guided bike tour san francisco

Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour (Guided)

Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco to Sausalito with fun local guides, and keep the bike for the rest of the day!

Experience the stunning waterfront as you pedal across the Bridge, learning about its history, and enjoy the famously wonderful weather of Sausalito. Then continue riding — the bike is yours for a full 24 hours! — or take the ferry back to San Francisco. We provide you with ferry tickets.

Our daily Bike the Bridge tour is beginner-friendly and perfect for anyone seeking an up-close & personal look at San Francisco's most famous landmark.

The tour departs from Blazing Saddles' 2715 Hyde Street location , in Fisherman's Wharf, at 10 AM & 1 PM daily (9am also available in July and August) . Before the tour we need 10 minutes for your bike fitting and orientation, so please arrive 10 minutes early.

Blazing Saddles' Golden Gate Bridge bike tour begins at the picturesque Aquatic Park in Fisherman’s Wharf.

The mostly flat National Park Bike Path will take you through Fort Mason, the Marina, Presidio National Park, and onto the iconic Golden Gate Bridge! You’ll cross the bridge on the sidewalk with stunning views of the city and bay, followed by a 10 minute downhill ride taking you right into the town of Sausalito.

Along the way, our knowledgeable and fun local guides will share entertaining and educational information with you, including the history behind the Golden Gate Bridge.

You can continue riding from Sausalito after the guided tour is over — the bike is yours for a full 24 hours. Our staff can recommend some great cycling routes! Or, you can bike the Bridge or take your bicycle on the ferry back to San Francisco. Book your tour with ferry tickets and just return them to us if you don't use them.

Ferry tickets and schedule

We provide you with ferry tickets so you don’t have to spend time waiting in the line in Sausalito to purchase them. If you decide to cycle back to San Francisco, and you don't use your ferry tickets, you can just return them to us. Ferry schedules will be provided during orientation before you leave. 

The Sausalito and Tiburon ferries will drop you off at either Pier 41 (right by Fisherman’s Wharf) or Pier 1, the San Francisco Ferry Building (near Justin Herman Plaza). 

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Awesome Vistas Abound

San francisco, ca bike tours.

San Francisco – the cultural center and beating heart of Northern California. Its influence has increased exponentially throughout the centuries, becoming the birthplace of the United Nations in 1945, and a focal point for the beatnik counterculture known as the 'Summer of Love' in the 1960s. To this day, San Francisco is regarded as an American center of liberal activism.

Founded in 1776 when settlers from New Spain established the Presidio of San Francisco at the Golden Gate, San Francisco is a city of fascinating history. Having been transformed into a port during the 1849 California Gold Rush, San Francisco became, for that time, the largest city on the West Coast of America.

From its iconic Golden Gate Bridge to historic Haight-Ashbury and stunning Sausalito, San Francisco is a treasure trove of unique historical and cultural sightseeing destinations. Visitors to this prepossessing city can explore a sublime waterfront, the fascinating coastal fortress at Fort Mason, the paradisal Pan Handle of the Golden Gate Park, ride the romantic Hayes Valley, and breathe in the fresh Pacific air at Fisherman's Wharf.

With bike rental available and family-friendly tours delivering the most fulfilling experiences of San Francisco, there's no reason to wait at the gate. Take your pick from an exhilarating array of day tours and see for yourself why San Francisco is renowned as one of California’s most beautiful cities.

San Francisco, CA Bike Tours · 1 to 5 of 5

Highlights of San Francisco Bike Tour

San Francisco, CA · from $70.61 USD

Description: If you want a bike tour encompassing the very best of San Francisco’s iconic sights, dynamic culture, and sublime scenery, this is the one for you! Pushing off from Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll cycle past the romantic Hayes Valley, renowned for its…

Best of San Francisco E-Bike Tour

San Francisco, CA · from $103.2 USD

Description: If you want a guided e-bike tour encompassing the very best of San Francisco’s iconic sights, dynamic culture, and sublime scenery, this is the one for you! Biking off from Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll cycle past the romantic Hayes Valley…

San Francisco's Golden Gate Park Bike Tour

San Francisco, CA · from $59.75 USD

Description: This bike tour of San Francisco's glorious Golden Gate Park has adventure and variety at its heart, with the added benefit of bike rental! Grab your moment of zen in the Japanese Tea Garden, with its peaceful water features, Shinto Shrine, pagodas and…

Scenic Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco Bike Tour

Description: If you’ve come to San Francisco for the Golden Gate Bridge, look no further! This bicycle tour offers you the must-see views and photo opportunities, with the added benefit of bike rental. Pushing off from Fisherman’s Wharf, this 3-hour day…

Private San Francisco & Sausalito Bike Tour

San Francisco, CA · from $300 USD

Description: Design your own extra-special experience of San Francisco on this fully customizable private bike tour! Perfect for families, corporate groups, or simply travelers seeking a more personalized experience, this guided bike tour is guaranteed to maximize…

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The Ultimate Electric SF Bike Tour

• 18 miles (30km)
• easy pedaling
• expert local guide
• Ride Details

On this electric bike tour you’ll experience San Francisco’s most essential sights in one unforgettable adventure. The awesome tour route rides the Golden Gate Bridge and includes SF’s best landmarks, parks, neighborhoods, Victorian architecture, plus tons of hidden gems along the way. 

