Cultural & Theme Tours in San Francisco

San Francisco Golden Gate Bay Cruise (opens in a new tab)

1,790 1 h

Experience San Francisco’s iconic waterfront with the original San Francisco Bay sightseeing cruise company, family owned and operated since 1892. Departing from Pier 43½ at Fisherman’s Wharf, this one-hour cruise takes you beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island. Learn about the history and landmarks of San Francisco Bay with complimentary audio narration available in 16 languages on personal audio guides—no app or download required. Enjoy panoramic views from the open-air decks or relax in comfortable indoor seating. Along the way, keep watch for local wildlife, including sea lions, pelicans, harbor porpoises and, on occasion, whales. Plans changed or worried about San Francisco’s unpredictable weather? Your flexible, open-dated ticket may be used on any available departure through the end of the calendar year.

San Francisco Bay Cruise (opens in a new tab)

436 1 h

You haven’t fully experienced San Francisco until you’ve taken a Bay Cruise. This popular 1-hour excursion heads underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz Island, past Angel Island State Park, and alongside the city's waterfront. Take advantage of fantastic photo ops and panoramic views. An audio tour that shares all the great history is played throughout the boat, and is also available on your smartphone, tablet or other WiFi-enabled device and includes a slideshow of historical photos in 10 different languages. This ticket allows you to skip the box office line and go straight to the gate.

Free cancellation

Muir Woods and Sausalito Small Group Tour (opens in a new tab)

1,107 5 h

This tour will visit Muir Woods and Sausalito. Note that this tour includes the Muir Woods entrance fee. We provide a boutique, personal experience with knowledgeable local guides in small groups. The 8:30am and 9:45am tour departs from 488 Post St. (look for a black Mercedes sprinter van parked across the street) and ends at Pier 33. The 12:50pm and 2pm tour departs from Pier 33 and ends at Pier 33 or 488 Post St.

Golden Gate Bridge Muir Woods Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz (opens in a new tab)

1,474 6 h

All of our tour guides are Bay Area Natives, which will help you understand what it’s like to grow up in SF and now live here as grown ups with our own families. You will enjoy an introduction to San Francisco on this 5 to 6 hour tour that includes Neighborhoods like Chinatown, North Beach, Pacific Heights and a trip across the Golden Gate Bridge to Muir Woods National Monument. You'll be driven around the city to see its diverse neighborhoods and geography, stopping several times for photo ops. At Muir Woods, admire the towering redwood trees, and visit the waterfront town of Sausalito for lunch (own expense). Works great for people coming from cruise ships. You cannot book the Alcatraz option under 4 days in advance.

Free cancellation

San Francisco Love Tour (opens in a new tab)

3,201 2 h

For an unforgettable City Sightseeing tour, hitch a ride in a 1970's VW Hippie bus. This is an authentic and unique way to experience San Francisco. This tour is packed with with facts and fun about San Francisco!

Alcatraz Inside Access Ferry and Audio Tour with Night Option (opens in a new tab)

400 2 h – 4 h

Explore Alcatraz Island like never before with this exclusive package that includes official admission and round-trip ferry tickets. Accompanied by a unique companion audio guide, your journey unfolds with captivating narratives about the island’s history, hidden gardens, and powerful stories of resistance. From the moment you board the ferry at Pier 33 to your return, enjoy immersive storytelling that enhances the official Cellhouse audio tour. This experience reveals insights often missed, providing a deeper understanding of transformation within this historic site. At checkout, you can select the Alcatraz Night Tour option, which includes evening ferry service, guided introductions by park rangers, and access to areas not open during the day. With fewer visitors and special programs, the night tour offers a more intimate and immersive experience of the island. Night option is not available Sundays and Mondays. This is a self-guided tour with an exclusive audio companion guide.

Chinatown, North Beach, Little Italy: 7 Tastings & History (opens in a new tab)

1,460 4 h

Spend an afternoon exploring two of San Francisco's vibrant areas for food and nightlife on a walking tour through Chinatown and North Beach. On their own, they will stir your senses. Together, they awaken you to new flavors, ancient cultures, and a diverse lifestyle. On their own, Chinatown and North Beach stir your senses. Together, they awaken you to new flavors, new cultures, and to parts of your heart. We'll start by exploring Chinatown by twilight, including tasting treats from one of the oldest bakeries in Chinatown. We'll search out authentic Chinese and Italian sites. We'll uncover their hidden secrets only intrepid locals know. And you'll be astonished by the new finds in secret alcoves. From wine to Dim Sum, Peking Duck, fortune cookies, in the very places where the Beat Generation started and Barbary Coast history that made San Francisco what it is, you'll feel like you've really experienced Chinatown and North Beach\Little Italy.

