Looking for the best Alcatraz Tour? Alcatraz is a tiny island located 1.25 miles (2.01 kilometers) off the coast of San Francisco, California, in the United States. It may be recognized as the home of some of America’s most dangerous criminals, but for me, the real reason to be worried about Alcatraz is the overwhelming number of great tour options available.
In this article, I’ll be sharing with you my personal recommendations for the best Alcatraz guided tours to book on Get Your Guide or Viator this year.
Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost. Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you.
🔎 What to know when visiting Alcatraz
Visiting Alcatraz is a unique experience for any traveler. When visiting, it’s important to note that ferry rides and tours are often sold out weeks in advance, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Additionally, visitors should bring layers of clothing and wear comfortable shoes, as the weather in San Francisco can change quickly, and the island is quite hilly.
Wearing sunscreen is also advisable, as the island has limited shade.
Finally, photography is allowed, but it’s prohibited to touch or climb over any of the artifacts.
Looking for fun and Unique Things to do with Kids in California? Add this item to your list!
5x The Best Alcatraz Tour in 2023
1. The Alcatraz Night Tour
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 stars | 💰 Price: US $119 | 🎟️ Book Now
If you’re looking for a memorable and spine-tingling experience, I highly recommend the Alcatraz Night Tour. It is one of the best tour of Alcatraz.
Located on the infamous Alcatraz Island, this walking tour provides a unique and eerie perspective of the Alcatraz prison’s history.
As someone who’s taken the tour personally, let me walk you through what to expect.
The guided tours include a ferry ride from Pier 33 on San Francisco Bay with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and sea lions at Pier 39.
Once you arrive on the island, you’ll be led on a guided audio tour of the prison, with highlights including a visit to Al Capone’s prison cell and the solitary confinement cells.
The walking tour runs from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm, with varying prices depending on the time of year.
Admission fees range from $119 per person. Book your tour in advance on Get Your Guide or Viator, as this is a popular option among tourists.
What to Expect on your best Alcatraz Tour
Immerse Yourself in the Island’s Eerie History
The Alcatraz Night Tour is an opportunity to delve into the island’s notorious past.
The audio tour provides insights into the prison’s history, covering topics such as the escape attempts of notorious inmates and the living conditions of its prisoners.
It’s a chance to learn about the island’s notorious reputation and its place in popular culture.
See Al Capone’s Cell
One of the highlights of the Alcatraz Night Tour is the chance to see Al Capone’s prison cell. The infamous gangster was among the inmates who served time at Alcatraz, and visitors can view his cell and learn about his time on the island.
Experience the Island at Night
Taking the best Alcatraz island tour at night provides a unique perspective of the island. The dimly lit corridors, the sound of the sea, and the flashing of the Lighthouse are some of the factors that lend an eerie atmosphere to the island.
Enjoy the Scenic Bay Views
The ferry ride to Alcatraz Island provides breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay, with the Golden Gate Bridge and the skyline of San Francisco all visible from the waters.
Overall, the Alcatraz Night Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, providing a chance to learn about the island’s infamous history, soak up some stunning views, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of San Francisco at night.
Whether it’s for an evening of adventure or a memorable dining experience with friends or family, the Alcatraz Night tour has something for everyone.
Don’t forget to book your ticket to Alcatraz in advance to beat the rush!
“Tour guide around Fisherman’s Wharf was humorous & knowledgeable.“
GetYourGuide traveler – United States
⭐ Read more reviews here.
👉🏻 Book your tickets to see Alcatraz at night here!
2. Golden Gate Bridge & Alcatraz Combo Tour
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5 stars | 💰 Price: US $97.65 | 🎟️ Book Now
If you’re looking for a great way to see two of San Francisco’s most iconic attractions, I highly recommend the Golden Gate Bridge & Alcatraz Combo Tour. This tour offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty of the city while also immersing you in its rich history.
The city tour starts with a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge, where you can take in the stunning views of the city and learn about the bridge’s engineering and construction.
The tour then takes you to Alcatraz Island, where you can explore the infamous prison and learn about its notorious history.
The tour runs daily and lasts approximately 6 hours. The price of admission ranges from $97.65 to $120 per person, and tickets can be booked in advance on Get Your Guide or Viator.
What to Expect on your best Alcatraz Tour
Explore the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is a must-visit attraction in San Francisco, and the Combo Tour provides a great opportunity to explore it.