⬇︎ Watch to learn all about the tour ⬇︎

Why choose this electric bike tour?

• An epic introduction to SF  – see the most beautiful and iconic parts of the city
• The greatest biking in SF – the only bike tour that follows a route locals actually ride
• Our ebikes make hills history – easy pedaling on SF’s finest , most fun electric bikes
• Owner led tour – Nick leads all tours, get the most experienced local SF guide!
• Wireless headsets – learn and experience more than on any other SF tour!

This ride follow SF’s absolute most scenic and safe bike routes for the ultimate Golden Gate Bridge, nature, neighborhood experience. This is the most extensive bike tour offer in the city!

Electric Bike Tour Details

• What you’ll experience
• What’s included
• Skill level & safety

This bike tour is the most extensive offered in San Francisco. We’ll cover all the most beloved local cycling routes and showcase SF’s must visit parks, neighborhoods, and an incredible ride on the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s the best way to experience the city like a local in a day. 

A natural wonderland where locals go to play, this gorgeous oasis is 20% larger than NY’s Central Park, full of beauty and history to discover.

Just a block away from our shop!

This once formidable military base has now been transformed into a sprawling parkland with epic views and the Golden Gate Bridge.

We take the local cyclist route to the Bridge through the Presidio that no other bike tour does.

SF’s most iconic neighborhood park, home to the famous Painted Lady Victorian houses aka the ‘Full House houses’. Amazing city views! 

An airfield at the dawn of aviator now home to beautiful beachfront bike paths, incredible Bridge, city, and Alcatraz views.

INCLUDED! We’ll stop at one these iconic SF bakeries for a special treat.

SF’s most legendary and delicious donut shop. The finest classic donuts with gourmet and seasonal flavors. A beloved and irresistible local icon.

Jane Bakery is SF’s fave new gourmet bakery, reviving a classic Americana Cafe (the Toy Boat). All the old school charm meets fine pastries and SF’s best cookies.

A beloved local institution, this Russian bakery serves up some of SF’s finest pastries, some of which you won’t find anywhere else.

Our starting and end location! The legendary neighborhood was made famous by Hippie movement and Summer of Love in the late ’60’s. Full of SF’s grandest Victorian architecture (and ‘painted ladies’), quirkiest shops, and best vintage stores.

A diverse neighborhood with some of SF’s best food. We’ll stop at Clement Street., the main business district, which is like a 40-block long more diverse Chinatown packed with local goodness.

The country in the USA’s 2nd densest city. Mostly brilliant parkland, the Presidio is also full of cool old officer housing and WWI era military buildings that have been restored. Well see epic bay and ocean views here, as we ride to the Golden Gate Bridge.

This super polished bayside neighborhood is full of Villa-like homes and art deco architecture. This part of town has its origins in the 1915 World’s Fair, with Palace of Fine Arts still standing on the edge of the hood.

This neighborhood is home to the famous Wiggle bike route, SF’s best small record stores, and finest beer bars.

• Custom-built electric bike for easy pedaling – ride the best!
• Wireless-audio guide system so you don’t miss a thing while we explore.
• Super knowledgeable longtime local guide for the safest, best possible biking experience.
• Immersive iPad photo & video experience that brings stories and history to life.
• Tons of authentic local tips and advice on things to do before and after the tour. Pure gold!
• Dessert: Donuts or ice cream from SF’s best local spots.

Moderate =  you should be comfortable riding a bike. Our bikes are easy to ride and we give you plenty of time to get comfortable before departing.

Notes about this tour   and why it’s easy-moderate : the ride requires that you navigate several hills, some of which are steeper. Our bikes are well suited and safe for this terrain. Your expert local guide will take you on quiet back roads and official bike routes the entire time, but you will have to share the road with cars at times.

Safety : We take safety seriously. There is an extensive pre-ride safety briefing and we provide the best quality helmets. See our  safety page  for more detailed information.

Questions:  If you have any questions about the difficulty of this tour or if it’s right for you, please  contact us , we’re happy to help!

What people are saying

Meet your rad electric bike.

We use the Radpower RadRunner, a top-quality eBike that will get us up all the SF hills without breaking a sweat! They’re super safe, accessible, and really fun to ride.

Fits riders :  4’11” (150cm) -6’5″+ (195cm+), up to 280lbs (127kg)

Upright riding position is extra comfy. 

