’60s Summer of Love look, or want to step into a hip speakeasy in your best ’20s flapper dress, San Francisco has a vintage clothing store for that.

• Body Philosophy Club

2. Find your next plant children at an SF nursery

San Francisco is full of countless awesome plant stores and nurseries, and no matter who you are, you can surely appreciate the life and energy that these little green friends bring into your home. Below are some favorites but check out our plant store roundup for more.

• Arcana – also a wine bar, tea shop, you name it
• Succulence – check out their planting bar
• Flora Grubb Gardens

3. Take a lap around the Ferry Building

Every San Franciscan knows that the historic Ferry Building is home to dozens of exciting vendors and events. Here are some of our favorites:

• Fog City Flea
• Ferry Plaza Farmers’ Market
• Red Bay Coffee
• Humphry Slocombe
• Dandelion Chocolate

4. Pick up a great read at a local bookstore

Many a San Franciscan loves to curl up with a good book and sip on a cup o’ joe from one of SF’s legendary coffee shops. Not sure where to find your next good read? These famous bookstores around the city are musts for any local bookworm.

• The Booksmith
• City Lights Books
• Black Bird Bookstore

5. Cruise around one of SF’s bustling open-air markets

These open-air markets in San Francisco showcase a diverse range of artists, makers, farmers, and other types of vendors. Whether you’re looking for a nice weekend farmers market to pick up some local produce, or a craft market to buy a unique gift, we’re sure these local open-air markets will put you in touch with the best SF has to offer.

• SF farmers markets
• West Coast Craft
• Park Market at Crane Cove

6. Expand your mind at one of SF’s many museums

Here in the Bay Area we’re undeniably lucky to have a wealth of resources in the worlds of art, culture, science, and technology. Here we’ve rounded up the most essential San Francisco museums that you’ve got to visit at least once, from SFMOMA to the Academy of Sciences .

• oung.famsf.org/" data-has-ga="true" data-ga-type="click" data-category="outbound_link" data-action="cta" data-label="https://dey oung.famsf.org/" target="_blank">de Young Museum
• SFMOMA : Make sure you see Olafur Eliasson’s One-Way Colour Tunnel.
• Museum of the African Diaspora
• Free admission days: Many museums and gardens in SF offer free or reduced admission. You just have to know when to go!

7. Immerse yourself in a beautiful San Francisco garden

San Francisco is home to plenty of memorable gardens, but the most unique ones can take some digging to find. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of interesting and unforgettable spots for you to get a breath of fresh air.

• SF Botanical Garden: See the magnolias in bloom in February and March.
• Japanese Tea Garden: Check it out during cherry blossom season .
• Unique gardens : Favorites include the Fragrance Garden and the Shakespeare Garden.

8. People-watch at a gorgeous public park

• Golden Gate Park : Some of our favorite spots include the Dahlia garden (June-September), the tulip grove (March-April), the bison herd , and the John McLaren statue .
• Presidio : Amazing hidden gems include Andy Goldsworthy’s famous sculptures and hidden lookouts. You can also check out kite surfing at Crissy Field Beach April-September.
• Salesforce Park : Look for free activities every single week including exercise classes, musical performances, garden tours, and so much more.

9. Sign up for a class at SF’s best pottery studios

Calling all creatives! These wonderful pottery studios in San Francisco are great for taking all-levels classes, perfecting your technique, or dropping into open studio hours. Check out a range of options including wheel-throwing, hand-building, project-based workshops, or group and team building.

• Clay by the Bay
• Hickory Clay

10. Seek out some awesome ocean views

• Our favorite beaches : From Ocean Beach to Fort Funston, SF beaches are on another level.
• Waterfront restaurants : Enjoy a solo meal or cocktail and watch the waves at one of these local restaurants.
• Golden Gate Bridge: See it on foot or on a bike and try to spot some harbor porpoises while you’re at it.
• Go at sunset: Any ocean view goes up a couple notches with a sunset! Our list of sunset viewing spots has a few to get you started, such as Lands End, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach Overlook.
• Elephant seals: The best time for elephant seal viewing is from January-March during pupping season.

11. Find a new perspective on a city tour

• Fort Point Candlelight Tour : A unique night tour of Fort Point National Historic Site.
• Self-guided light art tour : 11 of the best light art installations in the city, reaching from the Bay Bridge to the Castro.
• SF Ghost Hunt : You’ll see the haunted trees of abolitionist Mary Ellen Pleasant, learn about the Chambers Mansion poltergeists, and more
• Outdoor spots for history lovers : Our roundup of outdoor spots for history lovers isn’t technically a tour, but save the map so you can check these places out when you’re in the neighborhood.

12. Explore SF’s eclectic public art scene

• Staircases : Favorites include the Hidden Garden Steps, Lyon Street Steps, and the Lincoln Park Steps.
• Mural collections: : Favorites include Balmy Alley and Umbrella Alley.
• Lesser known public art: Favorites include the Yoda fountain, the Venus statue, Drawn Stone , and the Harry Potter Door.

13. Settle in for a movie at one of SF’s best theaters

Here we’ve rounded up our favorite San Francisco movie theaters , from large chains like AMC and Regal to smaller indie theaters like the Roxie. With so many great things to stream these days, sometimes we forget the allure of watching a new release in theaters. But we promise that these local SF cinemas will take your movie-watching experience up a notch.

14. Sign up for SF Rec & Park’s seasonal recreation programs

Do you want to pick up a new hobby or sport? One of SF’s most underrated public programs comes to us courtesy of the SF Recreation & Parks department, which brings an impressive lineup of all-ages art and fitness classes every single season. From photography to basketball, you’ll always find an interesting activity to join for a few months of the year or to keep up all year long. We’re incredibly lucky to have a resource like this in SF, so read on to learn how to make the most of it.

15. Get yourself an SF Public Library Card

We are exceptionally lucky to have the San Francisco Public Library system, which serves the community in countless immeasurable ways. Registering for a library card is one of the best things you can do to expand your resources because it gives you free access to more than just books — think online classes, job and career services, museum passes, printing and scanning, and even vinyl record rental, to name a few.

16. Find your zen at an unconventional yoga class

• Yoga in the Garden at SF Botanical Garden : First Thursday of the month at 12pm
• Yoga on the Labyrinth at Grace Cathedral : every Tuesday evening from 6:15-7:30pm

17. Go for a relaxing bike ride

There are some very beautiful spots to take your bike for a spin, and the City has some stellar infrastructure for cyclists. Especially if you’re a first-time cyclist in the City, consider planning your next outing at these beautiful routes.

• Angel Island
• Fort Funston
• Barbary Coast Trail

18. Enjoy a brisk walk through SF’s most iconic neighborhoods

Take this as your friendly reminder to get your steps in! Whether you need a new dog walking route or just need to clear your head, these places around the city will get the job done.

• Bernal Heights
• Pac Heights
• McLaren Park

19. Step it up a little on a local hike

Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll in the city or a more strenuous day hike in Marin, you’ll love these incredible hikes for a chance to stretch your legs.

• Lands End Trail
• Mount Davidson Trail Loop
• Point Bonita Lighthouse Trail

20. Treat yourself at one of the Bay Area’s most Instagrammable cafes

It’s not so hard to inject a dose of luxury into your coffee routine! These cafes around the Bay Area are great for delicious drinks and breakfast/brunch fare, but they especially stand out for their unique, eye-catching design elements. Whether you want an over-the-top garden oasis or an upscale minimalist space, these 10 cafes around the Bay are not to be missed.

• K Cafe Patisserie & Tea House
• Nirvana Soul
• MY Coffee Roastery

21. Taste something new from one of the city’s beloved bakeries

San Franciscans with a sweet tooth have it easy in this glorious city, because SF bakeries absolutely do not mess around. We’re talking enormous flaky croissants, meticulously decorated cakes, buttery danishes, sweet and simple tarts, savory empanadas, SF-style sourdough bread, and basically anything else you can imagine.

• B. Patisserie
• Arsicault Bakery
• Le Marais Bakery

22. Savor a massive ice cream treat

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joe’s Ice Cream (@joesicecreamsf)

It’s hard to go wrong with ice cream, but there are a few places where you can certainly go right. Some of our favorites are below, but be sure to check our ice cream roundup.

• Bi-Rite Creamery
• Nieves Cinco de Mayo

23. Grab some food to go and enjoy a charming picnic with yourself

Whether you want to support a local cafe and get some amazing food to go, or you prefer to pack your own delicious recipe to enjoy out in the sunshine, you’ll love all of these great picnic spots around the city.

• Old Speedway Meadow
• Pine Lake Park
• Palace of Fine Arts

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24 Best Things to Do Alone in San Francisco

Piers, craft beer, and iconic landmarks discover some of the best things to do alone in San Francisco .

There’s no denying that, in this modern era, San Francisco is often considered ‘the technological hub’ of America. And for a fact, it’s true – because it houses most of the tech giants like – Apple, Google, Uber, and Facebook. It’s interesting to realize how these tech platforms impact our daily lives, also knowing it all comes from one city –  San Francisco .

But then, that’s not all.

Along with being synonymous with ‘tech’, San Francisco is a renowned bustling city known for its revelatory architecture, vibrant community, and art & culture. The locals live their lives to the fullest in SFO whilst ensuring enough hustle for tourists like us.

To me, San Francisco is a pure outdoor city . From touring the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to exploring the waterfront areas, visiting the iconic Piers, and indulging in food & local experiences – the list is simply never-ending.

But, on the other hand, with so many activities & experiences to do in San Francisco – it’s often quite overwhelming for tourists to decide what to do, which places to visit, and where to eat. To make it simple, we have curated this definitive to-do bucket list for you – to discover some of the best things to do alone in San Francisco.

This guide is a bit comprehensive, covering 24 top activities in San Francisco – in addition to must-do experiences & must-see activities.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco is a year-round destination. The climate is moderate, with occasional heating months between June to October. That being said, the peak period to visit San Francisco is during July and August.

Mind you, if you plan to travel to San Francisco during this period – as you might be in for a jam-packed crowd. Hotel prices sky-rocket, attractions aren’t that cheap, plus tourist attractions are heavily crowded.

We recommend visiting Francisco in May, June, September, or October. We can’t guarantee the number of tourists flocking in – but indeed, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy activities in San Francisco.

THINGS TO DO ALONE IN SAN FRANCISCO

The list below will help you plan a perfect trip to San Francisco, including shortlisting top places to visit, unique things to do, and other fun & unusual experiences.

1. VISIT THE ICONIC GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE

The world’s iconic artificial structure is tucked away between San Francisco and Marin Country – Golden Gate Bridge. Along with being San Francisco’s trademark, it’s been declared one of the world’s marvels.

In 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge stood proudly overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean. Before its actual construction, it wasn’t easy for the locals to travel across the city. They mainly used ferries to travel to the other side, popularly known as the ‘Golden State Ferry Company’.

The Golden Gate Bridge can be seen almost anywhere within the city, especially if you’re cruising past the bridge. The view gets better when you’re driving across – staring at the skylines on one side and nature. It doesn’t matter where you go or which place you visit in San Francisco – Golden Gate becomes a must-see experience.

I personally don’t think anyone who has visited San Francisco before- missed out on gazing at this marvel. It’s true of its kind, and you should add it to your San Francisco bucket-list activity right now!

2. TOUR THE ALCATRAZ ISLAND

Exploring Alcatraz is definitely one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco. It’s worth your time to take a guided tour of the island, even though you’re short on time. Often, Alcatraz is mistaken for its ‘prison tour’ only, which is not the truth. The island is much more than a guided tour, with many of our fellow readers rating it as one of the ‘stand-out’ experiences of their time in San Francisco.

Initially, Alcatraz was built considering the need of having military fortification. It was popularly known for its federal prison between 1933 and 1963. Post which, it got closed because of financial maintenance. Today, it’s become a tourist attraction – pulling in millions of visitors every year.

Note : Practically, it’s impossible to turn up and purchase tickets for your Alcatraz tour, and it’s best recommended to book them in advance to avoid any last moment hassles. If you’re interested in guided excursions, then check these fantastic excursions.

3. VIBE AT UNION SQUARE

Union Square San Francisco is a shopping paradise for tourists. Being the third-largest shopping space in the United States, one could get easily lost here, exploring the vibrancy of each shop.

It started gaining some traction in the early 1900s, as visitors across the globe started coming to see this area. Union Square has become an epicentre of upscaled shops, boutique stores, and luxury essence. Most of the shops here feature clothing, DIY products, and other artworks.

