Top 4 places to visit in California and what to do there

1. Alcatraz
One of San Francisco's most iconic sites, Alcatraz Island, has an interesting history as a former federal prison — it once held some of America's most notorious criminals. Today, it’s a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
To make the most of your visit, consider timing your trip in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. If you're traveling with Princess Cruises®, take advantage of the Alcatraz tours that offer a guided experience, which helps you delve deeper into the island's storied past.

2. Golden Gate Bridge
No visit to San Francisco is complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge. This iconic structure offers great views from various vantage points around the city. For a truly unique experience, Princess Cruises® offers excursions that sail directly under the bridge — the perfect opportunity to snag a one-of-a-kind photo. If you prefer to explore on land, consider joining a San Francisco panoramic night tour that offers views of the bridge illuminated against the night sky.

3. Muir Woods National Monument
Just a short drive from the city, Muir Woods National Monument is home to some of the oldest and tallest redwoods in the world. The park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with well-maintained trails that wind through the majestic forest.
While there are several trails to explore, those joining a Princess Cruises® excursion will have a guided hike set up. You can fully immerse yourself in this natural wonder without the hassle of planning. For those who wish to explore more independently, top trails like the Main Trail and the Bootjack Trail offer a rewarding experience. Discover this and more with a Sausalito and Muir Woods tour.

4. Sausalito
Speaking of Sausalito, this charming city lies just across the Golden Gate Bridge — it’s known for its picturesque waterfront and vibrant arts scene. Stroll along the main street, enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, or simply take in the views of the San Francisco skyline. Getting to Sausalito from the city is a breeze, especially if you opt for one of the many Princess excursions that offer transportation from the port.

5. Pier 39
Pier 39 is a bustling hub of activity, offering a mix of entertainment, dining and shopping options. Whether you're interested in watching the sea lions basking in the sun or enjoying a meal with a view of the bay, there's something for everyone here. For a unique cultural experience, consider joining a San Francisco on your own: hop-on, hop-off excursion, which includes a stop at Pier 39.

6. Sonoma and Napa Valley wine country
Just a short distance from San Francisco, Sonoma and Napa Valley are renowned for their world-class wineries and scenery to match. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious novice, a visit to these wine regions offers a great escape at port. Princess Cruises® provides curated Sonoma wine country tours that take the guesswork out of planning, so you can simply relax and enjoy the wine-tasting experience.

7. Cliff House
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the Cliff House is a historic San Francisco landmark that makes for a beautiful visit. This is one of San Francisco’s oldest restaurants, going back to the mid-1800s! After you check out the local cliffside monument, you can take some time to explore the nearby attractions, such as the Lands End Lookout or the Sutro Baths ruins.

8. Vista Point
For even more beautiful views of the bay and the city, make your way to Vista Point. Vista Point is one of the best locations for panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline. Situated just on the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge, this scenic overlook provides an incredible vantage point to capture photos of both the bridge and the bay. Whether you’re looking for the perfect snapshot or just want to get an even better look of the city, Vista Point is a must-visit.

1. TCL Chinese Theater (Formerly Grauman's)
Formerly known as Grauman’s Chinese Theater, this historic landmark has been a centerpiece of Hollywood glamour since 1927. Known for its famous forecourt featuring the handprints and footprints of Hollywood’s biggest stars like Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra, the theater is still an active cinema that hosts major movie premieres.
Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the theater’s fascinating history and the legendary events held there. Join a Princess excursion to experience the TCL Chinese Theater along with a visit to the nearby Farmer's Market.

2. Universal Studios
For a more thrilling adventure, Universal Studios Hollywood offers an immersive experience with its world-class rides, attractions and behind-the-scenes tours of working film sets. From the magical world of Harry Potter to the exciting Jurassic World ride, there’s something for every age and interest. Make the most of your visit with the Universal Studios On Your Own excursion, which gives you the flexibility to explore the park at your own pace.