Comfy saddle provides extra cush for your tush 🙂

Strong disc brakes– stop confidently & safely

Integrated lights w/ a brake-light for safety.

Extra wide tires for a safe and comfy ride

Long lasting battery gets 35miles (55km) per charge.

Powerful electric motor conquers SF hills effortlessly

Step-thru frame is easy to get on & off & fits most anyone.

All tours begin & end in our sweet bike workshop in the must-visit Haight Ashbury neighborhood, one block from Golden Gate Park.

Here is a map to our location:

If you are staying locally, we recommend getting dropped off here via taxi, Lyft, or Uber since it’s super easy. But you can also take the N Judah Muni train line easily from Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf.

If you do drive, there is super easy parking 2 blocks (5 min) away at the Kezar Stadium Lot. Here are directions to the lot:

The short answer is YES, very safe. San Francisco is one of the USA’s safest cities to bike in. All of our tours ride at least 95% in official bike lanes and your expert local guide will lead you on the safest, most scenic bike routes and backroads in SF. For more safety info, see our safety page .

We love kids and used to be schoolteachers but note: Our electric bike tours are for age 13+ . Our insurance company sets this minimum age for public tours and it’s standard throughout SF for electric bike tours. 

Have family younger than 13? We have cool private tour options for families with kids 8 years and older.   Just contact us for more details.  

Yes! We are in one of SF’s must-visit neighborhoods: the Haight Ashbury. The great rock & roll ‘hood of the 1960’s, it’s home to all SF’s grandest architecture, funkiest shops, great food & drink, and Golden Gate Park (1 block walk).

Check out our Essential local guide to the city for awesome ideas on favorite things to explore and eat in the Haight & San Francisco.

In short, QUALITY. This is the finest bike tour in SF (on the best electric bikes) and one of the most in-depth, authentic, and cool experiences you can have as traveler visiting SF.

WHY? We take the greatest pride in what we do, all tours are owner led by Nick (most experienced guide in SF), and you get wireless headsets so you learn and experience more than any other tour. Think of it as a good longtime local friend showing you the city who’s thought of all the little details, ensuring this will be THE highlight of your SF visit.

We promise it will exceed your expectations, provide lasting memories, and give you the greatest value for the money of any tour experience in the city.

We use the most popular brand and model of electric bikes in the USA, the Rad Power Rad Runner –see above. These top-quality eBikes are super safe, easy to use, and really fun to ride. 

Height: Our bikes fit riders from about 4’11”- 6’5″+

Weight: our bikes can accommodate riders up to 280 pounds 

Other rider requirements:  Riders must demonstrate they can ride safely before we depart. This is for everyone’s safety. Note: if you haven’t ridden for a while please practice before coming. We don’t give refunds for those who can’t ride safely or decide the ride isn’t for them on tour day.

• Experience a 100% authentic local adventure on SF's highest quality & most in-depth tours.
• Enjoy SF's best food, iconic sights, & hidden gems on every tour.
• Ride the finest custom-built electric bikes.
• Join 5,000+ happy guests from all 50 states & 40+ countries on SF's top rated bike tours.
• Support SF's only small, independent local bike tour company.

Don’t hesitate to drop us a line anytime. Our friendly, knowledgeable team of SF locals is happy to chat with you.

• +1 (415) 890-2453

Why Book With Us?

JOIN WORLD TRAVELERS & LOCALS

Making friends & lasting memories by bike since 2013

SF’S TOP-RATED BIKE TOURS

Next-level service, SF's best guides & finest electric bikes

SUPPORT SMALL & LOCAL

Get a 100% authentic, unique SF experience

Dandyhorse offers the ultimate San Francisco bike tours & e-bike tours. Led by awesome local guides you’ll explore Golden Gate Bridge, SF’s best neighborhoods, top landmarks, grand parks, and hidden gems. Book your tour today!

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The Best San Francisco Bike Tours

This post reviews and compares the best bike tours and bike rental companies in San Francisco. We also include information on combo packages and discounts and deals. 

• Guided City Bike Tours
• Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge
• Guided Tours Outside the City
• Bike Rentals  
• Combo Packages
• Deals and Discounts

GUIDED CITY BIKE TOURS 

Despite its many hills, San Francisco is a great city to see via bike. Biking in San Francisco is so popular that there are several companies offering bike tours. 

Guided tours of San Francisco will typically include riding through such neighborhoods as:

• Haight-Ashbury
• Golden Gate Park
• the Presidio
• Embarcadero
• South Beach
• Mission Bay

Below is information about some of the best bike tour companies along with a summary of reviews.

Streets of San Francisco

This highly rated company has a few different tour options. One of their most popular tours is their Classic San Francisco Bike Tour.

