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HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOURS Hitch a Ride With Us

Holiday lights tour.

Live the magic of San Francisco’s festive Christmas season in our Holiday Lights Tour! Enjoy the best holiday lights views and displays, and sing along to Christmas songs, cuddled-up with family and friends.

Our little VW-hippie buses can take up to 7 people at a time. The small setting is perfect for a family-feel and it’s an intimate way of exploring the city’s Holiday Magic. Enjoy the Shared-Experience!

Or, make the whole bus exclusively yours with a Private-Experience!

Have a group bigger than 7 people? No problem, we can send additional buses out to caravan!

The Holiday Lights Tours in San Francisco run from

 November 25th – December 30th

Highlights  & Stops

We seek for the most festive holiday magic in the city, and the route changes to deliver the best experience. Some our views and stops include:

  • Fairmont Hotel Gingerbread House & Christmas Tree 
  • Westin St. Francis Hotel rotating Gingerbread House 
  • Fisherman’s Wharf Christmas tree
  • Union Square’s Macy’s Holiday Tree
  • Down Lombard Street, famous crooked-street

What’s Included:

  • VW Hippie bus
  • 90 Minute Guided Tour
  • 2-Photo stops
  • Shared Experience: $85 per person
  • Private Experience: $595 per VW Bus
  • Gratuity not included

Restrictions

  • Ages 4 & under are only permitted in Private Experiences & must bring appropriate seating
  • Minimum of 2 guests are required for the tour to operate

Pick-up Location

Our pick-up location is   2899 Hyde Street, San Francisco, CA 94109

At the corner of Jefferson & Hyde street. VW Buses pick up next to the Maritime Museum Sign, as there is no physical office. 

Buy It As A Gift

A perfect to treat friends and family coming into town. While visiting, have them take a tour of the City, get into the Holiday spirit. Buy one or all 6 seats for a perfect outing! 

Holiday Lights Tour

HIPPIE VW'S

San Francisco love tours tour guides

GROOVY GUIDES

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A MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDER

I simply can’t imagine a better way of experiencing going up and down the hills of San Francisco than in a VW-hippie bus. The allure of these adorable V-Dubs are only matched by the marvelous sights and stories encapsulated by this ever-changing city. People wanting to ride in a VW bus are kindred spirits who appreciate a small, family-like experience with guides that love storytelling as much as they love living in this city. These are genuine experiences, befriending authentic people, making extraordinaire memories. ~ Allan

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San Francisco Holidays

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Golden splendour, a vibrant waterfront and that iconic bridge – San Francisco holidays are near the top of the list when it comes to beautiful American city breaks

From its beautiful Bay to those iconic cable cars, San Francisco is as multilayered as its famous morning fog.

You can be shopping on fancy Union Square in the morning and cosying up for clam chowder along Fisherman’s Wharf in the afternoon. There are sea lions to see, classic crooked hills to climb and a creative counterculture to explore. Passionate about art and literature, you’re just as likely to tour the world class SFMOMA as you are to stumble into a dark and edgy beatnik-vibe bookstore. Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge or cycle all the way over to sun kissed Sausalito. Taste your way around lantern-lit Chinatown and grab tickets to a San Francisco Giants game. Stroll the famous Ferry Building’s artisan market stalls and catch sunset views from the legendary Twin Peaks lookout point.

Offering handpicked inspiration, North America by Kuoni makes it easier than ever before to coast into your favourite cities.

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Our recommendations for the best places to stay in San Francisco

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The Cartwright Hotel Union Square - Best Western Premier Collection

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Hotel Triton

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Omni San Francisco

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Holidays in San Francisco

  • San Francisco

If heart throbs were hotels, Fairmont San Francisco would be one of them. With regal looks, historic spirit and unrivalled Bay and city views, this is the go-to for a sophisticated stay.

An ode to both the Gold Rush era and its waterfront location, The Argonaut crushes on-trend seafaring style without sacrificing history and is our default choice for San Fran.. They’ve sneaked in fire pits, seafood and rooms with incredible views to make this former fruit cannery full of flavour.

Mix up your sightseeing with some downtown downtime at The Handlery. This smart city choice sits in prime position for Union Square and has a hacienda style courtyard with an outdoor heated pool.

Moments from Broadway shows and diamonds at Tiffany’s, you’re in a stellar central location at The Cartwright Hotel Union Square. This sightseeing bolthole also makes light work of hopping on the cable car for a quintessential San Francisco experience.

Devilishly stylish Hotel Emblem is a wild-child mix of luxe cocktails and Beat Generation literature. One for the cool-hunting crowd, this edgy city-on-your-doorstep hotel comes with book butlers, bicycles and relatable rebellion.

You might just mistake Hotel Triton for the home of a globetrotting art collector friend. The lobby champions international and local artists, boutique bedrooms showcase vintage flair and the 20s-style Parisian Café serves Gallic favourites overlooking Chinatown’s Dragon Gate.

A skyscraper wedge of a beauty, The Hyatt Regency sits right on the waterfront and is just steps from the Ferry Building where you’ll find the best cheese, coffee and chocolate in San Francisco.

If you’re allergic to the stuffy and the formal then you’re on the same wavelength as creative crash pad Staypineapple. Here, it’s all about complimentary sweet treats and interiors that flirt with a playful sunshine palette.

Every inch a tourist hotel geared towards leisure travellers, Hotel Caza is just a few minutes from the sidewalks and sourdough of famous Fisherman’s Wharf. A functional but fun base from which to explore this famous city

Fillmore District favourite Hotel Kabuki references its Japantown location whilst putting an Industrial spin on things. It feels like an incredibly hip townhouse where bottles of sake meet butterfly chairs and mid century design merges with meditation

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Inspired by the Italian flavours of its nearby North Beach neighbourhood, Hotel Zoe is all Tiffany blue cruiser bikes and trendy trattoria with a memorable fire pit courtyard garden. Endless chowder choice is available two blocks away at Fisheman’s Wharf.

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Crushing it in the classic hotel/trendy location stakes, The Westin St. Francis sits right on Union Square’s fashion-forward open air plaza. With café culture, cable cars and Macy’s on your doorstep, there’s no better place for chic city vibes.

With an enviable central address just a stroll from Chinatown and Union Square, Omni’s classic style harks back to its bank building days. It’s nicely topped up with enough comforts to make it a great ‘city explorer’ choice.

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Two incredible Californian cities. One wow worthy trip. San Francisco delights with iconic landmarks, artistic soul and Victorian houses on the hills. Witness that famous fog, hop on vintage trams, grab snapshots on the Golden Gate Bridge and soak up seafaring style. Then onto Los Angeles to embrace the Hollywood high life as much as the beaches, shops and restaurants that make this city a celebrity favourite.

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Chicago & San Francisco

Combine the Midwest's Windy City and California's City By the Bay on this twin-centre holiday. Contemporary Chicago sits at the western shores of Lake Michigan and its gleaming skyscrapers offer a marked contrast to San Francisco's famed Victorian architecture, while each city has its own iconic sports venues, waters-based activities, mouthwatering dishes and cool neighbourhoods.

Las Vegas, Hawaii & San Francisco

Start your trip in style with a few nights in the incredible, one-of-a-kind Las Vegas. It’s the perfect city to get you into holiday mode before flying to Hawaii. These idyllic islands are ideal for a relaxing, post-Vegas break, but there are plenty of entertainment options if you want more nightlife. Then, you’ll hop to Maui to unwind on palm-fringed crescent beaches. Your route home takes you via San Francisco to finish your trip, exploring a magnificent city with iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge to feast your eyes on.