The tour provides an insight into the bridge’s fascinating history, from its engineering and construction to its impact on the city’s growth.
Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the stunning views from the bridge.
Experience Life in Alcatraz Prison
Alcatraz Prison is one of the most notorious prisons in the world, and the Combo Tour allows visitors to explore the abandoned prison and learn about the daily life of the inmates.
The tour includes a self-guided audio tour, which provides an insight into the prison’s history and the lives of its prisoners.
Learn about San Francisco’s History
The combo tour offers an opportunity to learn about the history of San Francisco beyond just the bridge and prison. The tour includes a visit to Golden Gate Park, which is home to many of San Francisco’s cultural and educational institutions.
The park also features a Japanese Tea Garden and a Botanical Garden.
Visit Different Neighborhoods within San Francisco
The Combo Tour is an excellent way to experience the different neighborhoods of San Francisco as the tour takes you from the Bridge to Alcatraz and then Fishermans Wharf, a popular tourist destination that is perfect for shopping, eating, and great seafood.
It’s situated on the waterfront and provides stunning views of the Bay.
Overall, the Golden Gate Bridge & Alcatraz Combo Tour is perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing and adventure.
With a beautiful bridge and a notorious prison, the tour offers an opportunity to explore the city, including the town of Sausalito and its history, while still enjoying a bit of adventure.
Plus, the tour is perfect for couples, friends, and families alike.
The cruise was great! The crew was friendly and they had jackets on board because it was chilly out on the bay. The highlight was when they took us under the Golden Gate Bridge.. so impressive.. If I ever visit San Francisco I will definitely take this cruise again.
GetYourGuide traveler
⭐ Read more reviews here.
👉🏻 Book your tickets to the Golden Gate Bridge & Alcatraz Combo Tour here!
3. Alcatraz Day Tour
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 stars | 💰 Price: US $135 | 🎟️ Book Now
To make the most of your stay, make sure to visit the iconic Alcatraz Island and take the Alcatraz Day Tour. The former prison is located on a small island in the middle of San Francisco Bay and holds a fascinating history that is worth exploring.
The tour starts with a scenic ferry ride from Pier 33 to the island, where you will be greeted by a guided audio tour of the prison.
The tour takes you through the main cell block, where you can visit the cells of notorious criminals such as Al Capone and see the recreation yard where prisoners spend their limited outdoor time.
What to expect on your best Alcatraz tour
Immerse Yourself in History
Visiting Alcatraz Island on the Day Tour is an opportunity to immerse oneself in San Francisco’s rich history. The tour provides an insight into the lives of prisoners in the early 20th century and tells the story of their quest for survival.
The Audio Tour
The self-guided audio tour provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the prison’s history and the daily life of its inmates. It features a detailed recreation of the prison’s main cell block, including the dining hall, library, and hospital, and the stories of the prisoners who lived and died there.
Enjoy Scenic Views
The Alcatraz Day Tour is a great chance to explore San Francisco Bay and take in stunning views of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. The island affords a unique perspective of the city of San Francisco and provides an insight into the region’s natural and cultural attractions.
Learn about Alcatraz Island’s Wildlife
Alcatraz Island is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, seals, and sea lions. Visitors on the Day Tour may encounter these animals during their visit, which adds an extra element of surprise and fun to the already exciting tour.
Overall, the Alcatraz Day Tour is perfect for all ages and is particularly popular with families. The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the city’s history and explore one of the world’s most notorious prisons.
Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out or a history buff eager to explore, the Alcatraz Day Tour has something to offer everyone.
It’s an educational and entertaining tour that will engage visitors of all ages.
Amazing Day! I loved that experience, everything was perfect !
Cintia – United States
⭐ Read more reviews here.
👉🏻 Book your tickets to the Alcatraz day tour here!
4. San Francisco Bay Cruise & Alcatraz Combo Tour
⭐ Rating: 4.0/5 stars | 💰 Price: US $139 | 🎟️ Book Now
I can confidently say that the San Francisco Bay Cruise & Alcatraz Combo Tour is one of the best ways to experience the city. The tour takes visitors on a guided boat tour of the bay and a visit to the infamous Alcatraz Island.
The tour begins with a scenic cruise around the bay, providing stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline.
