Original Free Tour of San Francisco
From Gold Rush to Bay Views: Discover San Francisco on Foot
ABOUT THE Original Free Tour of San Francisco
This Tour is operated by our Partner Free San Francisco Tour.
The Original Free Tour of San Francisco is the best way to get to know the city’s history, culture, and hidden stories in just 2.5 hours. Starting every day at Union Square, this Free Walking Tour is led by passionate local guides who will introduce visitors to the highlights of downtown San Francisco and reveal its fascinating secrets. It’s the perfect introduction for first-time visitors and curious travelers alike.
Walk Through History, Legends and Local Life
From the bustling streets of Chinatown to the modern towers of the Financial District, every corner has a story. Along the way, guides will share tales of gold rush pioneers, influential women, devastating earthquakes, and the city’s most curious legends. Expect insider tips, fun anecdotes, and lively conversations about local life that will make you feel at home in San Francisco. The walking pace is relaxed, with seating stops, a restroom break, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
From Union Square to the Bay
The route includes iconic spots like Union Square, Maiden Lane, Dragon Gate, Portsmouth Square, and the Transamerica Pyramid, before finishing at the Embarcadero, opposite the Ferry Building. From there, guests can easily continue exploring — whether walking to Pier 39 to see the sea lions or catching the ferry to Alcatraz just 20 minutes away. This Free Walking Tour is more than sightseeing; it’s a local experience that connects visitors with the true spirit of San Francisco.
Tours in San Francisco are offered by our partners, Free San Francisco Tour. While you may not see the trademark SANDEMANs red umbrellas, we only work with partners we know, trust, and who have been vetted by us to ensure they meet the same standards you are used to enjoying in SANDEMANs’ own cities. We are proud to partner with Free San Francisco Tour and are sure you’ll love their tours as much as we do!
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Meet your guide at Union Square, at the corner of Post and Powell streets. Look for the white-red umbrella saying FREE TOUR in the middle!
- Start at Union Square, the heart of the city
- Stroll down Maiden Lane and Grant Avenue
- Pass through the famous Dragon Gate into Chinatown
- Visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
- Discover Portsmouth Square, the “birthplace of San Francisco”
- Admire the Transamerica Pyramid and the Financial District
- End at the Embarcadero, with views of the Bay and Ferry Building
- Get insider tips for Little Italy, Pier 39, and Alcatraz
- ... And much more

- English-speaking tour guide
- Gratuities for the guide (optional)
- This activity is operated by our partner Free San Francisco Tour. This experience is not provided by SANDEMANs, but has been chosen by our specialists from an array of offers based on their quality and value.
- Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before the tour starts.


What is the SANDEMANs Partner Network?
Tours in San Francisco are offered by a partner, not SANDEMANs Tours.
We only work with partners we know, trust, and who have been vetted by us to ensure they meet the same standards you are used to enjoying in SANDEMANs’ own cities.
We are proud to partner with Free San Francisco Tour and are sure you’ll love their tours as much as we do.
Book a tour with one of our partners
- SANDEMANs only works with partners that meet the same quality standards than us
- Tours are chosen by our specialists from an array of offers based on their quality and value
- We connect the best local guides with travelers from all around the world

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