City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off and Alcatraz Visit - 48 Hour Ticket

The Hop-On Hop-Off Official City Tour begins at Fisherman's Wharf. Heading Downtown, you'll see the Barbary Coast, Embarcadero, and the Ferry Building before you arrive at Union Square. Hop off for some shopping or stay on board to visit the Civic Center area with great views of San Francisco's City Hall, the Opera House, and the Symphony Hall.

The tour continues towards Alamo Square. Stop to admire the Victorian Painted Ladies, then drive through bohemian Haight Ashbury, where you can see the murals and art dedicated to the San Francisco hippie culture. The next stop is Golden Gate Park. Hop off to seek out the Conservatory of Flowers, de Young Museum, California Academy of Sciences, and the Japanese Tea Gardens. There are miles of hiking trails to explore the diversity of the park. Next up: the Golden Gate Bridge. You'll cross the 1.7-mile bridge with the chance to hop off at North Vista Point to take pictures of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Goldentour continues into Marin County and stops in Sausalito, where you can hop off the bus, take a stroll, and enjoy lunch by the waterfront.

On the way back to Downtown, you'll pass the Palace of Fine Arts and continue through historic Van Ness Avenue before reaching Chinatown. Then it's back to Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39, where San Francisco's famous Sea Lions bark a 'welcome back' to you. Your ticket includes a visit to Alcatraz, the infamous prison island. Take the ferry across the Bay for a 45-minute headset-tour inside the prison cellblock before exploring the prison and island at your own pace.

The city tour takes 150 minutes without stops, plus an extra 60 minutes for the Sausalito tour. You can stay on Alcatraz for as long as you choose - ferries return every 30 minutes.

Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off - Classic 1 Day Ticket (Incl. walking tour)

Hop on board a Big Bus Sightseeing Tour of the City by the Bay and catch the best views of its distinctive landmarks and hear live commentary about its history as you go. There are 20 stops all around spectacular San Francisco. You'll see the beautiful parks, architecture you'll recognise from the big screen, and pretty views from an open-top bus. Hop on and off to create a customised journey around the city. Your ticket also includes a choice of four walking tours. Explore either Chinatown, North Beach, Barbary Coast, or Fisherman's Wharf on foot - don't forget to check what time they start. The fun doesn't stop at night - your ticket includes a Night Tour of the city, a panoramic bus tour that starts by climbing historic Nob Hill for a magnificent close up of Grace Cathedral. The bus then makes its way across the Bay Bridge to Treasure Island to view the skyline. Back in the city, the tour concludes along the Embarcadero.

Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off - Deluxe 2 Day Ticket (Incl. walking tour)

Hop on board a Big Bus Sightseeing Tour of the City by the Bay and catch the best views of its distinctive landmarks and hear live commentary about its history as you go. There are 20 stops all around spectacular San Francisco. You'll see the beautiful parks, architecture you'll recognise from the big screen, and pretty views from an open-top bus. Hop on and off to create a customised journey around the city. Your ticket also includes a choice of four walking tours. Explore either Chinatown, North Beach, Barbary Coast, or Fisherman's Wharf on foot - don't forget to check what time they start. The fun does't stop at night - your ticket includes a Night Tour of the city, a panoramic bus tour that starts by climbing historic Nob Hill for a magnificent close up of Grace Cathedral. The bus then makes its way across the Bay Bridge to Treasure Island to view the skyline. Back in the city, the tour concludes along the Embarcadero.

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Cancellation Policy: Cancellations are accepted by phone (415) 608-7757, 24 hours hours  prior to the time of the tour.  You may choose another Holiday Lights date in December or select another tour before April 30, 2023.      For more info or to book your private party, call Marilyn at 415 921-1382

Guided Tours for Everyone   Kid-Friendly Tours Ideas for S enior & Disabled Groups Self-Guided Tour Booklets       Free Web Special: Marina Green Self-Guided Tour  

Featured in The San Francisco Chronicle " . . . picturesque, historical and just plain fun mile-long walks through the city that don't involve the slightest change in elevation."

Featured in Sunset Magazine Travel Guide -  "Flat-out fun"

Featured in Cooking Light Magazine "On the Level San Francisco offers special maps with paths that go around the formidable hills instead of over them."

Have you planned your Holiday party? THINK ?  San Francisco Holiday Lights

San Francisco Holiday Lights Join "On The Level" tour guide, Marilyn Straka, to see downtown San Francisco and all that glitters at the Holiday Season. We will explore uniquely decorated hotel and office lobbies before walking to Yerba Buena Gardens for a look at a hidden treasure. Bloomingdales and the Westfield Shopping Center will offer new and exciting visual delights. Then onto Union Square to see several department stores, the large tree and other points of interest. Here shopping and eating options abound. Or continue on to the quiet world of Maiden Lane where we will sing carols. $20/person. Now accepting group & individual reservations — 415.921.1382. LEARN MORE!>>

Don’t miss our New/Most Popular tours .  

How about a tour as part of that upcoming birthday or anniversary party?!

As a bonus, I have given you ideas for planning for your trip to San Francisco or your meeting, wedding, or student group activity under Resources .

If you want to do independent sightseeing, our Self-Guided Tour Booklets offer you the option to tour a neighborhood or park with YOU as the guide!  Order booklets now for your next trip to San Francisco or those out-of-town guides arriving soon.

As you peruse the site, you will see why On The Level has been featured in local and national publications In The News and you will experience first-hand Testimonials through feedback from participants who can confirm that sightseeing from a bus can never show you the great secrets of San Francisco the way a walking tour can!

Feel free to Contact Us for any custom tours or events that you are planning.  We will be pleased to design the perfect tour for you or your group.  All tours can be customized based on your walking ability and transportation needs.

Ongoing Events and Sightseeing Tours in San Francisco

What's New at the Presidio?: two hour walking tour of the world's largest urban National Park. See historic Army buildings, unparalleled Bay views, featuring Letterman Digital Arts Center (Lucasfilm empire) and 10 restaurants to complete your day in the park. Every second and fourth Saturday, 11am to 1pm. $20. Reservations required — 415.921.1382. LEARN MORE!>>

Rooftop Gardens & Waterfalls in Downtown San Francisco: two hour walking tour featuring 10 waterfalls and "places you shouldn't go". Add in beautiful views and you have a great way to end your week. Every first and third Saturday, 11am to 1 pm. $20. Reservations required — 415.921.1382. LEARN MORE!>>

NEW San Francisco WITH the Hills and Steps: a unique offering from 'On The Level' - see the newest and best of San Francisco's 600+ stairways! Many are in the heart of SF's most intriguing neighborhoods. Two hour walks, customized for you and scheduled at your convenience. $20. Reservations required — 415.921.1382. LEARN MORE!>>

The Perfect Celebration: Want a memorable and unique birthday, anniversary or wedding rehearsal celebration? On The Level will help you make it fun, easy and inexpensive! First, you pick the venue for a meal or cocktails; then the adventure begins. Reservations required — 415.921.1382. LEARN MORE!>>

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San Francisco Tours & Holidays

Couple admiring Golden Gate Bridge, on the hill during sunset San Francisco, California, USA

The gate to the ‘City by the Bay’ is open, waiting to welcome you with must-visit attractions and unforgettable experiences.  

