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.
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.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
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 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
San Francisco Bay Sightseeing Cruise International Narration
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
San Francisco, Muir Woods, Sausalito and Optional Alcatraz Tour
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
Top hotels in Portola
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"10/10 overall"
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Great breakfast buffet!"
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"I have stayed at the Handlery before and like the staff and the accommodations. This stay I booked a Premier room and it was more spacious and included bathrobes which was nice. I will definitely book the Premier room when I stay again. Nice heated pool. Location downtown is convenient to all transport. ..."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"Great walkable location"
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Very convenient location and close to transit. Super friendly staff and a clean, comfortable room."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"Clean and good customer service"
Reviewed on 2 Jun 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. SOMA Pilipinas 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.
Potrero Hill
The live music and architecture are just a few things visitors like about Potrero Hill. San Francisco Bay and Museum of Craft & Design are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at 20th Street Station or 23rd Street Station to get around the larger area.
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.
