See San Francisco in Open-Air Style!
OPEN-AIR CITY TOUR + ALCATRAZ
Experience San Francisco like never before with our open-air city tour combined with a visit to the legendary Alcatraz Island. Cruise through iconic neighborhoods like North Beach, Russian Hill, and Chinatown as your guide shares local stories and hidden gems. Snap photos of winding Lombard Street, take in sweeping views from Coit Tower and the Golden Gate Bridge, and explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. After the tour, continue the adventure with a self-guided visit to Alcatraz—San Francisco’s most infamous landmark.
DEPARTURE TIMES
Return from Alcatraz: 4:00 PM
PRICE
Child: $99
Lowest Price Guaranteed!
Adult: starts at $149
Child: $99 (12 & under)
Lowest Price Guaranteed! This is our most popular tour and sells out quickly. Reserve today to avoid missing out. Free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance.
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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
- Guided city tour in a comfortable open-air vehicle.
- Visits the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, and Coit Tower
- Explore neighborhoods like North Beach, Chinatown, and Nob Hill
- Live commentary with local insights and historical context
- Includes Alcatraz ferry ticket, audio tour, and island access
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PRO TIP:
We recommend booking early. Alcatraz frequently sells out weeks in advance, especially during peak season. While we aim for a 12:00 PM ferry departure, exact times are based on availability at the time of booking. If the 12:00 PM slot is full, you may be scheduled for a later ferry, which could affect the overall flow of your day. Booking early ensures the smoothest experience and best timing.
SEE IT ALL IN ONE DAY
FAMOUS TOUR ITINERARY:
*This is a sample itinerary for your tour with us. The order may change depending on the day.
9:00 AM – DEPART FROM 782 COLUMBUS AVE FOR GUIDED CITY TOUR
Begin your day with a 2-hour open-air sightseeing tour led by a local guide. You’ll explore San Francisco’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, including North Beach, Chinatown, Russian Hill, Lombard Street and the Golden Gate Bridge. Expect photo stops, local stories, and a fun, informative overview of the city.
11:00 AM – Drop-Off at Alcatraz Landing (Pier 33)
12:00 PM – Alcatraz Ferry Departure
2:00–3:00 PM – Return at Your Own Pace
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FAQS AND TOUR DETAILS
What time does the tour start and where do we meet?
The tour starts at 9:00 AM. Please meet at 782 Columbus Ave in North Beach, San Francisco. We recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early to check in.
How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including the city tour, ferry to Alcatraz, and time spent exploring the island.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes a guided city tour in an open-air vehicle, a reserved Alcatraz ferry ticket, and the self-guided audio tour of Alcatraz. Food and drinks are not included.
Is this a group or private tour?
This is a small group tour in our open-air vehicle. The Alcatraz portion is self-guided and shared with other visitors on the island.
What should I wear?
San Francisco weather can change throughout the day. We recommend dressing in layers, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and bringing sunglasses or a hat.
Are there restroom breaks?
Yes. There will be a brief restroom break during the city tour, and facilities are also available at Pier 33 and on Alcatraz Island.
Can I bring luggage or large bags?
Yes. Please travel light—we do have a storage for large bags or luggage but you are not allowed to bring large bags onto Alcatraz, we will need to coordinate with you on retrieving your bags after your Alcatraz tour.
What happens if I miss the ferry?
Guests must check in at Pier 33 by 11:30 AM for the 12:00 PM ferry. If you miss it, Alcatraz Cruises does not offer rebooking and tickets are non-refundable. We will do everything in our power to get you onto the island.
Is food available during the tour?
No food is served during the city tour, but there is time to grab a quick bite at the Alcatraz Landing Café before boarding the ferry.
How do I get back after Alcatraz?
Return ferries from Alcatraz run approximately every 30–40 minutes. You’re free to return at your own pace—your tour ends after your Alcatraz visit.
Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes! This tour is family-friendly. Kids often enjoy the open-air vehicle and the Alcatraz experience. Please note that some Alcatraz content may be intense for very young children.
Is the tour accessible for guests with mobility issues?
The open-air vehicle requires a small step to board and does not have a wheelchair lift. Alcatraz Island is partially accessible, and a tram is available to transport guests from the dock to the cellhouse.
What if it rains?
Our open-air vehicles operate rain or shine and come with clear rain covers when needed. We recommend bringing a light waterproof jacket just in case
Can I upgrade to a private tour instead?
Yes, if you’d prefer a more personalized experience, you can book our Private Open-Air City Tour instead. Just let us know, and we’ll help you arrange the upgrade (Alcatraz tickets sold separately).
Do you offer hotel pickup for this tour?
Yes, we offer hotel pickup for this experience. All guests should meet at 782 Columbus Ave in North Beach. It’s easily accessible by rideshare, taxi, or public transportation.
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Adult: starts at $149
Child: $99 (12 & under)
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