Known as the vibrant and multicultural beating heart of California , San Francisco is a traveller’s dream with heaps of sights waiting to be photographed, admired, and remembered for many years to come. Different from neighbouring Californian destinations such as Los Angeles , this city really does have it all, from the historical and eerie Alcatraz prison to the sweeping landscape of the Napa and Sonoma wine country . Regardless of whether you’ve come straight from our Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip or you’re travelling from other parts of the country, our  San Francisco tours and holidays  will not only point you in the direction of iconic landmarks, including the famous Golden Gate Bridge but will also give you a great insight on what it’s like to live in this picturesque city. Are you ready to marvel at the remarkable layout of Lombard Street and walk amongst the various shops and stalls at Fisherman’s Walk?

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San Francisco travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Getting around San Francisco

Getting around San Francisco is quite easy, considering the size of the city.

Walking or taking public transportation is the preferred option of travel with the streets being easy to navigate and the public transportation system easy to use.

The 'muni' (large municipal transportation system) operates buses, streetcar lines and San Francisco's famous cable cars, making it the most efficient way to get around the city. 

What do I pack for San Francisco?

What to pack for your vacation to San Francisco mostly depends on what time of the year you're travelling in.

San Francisco sees mostly mild weather year-round, so t-shirts, shorts and jeans are a safe bet. Packing a few sweaters might also be wise, as the nights can get a little chilly.

You should also pack comfortable walking shoes, as that is one of the preferred ways of getting around the city. Sunscreen protects you from the sun's UV rays when you step outside.

What is the weather like in San Francisco?

The climate of San Francisco is modern maritime, with mild weather all year round.

During winter, the temperatures are quite mild; during summer, the temperatures can be cooler. However, the chance of rain during June, July and August is very low.

This cooler climate is due to the city's proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the cold seawater that runs through the bay.

Where is Lombard Street in San Francisco?

Known as being "the crookedest street in the world" and is one of the steepest street in the city of San Francisco, Lombard Street is located between Hyde and Leadenworth streets and is famous because of a zig-zagging, one-block section with 8 hairpin turns.

Hundreds of tourists flocks to this street to marvel at its incredible layout and breathtaking landscape. 

What are the best hikes in San Francisco?

There are a bunch of different hikes around the San Francisco area if you're craving a little bit of nature's beauty from coastal walks to mountain trails. They include: 

  • Lands End Trail 
  • Batteries to Bluffs Trail 
  • Twin Peaks Hike 
  • Fort Funston Trail 
  • Lover's Lane Trail 
  • Angel Island Hike 

How far is San Francisco from....?

San Francisco is a very popular city with tourists coming from all over the country to marvel at its beauty and famous landmarks. If you're travelling from cities within California or its surrounding states, chances are you'll be driving. Below is how far away San Francisco is from its surrounding cities by car: 

  • San Francisco is about 77 kilometres from San Jose, making the journey by car just under an hour. 
  • Palo Alto is 53 kilometres from San Francisco, making it about a 40-minute drive. 
  • San Francisco is a 2-hour drive from Monterey in California, making it a 190-kilometre one-way trip. 
  • San Francisco is roughly 309 kilometres from Yosemite National Park in California. The journey by car would take you around 4 hours

How deep is the San Francisco Bay?

Surprisingly the San Francisco Bay is quite shallow, with an average depth of about 13 metres.

At its deepest point, which is right under the Golden Gate Bridge, the bay stands at 110 metres.

At its shallowest point, the depth of the bay is only about 5 feet which is at the northern and southern areas, respectively.

Is Alcatraz haunted?

Alcatraz prison was closed in March of 1963 due to how expensive it was to maintain. It is completely isolated from the mainland, and a lot of resources had to be brought in. The facility itself required too much restoration and regular upkeep.

During its time, Alcatraz was known as one of the harshest prisons in the US and housed some of the country's most notorious criminals. It's little wonder reports have suggested paranormal activity within the prison, including ghost sightings and unexplained noises.

How long is the Golden Gate Bridge?

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of San Francisco's most famous landmarks and has been since its construction in 1933.

This bridge connects San Francisco to Marin County, spanning a massive 3 kilometres. It features stunning architecture that makes for some great photos.

What is the weather like in Muir Woods?

The weather in Muir Woods is much the same as in San Francisco but a little cooler, with temperatures mostly staying around 20°C.

If you're walking through the woods in the early morning or late afternoon, you'll likely see fog. You should bring appropriate cold-weather clothes, such as sweaters, as it can get chilly with the dense tree cover.

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San Francisco Fall & Winter Events: 2023’s Best Holiday Spots

  • San Francisco

aerial view of San Francisco bridge at night with colorful fireworks in the background

San Francisco is a magical place to spend the holiday season. Whether you are a local preparing to celebrate close to home or a visitor planning a vacation to the City by the Bay, it will help you to know a bit more about San Francisco during the holidays. 

From fan favorite annual events to sparkling light displays to holiday markets and everything in between, this is your one-stop article to Christmas in San Francisco and other San Francisco holidays! Below we will cover all of 2023’s best San Francisco holiday spots and activities in the city, broken down into the following helpful categories:

Annual Holiday Events in San Francisco

  • Holiday Displays, Lights, and more!

Restaurants Serving Holiday Meals

Special san francisco holiday activities, guided tours from extranomical.

  • Practical Advice for Visitors

But first! Especially if you are traveling to San Francisco in November, don’t miss all of the top things to do in San Francisco in the fall . Combine those suggestions with the ones below for an epic San Francisco visit.

a family of three wearing bonnets beside a fir tree

Let’s begin with the classic annual events everyone looks forward to. These family-friendly events bring the city together to ring in the San Francisco holidays with good cheer, twinkling lights, and fireworks.

Turkey Trots

While everyone’s eyes are already trained on Christmas, we can’t forget Thanksgiving! That wonderful holiday when most of us gorge ourselves on our favorite heavy foods, and others…. Run 5Ks? 

We aren’t sure exactly who these magical Thanksgiving runners are, but if you are one of them – we salute you! This article covers the details for this year’s turkey trots in San Francisco.

Christmas Tree Lightings

a tall christmas tree decorated with lights in front of a building

Now onto the sparkling Christmas lights! While many of the most famous trees in San Francisco will be lit quietly and without much fanfare this year, there are a couple of official tree-lighting events still happening. 

Up first is the Civic Center Tree Lighting . This will occur on December 6th from 4-7 pm. Enjoy festive performances, seasonal sips and bites, and even a visit from Santa himself. The Mayor of San Francisco, London Breed will light the Civic Center Tree at 5:30 pm. 

There will also be a celebration for the lighting of the Rainbow World Tree of Hope at Grace Cathedral . From 6:30-8 pm on December 4th, the Cathedral will celebrate the official lighting of the Tree of Hope, with performances from the San Francisco Boys Chorus, the Queer Chorus of San Francisco, and more. 

Grace Cathedral has a calendar full of wonderful Christmas events not to miss this season. See the full schedule here and join them for joyous singalongs and thoughtful introspection. 

Fisherman’s Wharf Holiday Boat Parade

boats decorated with lights lined up by the bay

The Holiday light magic continues with this fan favorite boat parade. On December 15th, from 6-8 pm, snag a spot along the waterfront to watch the decked out boats float by Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Mason, and St. Francis Yacht Club. 