It’s a whole new world within San Francisco to discover anything you need to buy. So, keep your wallets ready because the prices are high.

Apart from the shopping experience, Union Square is famously known for its active nightlife. You’ll find concerts, live events, and shows to keep you entertained on any given day. And this place gets better every day, thus making it one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco at night .

4. CULTURAL COMMUNITY OF CHINATOWN

You can find Chinatown in major cities across the globe, but the one in San Francisco is the oldest & most established one. There are four Chinatowns in the city, amongst which ‘Grant Avenue’ is the biggest & most popular.

From exploring the streets of Chinatown to trying out delicious dim sum and soup – it’s easy to get lost in this tiny world. The hustle of the locals starts from the Dragon Gate to China Live, where you’ll find numerous shops, stalls, and restaurants galore. You can easily spend a day here, wandering off the alleys and browsing local shops.

A fact? Chinatown pulls in more visitors each year than the Golden Gate Bridge. Interesting right? And, I don’t find it hard to believe – especially with the eclectic atmosphere the neighbourhood boasts.

Also, if you’re looking to hog some traditional Chinese cuisine, there’s no better place than Chinatown in San Francisco. Indulge yourself in various authentic dishes the neighbourhood presents and sincerely treat yourself.

5. MARVEL AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF + PIER 39

Fisherman’s Wharf is a ‘must-visit’ attraction in San Francisco. Located in the northern part of the city, this historic waterfront is a vital touristic space filled with hundreds of souvenir shops and world-class restaurants. It truly feels nice to be here, especially if you’re coming down to San Francisco for the first time.

If you’re visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 is where you need to head. It’s home to San Francisco’s dynamic environment – housing the Aquarium of the Bay, Ghirardelli Square, and fun-filled arousing arcades. And not to forget, this is the only place in San Francisco where you can ogle sea lions.

Once you’re done exploring, the most important thing you need to do is try out fantastic food at Fisherman’s Wharf. The stalls located across the stretch specialize in selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. Moreover, if you’re a fish lover, I might suggest trying ‘Cioppino’.

6. ENJOY SAN FRANCISCO’S CABLE CAR RIDE

None gets unique from all the activities you do than riding on a cable car in San Francisco. More than being a world-renowned transport system, cable cars have become a symbol representing the city’s iconic culture. It’s been 150 years since its inception, yet these rides have been in tip-top shape. Sadly, only three cable cars remain to date, keeping tourists and locals happy about their service.

Riding a cable car in San Francisco is pretty simple. There are three main routes you can choose – California Line, Powell-Hyde Line, and Powell-Mason Line. These routes operate differently, offering breathtaking views of the city’s nature & cultural attractions. However, most locals residing in San Francisco will often agree that Powell-Hyde Line is best.

The route gives you better views of major attractions of the San Francisco – Bay Area, Alcatraz Island, and Coit Tower. It also passes through Union Square and Nob Hill, where the views are simply unbeaten.

If you need to purchase tickets for these cable car rides, I recommend using the SFMTA’s official ticketing app –  MuniMobile . More information on ticket prices for  single-car rides can be found here .

7. CITY TOUR OF SAN FRANCISCO

The best possible way to get maximum out of San Francisco is to book a guided city tour. This becomes one of the most feasible options for travellers who are short on time or don’t want to spend much effort wandering off.

I recommend doing this Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour of San Francisco – which introduces you to the city with a glance. From the comfort of your seat, marvel at the legendary attractions of San Francisco and discover fascinating history & culture whilst touring.

The tour covers all the essential key points of interest & landmarks of San Francisco – including Pier 41, Ferry Building, Golden Gate Park, Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square, Washington Square, Palace of Fine Arts, Civic Center, Marina Neighborhood, and Lombard Street Corridor. This tour operator has several other options for you to choose from before booking any special guided tour. You even can go for the ‘Panoramic Night Tour’ of San Francisco.

8. VISIT THE GHIRARDELLI SQUARE

Lined with upscale shops, wineries, and fantastic chocolate shops, Ghirardelli Square is one of San Francisco’s premier destinations. The reason why you should visit Ghirardelli Square is its history.

Initially, the square was formerly a prestigious chocolate factory founded by Domenico Ghirardelli in 1852. He was born and brought up in Italy and worked as a young confectioner. As time passed, the founder became well-known for its coffee and chocolate-producing skills.

Eventually, he stayed in San Francisco, where the Ghirardelli Chocolate factory was set up. Today, it’s a popular fair housing fancy stores, restaurants, and ice-cream stalls.

9. EXPLORE FERRY BUILDING MARKETPLACE

Ferry Building Marketplace stands as one of San Francisco’s essential landmarks. It is known for its two-fold status; one represents historical architecture, and the other showcases the city’s culinary scene. It becomes a one-stop platform for tourists and locals to eat, share and celebrate the food culture of SF.

Since it is San Francisco’s largest farmers market – expect you to get all types of local produce & items. The stalls are packed with fresh veggies, farm fruits, meat, and frozen goods. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays – the Ferry Building Marketplace explodes with farmers and rangers selling artisan food and wine produce.

Recommended : Read more on Ferry Building’s world-class restaurants, market days, and nearby attractions in this  amazingly detailed guide .

10. TWISTED LANES OF LOMBARD STREET

Visiting Lombard Street is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco. And rightly so, because of its uniquely ‘crooked zig-zag street’.

The best way to explore Lombard Street in SF is to reach the top by taking the Hyde Street cable car. Once you reach the upper area, you can either walk down the steps or bike to marvel at the beautiful mansions surrounding the Lombard.

If you have a car, you can drive down this street for a thrilling experience.

11. WATCH THE PAINTED LADIES

There are dozens of beautiful houses – probably hundreds – found across San Francisco’s neighbourhood. Many of them are based in Cole Valley, Haight-Ashbury, and Lower Haight. But, one particular stretch that will catch your attention – is the Edwardian houses located on 710-720 Steiner Street of Hayes Street.

These decorated Victorian houses have been referred to as ‘ the Painted Ladies ‘. Yes, the name is a bit weird – but it makes sense considering how beautiful they look with vibrant subtle colours. Interestingly, these houses have been featured in more than 70 movies, ads, and other TV shows.

Since people live in these houses, you can’t enter them – but you can catch a great view from the hillside of Alamo Square.

12. INDULGE IN SAN FRANCISCO’S LOCAL CUISINE

San Francisco is home to some of the hottest bars, most fabulous restaurants, and iconic street vendors. Tourists have vividly praised its long, storied food scene, and the city’s been actively involved in scaling its culinary world within its neighbourhoods.

From trying out the signature Mission-style burritos and Cioppino to clam chowder bread bowl, there’s no shortage of trying San Francisco’s typical local food. Its famous Egg custard tarts, prime ribs, and Swedish pancakes have been growing in popularity for a decade, and it’s something you can’t miss on your first visit.

If hogging is your thing, or maybe you want to get introduced to SF’s famous gastronomical culture, check these  must-eat dishes in San Francisco . Or find this guide to  SF’s remarkable restaurants . No matter what you try, indulging in SF’s cuisine is one of the best things to do alone.

13. GAZE THE CITY FROM THE TWIN PEAKS

Many visitors who travel to San Francisco for the first time often miss out on exploring the Twin Peaks. It’s one of the most underrated, gorgeous tourist attractions, which can only be appreciated by visiting.

Elevated at 922 feet, the Twin Peaks offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area. The two peaks are adjacent, giving you full access to gaze at the city’s shimmering skylines. Most tourists often drive, walk or bike the north peak to enjoy panoramic views of San Francisco.

Initially, the peaks were known as ‘Los Pechos de la Choca’ (Breasts of the Maiden). It’s densely filled with a mix of grassland and coastal scrub. You can even expect to spot animals like lupine, coyotes, and rabbits. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see the endangered mission blue butterfly.

Travel Tip : One of the best ways to explore the Twin Peaks is to walk the 0.7-mile trail. It passes between the peaks that lead to the north point overlook. You can further continue down Twin Peaks Blvd by taking the ‘ Creek to Peaks Trail ‘ (1.2-mile). Stay on track and follow the rules laid on these established trails.

14. VISIT MODERN ART IN THE CITY

If exploring museums excites you, the Museum of Modern Art in San Francisco will surely enhance your experience. Housing more than 29,000 pieces of artwork, paintings, sculptures, and modern architecture – the Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is the actual of its kind.

The museum is almost 80 years old, but it went through infrastructural changes in 2016. Today, it boasts a ten-story 170,000 square and 16 more exhibition galleries and ground-floor exhibits. It won’t be a surprise if you get lost in the museum, admiring every modern art piece displayed in each section.

Travel Q  –  How much does a ticket to SFMOMA cost?

Visitors residing in San Francisco with valid CalFresh, Medi-Cal, or EBT cards can visit SFMOMA. If you’ve purchased an annual membership ($100), admission is free and other museum-based benefits. For tourists, the general admission costs $25. You can check more details on pricing  here .

15. RELAX AT DOLORES PARK

Surrounding an area of 16 acres, Mission Dolores Park is one of the most vibrant parks in San Francisco. Its energetic atmosphere matches up relatively equally with the diverse neighbourhood harbouring the park.

Mission Dolores Park in San Francisco is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Come at any hour, and you’ll seek peace, friendly locals, and bustling activities around the park. Moreover, the park is well-known for the many festivals, performances, and cultural events it boasts.

On weekends, during sunny afternoons – you’ll find all sorts of visitors enjoying a picnic with their friends and families. People walk their dogs, youth enjoy their sports, and elderly citizens gossip about their routine.

It’s not only the environment that makes Mission Dolores Park a must-visit place in San Francisco, and you’ll soon realize this park is the best place to catch the views of the downtown skyline.

16. EXPLORE THE PALACE OF FINE ARTS

Constructed in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific Exhibition, the Palace of Fine Arts has been a long-lasting San Francisco icon. It’s been coined as the city’s ‘Designated Landmark’ and listed under the U.S National Register of Historic Places.

The Palace of Fine Arts makes a perfect place for families to stroll and picnic around. It’s not usually crowded in the morning, but you’ll start seeing crowds late in the afternoon. Often so, you’ll see wedding shoots happening around the area. The grounds of these building has been an iconic place for couples to shoot prenuptial photos & videos.

Apart from touring the site, the Palace of Fine Arts also has a theatre – featuring musical performances, comedy acts, and live shows. You’ll need to purchase tickets for these events before their dates.

17. TRY BURRITOS IN SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco’s burrito game has been so strong that it’s still a significant ongoing debate about who produces the best in the city. To start, burritos are an integral food icon in San Francisco, and it makes a perfect go-to-lunch option for any traveller/local exploring the city. But, no matter which one you try – the best remains the ‘Mission-style burritos.’

But, nowadays, anything wrapped in a tortilla qualifies to become a burrito. It’s commonly found everywhere, almost on every street corner or a food stall. Some sell burritos in an Indian fashion (mixing spicy masalas), whereas others with other classic fusions of Filipino and Korean ingredients.

Whether you go or which place you visit – trying out a burrito in SF is a must!

Recommended :  16 Lip-Smacking Burritos in San Francisco .

18. SAN FRANCISCO BOTANICAL GARDEN

There’s nothing more relaxing and peaceful than touring the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Based in Golden Gate Park, this 75-year old garden spreads across 55 acres, housing numerous plant and flower species. Most of the flora has been collected from different parts like Asia, South America, and Central America.

Amidst the gardens, stone-laden paths and paved trails lead you to more significant parts of this sprawling area. With over 8,000 different plants, there’s much to see and study as you wander around. The garden is also home to a unique collection of magnolias.

One of the most exciting areas is the Garden of Fragrance, where visitors get a chance to sniff sweet-smelling flowers and plants like lavender, rockrose, and lemon verbena.

Visit the official website  of San Francisco Botanical Gardens to get more details on tickets and pricing.

19. DAY TRIP TO ANGEL ISLAND

Angel Island is a popular getaway destination from San Francisco. Many travellers who often explore San Francisco take a day trip to Angel Island for a quick off-beat experience.

You can reach the island by ferry and then take a guided tour or open-air tram to explore further. The island isn’t as lively as you might think, but with a small population of 60 people living – you can still be sure of finding interesting viewpoints and hidden gems.

Angel Island lines up fantastic cafes and restaurants. Nothing gets better than a quick lunch with a coastal view. You’ll find events and live music bustling across the island most of the time. Make sure you check an event that might be happening before your visit.

