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 are planning solo travel to San Francisco, below is my guide on things to do alone in San Francisco, recommended places to stay when you solo travel San Francisco and how to get around. 

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Solo Travel in San Francisco

Is San Francisco safe for solo female travellers?

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. Be aware of pickpockets in the city and invest in a money belt if you feel more comfortable. As with any city, avoid walking alone late at night and be aware of your surroundings

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.

Meeting others

To meet others here I recommend going on a free walking tour where you just pay a donation at the end depending on how much you enjoyed the tour. There are plenty of tours you can do in the evenings too, such as taking a ghost tour, a night tour or San Francisco on a sightseeing shuttle or a dinner and dance cruise. 

And if you like to mingle in the evenings over a drink I recommend Local Edition, a bar inspired by the newspaper business of the 50’s and 60’s with vintage press clippings from San Francisco’s archives. But not everything is old here as you’ll find updated versions of classic cocktails to indulge in. 

Things To Do Alone in San Francisco

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. 

1. Walk Across The Golden Gate Bridge

During your San Francisco solo trip, you have to pay a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge, the most iconic part of San Francisco. It is iconic for its bold red-orange colour, innovative engineering, and stunning views. Completed in 1937, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, symbolising San Francisco’s spirit. It’s featured in countless films, photographs, and works of art, and its striking design and views across the bay and Pacific make it a global symbol and a must-see landmark.

It connects San Francisco to Marin County across the Golden Gate Strait, one of the most challenging waterways to navigate. 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.

There’s also the Golden Gate Park. Golden Gate Park and the Golden Gate Bridge might sound like they’re right next to each other, but they’re actually a bit of a distance apart. The park is about 2-3 miles south of the bridge, so not exactly a stone’s throw away, but still within the same general area of San Francisco.

If you’re at the bridge and fancy a trip to park, you could easily make your way there by car, bike, or even a good walk if you’re up for it. The journey will take you through some of San Francisco’s charming neighbourhoods and offers some great views along the way. The bridge is north of the park, just across the Presidio, which is another beautiful area with trails and scenic spots.

So, while they’re not side by side, they’re close enough that you could visit both in the same day without too much hassle. It’s a lovely combo—nature, views, and a bit of iconic San Francisco all in one go. You can take a cruise of Golden Gate Bay and see the bridge from the water instead. 

2. Escape Alcatraz

Alcatraz, perched on a rocky island in San Francisco Bay, is shrouded in history and intrigue. Once a notorious federal prison, it housed infamous criminals like Al Capone where it was thought that they couldn’t escape due to the surrounding water. 

Today, Alcatraz has become a tourist destination, offering guided tours that reveal its dark past, eerie cells, and stunning views of the San Francisco skyline. When you’re visiting San Francisco alone, make sure that you get a reservation for the ferry ride as Alcatraz is a popular activity to do here. The ferry can be pretty cold so take a jacket with you when you go on a historical tour of the island.

The Ferry Building for Alcatraz is located at Pier 33, which is known as the Alcatraz Landing. This is where you’ll catch the ferry to visit the infamous Alcatraz Island. The area is well-signposted, so you can’t miss it. Just head to the pier, and you’ll find the ticket booths and boarding area for the Alcatraz ferry. * Pre-book your Alcatraz tour 

3. See The View From Coit Tower

If you want an expansive view of San Francisco, you should make the trip up Coit Tower. Located on Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower, completed in 1933, was funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit and designed in art deco style by architects Arthur Brown Jr. and Henry Howard. The tower features murals from the Great Depression era, depicting California life. 

Coit Tower provides a great overlook of the city and city lights, including a stunning view of the lights reflecting off the Bay. You can get a view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and more. Plus, you can climb to the top for an even better view, though it might be a bit crowded in the evenings.

See the seals on your solo trip San Francisco

4. Mingle With The Seals at Pier 39

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 (make sure to try the clam chowder).

Fisherman’s Wharf is a short walk from Pier 39 along the Embarcadero. The two are connected by a lively stretch of waterfront filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers and you’ll get fantastic views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Just a 10-15 minutes walk from Pier 39, heading west along the waterfront is Ghirardelli Square in Fisherman’s Wharf, a historic landmark that was once a former chocolate factory. It has now been turned into a lively square with shops, restaurants, and, of course, a Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop where you can indulge in some delicious treats if you’re a chocolate lover. 

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.

5. Eat Chinese Food at Chinatown

As a solo female traveller San Francisco has many options for cuisine. 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 famous. 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 with its vibrant atmosphere. 

Start at the iconic Dragon Gate and stroll through Grant Avenue to see the shops. Visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory for a unique treat, and explore the serene Tin How Temple for some culture. Whilst you’re there, don’t miss Portsmouth Square, the historic heart of Chinatown where you can enjoy a peaceful tea tasting at a local tea shop before heading for some tasty Chinese food. You can take a tour in Chinatown if you don’t feel like exploring here alone. 

