San Francisco is a city that doesn’t just show itself—it performs. With its steep streets, historic cable cars, sweeping bay views and diverse neighborhoods, it’s a destination where every corner tells a story. For first-time visitors, the city’s iconic landmarks are the perfect introduction, offering a glimpse into its rich culture, history and signature charm.
The most famous landmarks in San Francisco include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown Gate, Lombard Street, Painted Ladies, Coit Tower, Palace of Fine Arts, Twin Peaks and the Ferry Building.
Here are the top 10 famous landmarks in San Francisco you absolutely must visit.
1. Golden Gate Bridge
This world-renowned suspension bridge is more than just a way to cross the bay—it’s a symbol of San Francisco itself. Painted in its signature International Orange, the Golden Gate Bridge stretches 1.7 miles between San Francisco and Marin County, offering panoramic views of the city, Alcatraz and the Pacific. Whether you walk, bike or drive across, the experience is unforgettable.
Fun Fact: The Golden Gate Bridge was once the longest suspension bridge in the world when it opened in 1937.
2. Alcatraz Island
Just offshore, this rocky island once housed the country’s most infamous federal prison. Alcatraz Island is now a hauntingly beautiful landmark where visitors can explore the cells once occupied by criminals like Al Capone and Robert Stroud. A self-guided audio tour adds chilling details as you wander through the remains of this historic penitentiary.
Fun Fact: The prison closed in 1963, but today Alcatraz is one of the most visited national park sites in the U.S.
3. Fisherman’s Wharf
A bustling waterfront neighborhood, Fisherman’s Wharf is packed with seafood stalls, souvenir shops and lively street performers. It’s also the best place to watch sea lions lounging near Pier 39 or dig into a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. The maritime vibe and bayfront views make it a must-see.
Fun Fact: Fisherman’s Wharf was home to San Francisco’s fishing fleet in the late 1800s and still serves fresh local catches today.
4. Chinatown Gate
Marking the entrance to the oldest Chinatown in North America, the Dragon Gate is your invitation into a neighborhood filled with lantern-lined streets, herbal shops, markets and dim sum spots. The gate itself is a popular photo stop, but the cultural richness lies within the surrounding streets.
Fun Fact: San Francisco’s Chinatown was established in 1848 and spans over 20 square blocks.
5. Lombard Street
Often called the “crookedest street in the world,” Lombard Street is a winding, flower-lined drive with eight sharp turns. This short but dramatic stretch of road is best viewed from the bottom, where you can take in the zigzagging path framed by colorful homes and blooming hydrangeas.
Fun Fact: The switchbacks were added in the 1920s to reduce the hill’s natural 27 percent grade, which was too steep for cars.
6. Painted Ladies
These Victorian-era homes, famously lined up against the backdrop of the modern city skyline, are among the most photographed buildings in San Francisco. The Painted Ladies at Alamo Square perfectly capture the city’s old-meets-new vibe. They’re especially stunning during golden hour.
Fun Fact: This row of homes is often referred to as “Postcard Row” and featured in the opening credits of the TV show Full House.
7. Coit Tower
Rising above Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is a slender white column that offers sweeping views from its observation deck. Inside, it’s decorated with 1930s murals painted by local artists as part of a New Deal art program. The hike up the hill is worth the effort, especially on a clear day.
Fun Fact: The tower was funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy eccentric who loved supporting the city’s firefighters.
8. Palace of Fine Arts
This grand, Greco-Roman structure was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition and remains one of the city’s most elegant spaces. Surrounded by a peaceful lagoon and gardens, the Palace of Fine Arts is a favorite spot for strolls, photo shoots and romantic moments.
Fun Fact: Though originally constructed as a temporary structure, it was so beloved that it was rebuilt in the 1960s using permanent materials.
9. Twin Peaks
For the best panoramic views of San Francisco, head up to Twin Peaks, a pair of 922-foot-high summits in the city’s center. From the top, you’ll get a 360-degree look at the entire Bay Area, from the skyline to the bridges to the Pacific Ocean beyond. It’s especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Fun Fact: According to local Ohlone folklore, the two peaks were once a single mountain—husband and wife—who argued so much that the Great Spirit separated them into two peaks.
10. Ferry Building
Located along the Embarcadero, the Ferry Building is both a historic transportation hub and a food lover’s paradise. Its grand clock tower has stood watch over the bay since 1898 and inside you’ll find a vibrant market filled with artisan vendors, coffee roasters and local fare.
Fun Fact: The Ferry Building clock tower was modeled after the 12th-century Giralda bell tower in Seville, Spain.
Exploring the Most Famous Landmarks in San Francisco
Each of these San Francisco landmarks offers a unique window into the city’s personality—from gritty prison history and architectural beauty to sweeping vistas and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, exploring these iconic spots will help you feel the spirit of the city in every step.
Landmark Excursions in San Francisco
- Alcatraz Island and Sausalito – Tour the legendary prison on Alcatraz before heading across the Golden Gate Bridge for free time in scenic, artsy Sausalito.
- Hop On Hop Off San Francisco – Essential 1 Day Ticket – See all the top landmarks in San Francisco at your own pace with access to over 15 stops including Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge.
- San Francisco & Golden Gate Bridge – A comprehensive motor coach tour that includes stops at Twin Peaks, Golden Gate Park and the iconic bridge, with photo opportunities at every turn.
- San Francisco City Tour & Chinatown Lunch – Combine landmark sightseeing with an authentic Chinese meal and walking tour of Chinatown’s colorful streets and history.
Planning a Visit to San Francisco? Explore More Inspiration and Tips:
- What is San Francisco Known For? - Discover what gives the City by the Bay its soul, from foggy mornings to its vibrant culture.
- What to Buy in San Francisco? - A souvenir guide to help you shop for the city’s most iconic goods and gifts.