20. SUNSET CRUISE AT SAN FRANCISCO

Nothing can beat the experience of cruising past the  Golden Gate Bridge at sunset , and it’s probably the thing many visitors dream of whilst spotting other nearby attractions from the cruise.

If you’re in San Francisco for the first time, never let go of this opportunity – to  book a sunset cruise . There are daily departures from Fisherman’s Wharf, taking you past the waterfront areas, under the bridge, and Alcatraz Island.

As you sail through, marvel at the lively neighbourhoods of North Beach, historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, lush greenery of Presidio and Crissy Field, and the city’s breathtaking skylines as they fade underneath the sun’s sparkling rays.

21. DISCOVER SAN FRANCISCO’S BEACHES

San Francisco’s craggy coastline makes the city itself a better choice for exploring its surrounding beaches. The moody weather and beach-driven activities along the rugged stretches entice visitors to discover and enjoy their time.

Despite the modern setting of San Francisco, the beaches located here are surprisingly unspoiled, protected and preserved. While most beaches are located outside of the city, some are located within San Francisco –  Ocean Beach  and  Baker Beach .

Suppose you feel like taking a day trip from San Francisco, head south to Half Moon Bay. It’s a popular getaway destination for residents staying in San Francisco. Even further towards the south lies the famous beaches of  Pescadero State  and  San Gregorio .

22. EXCURSION TO JAPANESE TEA GARDENS

Japanese Tea Gardens in San Francisco feels entirely like a whole new world. The contrasting colours, the maples trees, and the cherry blossom flowers bloom brightly all add to your experience of visiting this garden.

Explore the Japenese Tea Gardens by strolling around, walking through the manicured terraces, stone paths, and cute little arched bridge. Learn more about its traditions and culture, and later head to Tea House for a cuppa.

23. GO HIKING IN SAN FRANCISCO

Hiking is an unusual thing to do in San Francisco. However, this modern metropolis arguably offers the best hiking trails in the Californian state.

San Francisco boasts dozens of hiking opportunities for you to explore. The most popular ones are the Creek to Peaks trail and Presidio’s Bay Ridge Trail, and they are simply the best to enjoy the city’s natural landscape wonders. Moreover, these paths are not strenuous as you might think but instead offers a smooth experience for visitors.

Some of the hiking spots in San Francisco, such as Bernal Heights Park, Lands End, and Buena Vista Park, rival the wilderness beauty of the modern city. If you’re in San Francisco and have the time to take an early morning hike, then do explore these trails.

24. WHALE TOURS IN SAN FRANCISCO

One of the interesting things to do in San Francisco is to take guided boat tours to watch blue whales and humpbacks. These large animals are often found near San Francisco’s coast between April and November.

Often, these tours are led by experts who are well-versed in identifying opportunities to seek a glance at these whales. If you travel during the migration period, you are ought to get a chance to witness grey whales in their natural habitat.

Further Readings & Resources

Hope you enjoyed reading our list of things to do alone in San Francisco. For other American travels, we got some exciting articles & newly-curated itineraries for you to check –

Yellowstone  –  Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone Alaska  –  10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip Alaska  –  9 Day Alaska Itinerary: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau Canada  –  Canadian Rockies Mountain: 8 Day Itinerary to the Mountains Sedona  –  Phoenix to Sedona: Top Things to Do + Sedona Itinerary

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Solo Female Travel in San Francisco — Is it Safe?

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in San Francisco? Absolutely! I think San Francisco is one of the best cities for solo female travel in the United States! While many people think that San Francisco is a destination best visited with a partner, or friends, or family, it works just as well as a destination to enjoy solo.

I’ve been traveling to San Francisco since I was a teenager and traveling solo here since I was in my twenties. It’s a city with a lot to offer, it’s constantly changing, and I always have a fantastic time here.

Table of Contents

Why travel solo to San Francisco?

San Francisco is a destination that works well for all kinds of solo travelers. No matter what kind of traveler you are, you can find what you’re looking for in San Francisco.

First off, San Francisco is an excellent destination for first-time solo female travelers.  It’s easy, there are tons of things to do, it’s safe, and there’s no language barrier. If you’re curious about traveling solo but have never done so, I think a weekend trip to San Francisco is the perfect way to get your feet wet and see how you handle it.

But even experienced solo female travelers can enjoy San Francisco. You’ll probably recoil at touristy Fisherman’s Wharf, but you’ll probably be more willing to explore neighborhoods like the Mission that are a lot of fun but a little overwhelming for newbie tourists.

Are you a hardcore sightseer? San Francisco has the sights, from the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to museums like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and Oakland’s Museum of California.

Are you into food? San Francisco has incredibly good food, from low-end to high-end, including some of the best Chinese food in the nation. And if you’re into wine, you’re a stone’s throw from Napa and Sonoma counties.

Do you love the outdoors? San Francisco has easy access to forests, beaches, bike trails, and more.

Are you looking for good Instagram photos? San Francisco is full of iconic spots that will get you likes, from the Painted Ladies houses to curvy, crooked Lombard Street, and of course the famous cable cars.

Are you queer? San Francisco is one of the most queer-friendly cities in the world for people all over the gender and sexuality spectrums.

As for me, I love to spend lots of time walking through interesting neighborhoods, taking photos, and sitting in cool coffeeshops. San Francisco is a great place to do all of those things.

Above all, San Francisco is a city where women live and work — it’s not just for travelers. Being a solo traveler won’t brand you as an outsider here; you’ll just be one of the people in the city. If you’re lucky, you might even be mistaken for a local!

Best Things to Do in San Francisco on a Solo Trip

I’ve been visiting San Francisco for years and have carved out my little slice of the city. While many of my beloved spots have sadly closed over the years, here are some of my favorite things to do in the city.

Take a food tour through North Beach. North Beach was once home to San Francisco’s Italian-American community, and many Italian spots remain to this day. I had one of the best food tours of my life with Tastes of the City , and tour guide Tom is a character and a half.

Explore the Haight-Ashbury. This colorful neighborhood was historically home to the counterculture movement in the 1960s, as well as home to artists like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, and the hippie spirit has never left the neighborhood. It’s a great place to explore and there are lots of cool cafes, boutiques, and record shops.

Attend a singalong at the Castro Theatre . Castro was once the epicenter of the gay community in the United States, and it remains a colorful and welcoming destination to all. The theater does all kinds of special events, but if you’re in town during one of their singalongs, like for Grease or Moana or Annie , you don’t want to miss it!

Go for a walk early in the morning. If you’re flying in from the east, you’ll likely be waking up early from jet-lag anyway, so take advantage and go for an early walk while Karl the Fog is rolling in! The city looks so different at this time of day and it’s a lot of fun to photograph.

Visit the Oakland Museum of California . Yep, Oakland is worth a visit — and while I’m not ordinarily a museum person, this is one of my favorite museums in the United States, highlighting so many cultural aspects of California, from the history of the Black Panthers to the ecological environment of the Coachella Valley.

Take the ferry to Alcatraz. I didn’t think I’d be into this infamous prison island, but I had a blast! It’s one of the super-touristy activities in San Francisco that you simply must do. If you’re into cheesy Nicolas Cage movies, I recommend pairing it with a viewing of The Rock .

Dive deep into Chinatown. San Francisco has a long history of Chinese settlers, and today San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest in America. You can browse the shops and markets, people-watch in Portsmouth Square, go tea tasting at Vital Tea Leaf , check out the Chinese Historical Society, and of course, eat at restaurants from regions all over China.

Check out Sausalito. This town across the Golden Gate Bridge is a gorgeous little spot and so different from San Francisco. You can get there from San Francisco on a ferry, but if you’re up for something more active, join a bike tour !

Eat at In & Out Burger. Granted, this is a west coast thing, not San Francisco-specific, but In & Out is INSANELY good. There’s a reason why your California friends pine for them when they’re away from home. Read up on their “secret” menu here before you go.

Have a margarita with a salt cloud at Calavera in Oakland. Are you used to enjoying a margarita with a salted rim? Calavera makes margaritas with a floating salt cloud on top. I love them a million times more than regular margaritas. Salt clouds are the perfect margarita topping!

Don’t Miss Oakland on a San Francisco trip!

Is San Francisco Safe?

San Francisco, generally speaking, is a safe destination for travelers.  It’s comparable to most other U.S. cities, but the violent crime rate is much lower than other popular tourist hotspots like New Orleans, Las Vegas, and Washington, DC.

That said, San Francisco is a very touristy city, and any destination full of naive tourists is a target for scammers. You should especially be vigilant in tourist-dense destinations like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, and the ferries to and from Alcatraz. Additionally, the homelessness problem in San Francisco is severe, and it can be jarring if you’re not prepared. Read more on that further down.

Even so, anything can happen anywhere and you should be prepared for the worst with safety tips and travel insurance. Read on for specific safety tips for San Francisco.

San Francisco Travel and Safety Tips

San Francisco is not the kind of place where you need to take on hyper-specific travel safety tips beyond basic caution and common sense — but there are some things you should know. Here are some tips that will result in a better solo trip to San Francisco for you:

Know the context of gentrification, Big Tech, and spiraling housing prices in San Francisco. The Bay Area is the most expensive place to live in America, and San Francisco’s housing prices are even higher than New York City’s. This is due in part to San Francisco’s limited geography, being surrounded on three sides by water, and exacerbated by the tech industry’s headquarters in nearby Silicon Valley.

At this point, the city is turning into a playground for the rich, with many tech companies providing shuttles from San Francisco to their offices. It’s nearly impossible for a low-wage worker to live in the city unless he or she lives in a rent-controlled apartment with family, commutes long-distance, or lives dorm-style with several roommates. Income inequality in America is severe enough as is, but in San Francisco it’s even more so.

Why is it important to know this? It means you’ll have a deeper understanding of San Francisco and its current issues. But more importantly, you’ll be able to emphasize with the people you’re visiting, particularly those who are serving you coffee, cleaning the sidewalks, or ringing up your order at the drugstore.

San Francisco has a major homelessness problem. If you’re not from a major city, you’ll probably find it jarring, and even as a New Yorker, I’m shocked at the level of homelessness in San Francisco. This has been a major problem for the city for quite some time, and as a tourist, it can be difficult to see so many people in pain.

Other than panhandlers asking for change, homeless people will not approach you. It’s perfectly fine to keep your distance or ignore them; if you want to give them money, that’s your choice, or you could make a donation to the Coalition for the Homeless San Francisco . If you see a confrontation or someone making a commotion, keep your distance. If you witness an emergency situation, call 911.

There is no way to avoid homeless people entirely in San Francisco, but there are some areas where it is particularly dense, like in the Tenderloin neighborhood. I encourage you to view San Francisco’s homeless with compassion rather than feeling inconvenienced by their existence.

San Francisco is very hilly, which makes accessibility a challenge.  Quite a few of San Francisco’s hills are extremely steep, which can be challenging if you have difficulties walking. I wore sandals for most of my visit, but there were times when I wished I had sneakers for navigating the steepest hills.

Car break-ins are common in San Francisco. While violent crime in San Francisco is low, car break-ins are a major crime issue . There’s no reason to bring your car to San Francisco — you can get around the city easily without one.

I recommend getting around San Francisco using a combination of public transportation — the BART (subway), streetcars, trams, and buses — and taxis/Uber/Lyft. These will cover the majority of your travels within San Francisco and the area. If you’re interested in doing a day trip by car, just rent a car for that day.

San Francisco’s weather changes constantly and you’ll need to dress for multiple seasons. Most mornings, Karl the fog rolls in, and it’s gray and cool as clouds envelope the city hills. Later that fog might burn off into sunshine, or you might get some rain, or it might just stay overcast all day.

For this reason, San Franciscans dress in layers year-round. I recommend bringing a sweater or light jacket no matter what time of year it is. Bring a small, strong umbrella or you’ll end up having to buy a low-quality umbrella when it rains.

Consider bringing a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf .  These beautiful scarves are designed and sewed by my friend and have a hidden passport pocket in them. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ) and they are so good at keeping your valuables hidden. They’re also extremely chic, enough to work in a fashion-conscious city like San Francisco.

While pickpocketing in general isn’t as common in the US as in Europe, pickpockets operate in the touristy areas of San Francisco. You should always keep your belongings close, but be especially cautious in and around Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, the Alcatraz ferries, and on public transportation.

If you carry a purse, hold it close to you. I recommend a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut. I recommend many purses in this post.  Never let it hang behind you — always keep it in a place where you can see it, and keep your hand on it if you’re in a crowd.