• Visit Haight-Ashbury, the Mission, the Castro and more
• Departs daily at 9:30 am, 10 am, and 1 pm 
• From $79 per person

TIP:  If you take on of their tours, you can get a 50% discount off bike rentals from CityRide Bike Rentals.

Streets of San Francisco Bike Tours has a 5 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor. Guests report being extremely impressed with the quality of the guides and the bikes themselves.

Reviews praise the guides as being knowledgeable, fun and interesting.  Many guests state that this tour is one of the best ways to see San Francisco. 

Dylan’s Tours

Dylan's Tours offers popular electric bike tours of the city. Using an e-bike allows you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time and with somewhat less difficulty! 

A short lunch break is included, though the cost of food is not. The Intro to San Francisco Tour is a nice alternative for those who can't commit to a long bike ride but are still interested in seeing places like Fisherman's Wharf and Golden Gate Bridge.

Note:  Advance reservations are recommended as group sizes are limited to 7 and the minimum age is 16+. 

• 6-hour electric bike tour that visits sites such as Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, and Alamo Square. Includes a 30-minute lunch break. 
• Departs daily at 9 am from North Beach
• From $99 per person
• Learn more or purchase .
• 1.5-hour tour that visits Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf

With a 5 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor, you can't go wrong with one of Dylan's e-Bike tours. Guests state that the bikes are well maintained and easy to ride and that the guides are very fun and knowledgeable. Read reviews here .

Bay City Bike Tours

Among their many tour offerings, their San Francisco Urban Bike Tour is one of the most popular.

It covers the most well-known neighborhoods in the city, including Fisherman's Wharf, Mission District, the Castro, North Beach, the Haight, and many others.

This four-hour tour includes a current-year-model electric bike, helmet and lock, front handlebar bag and rear gear rack.

An extra perk is that you get a free bonus bike rental for a few more hours once the guided tour is finished.

• See sites such as the Transamerica Pyramid, Aquatic Park, in addition to all the neighborhoods listed above
• Departs daily at 11 am 
• From $75 per person
• Note: Guests must be 13 or older to ride an electric bike
• Purchase or learn more .

With over 2,000 reviews, this company rates a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor. You will see over and over again throughout the reviews words like "fantastic", "excellent", and "awesome". 

GUIDED TOURS OUTSIDE THE CITY

If you're hoping to get a bit outside the city, you can take a tour that goes beyond San Francisco, some as far as Wine Country!

Tours will likely include crossing either the Bay Bridge or the Golden Gate Bridge. Usually, tours end in the charming small city of Sausalito.

A nice feature of some tours is that you may be allowed to use the bike for the rest of the day once the guided tour has ended. 

Blazing Saddles Bike Tours

On their Golden Gate to Sausalito Guided Tour, you start off from Fisherman’s Wharf. You then ride through Fort Mason, the Marina, and the Presidio. 

The tour then crosses the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito where the guided portion of your tour ends.

Since the cost of the tour includes a 24-hour rental, you can keep your bike and continue exploring or you can return the e-bike at the conclusion of the tour. 

• includes use of bicycle or e-bike (your choice), helmet, lock, rear rack
• Departs daily at 10 am and 1 pm 
• $55 per person for regular bike
• $85 per person for e-bike (must be ages 16+ to rent an e-bike)

This tour has a 4.5 star out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor. Most people seem very happy with the guided tour, saying that it was very fun and informative.

Guides are praised as being "exceptional" "helpful" and "excellent". The accolades go on and on.

Some negative comments were about external factors out of the company's control such as the large number of people on the Golden Gate Bridge or the fog blocking the views. However, these issues occur for all bike companies.

Note that some reviewers recommend going with the electric bike rental to help with some of the hilly terrain covered.

Bay City Bike and Tours

This company also offers a Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito tour. Similar to the Blazing Saddles tour above, this tour goes past sites such as Aquatic Park Cove, Alcatraz Island and then across the Golden Gate Bridge.

You are then invited to explore Sausalito on your own and return the bikes back at your leisure at the end of the day.

To return to San Francisco, you can choose to either take the ferry or ride back across the bridge -- both options of which are explained thoroughly by your guide. 

• All bike rentals include helmets, front camera bags, bells, maps & map holders, water bottle holders, puncture repair kits, locks, and detailed map assistance.
• Departs daily at 10 am or 1 pm from Fisherman's Wharf
• From $55 per person

Bay City Bikes is rated  4.5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Guests who are less physically active seem to especially love this tour, which is far less hilly than their San Francisco Urban Bike Tour.

Additionally, many reviews emphasize that this is the best way to see the Golden Gate Bridge as its easier than walking but still allows for much more intimacy than a regular bus tour.

Alcatraz Bikes and Tours

This company offers a three-hour guided bike tour that crosses the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito. Tours return to the city via ferry.