If you can’t make it to the official parade, just head over to Fisherman’s Wharf before January to see the boats all lit up in their holiday best.

Menorah Lighting

It is not only trees and boats that will be lit in San Francisco this holiday season. In Union Square , from December 7th-14th, a 25-foot-tall menorah will be lit nightly in celebration of the 8 holy nights of Hanukkah. 

Begun in 1975, San Francisco’s Menorah lighting celebration was the first of its kind. It was in fact the very first official public Chanukah celebration outside of Israel. Since then, it has inspired similar celebrations in over 500 metropolitan cities across the globe. 

On the first night, December 7th, the celebration begins at 3:30pm, with the official lighting scheduled for 5pm. See the Bill Graham Menorah Project’s website for the lighting and event schedule for the remainder of the week-long holiday.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

colorful fireworks surrounded by san francisco city lights

The San Francisco New Year’s Eve fireworks display sees hundreds of thousands of locals and visitors crowding the waterfront to view the magical show. The fireworks are set off from a boat in between the Ferry Building and the SF Bay Bridge. The show begins at 11:59 pm and runs for 15-20 minutes. 

One great vantage point is along the waterfront south of the Ferry Building. To get the best spots, many people begin arriving around 7 pm. They bring picnics and games to entertain themselves and their families until the show begins. 

Even if you arrive just an hour or two before, you will probably still be able to find a good view somewhere and enjoy your own slice of this San Francisco holiday magic. 

San Francisco Holiday Displays, Lights, and More!

We are not quite done talking about the wonderful holiday light displays in San Francisco. The following suggestions are less centered around one specific event, and more around independent exploration throughout the season. 

You could probably explore San Francisco for weeks and keep finding brilliant holiday displays, but we are going to cover our favorite not-to-miss locations. From a gingerbread house big enough to walk through, to a breathtaking light show covering 5 whole buildings, here are the best holiday displays in San Francisco in 2023.

Union Square

a photo of Macy's building with Christmas lights

We have to begin with what is arguably the center of holiday cheer in San Francisco — Union Square. This open-air courtyard surrounded by high-end shops simply glistens this time of year. 

A big beautiful tree stands twinkling above the Safeway Ice Rink in the center of the action. Stores like Neiman Marcus (they have a 4-story-tall tree!) and Saks Fifth Avenue always put on a show with their in-store and window decorations, but the real star is Macy’s.

A beloved San Francisco tradition is back this year. The ASPCA will be stocking the windows of Macy’s Department Store with adorable, adoptable kittens and puppies November 17th – December 31st from noon – 5 pm. Even if you aren’t in the market for a new family member, watching the animals frolic in the wintery window scenes is truly heartwarming.

Also returning this year is Union Square’s Winter Walk . This temporary pedestrian only holiday zone will be chock full of mouth-watering goodies, live entertainment, and perfect last-minute gifts. Winter Walk is scheduled for December 15-24th, 2023. Find the fun on Stockton Street from Post to O’Farrell. 

During your visit to Union Square, make sure not to miss the Westin St. Francis Hotel and their giant sugar castle ! This rotating, 12-foot-tall marvel of confection is sure to fill you with holiday cheer. The castle and village scene, complete with train, will be on display from November 22nd through January 4th. 

After your visit to the sugar castle, POP on over to the champagne bar called Pop! Lounge, or grab some sweet treats from Sweet Boutique (open on weekends). The Westin St. Francis also offers a Breakfast with Santa experience and Holiday Teas , which are great fun for the whole family.

While maybe not quite the spectacle of Union Square, Pier 39 on the Embarcadero brings the holiday fun with beautiful decorations and a unique tree light show for their HapPier Holidays Celebration.  

Every half hour from 5 – 10 pm, Pier 39’s Christmas tree dances in rainbow lights, perfectly timed to holiday music. More details are yet to be announced, but their celebration will last from November 21st – January 7th 2024. 

a couple taking selfie at the golden gate bridge overlook

Morning Guided City Tour of San Francisco

Most complete and entertaining San Francisco city tour available. Stops to explore Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, Land’s End, Twin Peaks and Mission Dolores.

yosemite tunnel view lookout in the winter

Yosemite Winter One Day Tour from San Francisco

Half Dome, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Yosemite Falls make dramatic appearances during this winter tour of Yosemite from San Francisco.

Ghirardelli Square

ghirardelli building decorated up with christmas lights

Don’t miss Ghirardelli Square on the other end of the wharf! The square will light their Christmas tree (complete with a visit from Santa!) on November 24th. The rest of the season will include events like a Peppermint Bark Day, additional Santa visits and more. Check out their schedule . Even if you don’t go there for a specific event, their lights and decorations are lovely all season.

Fairmont on Nob Hill

holiday tours san francisco

A not-to-miss holiday display in San Francisco is the gingerbread house at the Fairmont Nob Hill . This is no ordinary gingerbread house. This 2-story cookie mansion is big enough for adults to walk through and explore! 

This delicious display is typically open from Thanksgiving through the New Year. After appreciating the gingerbread house, stay to explore the rest of the Fairmont’s decorations. They really go all out. They are also a fabulous choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas Day Brunch!

Let’s Glow SF

Back for its 3rd year is the popular light show Let’s Glow SF. 5 iconic building facades around San Francisco will be illuminated using Panasonic projectors and lasers. The free shows will kick off on December 1st with the first projection onto the Ferry Building. 

From December 2nd-10th, stop by all 5 buildings to experience artwork by different artists and food and drink for purchase.  The 5-minute shows will play from 7-10 pm on the following buildings:

  • Ferry Building
  • Hobart Building
  • One Bush Plaza
  • Landing at Leidesdorff
  • Pacific Coast Stock Exchange
  • Salesforce Tower (special display on LED panel atop building)

group of people sitting down at a christmas dinner smiling to take a photo

While movies and TV shows often depict holiday meals happening at home, many families create wonderful traditions and memories eating out on the holidays. This may be especially true if you are visiting San Francisco. 

Many of San Francisco’s wonderful restaurants offer magical meals for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Here are some to consider. Some offer prix-fixe menus or buffets with a set price, while others offer their classic menu with special twists. Make sure to make reservations as far in advance as possible, as these experiences fill up fast!

Thanksgiving Day

  • Westin St. Francis (Union Square) – Brunch buffet
  • Anzu (Union Square) – Japanese with a Californian twist 
  • Buena Vista (Fisherman’s Wharf) – All day regular menu plus Thanksgiving classics
  • One Market Restaurant (Embarcadero) – 4-course dinner
  • Hornblower Cruises (Pier 3) – Unique, on-the-water dining experience for brunch or dinner!

Christmas Day

  • Astra (St. Regis, South of Market) – Upscale Prix-fixe brunch
  • Westin St. Francis (Union Square) – Brunch buffet 
  • Bistro Boudin (Embarcadero) – All day seafood with views of the Bay
  • Harborview Restaurant and Bar (Embarcadero) – Cantonese Chinese Cuisine
  • Laurel Court (Fairmont Hotel Nob Hill) – Californian lunch buffet
  • Zingari Ristorante (Union Square) – Italian Prix-fixe dinner
  • Hornblower Cruise (Pier 3) – Buffet dinner cruise embarking at 4pm

New Year’s Eve (Dinner with Fireworks Views)

  • Waterbar (Embarcadero) – Sustainable seafood
  • Epic Steak (Embarcadero) – Steakhouse with extensive wine list
  • Terrene (Hotel 1, Embarcadero) – Fresh, local ingredients and outdoor area

a group of friends skating in an ice rink with pine trees as background

The holidays in San Francisco aren’t just about searching out the best light displays. There are endless activities to keep you and your family entertained throughout the holiday season. From ice-skating rinks to a Charles Dickens-themed Fair to the classic Nutcracker Ballet, San Francisco has unforgettable holiday activities!