If you carry a wallet without a purse, don’t keep it in your back pocket. This is obvious to thieves and they will grab it and run.

If you use a small backpack, lock it. I use a Pacsafe backpack where you can lock the compartments shut.

Never leave your bags anywhere unattended.  Take your belongings with you. If you’re keeping your bag under the table or otherwise out of sight, keep it between your feet or hook the strap around one of the chair legs.

Don’t carry tons of cash around with you. You can use credit cards at most places in San Francisco, and carrying lots of cash leaves you vulnerable to theft. Don’t be the traveler who gets her wallet stolen with 500 dollars in it.

Keep your valuables locked up in your accommodation and only take with you what you need that day.  I do this with my Pacsafe Travelsafe and I consider it the most important thing I pack . Keep an extra debit card and at least $100 hidden in obscure parts of your luggage.

Get an extra debit card. You should have two debit cards to two different bank accounts. If you only have one, I recommend you get a debit card from Transferwise . Keep a few hundred dollars in your account, hide the card deep in your luggage, and use it if your primary debit card is stolen.

If someone robs you, GIVE THEM WHAT THEY WANT.  Things can be replaced. Nothing is worth your life.

Only use ATMs at banks if possible.  If your card gets eaten, it’s a lot easier to retrieve it from a real bank’s ATM. If you can’t find a bank and it’s at night, use an ATM indoors, in a vestibule or in a shopping mall.

Get a digital guidebook and keep it on your phone.  Even today, I always keep a guidebook PDF on my phone — it’s great for calculating approximate time of journeys, knowing what days places are closed, and it lists medical centers you should go to in case of emergency. I’m a big fan of Lonely Planet guidebooks — I recommend Lonely Planet San Francisco or Lonely Planet California if you’re exploring further afield.

Spend extra money on staying safe.  If you’re not comfortable walking home at night, spend money on a cab or Uber. If you’re hesitant on spending money on a not-as-nice-looking hostel, pay for a nicer place. It’s worth the peace of mind. Don’t pinch pennies on your safety.

Be careful about your drinking.  Drink less in San Francisco than you ordinarily would at home — two drinks is a good limit. Only take drinks from bartenders, never take a drink from a stranger, and always keep it with you and keep an eye on it. If you choose to go wine tasting, it’s acceptable (and encouraged) to only consume a small amount and use the spittoon.

Most importantly, you have no obligation to be nice to anyone. Women often feel the need to be nice and please people at all costs. You don’t have to anywhere — especially so in San Francisco. If anyone is making you feel uncomfortable, just leave. Trust me — you won’t be the rudest person they meet that day. And so what if you were? You’re never going to see them again.

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Solo Wine Tasting in San Francisco

If you’re a wine fan in the least, you should take the opportunity to explore wine country outside San Francisco. Napa and Sonoma counties are within a short driving distance of San Francisco and either region is doable as a day trip or multi-day getaway.

However, wine tasting is not often recommended for solo travelers because it’s logistically difficult — most of the time wineries are far apart and you need to drive, and drinking and driving do not mix.

Option 1: Do a wine tasting day trip from San Francisco. This is my top recommendation. You’ll have transportation provided, you won’t have to worry about logistics, and you might make some new friends, too! Here are some options:

• Napa and Sonoma Tour Full Day Tour from San Francisco   — Three wineries in a day plus time for lunch in Sonoma.
• Painted Ladies Wine Country Tour — includes lunch, three wineries, and takes place in a vintage VW bus!
• Half Day Wine Country Tour — If you’re short on time, spend less time and check out one winery in Sonoma.

Option 2: Spend a night or two in wine country. Book accommodation in Napa. If you’re planning on doing a lot of wine tasting, this is an efficient way to spend your time and minimizing your transportation.

If you do this, be sure to take advantage of the fantastic restaurants in this region. I had one of the best meals of my life at Bottega in Yountville, and if you can manage to get a reservation, The French Laundry is there, too.

Option 3: Go wine tasting without leaving San Francisco. You can taste plenty of local wines without leaving the confines of the city, as several wineries have shops in the city. I recommend Wattle Creek Winery and  William Cross Wine Merchants and Wine Bar  in San Francisco and  Campovida in Oakland.

Whatever you choose to do, be vigilant about your drinking and try not to drink too much. Just because you’re wine tasting, it doesn’t mean you’re supposed to get drunk. It’s perfectly acceptable to only taste the wine and spittoons are always provided.

Where to Stay in San Francisco on a Solo Trip

There are plenty of safe choices of neighborhoods and hotels in San Francisco. I’ve stayed in so many places that I can recommend you an excellent option at every price tier. Here are there of my favorites:

Best San Francisco luxury hotel: Fairmont San Francisco . This is one of the most stunning hotels I’ve ever stayed in, and the luxury level is on point. Service is excellent and it’s in a great location above Nob Hill.

Best San Francisco boutique hotel: Hotel Zelos . This Union Square hotel has chic rooms, giant bathtubs, and a very cool cocktail bar called Dirty Habit.

Best San Francisco budget hotel: The Green Tortoise . Now, don’t get turned off because it’s a hostel — this is my favorite hostel in the United States, and they have a separate building filled with private rooms. The location in North Beach is ideal, the free breakfast is insane, and they have a lot of cool activities taking place throughout the week.

How to Meet People in San Francisco

San Franciscans, and Californians in general, are friendly and laid-back. While people tend to be wrapped up in their own lives, you can absolutely meet people just by being open and friendly. Here are some specific ways to make new friends in San Francisco:

Consider staying at a social hostel.  If you’re willing to stay at a social at this stage in your life, I highly recommend The Green Tortoise in North Beach. You can get a private room, and I stayed in a private room there (with a shared bath). The Green Hostel fosters community by putting on all kinds of fun activities, like comedy shows, pub crawls, $5 dinners, and live music. They also one of the best free breakfasts I’ve seen in a hostel and you can meet people while enjoying bagels.

Join tours and activities.  Tours are a great way to meet new people! Whether you’re doing a day trip to the Muir Woods and wine country  or taking a pastry baking class , you’ll meet people excited to explore the local region.

Look for Couchsurfing meetup events in San Francisco. Couchsurfing isn’t just for free accommodation — they also put on meetup events where everyone is welcome. San Francisco puts on regular meetups and they always draw a great crowd.

Join a meetup on  Meetup.com . Whether you’re into travel, running, movies, board games, or just want to meet a group of nice people, there’s a Meetup for that.

Put out feelers on social media. Often a friend of yours will have a cousin or friend living in San Francisco who will offer to meet you for coffee, just so you know someone. Take advantage of this if you can. This is what I did — I asked for San Francisco photography advice in one of my blogger groups, and a local girl named Paroma (pictured with me above) offered to meet me and take photos! We had a great morning and it was so nice to make a new friend.

Tinder. If you’re looking to date or hook up, have fun!

Where to Go After San Francisco

You could just come to San Francisco for the weekend and have a great time — or you could spend months in California and barely scrape the surface.

If you’re staying 3 days or less, I recommend staying in San Francisco. If you’re staying 4-6 days, I recommend adding in a few days trips from San Francisco. If you’re staying a week or longer, I encourage you to flesh out your California trip with some visitors to other areas.

Visit wineries in Napa and Sonoma County. If you want to explore the wine and culinary scene, this is one of the best regions on the planet. You could spend weeks there alone. You can get there within an hour or two of San Francisco.

Go to Yosemite National Park. It’s one of the most famous national parks in the United States, and for good reason — it’s one of the best and most beautiful. Yosemite is three hours from San Francisco.

Check out Monterey. Monterey is a beautiful seaside town and home to an outstanding aquarium. It’s also the setting for Big Little Lies (the HBO version, not the book version). Monterey is two hours from San Francisco.

Road trip down the California coast. Head south toward Los Angeles or San Diego and stop at gorgeous places along the way — or even north and head up toward Oregon!

Travel Insurance for San Francisco

Even if you’re visiting San Francisco from within the United States, it’s smart to get travel insurance. You might not be able to find a healthcare provider on your plan here, and travel insurance will often cover you anywhere that is 100+ miles away.

If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin. And tragically, if you plan a stay at a winery that’s destroyed by a wildfire, which has happened in California in recent years, they will refund you your costs.  I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to San Francisco.

Travel insurance is the kind of thing that seems like a waste until the moment you need it desperately. Don’t underestimate its importance — be sure to protect yourself.

San Francisco is waiting for you!

You are about to have one of the best trips of your life! I hope you have an amazing time in San Francisco. Then come back and tell me all about it.

The Best Things I Ate in San Francisco

Have you traveled solo in San Francisco? Share your tips!

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How to do San Francisco by yourself

• by Solo Traveler
• October 6, 2014 July 3, 2019

Are you going to San Francisco alone? In this article, we are going to share with you some of the best things you can do in the famous “City by the Bay.”

Thankfully, the city is renowned for its numerous attractions so our work here has been made easy. What we have done is choose the very best things you should do as soon as you have got over the jetlag or road trip.

Cable car rides

Roll around the city on this urban roller coaster ride. A must-not miss opportunity; you get to enjoy the nice weather and friendly locals whilst getting close to the amazing sights of the city. To save some money, you should consider getting a one day pass to ride to multiple locations across the city.

Visit the Rock

You can take the cruise to Alcatraz Island. Considered to be the most infamous prison, you get to tour around the deserted island, and get a glimpse of what life was like in there.

See Chinatown

This is one of the best experiences waiting for you in San Francisco. It is totally worth exploring on foot but you can also ride through the town on the cable cars. There are loads of souvenir shops for tourists, lovely restaurants serving high quality Asian food. The best time to explore Chinatown is during one of the Chinese festivals, such as the Chinese New Year, Autumn Moon and the Dragon Boat Festivals.

See the Golden Gate Bridge

Arguably the most iconic among all the attractions in this city, you don’t want to come back to the UK without having seen the Golden Bridge. Get on one of the City tours to learn about the Bridge and the City.

Visit the Japanese Tea Garden

The garden is located in the heart of the Golden Bridge Park and it is packed all year round. The garden offers a lovely location to sit alone and take in the beauty of nature while enjoying Japanese tea and cookies! Confucius say;”Go to Park!”

Take the Stairs

Are you ready to go down the 400 steps on the Telegraph Hill? It is worth the trip as you will get to enjoy the breath taking view overlooking San Francisco. If lucky enough, you might even get to see some rare wild parrots that live on the hill.

Visit the Zoo

There are dozens of rare animal species here living in specially crafted environments; you are virtually guaranteed to have fun if animals are your thing.

Take the Vampire Tour

Are you intrigued by the vampire culture? You will definitely enjoy this 2-hour tour that will start from the Noble Hill area and take you through lots of vampire fantasy sites. You can either see the attractions on your own, or sign up for the Halloween tours.

See the Wax Museum

The Wax Museum in San Francisco has continued to entertain visitors like you for over a hundred years. You can see amazing life-sized wax depictions of international dictators, as well as present day political leaders and music stars.

These are some of the best ways you can spend your time in San Francisco alone. They are guaranteed to keep you busy regardless of how long you are staying! Worried about how to get there in the first place? Companies like Expedia have you covered!

This great City offers basic to luxury accommodation, and everything in between. If you are travelling alone you might like to try shared accommodation to meet some people.

Solo Travel Extras for San Fran

Considering the size and disparity in wealth, San Francisco is a relatively safe city by US standards. Of course you should be careful on your own at night, like any big city so try and avoid being too drunk for instance. San Fran is a party city for sure with great nightlife and live music but don’t let your guard down too much late on.

In terms of expense San Francisco certainly isn’t the cheapest city in North America but as a visitor don’t let this put you off as there are many free activities to enjoy.

San Fran has a number of youth hostels and backpackers, actually more than you would find in many other US cities so a cheap bed should not be hard to find.

Try and avoid busy times of the year particularly around holiday and vacation time as the city is a popular destination for domestic and international travellers alike.

The climate is typically Northern Californian so it’s pretty benign most of the year although it has it’s famous harbor mist that can roll in and make things seems a little chilly, even in the summer time.

Have fun in SF and don’t be intimidated as a solo traveler. The locals are friendly and there are so many group activities and trips to join that you should never have to feel alone in the City.

