Exploring San Francisco’s iconic landmarks at sunset aboard an open-top bus seems like an enchanting way to cap off the day. With a maximum of 40 passengers, this intimate tour promises stunning panoramic views and pre-recorded commentary that provides cultural insights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover the city, the Big Bus Sightseeing Sunset Tour could be an excellent choice. But what makes this experience truly unique, and why might it be worth considering for your next sightseeing adventure?
Key Points
- A 2-hour open-top bus tour showcasing San Francisco’s key landmarks, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, and Embarcadero Center.
- Capacity of 40 travelers for an intimate sightseeing experience, with pre-recorded audio commentary providing historical and cultural insights.
- Tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a shuttle service available to return to Union Square after the tour.
- Guests can enjoy a unique sunset perspective of iconic neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Financial District.
- Some feedback indicates issues with pre-recorded audio and a lack of stops for photos, despite the overall positive experiences.
Tour Overview
The Big Bus San Francisco: Sightseeing Sunset Tour by Open-Top Bus is a 2-hour double-decker bus tour that takes visitors on a journey through the iconic sights of San Francisco.
With a maximum capacity of 40 travelers, this tour offers an intimate experience at a price of $49 per person. Guests can expect to see key landmarks like the Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, and Embarcadero Center.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior. The open-top seating provides unparalleled views as the sun sets over the city.
Love the evening vibe? Here are more after-sunset activities we've covered in San Francisco
Itinerary and Key Stops
The tour departs from 99 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA.
Over the course of 2 hours, we’ll see the following key sights:
- Fisherman’s Wharf (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Golden Gate Bridge (10 minutes, view only)
- Grace Cathedral (10 minutes)
- Presidio of San Francisco (10 minutes)
- Treasure Island (10 minutes)
- Embarcadero Center (10 minutes)
The tour doesn’t include hop-on hop-off options, but you’ll gain a unique sunset perspective of San Francisco’s iconic neighborhoods like Chinatown, the Financial District, and Embarcadero.
Experience and Features
Riding the open-top double-decker bus offers a unique perspective of San Francisco at sunset. The digital commentary provides stories behind the sights as we pass through notable neighborhoods like Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, the Financial District, and Embarcadero.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Unparalleled Views | The open-top seats offer panoramic views of the city skyline and landmarks. |
Informative Commentary | The pre-recorded audio shares historical and cultural insights about the sights. |
Accessibility | The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. |
After the tour, a shuttle service is available to return to Union Square, making it a convenient way to explore the city.
Accessibility and Additional Information
For those interested in joining the Big Bus San Francisco Sunset Tour, the experience is accessible to a wide range of travelers.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the company offers arrangements for this upon request. Strollers and service animals are also allowed.
The tour’s proximity to public transportation makes it convenient for those relying on it. However, infants must sit on laps during the tour.
Plus, the tour operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended to secure seats.
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
Guest Feedback and Recommendations
How have guests experienced the Big Bus San Francisco Sunset Tour? According to reviews, many appreciated the informative commentary and opportunity to see the city’s highlights.
However, some common issues arose. Some felt the pre-recorded audio didn’t match the locations, and the lack of stops for photos was disappointing. Plus, some guests felt misled about the inclusion of the Golden Gate Bridge.
To make the most of this tour, we recommend dressing warmly, as the open-top bus can get chilly, and bringing a jacket.
- San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country W/ Optional Gourmet Lunch
- Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip From San Francisco
- San Francisco Love Tour
- Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour
- San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
- Small-Group Wine Country Tour From San Francisco With Tastings
Departure Point and Duration
The Big Bus San Francisco Sunset Tour departs from 99 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA.
The tour is a 2-hour double-decker bus experience that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks at sunset.
The tour covers key stops, including:
- Fisherman’s Wharf (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Golden Gate Bridge (10 minutes, view only)
- Grace Cathedral (10 minutes)
- Presidio of San Francisco (10 minutes)
- Treasure Island (10 minutes)
The tour doesn’t offer hop-on hop-off options, but a shuttle service is available to return to Union Square after the tour concludes.