Like some other companies, you can keep the bike for the rest of the day once the tour is done. 

• 3-hour tour across the Golden Gate Bridge, down to Sausalito, and cross the San Francisco Bay via ferry to return back to the city.
• Departs daily at 10 am and 1 pm
• From $55 per person (not including ferry ticket)

This is a small company with an excellent reputation. They have a TripAdvisor rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars . The bikes are praised for being in excellent condition. The tour guides are complimented for their expert knowledge and approachable personalities. 

COMBO PACKAGES

Some companies combine their bike tours with another popular activity or attraction. By combining two activities into a package price, you will save money on both. 

For example, you can also purchase a package that includes a bike tour and a ticket to Alcatraz. This is a great opportunity if you are unable to get Alcatraz tickets, as they can sell out weeks in advance. Read our full post on Alcatraz tours and tickets .

Also, you can take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that includes a free bike rental as well as other activities. 

Not only will you save money with such a combo deal, but you will also enjoy multiple sights and activities.

Big Bus Tours  

This popular hop-on-hop-off bus tour company has combo packages that include a free hour bike rental when you buy one hour with Blazing Saddles.

Read more about Big Bus and their tour offerings from our post on San Francisco bus tours .

• 24 hours of hop-on, hop-off service in San Francisco
• Sausalito Tour
• Walking Tour of Chinatown
• Bike rental – buy 1 hour, get 1 free with Blazing Saddles 
• Prices (online): $58.50 Adult | $46.80 Child (5-15 years)
• 48 hours of hop-on, hop-off service in San FranciscoSausalito Trolley Tour
• Panoramic Open-Top Night Tour
• Bike rental – buy 1 hour, get 1 free with Blazing Saddles
• Prices (online): $70.20 Adult | $55.80 Child (5-15 years)
• 1-Day Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour
• Alcatraz Ticket
• Walking Tour
• Bike Rental - buy 1 hour, get 1 free with Blazing Saddles
• Cost: $110/Adults | $85/Children
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

Big Bus has a 4 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and guests report that their buses are safe and their guides are very knowledgeable.

This combination tour includes a bike rental and a reserved shuttle to Muir Woods.  After picking up your bike in San Francisco, you’ll ride across the bridge to Sausalito. 

There you will drop off your bike rental, and take the shuttle to Muir Woods. After an hour or so, you take the shuttle bus back to San Francisco.

Note that the $15 entrance fee to Muir Woods is not included.

• $85 per person 
• Pick up your bike between 9:15 am - 10 am
• Duration: 7 hours

This tour has a 5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. It is described by guests as "awesome", excellent" and "amazing". Guests also comment that the bikes were in good condition and that staff was helpful.  Read reviews here .

Bay City Bike Rentals and Tours 

This company offers two 2-day tour packages, that include a guided bike tour of San Francisco and an Alcatraz ticket. 

First, you select the date for your Alcatraz ticket. Your bike tour will then be reserved for the day before your Alcatraz trip.

An extra bonus is that on the day of your bike tour you can keep the bike until the end of the day.

• 3-hour bike tour over the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito
• Ticket for a visit to Alcatraz
• From $105 per person 
• 3-hour bike tour over the Golden Gate Bridge and the Presidio

Both Alcatraz combo packages offered by Bay City Bike Rentals and Tours is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. 

Many guests seem to have purchased the package primarily to have access to Alcatraz, which is often sold out weeks in advance. 

However, all who did this also commented on how pleasantly surprised they were by the quality of the bike tour, which often was each guest's favorite part.

Gears and Grapes Getaways 

This company that specializes in wine and brewery bike tours also offers combo packages. With two of the below tours, you can add a ticket to Alcatraz.

The tours  take place over 2 days, so you can maximize your self-guided tour of Alcatraz on the first or second day. 

• From $201 per person
• From $119 per person
• From $148 per person

Reviews 

With a TripAdvisor rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars , it’s clear that people seem to love Gears and Grapes tours, particularly when combined with tickets to Alcatraz. 

As one visitor who bought this package for that reason says, "this ended up working in our favor as the bike tour was really fun." 

To find out about tours of wine country via bus or car, see our post on Napa and Sonoma Wine Tours .

BIKE RENTALS

Renting a bike is a great way to see the city while moving at your own pace. You can opt for a standard bicycle or if offered, an electric bike (you must be 13+ years of age).

Rentals typically come with a current year model of bike/e-bike as well as a map and route suggestions from staff.

Below is a list of some of the better bike rental companies along with rates and a summary of reviews. 

We also include information on how to use San Francisco’s Bike Share Program, though this isn’t the best choice for those who plan on exploring the city for several hours.

Bay City Bike Rentals and Tours

This well-reviewed company offers one-day rentals with a complimentary self-guided tour.