I put all my SF food, drink, and stuff to do recs on a @Pinterest map for all you folks new to the city or visiting! http://t.co/lgqmMSw4PC — Jessica Hische (@jessicahische) September 29, 2014

19 Exciting Things To Do Alone In San Francisco

For some, exploring alone might be a daring choice, but there’s a certain magic in solo adventures in San Francisco. From meditative walks by the Golden Gate to clandestine coffee shop corners, the list of exciting things to do alone in San Francisco is practically endless. It’s not just a journey through the city, but a journey within oneself, navigating the eclectic urban sprawl and introspective moments with the same curious stride. Ready to dive in? Let’s unfold the singular charm of this city by the bay, one solo adventure at a time.

Helpful Tips For Exploring San Francisco

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Lastly, never underestimate the importance of travel insurance. I personally  vouch  for  SafetyWing . Their plans are affordable and still offer comprehensive coverage ensures you’re protected during your travels.

Best Tours For Solo Travelers In San Francisco

Before we get to the list of our favorite things to do alone in San Francisco, let’s quickly go through a few of our favorite tours for solo travelers.

If you’re a fan of active tours and looking for a fun tour where you can meet other like-minded solo travelers, check out this bike tour of Golden Gate bridge . Alternatively, if you’re more into tours that take you to the nature, you’ll surely love this tour of Muir Woods and if you’re a foodie, I’m pretty sure you’ll have a great time on the San Francisco secret food tour that uncovers some of San Francisco’s best-kept culinary secrets.

Landmarks & Historic Spots

We’re starting off this list of the best things to do alone in San Francisco with a few of the city’s most famous and iconic monuments, including…

Golden Gate Bridge: A Solo Walk

Ever tried talking to a bridge? No? Well, San Francisco’s Golden Gate might just be the chatty one to start with. Kidding aside, there’s a unique camaraderie one forms with this iconic landmark, especially when you’re taking it on solo. It’s not just about crossing from one side to the other; it’s a rite of passage, almost.

With every step, the wind tries to share whispered tales from decades past, while the view? It’s like a constantly changing wallpaper, showcasing everything from Alcatraz’s stoic stance to the city’s ever-evolving skyline. And here’s the thing: walking the Golden Gate Bridge alone lets you set your own pace . Whether you’re the slow, contemplative stroller or the ‘I’ve-got-places-to-be’ brisk walker, this bridge doesn’t judge.

Alcatraz Island: The Lone Explorer’s Experience

You know, Alcatraz isn’t just for the ‘bad guys’ anymore. In fact, it’s become a rite of passage for every lone traveler who lands in San Francisco. Picture this: You, on a boat, the mainland shrinking behind, and ahead? An island steeped in tales that teeter between thrilling and chilling. Visiting Alcatraz solo is like binge-watching your favorite thriller series, but with 360° views and the salty sea breeze as your only companion.

You’d half expect a guide to greet you with ‘Welcome to The Rock!’, but instead, you’re met with the echoing stories of former inmates and the rich history that clings to the walls. But here’s the twist: being solo means you get to decide how close you lean into those tales , or how often you pause to simply absorb the surreal views of the bay.

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like this list of the best cheap honeymoon destinations in the US .

Coit Tower: Panoramic Views Of The Bay

Perched up on Telegraph Hill, this isn’t just another ‘let’s-check-it-off-the-list’ attraction. It’s more like that quirky friend’s apartment who has the best views in town. I mean, come on, the vistas from up here? Breathtaking is an understatement. There’s the bay, looking like a polished mirror on a sunny day, and the Golden Gate casting its oh-so-iconic shadow. And the streets? They weave around like colorful ribbons on a birthday gift .

But here’s the inside scoop for my fellow lone explorers: the real charm isn’t just in looking out, but also in the cozy introspection that those views inspire. So, as you scale those steps or take that elevator ride, prepare for a visual feast that’s part San Francisco, part soulful pondering, with a sprinkle of art deco elegance.

Parks & Natural Beauty

When it comes to embracing the great outdoors and soaking in the serene beauty, the parks in San Francisco are second to none. Whether you’re meandering through the verdant expanses of Golden Gate Park or finding solace by the beach at Lands End, the things to do alone in San Francisco encompass a whole spectrum of natural delights.

The Peaceful Corners of Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park isn’t just any ordinary patch of green in the city – it’s like that unexpected plot twist in your favorite book. On the outside? Lush lawns and picnicking families. But dive a little deeper, and oh boy, are you in for a surprise. The park’s got its secretive nooks, spots where it feels the trees lean in to share a whispered secret or two.

Ever had a heart-to-heart with a bison? Here’s your chance. Or maybe you fancy serenading ducks at Stow Lake? Go for it. Solo explorers, here’s the deal: it’s not just about finding peace amidst nature , but discovering those delightful quirks that make your ‘things to do alone in San Francisco’ list truly unforgettable.

Lands End: Ocean Views and Tranquility

Tucked away like San Francisco’s little secret, it’s where the ocean seems to stretch its arms and say, ‘Hey, come over and take a breather.’ And trust me, you’d want to. With trails that flirt with cliffs and views that might just steal your heart, Lands End is the antidote to urban overwhelm. You could get all philosophical, thinking about where the land truly ends, or simply relish the soft symphony of waves crashing. Going solo? Even better. The place has a knack for sparking those introspective moments, making it a top-notch addition to your ‘things to do alone in San Francisco’ itinerary.

The Quiet Beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden

Let’s play a game: imagine you’ve stumbled upon a portal in San Francisco that whisks you straight to Japan. Sound far-fetched? Not when you’re stepping into the Japanese Tea Garden. Nestled amidst the bustle, this haven feels like a whispered conversation between nature and artistry. As you tread those stone pathways, every twist and turn unfolds a scene right out of a Japanese postcard. From koi-filled ponds reflecting the grace of pagodas to that iconic drum bridge (go on, try walking over it without a giggle!), the garden’s beauty speaks in quiet, deliberate strokes.

Museums & Galleries

San Francisco’s museums and galleries offer a treasure trove of cultural gems, waiting to be explored. Among the things to do alone in San Francisco, immersing oneself in the city’s rich art and history stands out as a uniquely enriching experience .

The De Young Museum: A Journey Through Art

If you’ve ever wanted to embark on a time-traveling art adventure without leaving San Francisco, then the De Young Museum is your ticket. Nestled in the heart of Golden Gate Park, this museum isn’t just about observing art – it’s about living it, breathing it, and letting each curated piece take you on a whirlwind journey through diverse epochs and cultures.

From the age-old mysteries of ancient civilizations to contemporary marvels that challenge the mind, the De Young becomes less of a museum and more of a conversation between the artist and you. And hey, going solo? Perfect. There’s something intimate about wandering these halls alone, letting each exhibit speak directly to your soul.

SFMOMA: Modern Art Meditations

If art had a temple in San Francisco, it might very well be SFMOMA . Standing as a beacon of modern creativity, it’s where colors, shapes, and ideas converge, challenging perceptions and stirring emotions. The sleek architecture itself seems to whisper, ‘Expect the unexpected.’ And boy, does it deliver! Every floor, every room, is a new conversation, a fresh perspective. Perhaps you’ll find yourself contemplating the bold strokes of a Rothko, or maybe you’ll be drawn into the surreal worlds of Dali. Alone? Even better. There’s an unparalleled joy in meandering through SFMOMA’s corridors at your own pace.

The Exploratorium: Self-Guided Science Adventures

Ever wondered what it feels like to be both a scientist and a kid in a cosmic candy store? Step into the Exploratorium, and you’ll know. Nestled on San Francisco’s Embarcadero, this place isn’t your typical museum with hushed corridors and ‘please don’t touch’ signs. Quite the contrary! It’s a vibrant playground of discovery where every exhibit, from shimmering light displays to mesmerizing motion experiments, beckons you to interact and, well, explore.

Going solo? Fantastic! The beauty of a self-guided adventure here is that your curiosity sets the pace. Whether you’re marveling at a tornado made of mist or listening to the music of an orchestra in your head, the Exploratorium promises endless ‘Aha!’ moments.

Relaxation & Wellness

San Francisco, with its undulating hills and oceanic vistas, offers more than just iconic landmarks; it’s a city where relaxation and wellness seamlessly merge with urban life. For those looking for a solo respite, here are some ways to rejuvenate and find inner zen in the City by the Bay.

Yoga Classes Overlooking the Ocean

Picture this: The rhythmic ebb and flow of ocean waves, the salty breeze gently tousling your hair, and you, on your yoga mat, seamlessly transitioning from one pose to another. San Francisco, with its jaw-dropping coastal vistas, offers yoga enthusiasts a unique backdrop – the vast, unending expanse of the Pacific Ocean .

Participating in a yoga class overlooking this majestic body of water is not just exercise; it’s a multi-sensory experience. As you stretch and hold, you aren’t merely aligning your body, but syncing your breath with the very pulse of the earth. Local studios and instructors often organize sessions on the cliffs or beaches, allowing you to feel the sand beneath as you explore the boundaries of your flexibility and strength.

Solo traveler’s tip? These classes are also a wonderful way to meet fellow yogis. But, even if you choose to practice in silent solitude, there’s something magical about concluding your session with a deep Savasana, the sound of waves playing the perfect lullaby for your meditative state. Among the myriad of things to do alone in San Francisco, oceanfront yoga undoubtedly stands out as an experience that nourishes both body and soul.

Spa Days: Rejuvenate Alone in the City

In the heart of the bustling city of San Francisco lies an oasis of calm, beckoning solo wanderers to indulge in a sanctuary for the senses. Ah, spa days. More than just an opportunity for a pampering session, they’re an invitation to let go, reset, and re-embrace yourself amidst the urban cacophony.

The beauty of San Francisco’s spa scene? It’s as diverse as the city itself. From opulent havens in high-rise hotels to quaint, boutique retreats tucked away in neighborhood alleyways , each offers a unique palette of treatments meant to rejuvenate. You could be enveloping yourself in an aromatic steam bath one moment, then be swept away by the gentle rhythms of a Balinese massage the next.

Meditative Walks in the Labyrinths of San Francisco

In the intricate weave of San Francisco’s urban landscape , there’s a hidden gem that many might overlook but is a balm for the wandering soul: the labyrinths. These ancient spiral patterns, etched into the ground, aren’t just ornate designs; they’re a call to introspection, an invitation to a meditative journey right in the heart of the city.

Venture to the iconic Grace Cathedral, and you’ll find not one, but two labyrinths. Whether indoors, under the soft, ethereal glow of stained glass, or outdoors with the city humming around you, walking these paths is a transformative experience.

Nightlife & Entertainment

From listening to live jazz in historic clubs to catching avant-garde performances in underground theaters, there’s no shortage of things to do alone in San Francisco at night. So, if you’re ready for the city’s eclectic spirit, you’ll quickly learn that every evening can be a solo adventure filled with unexpected discoveries.

Indie Film Theaters: Catch a Show at the Castro or Roxie

If you’re looking to dive into some quality cinema that’s not your usual blockbuster fare, San Francisco has more than a few great options in its indie film theaters. For example, the Castro Theatre with its eye-catching neon sign and grand interiors, will make you feel like you’re stepping into a slice of film history every time you walk in. Then just around the corner, there’s the Roxie, the city’s longest-running theater; It’s like a cozy, old-school movie house where all the hardcore film lovers hang out. And these two are just the beginning…

Live Music Venues: Solo Vibes in the City

San Francisco’s rhythm isn’t just confined to the hustle and bustle of its streets; it comes alive, resonating in the intimate corners of its live music venues. Imagine walking into a dimly lit bar, a gentle hum of chatter in the background, and then being swept away by the soulful melodies of a local band or the haunting notes of a solo artist.

Coffee Shops and Lounges: Nighttime Tranquility

As dusk blankets the city, these spaces transform into oases of serenity and introspection. Picture yourself nestled in a cozy corner of a coffee shop, the aroma of freshly brewed beans wafting in the air, as you lose yourself in a book or the soft murmurs of conversations around you.

Alternatively, lounges with their ambient lighting and plush seating offer the perfect backdrop for those seeking a more upscale, yet still intimate, nighttime escape. Whether you’re journaling, planning the next day’s adventure, or simply savoring the rich flavors of a specialty latte or an artisanal cocktail, these spots offer nighttime tranquility like no other.

Unique Local Things To Do Alone In San Francisco

Last but not least, we complete this guide to things to do alone in San Francisco with a few unique local experiences .

Solo Dining at San Francisco’s Best Restaurants

As you slide into a booth or claim a window-side bar stool, there’s an intimate thrill to navigating the city’s culinary landscape alone. San Francisco, with its melting pot of cultures, promises a smorgasbord of gastronomic delights. From the intricate layers of a Michelin-starred dish in the heart of Nob Hill to the robust and hearty street food in the Mission District, every plate tells a story.