Golden Gate Park

led lights formed into a garden of flowers

First off, many of San Francisco’s most iconic attractions step it up a notch during the holidays. Winter and holiday-themed exhibits and decorations turn repeat visits to classic attractions into brand new experiences. 

A visit to Golden Gate Park will delight with holiday light shows on the Conservatory of Flowers , free admission to the Botanical Gardens on Christmas Day, and special winter exhibits within the California Academy of Sciences. 

Ice Skating

an aerial view of a skating rink at night

Even though the mild weather in San Francisco during the holidays may make ice skating a less obvious choice, locals and visitors alike still enjoy the classic winter activity here. 

The most iconic ice-skating rink in San Francisco is right in the heart of Union Square. The Safeway Union Square Ice Rink will be available for hour-long skating reservations from November 1st – January 15th. Make sure to reserve your spot online, as there will be no in-person rental booth this year. 

Insider Tip: The skating is extra special at night, with all of the lights of Union Square ablaze. 

In years past, there have been several other outdoor seasonal ice rinks in San Francisco, including the Embarcadero Ice-Skating Rink near the Ferry Building and one in Golden Gate Park run by the California Academy of Sciences. As of writing, these rinks will not be returning in 2023, but keep an eye out for next year!

Searching for Santa

Santa may be a little harder to find in San Francisco this season, but we are here to help! Head to Macy’s for a visit to the magical man from November 24th – December 24th. The visits are free (with optional photo purchase), but book your slot up to 5 days in advance. 

You can also find Santa at Stonestown Galleria from November 17th – December 24th. Reservations are already available! 

While these two locations are sure bets with a lot of availability, you will also see Santa pop in and out of celebrations throughout the city during the season. He will be lighting the tree at Ghirardelli Square on November 24th for example, and then returning there for photos on December 8th from 5-8 pm. 

Insider’s Tip: The worst day to search for Santa with your kiddos is December 9th, AKA 2023 Santa-Con. Following the tradition of other big cities, the streets of San Francisco will be crawling with drunk Santas, mid pub-crawl. While super fun for the adults participating, this may cause some awkward moments for young people. 

See a Holiday Performance in San Francisco

a group of christmas carolers holding a book while singing

Going to see a classic holiday story told through dance, music, or live theater is always a treat. These San Francisco institutions create magic holiday memories every year. 

First we have the classic ballet The Nutcracker . Be wept away to Clara’s dream world filled with both holiday fears and delights. The San Francisco Ballet’s Balanchine version of The Nutcracker will play at the War Memorial Opera House from December 13th – 30th. 

The SF Symphony will perform a packed calendar of holiday shows in December, ranging from classic Christmas movies like Home Alone presented with a live symphony soundtrack, to Handel’s Messiah. Check out their calendar of events .

Head to the Toni Rembe Theatre for The American Conservatory Theatre’s popular rendition of A Christmas Carol . Witness grumpy businessman Ebenezar Scrooge discover the true meaning of Christmas after being shown his past, present, and future by 3 nighttime visitors. This production will run December 6th – 23rd. 

The Great Dickens Christmas Fair

a woman wearing a crown dressed in blue and white victorian dress

If watching A Christmas Carol on stage isn’t enough of a Charles Dickens fix for you, you need to check out the Great Dickens Christmas Fair and Victorian Holiday Market in Daly City. 

Step into the world of Victorian London with 140,000 square feet of historically decorated music halls, English pubs, and holiday shops, brimming with costumed characters from literature and history. Maybe even find some handmade Christmas gifts perfect for those on your list. 

Become a part of this 30-year Christmas in San Francisco tradition! Purchase tickets online at The Great Dickens Fair Website . This event is held over 5 weekends from November 18th – December 17th, and tickets often sell out! 

Find the Perfect Gift at San Francisco Holiday Markets

two women shopping with with Chrismas bags in hand

If you are looking for gifts that are just a tad more modern, but still festive, check out one of the other fantastic holiday markets in San Francisco.  

On December 2nd from 9 am – 3 pm, St. Mary’s Cathedral on Geary Street will host the San Francisco Swedish Christmas Fair. Shop for crafts while indulging in Swedish treats.

San Francisco’s Ferry Building is always a great place to shop, but the Ferry Building during the holidays is better than ever. They host kid-friendly craft days and pop-up artisan markets where you can find truly special gifts. 

Golden Gate Park’s County Fair Building will play host to the Sunset Holiday Mercantile on December 2nd and 3rd from 11 am – 5 pm. This free indoor and outdoor market will feature local eats, local artisans and merchants, and loads of activities and performances. 

Holiday Tea in San Francisco

Several hotels in San Francisco offer classy, yet family-friendly holiday teas. These include the Westin St. Regis, The Fairmont in Nob Hill, and the Ritz-Carlton. These outings will not come cheap, but may just become your favorite new holiday tradition. 

Fresh Start Festival

We can’t forget about New Year’s! Fresh Start is a three-day outdoor music festival running December 30th – January 1st. Start the year off right with live music performances all day long at the Midway. This year’s performers include Louis the Child, Elderbrook, Kaskade, and more. 

New Year’s Cruise and Fireworks

Ring in the new year out on the water with a Bay cruise. There are endless options to choose from, from raucous party boats with live DJs to high-end dinner and dancing cruises. Whatever your choice, they will all provide amazing views of the fireworks and a great memory to start your year. 

a woman in a green Christmas costumes smiling for a photo

A great way to experience San Francisco during the holidays is to take a tour. The mild weather means all of the best San Francisco tours are still a great option this time of year. 

But since this is a Holiday specific blog, here are our suggestions for the tours that will make your holiday experience in San Francisco even brighter.

Holiday Lights and Christmas Karaoke Tour

This is the ultimate San Francisco Holiday Tour. Experience the best lights in the city including Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square, see the Gingerbread house at the Fairmont Hotel, and indulge in holiday treats, all while singing classic tunes along the way! 

Hop-on Hop-off bus

The 24-hour HOHO bus tour is always a great choice for San Francisco first-timers. See all of the city’s top attractions at your own pace. This is a great way to investigate each attraction’s special holiday exhibits and decorations so you know exactly where you want to return for further exploration. 

Yosemite Winter Tour From San Francisco  

Here is a tour suggestion that may surprise you. The San Francisco Holiday season through to spring is a magical time to visit Yosemite National Park. This day trip from San Francisco takes all of the transportation stress out of your visit and allows for over 5 hours of time in the park. 

And with 3 hours of free time in Yosemite Valley, you can choose your own adventure and do many of the best things to do in Yosemite in Winter . This tour even runs on Christmas day! 

Practical Advice for Visitors 

two girls watching colorful fireworks by the bay

We want to wrap up this article with some need-to-know advice for spending the holidays in San Francisco. Here are some common questions we receive about things like packing and parking, and what we recommend. 

What do I pack for Christmas in San Francisco?