After the cruise, the tour takes you to Alcatraz Island to explore the prison on a self-guided audio tour.
The tour runs daily and costs approximately $139 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance on Get Your Guide or Viator.
What to Expect on your best Alcatraz Tour
Learn About the City’s History
Alcatraz Island is steeped in history, and taking the Day Tour, which includes a boat tour of the San Francisco Bay, provides an immersive experience of the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
From the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the site’s historical significance, visitors can learn about the city’s development, the criminal justice system, and the island’s legacy.
Captivating Boat Tour
The boat tour is one of the best tours in San Francisco, and the key highlight of the combo tour, it offers an opportunity to experience the Bay and some of the key sites, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, from the water.
The 1-hour tour provides a unique perspective of the city skyline with ample opportunities to take in the views and snap some memorable photos.
Self-Guided Audio Tour
Alcatraz Island is home to the infamous Alcatraz prison, which operated from 1934 to 1963. The Audio Tour lets visitors explore various sections of the prison, decipher its historical significance, and receive insights from former inmates and guards.
Interactive Exhibits
In addition to the historic prison, visitors can also experience the island’s diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and military legacy. The exhibits offer chances to view the island’s birdlife, historic gardens and parks, and old military structures.
Visitors can enjoy an interactive and engaging experience that will be remembered for years to come.
Overall, the San Francisco Bay Cruise & Alcatraz Combo Tour provides a great way to experience the city from the water and learn about its history.
Don’t hesitate to book this tour for a memorable experience.
Very educational. Mind blowing. Amazing experience and would recommend it to anyone traveling to the Bay Area
Jeremy_C, Jun 2023
⭐ Read more reviews here.
👉🏻 Book your Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise here!
5. City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Alcatraz Island Visit
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 stars | 💰 Price: US $165 | 🎟️ Book Now
If you want to explore the city in a unique way, I highly recommend the City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Alcatraz Island Visit. This tour provides a great way to see the city’s top attractions at your own pace and learn about its history.
The tour starts with a hop-on hop-off bus tour that showcases the city’s top landmarks, such as Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge. You have the option to hop off and explore these attractions on your own before boarding the bus again.
Afterward, the tour takes you to Alcatraz Island for a self-guided audio tour of the prison.
The tour runs every day and costs approximately $165 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance on Get Your Guide or Viator.
What to Expect on your best Alcatraz Tour
Customizable Experience
The hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to explore San Francisco as it provides flexibility and customization. You can choose to disembark the bus at any of the stops along the route and explore the attractions at your own pace before boarding the bus again.
Iconic Landmarks
The bus tour covers popular San Francisco landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, and many more. Visiting these popular attractions provides a comprehensive insight into the city’s history, architecture, and cultural offerings.
Audio Commentary
The hop-on hop-off buses feature audio commentary from knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides who provide interesting facts and insights into the city’s past and present.
Island Getaway
The Alcatraz Island visit is an excellent way to add excitement and diversity to your San Francisco itinerary. The island was once a notorious prison, and visitors can explore it at their own pace through the Audio Tour, which provides insights into the lives of prisoners incarcerated there.
The ferry ride to and from the island also provides an opportunity to take in spectacular views of San Francisco Bay.
Overall, the City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour & Alcatraz Island Visit is a highly recommended and comprehensive experience that offers visitors a chance to explore San Francisco’s top attractions while learning about the city’s fascinating history.
The tour is a perfect introduction to San Francisco, and it’s an excellent way to discover the city’s distinct neighborhoods, make stops for lunch and allow for a personalized itinerary.
Don’t hesitate to book it for the ultimate San Francisco experience.
Alcatraz tour. Seeing the highlights of SanFrancisco, and being able to get off the bus at different stops. Staff members were very helpful and friendly. Oscar Lopez was outstanding!
Dixie_S, Jun 2023
⭐ Read more reviews here.
👉🏻 Book your City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Alcatraz Island Visit
10 Tips for Visiting Alcatraz
- Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines and sold-out tours.
- Arrive early so you can explore the island and its paths at a leisurely pace.
- Wear comfy, waterproof shoes since the rocky terrain may be a bit slippery.
- Bring a jacket since the temperatures tend to be cooler and windy.
- Pack a light picnic lunch and snacks since eating options on the island are limited.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture amazing photos of the island.
