Portola Travel Guide
San Francisco
Popular places to visit
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
Escape to “The Rock,” home of the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned a reputation as a cold and unforgiving place.
Things to do
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise (90-minutes)
San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tours PLUS Night Tour
Top hotels in Portola
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Breakfast available!
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
It's good, but there is no parking garage. Need to walk from the public parking.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
So the check-in staff were friendly and helpful offering detailed instruction and information, the entire place was immaculate. Our room was spotless and spacious. The breakfast buffet was pretty incredible with a large selection of fresh food. The covered parking was convenient, however be aware ...
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Nice hotel
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Premium king with balcony, the view was incredible, hotel was beautiful & clean, staff were helpful. Will be in my rotation of hotels I use for SF visits.
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Fairmont San Francisco
ADA beds too high
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Portola
Noe Valley
Appreciated for its churches and architecture, you might consider exploring Noe Valley. Check out the variety of things to see and do like 22nd St Hill, and jump on the metro at Church St & Clipper St Stop or Church St & 24th St Stop to get around the city.
Mission District
You might enjoy the bars while in Mission District. San Francisco Public Library is a notable sight, and you can get around town at 16th Street Mission Station or 24th Street Mission Station to see more of the city.
Mission Bay
While you're in Mission Bay, take in top sights like Chase Center or Lefty O'Doul Bridge, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at UCSF/Chase Center Stop or Mission Rock Station.
South of Market
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from Oracle Park to San Francisco Bay – discover South of Market, a destination also famous for its shopping.
South Park
Oracle Park and Brannan Street Wharf are a few top attractions in South Park. Hop around the city on the metro at 2nd & King Station or Fourth-Brannan Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
Western Addition
Alamo Square and Painted Ladies are top sights in Western Addition, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Duboce Avenue & Noe Street Station or Duboce Ave & Church St Stop to see more sights in the area.