3. Olvera Street
Step back in time to experience the heart of old Los Angeles at Olvera Street. Known as the birthplace of the city, this vibrant Downtown district offers a glimpse into LA’s rich Mexican history. Stroll through the marketplace, sample authentic Mexican cuisine and shop for traditional handcrafted goods. Olvera Street is a highlight on our wheelchair-accessible Los Angeles tour, making it easily suitable for everyone.

4. The Getty Center Museum & Santa Monica
Art and culture enthusiasts will find a visit to The Getty Center a nice highlight of any Los Angeles itinerary. The museum has an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures and decorative arts, set against the backdrop of stunning gardens and sweeping city views.
Afterward, head to the nearby Santa Monica Pier for a relaxing afternoon by the beach — or a fun-filled day with rides and arcade games. We offer an excursion that combines both experiences, ensuring you see it all.

5. Huntington Library and Gardens & Griffith Observatory
These two Los Angeles landmarks offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s busy streets. The Huntington Library and Gardens feature botanical gardens and an extensive art collection, while Griffith Observatory provides awe-inspiring views of the stars and the LA skyline. For those looking to visit both attractions, consider our Huntington Library and Griffith Observatory excursion, which provides convenient access to these iconic destinations.

6. La Brea Tar Pits & Griffith Observatory 
There’s more than one way to see Griffith Observatory with Princess. The La Brea Tar Pits are one of LA’s most fascinating prehistoric sites, where natural asphalt has preserved the remains of animals from the Ice Age. In fact, it’s the world's only active, metropolitan Ice Age excavation site, which makes it one of the more exciting places to visit in California. Families will enjoy the interactive exhibits and the chance to witness ongoing excavations.
Pair this visit with a trip to Griffith Observatory, where kids can learn about astronomy through engaging exhibits. Princess Cruises’ family-friendly excursion makes it easy to explore these attractions with children.

7. Star Track Tour
Experience the glamor of Hollywood firsthand with the Star Track Tour, a guided journey through the streets of Beverly Hills, past the homes of today’s hottest celebrities. You’ll also have the chance to visit other iconic locations like the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive. The Star Track Tour with Princess helps you see all the top celebrity spots without the hassle of navigating LA’s traffic on your own.

8. Long Beach On Your Own
If you’re looking for a classic sunny California experience, Long Beach is the perfect stop. For those looking to explore, Long Beach offers a variety of attractions, from its bustling waterfront to the historic Queen Mary. With the Long Beach On Your Own excursion, you’ll have the freedom to visit the city’s top sites at your own pace.

9. Easy Los Angeles: Hollywood Boulevard, Disney Concert Hall and More
For a relaxed and mobility-friendly exploration of Los Angeles, the Easy Los Angeles tour offers a stress-free way to visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard to see the Walk of Fame and iconic theaters, then enjoy the architectural beauty of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Designed by Frank Gehry, this stunning building is a must-see for art and music lovers. This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy LA’s cultural highlights at a leisurely pace, with accessibility in mind.

10. Debark Tour: Beach Cities of LA: Venice & Santa Monica
For those disembarking in Los Angeles, the Beach Cities debark tour offers a relaxing way to wrap up your cruise. Visit the famous Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier, known for their laid-back atmosphere and endless entertainment options. It’s the perfect way to spend a day before heading home.

1. Old Town
Step back in time and experience San Diego’s early days at Old Town. Another historic destination, this area offers a glimpse into the city’s past, with preserved buildings, museums and vibrant marketplaces. Enjoy Mexican cuisine at one of the local restaurants and browse through the unique shops for handcrafted souvenirs. The Old Town Trolley tour with Princess is an excellent way to explore this culturally rich area.

2. Balboa Park
If you’re looking for other ways to immerse yourself in culture, Balboa Park is the place to be. Home to a variety of museums, gardens and theaters, this 1,200-acre park is an incredible representation of San Diego.
Spend your day in the lush gardens or visit one of 15 museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art and the Fleet Science Center. The park’s beautiful Spanish-style architecture and expansive green spaces make it a must-visit. For a well-rounded experience, you can enjoy Balboa Park with Princess’s San Diego excursion that highlights the park’s top attractions.