And when you’re dining solo, you get to savor each bite, each nuance, with no distractions. Restaurants here, understanding the beauty of solitary dining, often offer ‘chef’s counter’ seats, giving soloists an up-close view of the kitchen ballet. So, if you’re jotting down things to do alone in San Francisco, pen down a culinary adventure atop the list.

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like this list of hidden gems in Los Angeles or this list of best things to do in Los Angeles alone .

Exploring Chinatown: Hidden Gems and Tasty Treats

Stepping into San Francisco’s Chinatown feels like crossing a vibrant, dynamic bridge between continents. As one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America, it’s a living tapestry of history, culture, and, of course, mouthwatering cuisine. Navigating the bustling streets and narrow alleyways alone lets you take in the sensory overload at your own pace. Every corner seems to whisper tales from distant lands, be it from the wafting aroma of freshly baked mooncakes, the sight of herbalists meticulously weighing out traditional remedies, or the melodious strains of a street musician playing the erhu.

Dining solo here? An adventure in itself. From dim sum parlors where the dumplings are a dance of flavors, to tiny noodle joints where each slurp transports you straight to a street stall in Guangzhou, the culinary scene is both vast and intimate. And beyond food, there’s the allure of hidden treasures – be it a chance encounter with a master calligrapher, stumbling upon a quiet temple amidst urban chaos, or discovering trinkets in age-old apothecaries.

Independent Bookstores: Browsing at City Lights and Beyond

In the digital age, there’s a certain kind of magic in the tactile pleasure of flipping through the pages of a physical book. And in San Francisco, that magic is kept alive and thriving in its independent bookstores, each a sanctuary for bibliophiles and casual readers alike. Take City Lights, for instance. It’s not just a bookstore; it’s an institution. Founded in 1953 by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Peter D. Martin, City Lights stands as a beacon for the Beat Generation and continues to be a hub for free thinkers, writers , and literary enthusiasts.

Wandering its aisles alone, you might find yourself lost in a labyrinth of thoughts, discovering voices from distant lands or rekindling love for old classics. The joy of solo browsing here is the freedom to let one’s mind wander, to pick up a volume based on a whim, or to simply stand in a corner, soaking in the symphony of whispered conversations and the rustle of pages turning.

If you like solo travel, you may also enjoy some of our other guides:

Things to do alone in Miami

Things to do alone in New York

Things to do alone in Las Vegas

Relaxing things to do in Vegas

How did you like this list of things to do alone in San Francisco? Did you try any of them? Are there any other fun things you think we should have added to this itinerary but didn’t? Let us know in the comments below.

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Things To Do Alone in San Francisco

With no shortage of things to do alone in san francisco we’ve narrowed down our 10 favorite ways to explore the city while traveling solo..

We might be a little biased because we’re from here. But, we think one of the best places to travel alone in the US is San Francisco. This is a city of singles. Dogs outnumber children. So, in a way, San Francisco is perfectly set up for solo travelers.

Green Tortoise Hostel is a popular hostel in San Francisco’s Little Italy. Because a lot of solo travelers find themselves at hostels, we get a lot of solo travelers at our Dylan’s Bike Shop. Our shop in North Beach is super convenient location for San Francisco bike rentals . Since our bike shop is so close to waterfront, you can easily reach the Golden Gate Bridge in about an hour!

Many solo guests on Dylan’s Famous Tour have squeezed in a tour while they’re in town for a San Francisco convention. All of these travelers have something in common.

They all need ideas on things to do in alone in San Francisco.

So, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite unique San Francisco bars and fun places to explore for anyone traveling alone in SF!

10 Things To Do Alone in San Francisco

• Explore off-the-beaten-path on an E-Bike tour of San Francisco.
• Go to a roller disco at the Church of 8 Wheels.
• Try to find the hidden Labyrinth with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Try pizza from the only American to ever win the World Pizza Cup.
• Sneak into a speakeasy disguised as The Library with the password “books”.
• Tour Alcatraz, America’s most infamous island prison.
• Ride one of the only moving historical monuments in the country — a San Francisco cable car.
• Discover the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
• Enjoy dinner outdoors with a movie screening at Foreign Cinema.
• Taste a drink created in San Francisco — the Mai Tai.

Hunting for the best San Francisco tour to take when traveling alone in the city? Check out our top rated tours below:

#1 explore off-the-beaten-path on an e-bike tour of san francisco ..

One of our favorite things to do alone in San Francisco is to join a bike tour. When you’re on a San Francisco bike tour , you’ll be zipping through the city on a Pedego electric bike . Bikes often have dedicated paths and roadways that offer a secure way of exploring the city.

Dylan’s Original City Loop Tour rides along the San Francisco waterfront. You’ll bike through Fisherman’s Wharf and past Ghirardelli Square. We’ll take you on the best paths leading to the Golden Gate Bridge.

We stop for photos at the Golden Gate Bridge. You’ll even have free time to walk some of the bridge on your own! Afterwards, take the scenic route past mansions looking out onto the Pacific Ocean. Ride through all four miles of Golden Gate Park and enjoy lunch in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. For lunch, choose from Mexican taquerias, burger joints, gourmet pizza slices and Vietnamese banh-mi sandwiches. There’s even an amazing local grocery store with fresh deli sandwiches and sushi.

We’ll stop at the iconic house from “Full House” with the downtown skyline in the background. Wind through Chinatown where red paper lanterns decorate the street poles and end your San Francisco bike tour in Little Italy.

Alternatively, if you’re more interested in things to do in San Francisco by yourself you can also rent an e-bike out for the day and explore on your own!

Whether you choose a San Francisco bike tour or a San Francisco bike rental , this is a great way to familiarize yourself with the city’s most popular neighborhoods and sites.

Our Original City Loop tour has been voted the most fun way to explore the city. Come discover San Francisco with us!

#2 go to a roller disco at the church of 8 wheels ..

One of the most unusual things to do in San Francisco has got to be roller skating in an old church! Just down the road from the iconic house from “Full House” at Alamo Square is an old church with a giant disco ball.

The Church of 8 Wheels is in a fairly quiet residential neighborhood, so solo female travelers in San Francisco should feel comfortable spending a night out here.

Cruise by after 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays when the event becomes an adults only event — no one under 18 allowed. The age restrictions in the evening make this one of the fun things to do in San Francisco at night!

#3 Try to find the hidden Labyrinth with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Take a scenic hike through Lands End at the western end of the city to discover a stoned labyrinth on a rocky overhang facing the Golden Gate Bridge. Use our guide to hiking in San Francisco to help navigate your way to the Lands End Labyrinth.

Be sure to bring a jacket. No matter how warm it may seem, the western side of San Francisco is notoriously windy when you’re on the waterfront facing the Pacific Ocean. Don’t worry, the view is definitely worth it!

#4 Try pizza from the only American to ever win the World Pizza Cup.

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana is one best places to eat in Washington Square Park in San Francisco’s Little Italy. Pizza is the perfect way to refuel after your San Francisco bike tour. However, if you’re on a solo trip to San Francisco you can skip the line at Tony’s Pizza and instead head next door to Slice House by Tony Gemgnani which serves up slices to go.

Tony Gemignani, the man behind the pizza, is internationally recognized as the only American pizza maker to win World Pizza Cup Champion in Naples, Italy. A feat Tony has repeated a few times over!

Slice House in North Beach sits on the corner of Washington Square Park , a park long considered the backyard of Little Italy. If the weather is nice, take your slice to the parklette outside.

Parklettes are miniparks that fit in 1-3 parking spaces on the street — a unique San Francisco solution to creating public spaces in cramped areas.

#5 Sneak into a speakeasy disguised as The Library with the password “books”.

Buzz the bell for Bourbon & Branch — a speakeasy with a front as the Anti-Saloon League of San Francisco. Tell the person at the door “books” and they will shuffle you inside and lead to a speakeasy, hidden within a speakeasy. This has got to be one of the most unique things to do in San Francisco!

San Francisco played a huge role in smuggling illicit booze from Canada during the American Prohibition on Alcohol.

Secret underground tunnels were dug out beneath sections of the Old Barbary Coast, Little Italy and Chinatown to help smuggle booze from ships at the waterfront to speakeasies — bars masquerading as normal businesses that required passwords for entry to where alcohol was being served.

Bourbon & Branch has helped this revival of speakeasy themed bars serving up classic cocktails in beautifully decorated bars that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The Library is lined with floor to ceiling books, leather arm chairs and incredible craft cocktails.

We get that going to a bar alone can be intimidating. However, going to any bar run by the owners of Bourbon & Branch offers such a unique experience that it is much more than your typical bar experience. Once you’ve ordered a craft cocktail, pull a book off the shelf. Then you’ll be able to settle into one of the plush chairs for the full Library experience!

#6 Tour Alcatraz , America’s most infamous island prison.

Join a combo San Francisco bus tour, a Muir Woods tour and boat to Alcatraz with the 1-Day Alcatraz Experience . This all day tour is the ultimate way for anyone traveling to San Francisco alone to see as much as possible in a single day.

If you’re going to join a tour while visiting San Francisco as a solo traveler, we always suggest joining a tour that is packed with a lot of activities and photo stops to keep everyone in the group busy.

An action packed tour that offers time to go hiking in Muir Woods , a long lunch break in Sausalito and unlimited time on Alcatraz is the perfect option for solo travelers.

#7 Ride one of the only moving historical monuments in the country.

If you’ve been wondering what to do in San Francisco alone, be sure to add riding a cable car to your list!

San Francisco cable cars have been one of the best ways of getting up our notorious steep hills since the 1860s. Massive steel cables run underground and the cable car hitches a ride on them. Essentially, they kind of work like an underground ski lift.

There are two main cable car lines you’ll want to consider. The first is the Powell-Hyde line. This cable car runs from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf. If you’re trying to see the famous Crooked Street on Lombard, you’ll want to take the Powell-Hyde Cable Car.

The second most popular line is the California Line. This line runs from the Financial District and through Chinatown to the top of Nob Hill. You’ll find some of the most stunning San Francisco hotels on the top of this hill as well as some amazing views since you’re so high up!

#8 Discover the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays

San Francisco’s Ferry Building sits at the end of Market Street and overlooks the Bay. This ferry terminal is the main thoroughfare for those looking to take the scenic route to Oakland in the East Bay. In addition, you’ll find ferry service to Sausalito and Tiburon in the North Bay.

In the early 2000s the Ferry Building got a face lift and has become the epicenter for foodie culture in the city.

Head over with an empty stomach and use our guide to creating a Ferry Building picnic to help you navigate. Or you can always take a guided food tour of the Ferry Building !

#9 Enjoy dinner outdoors with a movie screening at Foreign Cinema.

Now hear us out. We know that neither restaurants nor cinemas are typical hangouts for solo travelers. However, we think we the two are combined they create a unique welcoming internment for those looking for things to do alone in San Francisco. Dining alone is always easier with a movie!

Foreign Cinema is not your average restaurant since they screen movies off their wall in the backyard. We wouldn’t quite call it a movie theater either, unlike the much more casual Alamo Drafthouse which serves food and beer in movie theater setting.

Be sure to try to grab an seat outdoors for the best viewing of movies being projected on the wall of the back patio. Don’t let any inclimate weather intimidate you either! You’ll find both outdoor heaters and an overhang for protection from wind and rain.

Foreign Cinema has been around for almost 20 years now and has helped but the Mission District on the map as the culinary center of the city. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience as one of your things to do alone in San Francisco, this is it!

#10 Taste a drink created in San Francisco — the Mai Tai.

Mai Tais might be synonymous with tiki bars and coconuts. Despite that, Mai Tais are a distinctly San Francisco creation. Well, an Oakland creation to be exact. Trader Vic’s , just across the Bay Bridge in the East Bay, created the infamous tiki drink back in the early 50s.

Nearly 70s years later tiki culture is still thriving in San Francisco. For example, t he Tonga Room in the luxurious Fairmont Hotel is the kitchiest tiki bar in San Francisco.

The Tonga Room is dominated by a junior Olympic sized swimming pool that has been converted into a lagoon. Consequently, the band actually plays from a boat floating in the lagoon! “Thunderstorms” also take place within the bar and all drinks are served in novelty coconut shells.

One of the oldest dive bars in Chinatown is Li Po Cocktail Lounge , claims to have created the Chinese Mai Tai. To clarify, Li Po isn’t really a tiki bar. Nevertheless, their Chinese Mai Tais makes for a really fun addition to any DIY Chinatown tour !