6. Go Hippie at The Mission District

The Mission District in San Francisco, celebrated for its rich Chicano or Mexican-American culture, is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for solo female travellers. 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!

Start your adventure with a stroll through Clarion Alley and Balmy Alley, where colourful murals tell powerful stories. Explore the many taquerias for authentic Mexican flavours, and wander through unique boutiques and bookstores. With its lively atmosphere and welcoming community, it’s no wonder The Mission District is famous among hipsters!

7. Relax at The 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 in San Francisco. This iconic landmark, built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, certainly looks like a palace or something straight out of a fantasy-romance novel. I had seen it on a TV series when I was younger and was in awe when I saw it in real life. 

With its fascinating Greco-Roman architecture, grand rotunda, and serene lagoon, you’ll feel like you’re in a magical land. The surrounding park is perfect for a peaceful stroll, and the entrance is free unless you attend any specific exhibitions or shows there. It’s a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle, ideal for unwinding and soaking in beauty.

8. Take an Iconic Ride on a Cable Car

Walking is one of the best ways to explore San Francisco but one noteworthy mode of transportation are the cable cars. The San Francisco cable car is an iconic symbol of the city, offering a nostalgic and scenic way to explore its hilly streets. Riding one is a must-do experience, giving you a glimpse of historic San Francisco while enjoying stunning views.

The best place to ride is from Powell and Market Street, where the Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines begin. These routes take you through some of the city’s most famous sights, including Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Nob Hill. For the best experience, try to snag a spot on the outside for unbeatable views and a true San Francisco adventure.

9. Meander Around Haight-Ashbury

The Haight-Ashbury area may seem unassuming, but it has a rich history, especially as the centre of the 1960s counterculture movement. As you walk through, you’ll see colourful Victorian homes and might even catch the Haight-Ashbury Street Fair, celebrating the neighbourhood’s vibrant spirit.

There are plenty of cafes and pubs to explore, each with its own unique character. The area has a youthful vibe that’s still strong today, making Haight-Ashbury a must-visit spot in San Francisco for both its history and lively atmosphere. You can take a tour here too!

10. See The Painted Ladies

Alamo Square Park is located in the heart of San Francisco, in the Western Addition neighbourhood. It’s nestled between several streets: Fulton Street to the north, Hayes Street to the south, and it’s bordered by Scott and Steiner Streets to the west and east.

The park is famous for its stunning views of the “Painted Ladies,” the colourful row of Victorian houses that line its eastern edge, with the downtown skyline as a backdrop. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or just soaking in the classic San Francisco vibes. Take a tour to see the Painted Ladies and other iconic spots in San Fran.

San Francisco Tours

Free Walking Tour – Take the Original San Francisco free walking tour. Book your tour for free and then give a donation at the end depending on how great you found the tour! They are a great way to get your bearings around the city, find out more about the history, get some exercise and meet others whilst you sightsee! * Check availability for FREE walking tour

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 all tours for your San Francisco solo travel

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. Read my Viator review or click the link below for all their tours.* Check rates and availability for all Viator tours

Explore Napa Valley

Many of us enjoy a glass of wine when we’re on vacation, and whilst you’re in San Francisco, you can take a day trip to a winery. You can even go on a trekking trip in the wine regions. But if you want to explore Napa Valley without the hike, you could consider booking a day tour such as this one.

Where To Stay in San Francisco

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.  

If you’re unsure where to stay on your San Francisco solo trip, 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. * Check rates and availability for Palihotel San Francisco

Getting Around San Francisco

If you’re unsure how to travel in San Francisco, I’ve included the options below. You don’t really need a car for your San Francisco solo travel, as you can get around using the public transportation and on foot. 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 on the bus. For buses to and from San Francisco, you can find your route and book tickets through Bus Bud.

San Francisco is known for its cable cars, so make sure you take the chance to ride one when you’re here. 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. * Book a campervan with RVshare

When To Visit San Francisco

Don’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 can get a bit chilly. The best time to go when you solo travel San Francisco 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 definitely appreciate it if you plan on going on a ferry ride to Alcatraz. The chart below shows the annual temperature in San Francisco from January to December to help you plan your trip. 

Insurance For San Francisco

San Francisco is an iconic destination to visit but travel insurance is always recommended for your holiday to cover you for any medical assistance especially if you’re travelling here solo. 

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies that I recommend. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world. 

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover. * Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

FAQS

• 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? You can’t barter so expect everything to have a fixed price. 
• Any ATMs? Yes.
• Which side of the road do they drive? They drive on the right-hand side.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes! San Francisco is 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. 

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