You can choose between a standard bike rental or an electric bike for rental. E-bikes are rented only to individuals 13 years of age and older.

Though e-bikes are generally twice the price of a manual bike, an electric bike can often be preferable given the city’s hills. 

Rentals include a current year model of your bike/e-bike, helmet, bike lock, handlebar bag, rear gear rack, map and map holder.

When you go to pick up your rental, staff can help you customize a route for you based on your interests.

• 24-Hour Standard Bike Rental   $32 Adults (age 12+)/ $20 Children (11 and under)
• 24-Hour Electric Bike Rental $65 per person (ages 13 and up)

*Prices may be lower in the winter months.

This company is generally well-rated on TripAdvisor with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars .  Guests say that the bikes are in excellent condition. The staff also receive plenty of compliments for being well organized and friendly.

The rare complaint typically comes from guests who were unfamiliar with the large number of hills in San Francisco and therefore found biking around the city to be more challenging than expected.

Their one-day bike rental comes with route customization from staff based on your interest.

Conveniently, they have two locations from which you can rent and return bikes, Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square.

Rental Information

24-hour bike rental  

• maps and route recommendations
• safety orientation
• personalized bike fitting
• helmet, bike lock 
• handlebar bag for camera and small items

Blazing Saddles Bike Tours receive excellent reviews on TripAdvisor where they have a 4 out of 5 stars rating.

Many people praise the company's bikes for being so well maintained. Renters also appreciate the staff for mapping out the different routes and clearly explaining each one's difficulty. 

Some were disappointed that their bike seat was properly fitted for them, so be sure to insist this happens before you depart.

Unlimited Biking

Available in 2, 4, or day pass option, Unlimited Biking provides a Cannondale eBike for any rider looking to boost their ride. They also supply everything you need for your adventure - from helmet and a bike lock, free of charge.

• From $40 per person 

Most of the reviewers were very happy with the overall experience.

Guests seem very pleased with the quality of the bikes available for rental with Unlimited Biking, giving them a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. 

Bay Area Bike Share Program

Though this is a service most often used by locals in the city, tourists can also benefit from this affordable option. 

The Bay Area Bike Share Program allows you to pay just $9 per day for a 24-hour rental. 

The catch is that you must check into a Bike Share Station every 30 minutes. There are several of these stations around the city, so it is fairly easy to do this. 

However, it can be a hassle for those hoping to explore the city more freely. 

You might want to consider a standard bike rental from one of the companies above.

DEALS AND DISCOUNTS

This section covers some of the best ways to save money on bike tours in San Francisco.  We include details about tourist passes, combo packages and more.

• San Francisco Tourist Passes

If you’re planning to enjoy several activities while you’re in the Bay Area, a tourist discount pass can save you money on a variety of things to do – including bike tours.

Visitors who aren’t planning as much might find the build-your-own-pass option easiest, as it allows you to save 20% off 2 or more attractions and you don’t really have to do anything else to get the deal. However, an all-inclusive pass includes admission to dozens of activities which you can visit for a specific amount of time (1, 2, 3, or 5 days). 

You could save up to 50% off everything if you squeeze as many attractions as possible into just a few days, but this type of pass is best for people who want to go everywhere and see everything in San Francisco.

Alternatively, you could also use a flex pass to pay for only the tickets you want (3, 4, or 5 attractions) and pay one flat price for all of them. The best way to save money with this service is to use it for the most expensive activities available.

The following bike tours and rentals are currently offered by various San Francisco tourist passes:

• Blazing Saddles Bike Rental
• Blazing Saddles Electric Bike Rental
• Blazing Saddles Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour
• Bay City Bike Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour
• Bay City Bike Rental

Most of these services also include skip-the-line access at several popular locations, making it easy to save both time and money.

No matter which pass you choose, you should be able to save at least 20% - 50% off general admission prices. 

For more details, please read our post about San Francisco tourist passes .

Discount Sites

If you’re not interested in using a tourist pass or taking advantage of a combo package, you can always check sites such as Groupon and LivingSocial for deals on bike tours and rentals.

In addition to whatever discount they may offer, to begin with, these sites frequently provide additional promo codes for an extra 10% - 20% off local activities such as this.

Before making a purchase, make sure to check both the top and bottom of the page for any banners that may contain promo codes you can use to save even more money!

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San Francisco City Bike Tour

Bike & city tour.

The perfect combination of freewheeling and guided touring!

See it all from the top of a Double Decker bus, Starting in Fisherman’s Wharf. This 2-hour bus tour – replete with tour guide and audio tour- takes you around all the major tourist attractions of San Francisco including a drive across the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge with incredible views of Alcatraz Island. You can either do the two hour tour or use the bus throughout 24 hours, hopping on and off the bus as long as you like (map given at first stop). Hop off to go shopping at Union Square, explore Chinatown and North Beach, take a stroll in the Golden Gate Park, the Presidio and Palace of Fine Arts, and more! Once you’ve had your fill of four wheels, get over to Bay City Bike to grab just two more. From the seat of a bicycle, you can explore the city more up close and personal. Take an exhilarating cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge then down to charming Sausalito, or cycle back through the Presidio and Marina neighborhoods for a relaxing sightseeing ride.

