Portola Travel Guide
San Francisco
Popular places to visit
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
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 Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
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.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Things to do
San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
San Francisco: Flyer Theater, 7D Ride & Laser Maze Combo
Top hotels in Portola
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Reviewed on 18 Jul 2025
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
Reviewed on 17 Jul 2025
InterContinental Mark Hopkins by IHG
Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025
Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport by IHG
Reviewed on 18 Jul 2025
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 Mission Rock Station or UCSF/Chase Center Stop.
South of Market
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from Oracle Park to Chase Center – discover South of Market, a destination also famous for its shopping.
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.
Downtown San Francisco
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and Chase Center are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.