- Listen carefully to the audio tour as it provides more details on the prison’s history.
- Familiarize yourself with Alcatraz’s regulations in advance.
- Avoid wearing bright colors as they can attract birds near the island.
- Have a great time exploring this iconic island and its fascinating history!
Things to bring when booking an Alcatraz tour:
✅ Comfortable Shoes – chances are you’ll be walking across a lot of terrains during your tour. Wear something you’ll be comfy in!
✅ Jacket – you may encounter windy weather on the island, so it’s best to be prepared. Bring a light jacket or sweater with you.
✅ Camera – be sure to snap some shots to remember your time on Alcatraz by bringing a camera with you.
✅ Binoculars – if you have them, taking some binoculars with you will help you see the beautiful surrounding views from the island.
✅ Sunscreen – if you’re visiting on a sunny day, make sure you’ve got sunscreen (and sunglasses) to protect you from the sun’s rays.
✅ Cash/Credit Card – you’ll want to make sure you’ve got something to buy snacks, souvenirs, and merchandise while on your tour.
✅ Water Bottle – staying hydrated is key as you tour the island, so make sure you’ve got a full water bottle with you!
✅ Snacks – if you’re feeling peckish, bring along a few snacks to keep your energy going whilst on the tour.
✅ Hat – if you’re sensitive to the sun, a big hat can help protect your face from the sun’s rays and keep you cool.
✅ A Sense of Curiosity and Wonder – explore the awesome jail and its history with an open heart and mind!
You’ll be sure to have an amazing time on your Alcatraz tour if you’ve got all of these essential items with you!
Searching for places where to hike in California for families (or beginner hikers)? Include this item in your list.
F.A.Q The Best Alcatraz Tours
How much is the Alcatraz tour?
The Alcatraz tour from Viator and GetYourGuide offers expanded tours of Alcatraz, which may include additional activities such as audio guides and other boat rides. Prices for GetYourGuide tours and Viator range from $90 to $170 per person depending on the inclusions of the tour.
What time does the tour start?
The tour starts between 9 am – 2 pm daily. Times may differ depending on the season.
How long is the Alcatraz Day tour?
The tour usually lasts 4 hours.
What do I need to bring to the tour?
You should bring tickets, ID, and comfortable shoes.
Is the water around Alcatraz good for swimming?
Swimming around Alcatraz is not advised due to high tides and harsh currents.
Can you tour Alcatraz prison?
Yes, you can tour Alcatraz prison. It is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and has been open to the public since 1973. The National Park Service operates the tours and provides a unique opportunity to explore the history of this famous prison. Visitors can explore its cell blocks, gardens, and other historic features. Audio tours and ranger-led talks are also available for those interested in learning more about its history.
How to book an Alcatraz tour?
To book an Alcatraz tour with GetYourGuide or Viator, visit their website and search “Alcatraz Tour” in the search bar. Select the tour you are interested in and add it to your cart. When you are ready to purchase, enter your payment information and confirm your reservation. You will receive an email with details on when and where to meet for the tour.
Which Alcatraz tour is best?
The best Alcatraz tour would have to be the Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On-Hop-Off Open Top Tour and Alcatraz Combo. It offers a great combination of sightseeing and history, with a full day of exploration. The bus stops at all the major attractions in San Francisco, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. Plus, you can take an incredible ferry ride to Alcatraz Island and explore its fascinating history. Best of all, you can hop on and off the bus as often as you want throughout the day! Don’t forget to book this tour if you’re planning a road trip from San Diego to San Francisco.
Final thoughts: Which is the best Alcatraz tour of 2023?
The best Alcatraz tour in 2023 will be nothing short of incredible. From the fantastic views to the fascinating stories, there’s no better way to experience this historical island.
If you’re ready for an unforgettable journey back in time, book yourself onto one of the many Alcatraz tours available this year.
You’ll learn plenty about San Francisco and its rich history while taking in delightful surroundings and being treated to a first-class hospitality experience.
With so much on offer, you can be sure that your tour of Alcatraz will leave an impression!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your California trip now- join us on the best Alcatraz tour this year and make memories that’ll last a lifetime! 🙂
Related Articles
If you enjoyed this article, you might also like to read the following articles:
- 5 California Gold Rush Field Trips Not to Miss
- 10-Day California Road Trip from San Diego to San Francisco (Perfect for Families)
Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.