Duration & Information

½ day bus, ½ day bike; Two Tours

Award-Winning Open-Top Hop on Hop off Bus Tour and relaxing Bike Rental with helmet & lock

Bus or Bike can be done first as timing open ended

Interested in a private Bike riding experience?

The Bay City Bike team specializes in planning and hosting customized private San Francisco guided or self-guided bike tours and group events!

Book online and get 10% OFF!

San Francisco Biking

Book a bike rental or surrey rental in San Francisco and enjoy an unforgettable adventure!

San Francisco Guided Tours

• Most Popular Tour!
• Calendar Daily
• Clock 10 a.m.

Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito Bike Tour

This Golden Gate Bridge tour is suitable for beginners and perfect for all ages! Follow the guide along the waterfront all the way to Sausalito, past many scenic spots.

• Calendar Call for availability

Golden Gate Park Tour

Our Golden Gate tours offer three routes to choose from for an unforgettable San Francisco bike tour experience. Check out Victorian homes, Botanical Gardens, and more. Call for availability.

• Clock 11 a.m.

San Francisco Electric Bike Tour

Book your San Francisco electric bike tour and see the city through the eyes of a local without breaking a sweat. This 15-mile guided bike tour covers the whole city.

California Sunset Bike Tour

Sweet Summertime in San Francisco…and made only sweeter with a Golden Gate Bridge Sunset Tour! A perfect pairing with a morning Alcatraz Tour.

San Francisco Bike Tours & Rentals Options

• MOST POPULAR!
• Calendar Please see hours below

Surrey Bike Rental in San Francisco

Surrey bike rentals are fun for the whole family, with everyone pedaling and taking in the sights together! Ride in Golden Gate Park or the SF Waterfront .

Parkwide has a fleet of well-maintained, reliable rentals available for hourly or daily biking in San Francisco. Delight the whole family and ride where the road takes you. With everyone pedaling, all that’s left to do is see the sights! Choose from multiple San Francisco bike routes for the best San Francisco bike tours !

Nina Near and Far

How to have adventures near and far.

The Perfect Self-Guided San Francisco Bike Tour

While in San Francisco, explore the city by bike to see the best of the Bay area and the Golden Gate Bridge. This beautiful ride was a wonderful way to see some of San Francisco’s most breathtaking views, and gave a real taste of the steep hills.

This guide includes Google Maps of the route. Total riding time is 3-4 hours, and once you’ve added in photo stops and snack breaks, it’s a full day excursion! This super scenic route includes the most famous landmarks and lookouts in San Francisco. One bike ride, all the sights.

Here’s my guided to the perfect San Francisco Bike Tour!  

Crissy Fields

Crissy fields is a favourite location to see Golden Gate Bridge from. I had seen many photos of the area leading up to my trip. It’s an exceptional view of the bridge, the bay, and the perfect start to your bike route.

• Start off on Jefferson Street , and biked East towards the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park.
• At Black Point, ride on the bike path and follow it to Marina Boulevard . 
• Marina Boulevard leads to Crissy Fields .
• Follow the Battery E Trail.
• There are even more great views as you make your way up to the San Francisco Bay Trail. Take the Battery E Trail to make your way up to the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is incredibly safe for cyclists. There are separate entrances and paved paths for bikes, with barriers between bikes and cars. You don’t have to worry about squeezing by cars on a busy bridge.

On the far side of the bridge, walk/ carry your bike up to Vista Point for another great view of the bridge. This is a great place for a snack break, and there are restrooms.

• Access the Golden Gate Bridge via the Battery E Trail.
• Ride the bike path across, enjoy the view, an return!

Land’s End was one of my favourite places in San Francisco. It’s the type of place that makes you feel like you’re miles away from the city, even though it’s merely blocks away.Take a few moments to get off your bike and enjoy the view. Maybe you’ll even spot some whales in the bay, like I did! There are trails at Land’s End that extent along the coast, so you can also come back for a hike another time.

• Come back across the South side of the Golden Gate Bridge .
• Follow Lincoln Boulevard , keeping the ocean on your right.
• Lincoln Boulevard becomes El Camino del Mar .
• The entrance to Land’s End then comes up quickly on your right.

Legion of Honour and the Cliff House

The Legion of Honor is one of the most beautiful buildings in San Fransisco, and part of the fine Arts Museum. It’s not far from the Cliff House, which overlooks the ocean and the old Sutro Bathes.