It may surprise you to learn that San Francisco has mild weather during the holidays. We are talking highs of nearly 60 during the day, and lows only in the 40’s at night. So while you may want to pack cute and fuzzy winter scarves and hats and gloves for themed photos, you may not actually NEED them. 

For packing you will want to focus on layers. Bring and wear things that can transition easily from a chilly, light drizzle (it is our rainy season) to warm sun. Our rain rarely gets very hard though, so a raincoat with a hood will be enough protection for most. 

Where can I park during the San Francisco holidays?

Parking in San Francisco can be just plain hard during the holidays, as everyone flocks to the same locations for all of the fun events. One method to make it a little less painful is to try a parking spot finding app like spothero.com . 

For Union Square access, the big garages are the Union Square Garage, Sutter-Stockton Garage, and Ellis-O’Farrell Garage. Sutter-Stockton is the biggest, with close to 2,000 spots. If getting there early and staying the whole day on a weekday, Ellis-O’Farrell has a $22 special. 

The most convenient parking for Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 is the Pier 39 Garage across the street. If you eat at many of the restaurants, you can get 1-2 hours free validation. 

If you are able to find a parking spot on the street, here is an Insider’s Tip for you: Street parking time limits are NOT enforced on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, or New Year’s Day. Unfortunately, if it is not one of those days, you need to comply with the signs or risk a ticket. 

Of course, another option available to you is parking further away from your destination and taking public transit. Our system of street cars, light rail, buses, and ferries can get you pretty much anywhere. And many of them are scenic too! 

Is San Francisco a good place to go for the Holidays?

Absolutely, yes! I hope that by now this article has convinced you that San Francisco is a wonderful place to spend the holiday season. This city has the holiday fun, Christmas lights and festive activities to cheer up even the grumpiest Scrooge.

One last important thing we want to mention is, above all else, be nice to each other this season. You don’t have to be Jewish to enjoy the Hanukkah lighting in Union Square, and you don’t have to be religious at all to join in on a service at Grace Cathedral, but you do need to be respectful. Bring all of the love in your heart with you to San Francisco, and the city will provide you with memories to keep you warm until next season. 

Happy Holidays, everyone!

photo of katherine thompson the blog author

Published on: November 23rd 2023

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top cruises in san francisco.

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More about the best boat tours in San Francisco

There are a many great boat tours available in San Francisco. Some of the most popular include the Alcatraz Island tours, brunch near Golden Gate Bay Cruise, and cocktail cruises on the SF Bay.. Each of these tour options offer something unique and can be a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Some of the most popular sites that you can see on a San Francisco boat tour include Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge. You will also get great views of the city skyline and other landmarks. The best time of year to take a boat tour in San Francisco really depends on what you are looking for. If you want to see the city skyline, then the best time would be during the day. However, if you want to experience a unique perspective of the city at night, then taking a nighttime cruise would be ideal.

Are private boat charters in San Francisco available?

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Which landmarks and famous sights can you see on a San Francisco cruise?

The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf are just a few of the well-known landmarks you can see on a San Francisco cruise. As you sail into the Bay, keep an eye out for other famous sights like the Transamerica Pyramid and Coit Tower. You’ll also get great views of the city’s skyline and some of its iconic neighborhoods, like Chinatown and North Beach.

Water & Boat Attractions in San Francisco

Signature Lunch Cruise | Premier Brunch Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Premier Dinner Cruise | Fleet Week Air Show Lunch aboard the San Francisco Belle | Rock the Yacht Cruise | San Francisco Belle Premier Dinner Cruise | Alcatraz Day Tour | Premier Dinner Cruise | Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour | Bay Discovery Cruise | Alcatraz Night Tour

Things to do near San Francisco

Things to do in Sacramento | Things to do in Berkeley | Things to do in Long Beach | Things to do in Marina del Rey | Things to do in San Diego | Things to do in Newport Beach

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San Francisco Holiday Sights at Night City Trolley Tour

holiday tours san francisco

  • Holiday tour by motorized cable car
  • Separate driver from professional guide so you always have their full attention.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • 2766 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Infants (4 and under) are free, but they must be seated on the lap of an adult.
  • Please dress accordingly. Cable car operates rain or shine so come prepared with rain gear and/or a coat
  • Cable cars are wheeled and not on rails to provide maximum flexibility for holiday sightseeing
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 26 travelers
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
  • You'll start at 2766 Taylor St 2766 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA See address & details
  • Pass by Hornblower Classic Cable Cars
  • You'll return to the starting point

holiday tours san francisco

  • Road49230119523 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing tour!! Definitely recommend! Curt was out tour guide. He did an amazing job. He was very knowledgeable about city and all the history!! Definitely recommend and would do it again in the future with other people visiting!! Read more Written July 26, 2023
  • 400lesterm 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Get the lead out of city workers rears… We waited an hour to ride the cable car. I could have done without the street musician hawking his music and playing roughly the same tune over and over. We were fortunate to get outside seats on the trolley and thought how lucky until on this ride the conductor but someone in front of all of us seated so we didn’t see a thing but the armpits of the tourists standing on the outside of the trolley hanging on and seeing all the sites in front of us. Very disappointing. We didn’t ride it back, just caught BART and went to the hotel. Read more Written June 25, 2023
  • 73kristiep 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Funday in the rain! Awesome experience!!! You won’t be disappointed. Wear comfortable shoes. The guides are just the nicest. Read more Written April 1, 2023
  • Neha M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So much fun! This is such a cute experience in San Fran! We had some difficulty finding the right place to catch the Cable Car but once we got on we really enjoyed it. Read more Written August 25, 2022
  • Ruby H 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Very unfriendly and rude workers Me and my family were visiting San Francisco for the first time with our Grandmother who had visited years before and took the cable car to the top of Knob Hill which is a viewpoint to see over the city. We got to the Cable Cars and asked one of the workers if this goes to Knob Hill, he told us we had to get off in 10 stops and get on the California Line to the top. So after waiting in a 1 hour 15 min queue in which we were all very cold, we got on and double checked with another worker who told us that the California line was closed, and this was the last trip of the night of this line also. So not only did the workers mislead us causing us to stand with our elderly grandmother in the cold for over an hour, but the workers were also very rude and laughed in our faces when we told them. They kept putting there faces in their hands and saying how unprepared we are, laughing at us and shaking their heads. Overall, this tourist attraction is ran by very unfriendly people who made us feel stupid for being tourists by mocking us rather than helping us. Was very upset for my grandmother and did not appreciate the rude workers! Read more Written August 13, 2022
  • Freedom47836224987 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Good way to see the city We loved the cable cars!! A great way to see a fair amount of the city! We were fortunate to visit in August so it was free to ride the whole month! I would pay to experience! Read more Written September 2, 2021
  • mariagF4258VR 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour of San Fran Fantastic tour! Highly recommend, tour was fun, scenic and informative. The experience from start to finish and all the stops along the way were absolutely wonderful. Jessica and Roger were amazing hosts, everyone in our fairly large party loved it. Read more Written October 30, 2020
  • DeeBradders 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Poor customer service Our trip to the States was cancelled due to the pandemic - since March I have been promised a refund by the company but it has never materialized. After a few responses where they promised a refund they've now stopped replying to me totally. I have chased them on email many times. Tried to call but cannot get through. So beware if you're booking in advance. Customer service is NOT their strong point. Read more Written September 21, 2020
  • brace690 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful, fun afternoon Tour guide Curt and driver Zack were great. The trip was lots of fun and very interesting. I was born and raised in the Bay Area, and had visited SF many times in my youth, yet this trip was so informative for me. Curt has a wealth of knowledge about SF and is so passionate about showing this great city to visitors. All the sites we visited (Golden Gate Park, Chinatown, Golden Gate Bridge.................) we saw up close. Read more Written March 30, 2020
  • Tmigs118 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best We traveled last weekend and Curt was absolutely Amazing. We went for my sisters bachelorette party. Thank you for making it such an enjoyable experience. Read more Written March 18, 2020
  • N4603UDlaurens 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Informative Ride Took the Trolley tour on our recent trip to San Francisco. This was the first time we had been to the city as tourists and wanted to see the site but felt a bit overwhelmed by the amount of things to do. We took a chance on this tour and it was wonderful. Joan was our driver and Curt was our guide. Both long time residents of the city. They were very nice and very informative. The tour covered nearly every part of the city and was a great way to see what San Francisco had to offer. One of the best tours I've been on. Read more Written March 16, 2020
  • DayTrip364334 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles First time in San Fransisco Had a great time on our tour. The guide and driver were both excellent and very informative. The cable car is very neat and loved the free chocolate. Highly recommended Read more Written March 15, 2020
  • susandF4214RM 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Riding the Trolley. Curt was our guide, and Joan was our driver. They were great and they answered all our questions. We covered a lot of territory, and we saw a number of things we might otherwise have missed. I strongly recommend this experience. Read more Written March 9, 2020
  • M3405OQashleyb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles So happy I went! I never write reviews unless I'm REALLY impressed with something! && this tour was impressive! Our tour guides were awesome! I had Curt and Joan. They were friendly, humorous and such a joy to be around. Everyone on my tour with me were great too! I loved all the places we got to see and was so happy that we were able to stop and take pictures at a few locations. I definitely recommend! Read more Written March 8, 2020
  • ChrisI309 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best way to see San Francisco Yesterday we spent a brilliant afternoon with Curt & Joan touring San Francisco in a wonderful motorised cable car. Freed from the constraints of the tracks they took us to many of the places on our wish list during our short stay in this fabulous city. Our hosts were extremely knowledgeable, entertaining and we had a lot of fun. We’d recommend this tour to anyone who is thinking about doing it. Read more Written March 8, 2020

