Hidden Gems for San Francisco

Find great things to do in San Francisco

The Golden Gate Bridge, legendary restaurants and hiking trails with spectacular views – that’s what San Francisco is about. This city is one of the few American cities that is best explored by foot (and the hills give you the bonus of a workout!), so get lost in the streets of this city by the bay and stumble upon hidden gems. In our travel guide you will find great things to do in San Francisco.

1. Hidden Gem San Francisco: Leo’s Oyster Bar

This special restaurant is located in the heart of San Francisco’s Financial District. The moment you enter the restaurant, you’ll feeling transported back into the 1950s, with it tropical wallpaper, long, golden-glow onyx bar and rattan furnishing. Leo´s can only be described as “fun cocktail bar meets high-cuisine seafood” hotspot. Even if you don’t like oysters, the restaurant is absolutely worth a visit for a fancy drink, like the “Garden Party” cocktail.

Leo’s Oyster Bar / © Instagram: alliefriend

2. Hidden Gem San Francisco: Marin Headlands

When in San Francisco, snapping a great picture of the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-do. To avoid the crowds, just drive (or bike…or walk!) across the bridge and head to Marin Headlands. You will have stunning views over the Golden Gate and San Francisco Bay from up there. Just head all the way up along the Conzelman Road, to the top of Hawk Hill. You can usually find a parking spot here pretty easily.

Marin Headlands / © Instagram: andrearobertob

3. Hidden Gem San Francisco: Farm:Table

This little café is small but special. You can get fancy lattes, like the beetroot latte and matcha latte, and of course a good cup of “regular” coffee. The “daily toast,” which is what the café is known for, always comes with mascarpone cheese and is loaded with lots of fresh, seasonal fruits. The place is really tiny so there is limited seating inside, but if it’s sunny outside, you can grab a nice seat in front of the cafe. For the more hearty breakfast lovers, the “breakfast croissant sandwich” with egg, ham and cheese is our recommendation.

Farm:Table / © Instagram: eileeenalot

4. Hidden Gem San Francisco: Ferry Building Marketplace

The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in San Francisco’s renowned Ferry Building is held every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. All three weekly markets offer mostly organic products, including locally-sourced meat, seafood, and artisanal specialties — such as breads, cheeses, and jams — and some street food vendors, for heartier, immediate-satisfaction options. The market is only open until about 2pm, so make sure to go early before all the good stuff runs out!. The Ferry Building itself is also a great place to hang out any day, as it’s filled with quintessentially San Francisco restaurants, shops and brands, and has a world-class view of the bay.