Getting from the Legion of Honour to the Cliff House is probably the most complicated set of directions in here. More simply, keep the ocean on your right!

• Follow El Camino del Mar, and continue until you reach the Legion of Honour.
• Leave the Legion of Honour and turn left on 34th Avenue.
• Right on Clement, left on 45th, right on Point Lobos Avenue.

Alamo Square and Lombardo Street

It’s time to ride back! But not without passing a couple more awesome landmarks on the way. Make your way through Golden Gate Park, then on to see the painted ladies and Lombardo street. If you want to skip hills though, go back along the coast once you’re out of Golden Gate Park.

• Follow Fulton to bypass Golden Gate Park, or John F. Kennedy Drive through it.
• Continue to Alamo Square
• If you want to pass Lombardo Street, go North on Steiner and then West on Union.

Renting a bike was a great way to see the city, and my favourite way to see the Golden Gate Bridge. During my time in San Francisco, I drove over it, bike it, and took a boat tour that went right underneath it. Cycling across was my favourite was to see it!

Renting a Bike

There are a few places that you can rent a bike. My recommendation is  Bay City Bikes . I rented a “City Bike,” which is essentially a hybrid. If you really want to relax on the hills, there are electric bikes too! The rental locations are right near the beginning of the bike route, in the tourist area near Pier 39.

It’s good to plan ahead a little, too. There’s a 20% discount if you book in advance online, and there are often discounts available through Groupon. A 24 hour bike rental is also one of the activity options on the San Fransisco C3 Pass , which gives you access to other great activities too .

Tips for Biking San Franciso

• The bikes from Bay City Bikes have bags on the front where you can keep your possessions, but nothing too big.
• Waterbottle, sunscreen, and remember to pack shoes that you can use for cycling in your luggage!

I hope you enjoy your day exploring San Franciso. If you’re following the root, tag me in your photos on Instagram @ninanearandfar so I can see your favourite spots! 

2 Replies to “The Perfect Self-Guided San Francisco Bike Tour”

Ohhhh I need to try this route next time I’m in SF! Thank you for the tips!

Do it! Wonderful way to spend the day and loads of great photo opportunities.

Comments are closed.

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Choose your own itinerary! Cross the Golden Gate Bridge or explore Golden Gate Park.

Fisherman's Wharf - 501 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Flexible, up to 1 day rental

Bike rental for comfort bike (standard bike, not electric) Dress in layers as it can get cold in certain parts of the city A liability waiver must be signed at the beginning of each tour by all guests age 18 or over

Cancellations made within 72 hrs of rental date are non-refundable

Required to wear helmet at all times. We kindly ask you for your responsibility as well to follow all health & safety guidelines from the City of San Francisco as well as any instructions from our staff to assure that we can all tour together safe and happy!

A bike ride unmatched! Enjoy this self-guided bike tour on your comfort bike and see the spectacular sites in San Francisco and the surrounding areas, all at your own pace!

Bike where you like! You can choose to ride through any neighborhood in San Francisco and enjoy the freedom of going wherever the path leads you. Departing from Fisherman’s Wharf or Golden Gate Park, it will be very easy to explore San Francisco on your own.

Ride along the Marina with amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge or stop by the Palace of Fine Arts to walk around the lake and visit the swans. Cut an easy ride through Golden Gate Park to see the bison up close, or check out the world-renowned California Academy of Sciences and the deYoung museum, the most dramatic fine arts museum in the United States.

Take your bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and picnic in Sausalito or stop by at one of their waterfront restaurants with some of the best views of the San Francisco Bay. Whatever spectacular ride you choose, we will make sure you are equipped with the best gear and have an unmatched experience in San Francisco.

You will be outfitted with a comfort bike (standard bike, not electric), a helmet, front handlebar bag & rear gear rack, map, and route instructions. You tell us how many miles you wish to ride and our staff will show you the best routes for your fabulous day!

[email protected]

99 Jefferson StreetSan Francisco, CA 94133

Copyright © Skyline Sightseeing 2024

• San Francisco
• Walking & Biking Tours
• Bike & Mountain Bike Tours

The Best Self-Guided Bike Tour of San Francisco

• 24-hour San Francisco bike rental
• Take a self-guided tour of the city
• Ride across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito
• Map, bike lock, lights and helmet included

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Bike Rental - SF's best and only custom-built bicycles, good for 24hrs
• Self-guide tour and planning session, customized for you and your interests!

Departure & Return

Mission District, San Francisco

Open 9am-7pmGuests may pick up bikes during opening hours. Please let us know what time you will be arriving so we can have your bikes all set up just for you; contact information on voucher.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• All rides heights MUST be advised at time of booking
• Minimum age is 13 years

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel At least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Your Contact Details

Questions or requests.

Do you have questions or specific requests regarding this tour?

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