Alternatively, you’ll find a lot of locals at Smuggler’s Cove arguably one of the coolest tiki bars in the city. Here, you’ll find impressive rum selection with an incredible authentic tiki and nautical interior. Rum lovers *must* include Smuggler’s Cove on their list of things to do alone in San Francisco because this is the premier destination for rum and rum-based cocktails.

Ready to plan your solo trip to SF? Tickets sell out quickly, so book your spot on our full day San Francisco, Muir Woods, and Alcatraz Tour today!

Discover more fun things to do alone in san francisco.

Top 10 Things to Do Alone in San Francisco

6 Best San Francisco Tours

30 San Francisco Breweries & Beer Halls You Have to Visit

A Guide to Bike Rental in San Francisco

Best San Francisco Hop on Hop off Tours

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Home » North America » San Francisco

Is San Francisco SAFE for Travel? (2024 • Insider Tips)

San Francisco goes by many names: San Fran, Golden Gate City, City by the Bay, Frisco, The Tiny Turnip. Whatever you wanna call it, San Francisco looms large in American folklore, popular culture and is a MUST VISIT destination.  San Fran was high on my bucket list for years and when I finally visited it did not disappoint…

And yet at the same time, the city was not quite as I imagined it… Mass homelessness, some run down neighbourhoods, a visible drug and mental health epidemic, a menacing fog, and obvious inequality did at times make me question just how safe I should feel in the city. So, the question  is San Francisco safe for travel ?

Well yes of course it is… as long as you are sensible.

To help you all explore and enjoy your time in San Francisco safely, I’ve put together this epic guide with everything you need to know about staying safe in SF during your visit.

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There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is San Francisco Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to San Francisco.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

Is San Francisco Safe to Visit Right Now?

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The short answer is yes, traveling to San Francisco is safe ! According to San Francisco Tourism , In 2019 more than 26 million visitors travelled to San Francisco and mostly had a relatively safe stay.

San Francisco’s crime rates tend to be statistically lower than other popular cities in the USA. However, that does not mean there is no crime; thefts, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur, with car break-ins being a particular issue. It also has more homeless people than most other cities.

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Some areas of the city ( Tenderloin , Bayview-Hunters Point , and the Mission District , for example) see high rates of property crime, gang violence, drug abuse, and prostitution. It’s important to avoid these neighborhoods, which shouldn’t be hard considering San Francisco’s best places to visit are elsewhere.

Another issue for residents is, surprisingly, human feces on the street. The city has since set up a “poop patrol” to combat this potential health hazard. As a tourist to San Francisco, this and the sheer level of homelessness epidemic could be something a shock – especially if you are not from a major city.

San Francisco and California commonly experience natural disasters like fires and earthquakes, though it’s unlikely you’ll experience these.

However, the city remains very popular – and relatively safe – in spite of its issues. Generally, if you’re wondering how safe is San Francisco, the reality is that there is nothing pressing that should stop you from visiting right now.

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for San Francisco so you can start your trip right!

The answer to the question “Is San Francisco dangerous?” depends upon where you go. The city has many different neighborhoods and areas, and many of them are very secure.

To have a great trip, you’ll need to do some research beforehand, so you don’t end up in a dodgy district. We’ve listed the three safest neighborhoods below.

• Nob Hill and Union Square : Easily the two safest places to stay in stay in San Francisco due to low crime rates, prepared for high prices. Nob Hill is one of the most glamorous areas of the city and Union Square provides easy access to a lot of the city’s popular tourist destinations.
• Fisherman’s Wharf and Marina Hill : These two neighborhoods are located next to each other. While Fisherman’s Wharf can be a bit busy during the high season, you’ll still find many amazing restaurants and shops here. Marina Hill is where you’ll want to stay when visiting Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s a clean, safe, and rather quiet area but doesn’t offer much else, so connecting these two neighborhoods is ideal for your trip. 
• Richmond District : Richmond District is another one of the safest places in San Francisco that you should consider for your stay. Alongside Nob Hill, it’s got one of the lowest crime rates in the city. You’ll be close to San Fran’s city center but without all the hectic tourists around. Luckily, this area is also known for great budget accommodation , so it’s ideal for backpackers as well. The guesthouse and Airbnb scene in Richmond District offers many safe places to stay. 

Unsafe Areas in San Francisco

Is San Francisco dangerous?

Not entirely, but some areas definitely are. Due to the massive gap between rich and poor, there are numerous places to avoid in San Francisco no matter what.

While you should always watch out for pickpocketing and petty theft, these dangerous neighborhoods have high rates of violent crime and gang activity, so it’s best to stay away altogether:

• Any parks at night : you’ll find that many parks become sleeping spots for homeless people and sketchy characters after dark. Even popular places like Golden Gate Park aren’t safe at night.
• The Tenderloin District : This is an area known for massive homeless encampments and an especially high crime rate. While tourists normally don’t end up there, you should still be aware of where it is.
• The Mission District and Hunters Point : Both areas show significant crime rates so it’s best to avoid them, especially at night.
• Market Street: This street isn’t one you should outright avoid, but beware that it has the highest per-mile crash rate of all roads in SF.

Keeping Your Money Safe in San Francisco

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world. The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Although San Francisco is facing a number of problems, immediate danger to tourists is not one of them, and you should absolutely make it a part of your USA trip . However, it still pays to have street smarts and to use your common sense.

To help you do this, we have prepared this handy list of our top safety tips for staying safe in San Francisco.

• Do not visit dangerous areas – Stick to the known safest places in San Francisco and avoid places like the Tenderloin at all costs.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close to you on public transportation – More on this later, but know that certain lines are more renowned for this than others
• Don’t walk around with flashy jewelry – Looking rich could easily make you a target for an opportunist thief
• Keep your money safe by using a money belt.
• Try to blend in – Though a city of many tourists, it is best to try to blend in as much as possible to avoid pickpocketing and generally being a victim of crime
• Don’t walk around with your phone unnecessarily – Phone snatching does occur
• Steer clear of biohazards – Such as human waste and needles; you may see them, but do not go near them
• Don’t carry around wads of cash with you – If you need to pay for something, and someone sees you have a wallet stuffed with bills, you may be targeted
• Careful taking money out at ATMs – It’s best done in daylight hours, and preferably indoors (in a bank, a mall, etc.)
• Don’t walk around deserted areas – Especially at night time and/or by yourself; chances of crime happening are low, but you should take care in areas you don’t know after dark, or avoid them altogether
• Don’t cheap out on accommodation – San Fransisco Airbnbs are less secure than hotels. If you do get an Airbnb, don’t try to save $$ by staying in an unsafe area.
• Take a cab after dark – Though not a must, it is more advisable to do this than walk (especially alone).
• Don’t put your bag on the back of a chair/under a table at a restaurant/cafe – It may disappear from under your nose.
• Know the local drug laws – Cannabis may be legal, but you can’t smoke it in public or at public events. You also have to be over 21.
• Stay away from illegal drugs – Anything that isn’t weed is illegal and you risk arrest.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Don’t leave anything unattended in your car – Leave nothing on display, as car break ins are a problem; it’s best to have nothing valuable in your vehicle.
• Avoid parks after dark – Many of the city’s parks are used for drug deals and prostitution at night.
• Be aware of the homeless population – They are mostly harmless but the SFPD recommends that should “avoid all confrontations and maintain a safe distance.”
• Know what to do in the event of an earthquake  – Though unlikely to occur, it is still good to read up on how to be prepared.
• Get a local sim card – If you’re not from the US, getting a local sim or maybe a US eSim Package will help you get around the city, and contact people in an emergency.

Traveling solo can be a rewarding experience. It can also be a bit intimidating; heading into a new city by yourself without anybody else there to help you with directions, or being there to watch your back is scary at first… But don’t worry!

It is easy for a first-time traveler to take on San Francisco and I visited alone all by myself. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some pointers for solo travelers in San Francisco…

• Take a tour . San Francisco is a big city and it can be overwhelming. Hop-on, hop-off bus tours or free walking tours of Chinatown are great options for the first couple of days of your SF itinerary .
• Head to the city’s museums. There are plenty of them, such as the SFMoMA, which offer relaxing spaces without any worries about your safety and are totally fine to explore alone.
• Take care with looking at your phone in public , even if this is at a map to figure out where you are. It is easy for someone to snatch your phone from your hands.
• Don’t be worried about going to eat out alone . This can seem a bit intimidating for some people, but many of San Francisco’s restaurants have counter seats where you can dig into dinner at the bar.
• Ask a local for their insider information . Nobody knows their city like the people who live there.
• Don’t skimp too much on your accommodation . Those traveling alone should base themselves in safe, secure, convenient places. Make sure to read reviews and only stay at places highly recommended by other travelers, paying particular attention to reviews by other solo travelers if possible.
• Be careful about drinking too much at night . Downtown San Francisco is a vibrant place to have fun after dark it’s best to go easy on the drink. I’ll be honest, I did ignore my own advice on this point and nothing bad happened.
• Don’t walk around by yourself at night time . It just is not a good idea to wander around by yourself, after dark, in a place – let alone a city – that you do not know at all. I did this and was fine, but can’t officially condone it.
• Try to be flexible and kind to yourself . Things change and don’t always work out, but you should try to be open with how you deal with botched plans.
• Travel light . It is very annoying to travel with a lot of heavy luggage, especially in a city; you can get hot and sweaty, it’s uncomfortable, and you could even be more of a target.

Just remember to take your time. Don’t rush around the sights, and enjoy the atmosphere – San Francisco offers a chance to kick-start your USA backpacking adventures.

San Francisco is absolutely safe for solo female travelers .

A pinch of common sense, and an awareness of your surroundings, will go a long way; for women, San Fran is like any city in the world. To help you out on your trip, we have curated some specific tips for solo female travelers in San Francisco.

• Make sure your accommodation is safe for solo female travelers . You’ll need to research the neighborhood, make sure the accommodation itself is secure, and read plenty of reviews from other women who have stayed there by themselves.
• Always be aware of your surroundings , especially when you are wandering around on the streets.
• Don’t just blindly follow maps on your phone . Although it is an amazing way to navigate around a new place, Google Maps – for example – tends to take you on “short-cuts” that may lead you down shady side alleys or through a sketchy area, all for the sake of shaving a minute off your journey.
• Know your emergency numbers ; have them on speed dial, or at least saved with a symbol or number in front of them so that they appear first in your contact list.
• Always make sure that somebody knows your whereabouts . It is much safer for you if somebody knows where you are, rather than nobody knowing where you are. Keep your friends and family back home updated with your itinerary in San Fran and let them know if plans change; consider sharing your plans via email or Google Docs, perhaps.
• Be careful about going out to drink solo . Instead, consider signing up for a bar crawl, or brewery or wine tasting tour.
• Watch your drink . Do not leave it unattended and do not accept drinks from random strangers. Drink spiking does happen, so avoid putting your drink down or taking your eyes off it, especially in a busy bar or club.
• Remove yourself from uncomfortable situations and do not linger out of politeness. If someone is making you feel awkward for any reason, take yourself away – make excuses if you have to.
• If using public transportation late at night, try to sit up front near the guard , and not in an empty, lonely carriage, which is not only riskier, but it’ll make you feel more unsafe too.
• Do not let random strangers know your personal details . Where you’re staying, your marital status, your travel plans, where you’re from…
• Take advice from other solo female travelers who have been to San Francisco before you. Check online and ask communities like the Facebook group Girls Love Travel , where a question about safety for solo female travelers in San Francisco is bound to be met with dozens of suggestions.

Generally speaking, San Francisco is safe for female travelers. Keep your wits about you, follow your gut instinct (if something looks dodgy, it probably is) and you should be fine.

Nob Hill and Union Square

Two amazing neighborhoods right next to each other with low crime rates, great attractions, and plenty of accommodation options.

San Francisco, like much of California, is a total blast for families — and has been for a long time.

However, compared to other places in the US, the city isn’t as geared towards children as you’d expect.

Perhaps because many of those who live in San Fran are big kids themselves — this city has the fewest children per capita out of any US city. In fact, more dogs live in San Francisco than children.

There is still a lot for families to do, however. This is the home of video game designers and animators, after all.

One thing you may want to bring is your own car seat — they are required by law for young children traveling by car, so if you plan to use taxis or Ubers, or rent your own car, come prepared as they won’t be supplied.

All in all, San Francisco is safe to travel with children — just don’t forget that sunscreen!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Cycling in San Francisco is the name of the game in terms of local transport. Residents love their cycles, and while it’s not quite Amsterdam, you’ll still see more people getting around on two wheels than in most American cities.

