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.
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.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
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 Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
San Francisco City Lights Cruise (2-hours)
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
Top hotels in Portola
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
There was not a spa. The breakfast was just fantastic. The staff was very friendly.
Reviewed on 6 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Poor in everything
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Very good hotel for the price and location. Staff was helpful. Parking is really expensive, but it is SF, so expected.
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Air con stopped working at one point
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
I love to come here it’s my get away
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
The Marker Union Square San Francisco
When you walked to the Hotel Lobby, you can smell a very unique scent that is so calming and pleasant. We really enjoyed our stay. The staff was friendly and helpful.
Reviewed on 7 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. 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.