San Francisco Alcatraz App Guided Tour with Cruise and Jail House (opens in a new tab)

168 1 h – 2 h

Embark on an exhilarating journey through history with the Alcatraz Highlights Tour! Step foot on the infamous island that once contained America's most notorious criminals and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Alcatraz. Witness the chilling cells that housed Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly, as you explore the imposing cell blocks. Be captivated by the echoes of the past as you wander through the eerie corridors, and soak in the stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline. Don't miss your chance to uncover the mysteries and legends of America's most infamous prison on the Alcatraz Highlights Tour - a thrilling adventure you won't ever forget! Don't worry about other people, this tour is completely tailored to you with the App! With the app, you can pause the tour, and check out the locations as long as you want! You can skip a stop you don't like, and you have all the best information about each stop at your fingertips.

Free cancellation

1 day Hop-on Hop-off in San Francisco 20 stops 8 hours (opens in a new tab)

79 1 day

Experience the perfect way to discover and explore the vibrant City by the Bay with a convenient hop-on hop-off bus tour. This flexible sightseeing option allows you to travel at your own pace, stopping at all of San Francisco’s must-see landmarks and attractions. The bus route covers all major points of interest, including the breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Union Square, Lombard Street, and the historic cable car lines. With frequent stops at these popular destinations, you have the freedom to hop off wherever you want to explore further, take photos, shop, or enjoy local dining. When you’re ready, simply hop back on the next bus to continue your adventure. Each bus is equipped with informative commentary, sharing fascinating stories and history about San Francisco’s landmarks, neighborhoods, and culture—enhancing your sightseeing experience. The tour offers the convenience of a single ticket that grants you unlimited rides for a full day..

Alcatraz Inside Tour With Ferry, Free Audio and Night Option (opens in a new tab)

218 2 h – 4 h

Experience visiting an unforgettable experience that combines history, mystery and incredible views. It is a bucket list San Francisco experience.This tour guarantees admission to Alcatraz Island. Secure this experience because it often times sells out weeks in advance.You will also receive the free appetizer of the day at the iconic Mona Lisa Restaurant and Steps of Rome Trattoria with an entree purchase.

San Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle (opens in a new tab)

230 4 h

We are the only company in San Francisco offering a round-trip, direct shuttle from San Francisco to the majestic Red Woods in Muir Woods! Enjoy stunning scenery and gorgeous walking trails upon arrival. • Spend up to 90 minutes walking around the majestic Muir Woods Red Wood National Monument, home to some of the oldest living things in the world. • Cross the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, declared "one of the 10 wonders of the modern world." • Our local guide will share history and recommendations along the route, while you sit back and relax during the ride. • Drive through Sausalito with a chance to view this artists’ enclave. If you take the morning departure, you have the option to stay in Sausalito and take the ferry back to Fisherman's Wharf. Ferry ticket not included • NO ferry, NO taxi, NO Uber = No waiting around! Let Dylan’s take care of all of your transportation needs.

Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour (opens in a new tab)

2,529 2 h

Come jump on a city tour with us to cruise through some of the 15 top city highlights including Union Square, Chinatown, North Beach, Hayes Valley, Golden Gate Park, the Haight/Ashbury, Western Addition, Civic Center and The Marina. Also, you get 3 stops for photo ops at landmarks such as The Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies and Palace Of Fine Arts (shhhh ...on occasion you might see us driving down that crooked Lombard Street if traffic permits). Fun fun fun! Bonus is you will be transported in one of our vintage VW buses while rocking out to classic hit songs of the 60's-70's (Pearl, Poppy, Skye and Rosie). Please arrive at the pick up location 10 min prior so we can depart on time as we have lots to cover in the city. Thank you!

San Francisco, Muir Woods, Sausalito and Optional Alcatraz Tour (opens in a new tab)

1,597 9 h

Discover San Francisco, Muir Woods, and Sausalito with the option to add tickets to Alcatraz! Join a small group tour that covers four iconic experiences in a single day: explore San Francisco’s historic neighborhoods, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, stroll beneath the Red Woods of Muir Woods National Monument, and enjoy a drive through Sausalito. Ride in comfort aboard our premium minibuses, with a local expert guide offering insider stories, photo stops, and stress free logistics from start to finish. If you want to end the day with a bang, add the option that ends with a visits to Alcatraz!

California Academy of Sciences General Admission Ticket (opens in a new tab)

625 3 h – 5 h

Embark on a science adventure when you visit the world's only aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum - all under one living roof! And to make it as easy as possible, this ticket includes instant access, meaning you don't have to go to a separate kiosk to redeem your ticket — just present it at the California Academy of Science's entrance and be on your way.