The average visitor is going to want to get acquainted with BART, or Bay Area Rapid Transportation. This electric train not only allows for travel inside the city, but also connects to a few surrounding areas too. The network as a whole also includes various bus routes, trolleys historic streetcars, and cable cars.

Otherwise, you can use ride-share apps, though do be warned that they are expensive! Renting a car on the other hand won’t be worth the frustration, or the risk of a break-in.

Overall, San Francisco’s public transit is pretty great and can get you almost anywhere, though it can get a bit sketchy at night where it might be worth the extra cash to call an Uber if you’re planning to be out late.

Violent crime in San Francisco is lower than the national average, though robberies and burglaries trend higher. In 2022, the city recorded the following crime data: 56 murders, 2,371 robberies, 5,941 burglaries, and 6,283 incidents of motor vehicle theft.

Laws in San Francisco are quite similar to anywhere else in the US. And while yes, marijuana is legal in both SF + California as a whole, it IS illegal to smoke in public, though you can likely get away with it in lowkey, empty areas. Like everywhere in the US, the drinking (and cannabis buying) age is 21.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to San Francisco without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Good travel insurance is essential nowadays. Don’t get caught lacking – especially in San Fran!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Planning a safe trip to San Fran can be very overwhelming. To help you out, we’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions on safety in San Francisco below.

What should I avoid in San Francisco?

Avoid these things when visiting the city: – Don’t walk around at night alone  – Don’t carry all your valuables with you – Don’t leave your belongings unattended – Avoid parks after dark

What areas of San Francisco are unsafe?

The Tenderloin is one of the most unsafe areas in San Francisco with the most reported crimes. Mission Neighborhood and Hunters Point are quite unsafe at night as well. Stay away from all parks after dark .

Is San Francisco safe at night?

Walking in San Francisco at night can be safe, but we really wouldn’t recommend it. If you’re on a night out, stick with a big group of people and don’t wander off alone. Be sure to particularly avoid sketchy neighborhoods after dark.

Is San Francisco safe to live?

Yes! Despite its issues, living in SF is safe, and many people absolutely love it. This is of course dependent on where you live though–trying to find a home in one of San Francisco’s safest places is always a good idea if you can afford it.

Is San Francisco LGBTQ friendly?

Luckily, San Francisco is an openly queer city that accepts all sorts of sexualities and identities. In fact, it’s one of the gayest cities in America . Be sure to check out The Mission too – San Francisco’s other neighborhood known for gay-friendly activities and activism.

San Francisco is safe for travel, but some parts are definitely no-go zones. It is a very rich city that is also very poor with a huge homeless population. Pickpocketing and other forms of theft are likely more common than what you’re used to, especially i

On the other hand, it’s a liberal, local city with kooky entertainment and events, that also happens to be completely packed with conventional tourists seeking out historic buildings and unique modes of transport.

It’s a city of contrasts — and a city where you’ll probably have a trouble-free time, especially by following tips on how to stay safe in

 Looking for more info on travelling to San Francisco?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in San Francisco
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking San Francisco travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

Art Patterson

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You mentioned inequality as one of the issues. Can you provide specific examples please

By ‘specific example’ I presume you mean statistics?

Well according to the 2016 – 2020 US census SF was found to have the third largest income disparity in the country.

According to an article by City Monitor, the average household income for a white household is $162,000, the median Hispanic household income is $75,5000, and the median black household income is $46,000. The average black household income is just 28.5% of the median white household.

Inequality is definitely an issue in San Francisco.

Yes, the crime statistics are down … because police are not responding to most crimes. Therefore, there are no reports, and the statistics are unreliable. Look up articles on the assaults going on in Noe Valley (district of S.F.); mothers being beaten with bats as they take their kids to school. I have friends that worked in downtown S.F. who witnessed aggravated assaults with a pair of police officers within earshot of the incident. My friend asked the police officers to intervene and they told him that the jails were full … and then walked away. Car break-ins are common especially in tourist areas like Fisherman’s Wharf. One restaurant owner at Ghirardelli Square (Fisherman’s Wharf area) was on the news a few years ago reporting as many as a dozen car break-ins in front of his restaurant in a single day. The police don’t even bother responding.

What is available via public statistics is absolutely not accurate. Is it intentional? I don’t know.

If you go to S.F., blend in, look average, and watch your back.

Unless you’re going to visit & stsy with friends in or near San Francisco, don’t bother going there. Head instead to Thanet, or Canterbury. You can walk and go anywhere, night and/or day and be entirely safe. And you can drink your fill, and more, and not be molested. Also, everyone speaks proper English….. allez!

BULLSHIT! How can you say SF is safe. The horror stories of car break-ins pretty much sums it up. I know! I parked my car in front of my son’s apartment to visit and guess what? Yes, I found my car window smashed! All for a plastic bag with potato chips. Please be honest!!!

We are sorry to hear your car was robbed. We make it very clear in our post that street crime is a factor but the fact remains that SF is still safe for travellers by pretty much any metric you want to use.

It’s not “San Fran” … but you do hear it (from tourists) here and there , however, please for the love of God – DON’T CALL IT “FRISCO”.

Really great write-up on SF, I was fortunate to be able to visit there many times, from Las Vegas, when I was younger. It was a very pleasant place in those years, 1971, and then, frequently, from the mid-eighties to the late 90s. Driving, automatic trans is the best, a stick shift is difficult. I found it easy to get around driving but that was longer ago, Lombard St, Chinatown (fun, but, wow, I was driving a big Suburban, lotsa tight situations), the Wharf, mmmm, great food, but lotsa sea lions, phewww, BART, cable cars (helped rotate one, neat), COIT Tower, Lombard St, Presidio, a sea animal hospital, interesting, Golden Gate Park (a guy I went to HS with, in Wisc, was Head Ranger there for a long time), I really only have lots of good memories of SF, it’s sad to see the difficulties there now. Most interesting, a lady I knew there, business associate, had a three story home there, it was so narrow from side-to-side, but quite longer from front to back, and wow, worth a million thirty years ago, with side walls being shared with her left and right neighbors! I truly recall and treasure my visits there, no bad experiences at all, SF is a real icon, I hope it somehow gets better there, please. ps – putting down my real name, haha, I’m not at all related to the “Mulholland” of Los Angeles infamy.

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Is San Francisco safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

San Francisco, nicknamed the Golden Gate City , is a beautiful city located in Northern California. The city is vibrant and full of life, despite the fact that it was significantly damaged after a massive earthquake back in 1906. The city has since rebuilt to become a major financial, commercial and distribution hub, and it is also a great vacation destination.

Over 21 million people traveled to San Francisco in 2021, most of them here to spend time around the gorgeous San Francisco Bay area and to experience the city's diverse culture. On top of that, the city is home to over 800,000 citizens which puts it in the top five biggest metropolitan areas in the country. The most popular time of year for tourism is during the summer between June and September since it is the dry season and when the weather is most agreeable.

Anytime that you're visiting San Francisco, and especially during the busy season, you'll want to make sure that your belongings are safe. Stow them safely with luggage storage in San Francisco . The fantastic protection plan provided by Bounce is guaranteed and storage partners can store bags of any size.

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Is San Francisco safe to visit right now?

The first step to being safe while traveling is to do some research about where you're going. Currently, the United States does not have any active travel advisories or restrictions, so as long as you practice regular security precautions you'll be fine. Before booking your trip and packing your bags you should check in with the guidelines that your own government sets for the country and city that you're traveling to.

According to the Global Peace Index, the US has a ranking of 122. San Francisco itself is fairly safe and has a safety index of 61 which is in the mid-high safety range, and the chances of you being a victim of violent crime are low.

The main things that you'll have to look out for are petty crimes, most notably pickpockets and, in some cases, muggings. You should also be aware that there is a moderate risk of natural disasters like earthquakes. There is no such thing as a flawless guide, but if you follow the safety tips that we introduce, along with using common sense, you'll be well prepared for a safe trip to San Francisco.

Top petty crimes and scams in San Francisco affecting tourists

Listed below are some of San Francisco's most common petty crimes and what you can do to protect yourself from them. Take notes, they'll come in handy.

Petty theft and pickpocketing

These are two of the most common issues for tourists traveling to a big city. In San Francisco pickpockets often strike in crowded environments like public transportation hubs, and it can also happen in areas with lots of tourists where thieves can get away with it in plain sight.

To protect yourself from being a victim we suggest carrying smaller purses and not leaving your smartphone or wallet in a back pocket that is easily accessible. If you're in a busy location you can also carry your bag in front of you where you can see it and, of course, never leave your bags unattended. A foolproof way of keeping your items from being stolen is by stowing them with Bounce.

In San Francisco, muggings do happen. The chances of you being a victim during the daytime or in crowded areas are low, but it is still important to learn how to protect yourself. Muggers will usually target individuals who have something valuable to steal, like an expensive watch, jewelry or electronic device. The best way to not make yourself a target is to leave your expensive accessories at home and to not frequent dangerous neighborhoods.

Natural disasters

Earthquakes are a common occurrence in San Francisco as it lies on top of three seismic faults, and you don't know when they are going to happen. You might spend months in the city without experiencing one, but you should be prepared just in case. If an earthquake strikes you should immediately drop what you're doing, take cover under a sturdy surface and hold on until the disaster ceases. The San Francisco Department of Building Inspection does not recommend going outside or near doorways or windows when there is a quake.

Is San Francisco safe to travel alone

If you don't have anyone to travel with, or you just like vacationing alone, San Francisco is a great place to go. The risk of violent crimes for solo travelers is low so you can feel safe in San Francisco, and it has so much to offer even for those who aren't traveling with a group. Our best advice for solo travelers is to be extra aware of your surroundings.

Even if you're a woman traveling alone, this city is a wonderful destination as the United States is ranked 32nd on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index . If you do decide to enjoy the nightlife in Downtown San Francisco you just have to follow the same safety precautions as back home; never accept drinks from strangers, and don't give out any sensitive information about yourself or where you're staying.

Safest neighborhoods in San Francisco

When you're looking at where to stay and planning your travel itinerary, it is a great idea to research the different San Francisco neighborhoods to find out which ones are safe and which ones aren't. Here are a few neighborhoods not to miss.

Financial District

The Financial District is an urban playground with plenty of tech and finance industries, and there are great restaurants nearby, too. It is a safe place to go with a crime rate that is lower than the national average, so add it to your list of places to visit.

Outer Sunset

This neighborhood offers fantastic views thanks to its close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. Spend some time here admiring the landmarks, or take a trip to the nearby Ocean Beach .

Bernal Heights

As the LGBTQ+ hub of San Francisco, Bernal Heights offers a friendly and welcoming environment for everyone. This colorful area has fantastic architecture and some cool shops to check out.

Is San Francisco public transportation safe?

Car theft is not unheard of in San Fran which is why you should always keep your vehicle in safe parking garages since street parking is not always secure, or use the transit system to get around. San Francisco's safety in terms of public transportation depends on several factors, like where you are and the time of day. There are cable cars that can bring you between Powell Street near Union Square to 5th Street, and the cable car is usually busy at all times of the day.

In general, you shouldn't feel unsafe making your way around the touristy neighborhoods, but should still be cautious of what is happening around you. Remember, pickpockets often strike on the transit system, so keeping a firm hold on your bags is important.

As nighttime approaches, using public transit can become a bit more dangerous simply because fewer people will be around. Try to travel in groups or avoid the buses and trains at night altogether if you want to be extra safe, especially if the ridership is quiet.

Important emergency numbers in San Francisco

San Francisco is not a dangerous city, but if at any time you feel uncomfortable or need help there are some emergency numbers that you can call to get in contact with the local police presence. While you visit San Francisco you should keep these numbers handy in case you ever need them, and be aware of your embassy number.

• Police, Fire or Medical Emergency: 911
• Police Non-Emergency Number: 1-415-553-0123
• City Information and Services: 311

Staying safe in San Francisco

So, is San Francisco dangerous? Overall it is a safe city with a fascinating historical district, stunning green spaces and a lovely geography with steep hills. It does not have a high crime rate but certain neighborhoods do experience petty crimes like car thefts, property crimes and pickpocketing which is why you should be prepared, just in case.

Want to learn about how to move around the entire city? Read this guide on How to Get Around San Francisco . You'll find useful information on the best San Fran neighborhoods by reading Where to Stay in San Francisco: The Ultimate Guide .

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