Getting ashore
Ships dock at the cruise terminals on the Embarcadero, close to Fisherman’s Wharf. Many of the city’s leading attractions are at the port, including Hyde Street Pier, Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 and the boats to Alcatraz. Check your ship’s notice for the berth.
Watch-outs
San Francisco is hilly, and the wind and fog can change the temperature within the hour. Bring a jacket. Alcatraz tickets sell out, so book the ferry in advance. Pickpocketing and street scams around the wharf are a known issue, so keep valuables close.
Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39
Pier 39 is a waterfront complex of shops and restaurants, with sea lions on the docks. Fisherman’s Wharf is nearby, and Ghirardelli Square is a short walk. Clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is the local favourite.
Alcatraz and the bay
The former federal prison on Alcatraz Island is reached by ferry from Pier 33. The audio tour is included in the ticket, and the boat ride is short. Allow about half a day for the island.
Cable cars and the city
The cable cars on the Powell–Hyde line run from Powell Street up the hills toward Fisherman’s Wharf. The line is busy and queues can be long. The Golden Gate Bridge can be reached by bus or taxi, and the Presidio is beside it.
Day trips
Muir Woods, the redwood forest, is about 40 minutes north by road. Napa and Sonoma wine country are about an hour away. Tours from the port are the simplest way to see these.
Food & shopping
San Francisco is known for sourdough, seafood, dim sum and Mexican food in the Mission. The Ferry Building Marketplace is a good stop for food and local produce.
Money & connectivity
The currency is the US dollar. Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Mobile data is good in the city.
Accessibility & mobility
The terminal and Fisherman's Wharf are mostly flat. The city's hills are steep, and the cable cars involve steps and steep boarding. Alcatraz has a ferry and a walk uphill to the cell house, with a lift for some areas. Ask the operator about accessible transport.