Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge which includes a suspension bridge or treetop walkway, night scenes and a bay or harbour
Golden Gate Bridge featuring landscape views, a bridge and general coastal views
Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate Bridge featuring a suspension bridge or treetop walkway, landscape views and general coastal views
Golden Gate Bridge showing landscape views, boating and general coastal views


Walk across one of the most photogenic bridges in the world for unrivalled views from both sides.

The Golden Gate Bridge connects the city of San Francisco with Marin County to the north and marks the point where the bay meets the ocean. Consisting of a single span of 2.7 kilometres, it took four years to build and was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it opened in 1937. Its exposed location called for a robust design that would withstand high winds and extreme weather, yet its elegance and beauty have made it one of America’s most photographed landmarks, as well as a genuine architectural icon.Every day a constant stream of cars and coaches carries sightseers back and forth across the bridge, but one of the best ways to experience its sheer scale is to make the crossing on foot or by bicycle. There are walkways on both carriageways, safely protected from the traffic lanes by barriers pedestrians are restricted to the main east walkway during daylight hours only, while cyclists can use either side, apart from early evenings and weekends when the east walkway is pedestrian-only. Even in summer, the winds at the summit can be chilly, so make sure you’ve got a few extra layers of clothing with you before you set out, as well as a snack and a bottle of water to keep you going.As you cross the bridge, pause to admire the ever-changing views of the bay. Most people start from the San Francisco side and make their way slowly across to the Marin Headlands. Vista Point at the northern end is famous for its wonderful panoramas of the bridge itself and the city far beyond, especially at dawn when the sun rises through the early morning mist, or at night when the famous skyline is outlined with twinkling lights.There is a public bus service across the bridge, so check out the timetable if you don’t fancy making the long return walk.

Tours & day trips

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History & culture

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

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Cruises & boat tours

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Top Hotel Deals

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1500 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

4 out of 5
2500 Mason St, San Francisco, CA
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Inn at Golden Gate

Inn at Golden Gate

2 out of 5
2707 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Inn at Golden Gate
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco

Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco

2 out of 5
2755 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco
La Luna Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel

La Luna Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel

2.5 out of 5
2599 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
La Luna Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Marina Motel

Marina Motel

2 out of 5
2576 Lombard Street, San Francisco, CA
Marina Motel
Alpha Inn & Suites

Alpha Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
2505 Lombard Steet, San Francisco, CA
Alpha Inn & Suites
Cavallo Point

Cavallo Point

4.5 out of 5
601 Murray Circle, Fort Baker, Sausalito, CA
Cavallo Point
Signature Inn San Francisco Marina District

Signature Inn San Francisco Marina District

2 out of 5
2440 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Signature Inn San Francisco Marina District
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Golden Gate Bridge

When visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, be sure to enjoy stunning sunsets and explore nearby art and theatre. Consider taking an audio tour for an informative experience, and enjoy easy walks across the bridge. There are also numerous delightful restaurants in the vicinity, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. This iconic landmark offers a blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture, making it a must-see destination.

Shopping

Ghirardelli Square, located 4.8km from Golden Gate Bridge, offers a vibrant shopping experience with entertainment and dining. Winery Collective, also 4.8km away, features unique local products. If you're up for a drive, Main Street, 8.0km away, has a charming mix of shops and family-friendly vibes.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Oracle Park, where you can enjoy a thrilling sports event. For an entertaining evening, head to Bill Graham Civic Auditorium for live music. For a relaxing round of golf, visit Presidio Golf Course, surrounded by picturesque landscapes just a short distance away.

Adventure

The Coastal Trail, located 3.2km from the Golden Gate Bridge, offers breathtaking scenery and exhilarating hikes. For a unique experience, visit the Union Square Ice Rink, 6.4km away, perfect for skating. Additionally, Perimeter Road, also 6.4km distant, provides a fantastic outdoor experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Golden Gate Bridge with a visit to Louise Davies Symphony Hall for a cultural evening, or enjoy a whimsical ride at the San Francisco Carousel. For a romantic film night, head to Sundance Kabuki Cinemas, where entertainment awaits just a short distance away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Golden Gate Bridge

Whether you're seeking culture, family-friendly activities, or outdoor experiences, the Golden Gate Bridge area offers a wealth of attractions. Explore the scenic urban parks, stroll along vibrant streets, or relax on the nearby beaches. This iconic location caters to all types of travellers, ensuring a memorable visit filled with diverse experiences amidst stunning surroundings.

  • Golden Gate Park: This expansive urban park, located 4.8km from the Golden Gate Bridge, offers a serene escape with its lush gardens, serene lakes, and numerous walking trails. Families will enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas, while the vibrant atmosphere invites outdoor activities amidst stunning city views.
  • Pier 39: Situated 6.4km away, this lively jetty is a hub of entertainment and dining with picturesque views of San Francisco Bay. Visitors can enjoy the playful sea lions, charming shops, and various attractions that create a friendly and urban atmosphere perfect for a leisurely day out.
  • Alcatraz Island: Just 4.8km from the bridge, this historic island offers a unique glimpse into its notorious past. Explore the infamous prison and enjoy breathtaking views of the bay and city, all while immersing yourself in the island's rich history and natural beauty.

Best time to go to Golden Gate Bridge

The best time to visit Golden Gate Bridge is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Golden Gate Bridge

To save money on your visit to the Golden Gate Bridge, consider travelling in February or from November to December when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your stay on a Friday can also help reduce costs. Use Expedia to find eco-certified hotels that fit your budget, and sort results by price to uncover the best deals. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to significant savings. Don't forget to explore free attractions around the bridge to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Golden Gate Bridge are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Golden Gate Bridge is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Golden Gate Bridge is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified option, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save on costs by combining your hotel reservation near the Golden Gate Bridge with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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