More to explore in San Francisco

holiday tours san francisco

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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San Francisco Holiday Sights at Night City Trolley Tour provided by Hornblower Classic Cable Cars

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Joy To Your Heart is operating as a full service travel operator providing tour package catering to clients from North America, Asia, Europe, and other markets around the world. The service of JH focuses on local, inbound and outbound tour services, including tour packages, air ticketing, hotel accommodation, bus rental, and travel consultant.

The main thing that sets us apart from other travel to China companies is that we include an American guide with most of our tour packages who speaks flawless English and Chinese and is thus able to help bridge the cultural gap you will face when you visit your Chinese destinations. We will also take you where the locals go so you can experience the real culture of the places you visit, instead of sticking to the main attractions, to which we also go. This affords you a glance into the real lives of the people you meet, making your excursion all the more meaningful. It also helps change any preconceived notions you might have about the people of the places to which you travel.

Our goal is to provide you with the ultimate vacation you’ve ever had, one you’ll recommend to friends and family so they, too, become members of the Joy To Your Heart family.

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We deal only with the highest standards in transportation, lodging and dining to make our tours enjoyable – and to bring joy to us. For example, we use only 4- or 5-star rated hotels, certified bus drivers and experienced American and Chinese guides.

We can accommodate any dietary restrictions or religious needs. We also can please and accommodate any group or business that may want to arrange a tour with us. In addition, we will customize trips for you based on your interests and offer tours focusing, for example, on martial arts or calligraphy.

We hope you’ll choose the wealth of experience Joy To Your Heart offers and book your travel to China with us.

We’re certain you’ll have the time of your life!

  • Our Office Employees

Our tour guides

Our bus drivers, our office workers.

In the big family of Joy To Your Heart, we all speak multiple languages, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese and English; we have extensive experience in the travel industry. Our members are hardworking, firmly based, and sincere. We understand both American and Chinese cultures and we devote ourselves good communications and efficient services so everyone can enjoy the trip with great memories.

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Because of her honest and frank characteristic, we call her “Shandong Hot Pepper.” Green comes from blue but excels it, so we call her daughter “Pod Pepper.” She loves to look after her daughter, and her signature phrase is “My daughter.” Smart phone is her necessary item. She works her heart and soul for financial issue and human affairs in the office. She works her heart and soul for financial issues and human affairs of the office.

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She loves delicacy yet eats like a bird; she yearns for travel yet resting will be great. She is named “Carmen” (sounds like block door in Mandarin) yet she is actually slim. She likes to read novels and watch movies at her leisure time. It is hard for her to work without a cup of coffee. She is a warm and cheerful person, and we can always see a smile on her face. As a manager of Joy To Your Heart, she has attention to detail and she acts as a bridge of communication between staff.

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To him, design is like climbing mountains. There are beautiful scenes at the foot of the hill for everyone to enjoy. As you climbing up, there will be obstacles and danger around you. Many people will soon get exhausted and give up. The majestic scenery on the top of the mountain and the satisfaction of reaching the summit are left for people who accomplished the task. Overcoming difficulties, surpassing his own self, discovering himself, seeing the world with different angles, Cliff is the multimedia design expert!

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Sam minds p's and q's ordinarily, but somehow his surprising remarks with a sense of humor. He is the "racer" in the office. He loves to drive his rice rocket to travel all around. Badminton and hiking are his favorite exercises. Indeed, he loves to taste exotic food, especially beef cuisine. He provides special advisory services for flights, and he has his fingers on Asia Tours.

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She is a happy-go-lucky indoorsy. Although she is a petite girl, she eats like a horse. Every time she regrets that she ate too much. Her moods keep changing, sometimes quite sometimes talkative. She believes that simple is the key to a happy life. She loves traveling, of course, for food! Her goals are to eat her favorite foods and to visit places she loves. After working in Joy To Your Heart, she became mature and better at getting along with people. In addition, the joyful environment makes her a contended and easy-going person.

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Ann has over 20 years experience of the travel industry. She loves to read books about traveling and to watch travel programs. Free and relaxed life is what she pursues. She loves slow and easy pace travel, and she also loves to listen to cozy music. Because of her nice and easy personality, she is always smiling wholeheartedly. Her hobby is sharing foods, and funny things of daily life with her friends.

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I recently retired from the Better Business Bureau. I found fulfillment in helping people and especially working with seniors. My passion to empower and connect with people continue to grow with business owners. I am a member of 60 different organizations.I am committed to community and dedicated to progress.I traveled all over the world within the last 36 years so my passion for tourism has always been fascinating.

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She loves to travel, and she believes “It is better to travel fast than to read voluminously.” She is thankful for Mother Nature and she enjoys the beautiful scenery. People can open our eyes to explore nature, and also learn a lot from nature, especially the best virtue: benefits everything in the world but never contends its own contribution. She is a vegetarian, and she is gentle and kind to everyone. She always smiles to people and understands their needs. While working, she is responsible and patient. She loves to go hiking and exercising with family and friends. May everyone be healthy and happy.