3. La Jolla
Known for its stunning coastline, La Jolla is a beach lover’s paradise. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling with marine life or simply relaxing on the beach, La Jolla has it all. After a day of adventure, wind down with a meal at one of the many seaside restaurants that offer fresh seafood with a view. Explore the best of La Jolla with our City Drive & La Jolla Highlights excursion.

4. Local theme parks
San Diego is home to some of the most exciting and unique theme parks in the world. The San Diego Zoo offers visitors the chance to see over 3,500 animals and more than 650 species, all across themed exhibits like African Plains and Panda Canyon. The best experience is with the San Diego Zoo On Your Own Tour, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Nearby, SeaWorld has thrilling rides, shows and marine exhibits. Meanwhile, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a different animal adventure, where animals roam free in expansive habitats. There are all kinds of ways to explore the parks of San Diego.

5. Harbor Cruise
A visit to San Diego isn’t complete without a Harbor Cruise that showcases the city’s stunning coastline and naval history. Enjoy views of the downtown skyline, Coronado Island and the USS Midway Museum from the water.
Don’t miss the unique San Diego Seal Tour that combines a harbor cruise with an exciting land and sea adventure. The San Diego Seal Harbor Cruise is an entertaining and informative way to see the city from a different perspective.

6. San Diego's countryside and wine tasting
For a change of pace, head inland to explore San Diego’s countryside and enjoy a day of wine tasting. The region is home to charming vineyards and wineries, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustling beaches. Join a Temecula wine tasting tour to sample some of Southern California’s finest wines while taking in the beautiful scenery.

1. Santa Barbara Mission
The Santa Barbara Mission is a historical gem that dates back to 1786, earning it the nickname "Queen of the Missions." This beautifully preserved landmark is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in California’s colonial past.
Take a guided tour to learn about the mission's role in the development of the region, and don’t miss the chance to explore its picturesque gardens. Make the most of your visit with a local connections tour that includes expert insights into Santa Barbara’s history.

2. Wine country
Santa Barbara is surrounded by some of California’s most celebrated wine regions. Whether you’re exploring the vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley or making your way through the wineries in downtown Santa Barbara, there’s something to please every palate. For a truly satisfying experience, consider the Santa Barbara and Los Olivos wine tour, which combines wine tasting with the region’s incredible cultural history.

3. Santa Barbara Courthouse
A stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is both a functional government building and a work of art. Visitors can admire its intricate tile work, murals and panoramic views from the clock tower. This courthouse is one of the most beautiful in the country and offers a glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage. Discover more about its history on a ride through history tour.

4. State Street
Do you want a real city experience? State Street is the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, with a mix of shopping, dining and entertainment options. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll, a gourmet meal or a bit of retail therapy, State Street has it all. It’s the perfect place to soak in the local laid-back atmosphere and enjoy some of the best that Santa Barbara has to offer.

5. Solvang
Just a short drive from Santa Barbara, Solvang is a charming Danish village that feels like a little slice of Europe in California. Known for its unique architecture, windmills and bakeries offering authentic Danish pastries, Solvang makes for a delightful day trip. Explore this quaint village on a Solvang On Your Own Tour, and experience the best of Danish culture.

6. Moreton Bay Fig Tree
The Moreton Bay Fig Tree in Santa Barbara is one of the largest of its kind in the United States, with sprawling branches that create a massive canopy. Planted in 1876, this incredible tree is a natural landmark and a must-see for nature enthusiasts. It spans a whopping 160 feet and is definitely worth grabbing a picture with. It’s conveniently located near downtown, making it an easy addition to your Santa Barbara itinerary.

7. Outdoor adventures
For those who love the outdoors, Santa Barbara offers a wide range of activities from hiking and biking to water sports like kayaking and whale watching. The region’s mild climate and stunning landscapes make it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Princess Cruises® offers whale-watching tours that give you the chance to see these extraordinary creatures up close, adding an unforgettable experience to your visit.