Free cancellation

Alcatraz with Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour (opens in a new tab)

1,230 7 h – 8 h

Combine three of the Bay Area's top attractions—Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods, and Sausalito—into one tour from San Francisco. Travel in a luxury small-group tour van across the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoying the scenery without the hassle of driving. Explore Muir Woods and Sausalito at your own pace. Choose between a day or night tour of Alcatraz. The night tour features a sunset cruise, cell door demonstrations, and expert talks. Both tours offer an award-winning audio guide in multiple languages, detailing the prison's dark history and escape attempts. The 8:30am and 9:45am times departs from 488 Post Street. Look for a black Mercedes sprinter van parked across the street. It will start with Muir Woods and Sausalito then go to Alcatraz. The 9:10am and 10:35am times departs from Pier 33. It will start with Alcatraz then go to Muir Woods and Sausalito. The 12:50pm and 2pm times departs from Pier 33. It will start with Muir Woods and Sausalito then to Alcatraz at night.

Alcatraz Tour + 90 min San Francisco City Open Air Van Tour (opens in a new tab)

50 5 h

See San Francisco from a whole new perspective with a unique blend of open-air sightseeing and a visit to one of its most legendary landmarks. The Lombard Leap + Alcatraz Tour begins with a fully guided open-air 90 Min city tour, offering unobstructed views of the city’s neighborhoods, hills, and famous streets. Cruise through areas like North Beach, Chinatown, Russian Hill, and Nob Hill while passing filming locations from Bullitt, The Rock, and Mrs. Doubtfire. Enjoy the thrill of descending Lombard Street and stop for photos at Coit Tower, the Palace of Fine Arts, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. After the city tour, board the official ferry to Alcatraz Island and explore the former prison at your own pace using the included award-winning audio tour. This experience combines iconic sights, movie history, and legendary stories into one unforgettable day.

Free cancellation

Skip The Bus: San Francisco By Luxury Van Tour (opens in a new tab)

953 4 h

Avoid the crowds, confusion, and limitations of large buses and discover San Francisco by a luxury van.  Trade the large tour bus for a guided luxury van and see more of San Francisco! Your guide takes you through more neighborhoods & photo stops, complete with views of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Twin Peaks and several other famous landmarks. Small Group Experience (no waiting on big groups)

San Francisco Afternoon City Tour Small-Group Half-Day (opens in a new tab)

352 3 h 30 min

Enjoy a glimpse into the culture and diversity of San Francisco's many districts with a comprehensive panoramic tour of the city. See the contrast between towering buildings and wild nature in the city that houses people from fishermen and winemakers to software engineers and financiers. Get picked up from your hotel and start your journey in the central square of the city, Union Square. Take in the elegant City Hall building and the impressive Public Library. Drive past the headquarters of the legendary Levi Strauss Company and hear how the Gold Rush is associated with jeans. Ride through diverse neighborhoods, including Haight-Ashbury, the Castro, and the Sea Cliff. Explore the world’s largest Chinatown and the Italian Quarter Come across sea lions at Pier 39, take a walk along the chic promenade of the Marina area, reach Park Presidio, and take a photo overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. During your trip, you will also pass by Coit Tower, Lombard Street, and Alamo Square.

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise (opens in a new tab)

1,022 2 h – 4 h

Choose between a day tour or a special night tour of Alcatraz. The night tour includes a narrated cruise at sunset, cell door demonstrations, and talks from expert historians. Both tours include an audio guide available in multiple languages to delve into the prison's history and infamous escape attempts. Additionally, enjoy a narrated 1-hour cruise with views of landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, the Bay Bridge, and Pier 39 sea lions, all from the comfort of a boat with indoor and outdoor seating. The time you select will be your Alcatraz ferry departure. The Alcatraz ferry departs from Pier 33. You may take the Bay cruise on any day at any available departure time. These are 2 separate tours. Children 4 years and younger are free and do not need tickets. For the Alcatraz Night tour, If you plan to take both tours on the same day, you must take the Bay Cruise before your Alcatraz tour. The night tour is not available on Sundays and Mondays.

San Francisco City Tour, Muir Woods & Sausalito: Half or Full Day (opens in a new tab)

835 4 h – 7 h

Discover the best of San Francisco with Dylan’s Tours’ signature small-group experience, combining iconic city sightseeing with a visit to Muir Woods National Monument. This flexible tour offers two options, allowing guests to choose between a half-day or a more immersive full-day experience. Travel in a comfortable, climate controlled minibus with a professional local guide as you explore San Francisco’s most famous neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, and landmarks. Enjoy engaging narration covering city history, culture, and film locations, along with photo stops at iconic sites such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Palace of Fine Arts. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge to Muir Woods, where guests have up to 90 minutes to walk among towering coastal redwoods. If you choose the full-day option, you get to enjoy approx. 1 hr. in Sausalito, a charming waterfront town known for its views, shops, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. In addition, you get an extensive coverage of San Francisco.