Capacity and Pricing
The Big Bus San Francisco Sunset Tour can accommodate a maximum of 40 travelers on each departure.
Priced from $49.00 per person, this 2-hour double-decker bus tour provides an affordable way to experience the city at sunset.
With an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from over 300 reviews, the tour offers good value for the price.
While guests can’t hop on and off, the included digital commentary and opportunity to see top sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf make it a convenient option for those short on time.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
When you book the Big Bus San Francisco Sunset Tour, you’ll receive confirmation immediately.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility. Here’s what you need to know about the booking and cancellation policy:
- Confirmation received at time of booking
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
- Operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure seats
- Tour doesn’t include hop-on hop-off options
- Wheelchair and stroller accessible, with accommodations for service animals
The clear and straightforward booking and cancellation policy ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the stunning sunset views of San Francisco.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Exact Start and End Times of the Tour?
The tour runs for 2 hours, but the exact start and end times are not specified in the information provided. We’d recommend checking with the tour operator for the specific departure and return times.
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private or Smaller Group Tour?
We couldn’t find any information about upgrading to a private or smaller group tour for this Big Bus San Francisco sunset tour. The tour seems to only be offered as a shared group experience with a maximum capacity of 40 travelers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
While we can’t bring our own food and drinks on the bus, there are usually opportunities to purchase refreshments at select stops along the tour. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand about their policies.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
We weren’t able to find any specific child or senior discounts listed for this tour. However, some providers may offer reduced rates for certain age groups, so it’s worth checking if any promotions are available when you book your tickets.
Can I Get off the Bus at Any of the Stops and Then Re-Board Later?
Unfortunately, this tour does not offer a hop-on, hop-off option. You’ll need to remain on the bus for the full 2-hour duration. While you can’t get off at the stops, you’ll still enjoy the scenic sunset views from the open-top deck.
The Sum Up
The Big Bus Sightseeing Sunset Tour offers a unique and captivating way to experience San Francisco’s iconic landmarks. With stunning panoramic views, pre-recorded commentary, and free cancellation, it’s a great choice for those seeking an enchanting and memorable sightseeing experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the city’s beauty during the golden hour.
More Tours in San Francisco
- San Francisco: Hop-On Hop-Off Open-top Sightseeing Tour
- From LA: SF, Yosemite, Santa Barbara and Carmel 3-Day Tour
- SF: Guided Muir Woods Tour & Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (Save 15%)
- From San Francisco: Napa & Sonoma Valley Full-Day Wine Tour
- San Francisco: Holiday Lights and Sights Tour on a Tuk-Tuk
- From San Francisco: Guided Tour to Muir Woods
More Tour Reviews in San Francisco
- San Francisco: Hop-On Hop-Off Open-top Sightseeing Tour
- American Bookbinders Museum: The Story of the Book
- From LA: SF, Yosemite, Santa Barbara and Carmel 3-Day Tour
- California: Oakland Airport Transfer from San Francisco
- California: Oakland Airport Transfer to San Francisco
- California: SFE Airport Transfer to San Francisco
Still browsing? Here are more San Francisco experiences we've covered recently
- San Francisco: Hop-On Hop-Off Open-top Sightseeing Tour
- American Bookbinders Museum: The Story of the Book
- From LA: SF, Yosemite, Santa Barbara and Carmel 3-Day Tour
- California: Oakland Airport Transfer from San Francisco
- California: Oakland Airport Transfer to San Francisco
- California: SFE Airport Transfer to San Francisco
- SF: Guided Muir Woods Tour & Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (Save 15%)
- San Francisco: Explore at Your Own Pace All Day on E-Bike
- San Francisco: Empress Yacht July 4th Fireworks Party Cruise
- Amador County Wine Tasting Digital Passport
- From San Francisco: Napa & Sonoma Valley Full-Day Wine Tour
- San Francisco: Holiday Lights and Sights Tour on a Tuk-Tuk