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She loves travel and photography, especially taking scenic photos. She will get eager for traveling any kind of sites at her leisure time. She came to Joy To Your Heart by chance, and through this working experience she receives more travel information for future to practice. She is kind to everyone and she is always happy. She speaks softly and treats people with honesty. She always has a youthful heart and faces her life with smile.

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"Pure, Kind, Optimistic, Positive ," are the best words to express whom she is, she is also enthusiastic and eager to learn new staff. Although she may lack of experiences in travel industry, she is still keeps studying and grows up fast through working with Joy To Your Heart. She treats our customers as friends, provide the most sincere service to everyone, she will be your reliable travel consultant. Her motto is "I am not afraid of tomorrow for I have seen yesterday and I love today!".

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Love traveling and food, both of which has almost filled up her leisure time. She always used to research the tour itinerary and fine culinary as completing the paper assignment, carefully prepare but also enjoy the fun process. She is friendly and optimistic and loves to study everything new when pop up, which make her quickly assimilate into new environment. After she joined Joy To Your Heart, she hopes to dedicate what she could make to the company.

Tour guides of Joy To Your Heart are experienced experts! They passed ITMI training system to ensure they are well educated, are able to provide excellent communication and great services, and are patient to all customers. Meanwhile, they believe that travel is not only a media that refreshes people’s busy working lives, but also a tunnel that conveys sentiments between people and nature. Those beautiful sentiments will be waked up under the calling of our Mother Nature.

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He has over 15 years experience as a tour guide in United States. He can speak Mandarin, Cantonese, and English. Having a great knowledge of history, landscape, economics, politics, and culture, James is the senior member of Joy To Your Heart. His customer satisfaction is up to 99% positive review.

Because he is a friendly and thoughtful person and he always introduces the overall environment comprehensively with extensive knowledge, James always receives the favorable comments greatly. He believes that travel is an escape from hustle and bustle of the city. People desire unknown and eager to explore it. Travel is a necessary part in modern people’s lives. His enthusiasm of nature keeps him passion about his job and serves every customer. To him, every little thing is important.

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She is the shinning pearl in the field. Lankun’s motto “Women are not outdone by men” makes her the best of the best. Her love of traveling drives her to visit every famous parks of west of Rocky Mountain. She will explain history, human culture, and natural geographic information along the trip to everyone patiently.

Her clear explanations make the whole trip more interesting; her witty remark make tedious information becomes fascinating. With her carefully chosen documentary films, Lankun perfectly interprets landscapes outside the windows. Her background of English teacher and her experience of organizing summer camp equip herself with organization skills and adaptability. She takes care of every customer and always keeps calm in an emergency so that everyone can feel safe during the trip.

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He came to United States for study in his early years and he worked as a software engineer and IT manager for over 20 years. The busy high-tech life cannot stop him to get close to nature. In 2008, with his enthusiasm of travel, DJ started to be a tour guide.

DJ organizes everything properly. He pays attention to every detail and he loves to deal things efficiently. He is good at communicate with one another and he takes good care of everyone. People who were in his tour were all impressed by his great service, friendly personality, professional arrangement, and excellent explanations. DJ’s great understanding of American history and knowledge of scenic spots make him get positive feedback from customers. Moreover, DJ can speak 4 languages including English, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Taiwanese. There is no language barrier between him and travelers.

Bus drivers of Joy To Your Heart are all professional drivers. They love their jobs, drive safely and devote themselves to work wholeheartedly. They treat every traveler nice and kind in every possible way.

holiday tours san francisco

holiday tours san francisco

4 Fun and Festive Ways to Celebrate the Holidays with Kids in San Francisco This Year

W hat San Francisco lacks in snow it makes up for in holiday spirit in November and December. Looking for a fun and festive way to spend a day sure to get both kids and adults in the holiday spirit? Here are some of my favorite seasonal activities happening in San Francisco this year geared to families.

SEASON’S GREETINGS: 29 Festive Family Resorts and Hotels for Christmas

Holiday Teas in San Francisco

The best-known of the kid-friendly holiday tea in San Francisco is the Teddy Bear Tea at the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco. The hotel’s ballroom is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with elves, trees, music, and dance. Tea (with offerings to suit both kids and adults) is followed by a fun and interactive performance for kids. This is a particularly good fit for families with little kids.

Down the hill, right on Union Square, the Westin St. Francis debuts its annual Sugar Castle on November 22, 2023. Along with this 12-foot-tall holiday sugar sculpture (Hint: If you scan the QR code, you’ll can peek inside the castle), the hotel celebrates the holidays with events like its Traditional Holiday Tea Experience and the kid-focused Dollie + Me Holiday Tea . There’s also a Breakfast with Santa event on December 9.

WINTER WONDERS:   10 European Christmas Markets Where You Can Celebrate the Season

The Fairmont’s Holiday Tea is another fun and fancy holiday tea in San Francisco that welcomes kids. The hotel’s pretty tea room offers a special kids menu along with the standard tea menu. There’s also a life-sized gingerbread house made of hundreds of bricks of gingerbread to marvel at—families looking for the ultimate in holiday cheer can even book a dining experience inside the gingerbread house.

Holiday Performances in San Francisco

The Nutcracker is a perennial holiday favorite, and the San Francisco Ballet does a lovely rendition of this great intro to ballet for kids. But it’s certainly not the only holiday performance worth the ticket price in San Francisco. For the last 36 years, ODC/Dance Company has performed the Velveteen Rabbit . And for the ultimate in dance-along fun, nothing beats the San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band’s annual Dance-Along Nutcracker , which this year, has a Halloween twist.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS:   10 Magical Christmas Vacations for Families

The San Francisco Symphony is doing a Charlie Brown Christmas – Live! that blends live actors, a virtual backdrop, and music performed by the symphony. At A.C.T. near Union Square, A Christmas Carol runs from December 1 through 24, 2023. And in the Presidio, British-style panto finds a home at the Presidio Theatre with its riff on Sleeping Beauty .

Ice Skating in San Francisco

Union Square is a holiday hotspot in San Francisco. It’s home to Macy’s irresistible holiday-themed windows (and its ultra-cute puppies and kittens , courtesy of its partnership with the San Francisco SPCA). And it’s home to a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink that’s perfectly positioned for great views of the massive Christmas tree and the cable cars.

FAMILY FUN: 7 Charming Outdoor Ice Rinks Where You Can Skate Into the Holiday Spirit  

There are multiple sessions a day, but it’s still a good idea to sign up in advance. And though it’s not holiday-specific, the Yerba Buena Ice Skating & Bowling Center is open daily and is super kid-friendly (though there are also regular “tranquil adult sessions” interspersed throughout the day).

The Dickens Fair in San Francisco

The Dickens Fair at the Cow Palace is a roundtrip ticket to Victorian London, where adults and kids alike will love the singing, dancing, costumes, treats, and treasures. Even families who don’t dress up in period costume will feel at home in this richly recreated version of Charles Dickens’ England. 

More from FamilyVacationist:

  • 10 Holiday Train Rides Sure to Get You in the Christmas Spirit
  • 7 Festive Holiday Destinations to Visit with Kids Over Winter Break  
  • 10 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in New York City During the Holidays  

The post 4 Fun and Festive Ways to Celebrate the Holidays with Kids in San Francisco This Year appeared first on FamilyVacationist .

Here are some of my favorite seasonal activities happening in San Francisco this year geared to families.

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  22. The Victorian Alliance of San Francisco

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