As a first-time visitor to San Francisco, you’ll find a city filled with popular destinations, as well as a few off the beaten path. Of course, navigating the city as a tourist can have pitfalls, so we’ll highlight those must-sees every native recommends. While you missed out on the gold rush and dozens of art renaissances, there’s still plenty to see and do.

5 Things You Must Do During Your First Visit to San Francisco

1. Golden Gate Bridge

When you hear “Golden Gate Bridge,” what comes to mind? San Francisco! If you decide to hike or bike across its 1.7 miles (while marveling at the two towers that stand 746 feet), make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Don’t forget to bring your camera — the views are spectacular.

2. Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39

Locals will tell you to avoid most of Fisherman’s Wharf’s trappings (such as the overpriced shops, except when purchasing inexpensive souvenirs). You can rent anything from Segways to bikes to fishing gear; go on bay cruises, sightseeing tours, and sport fishing trips; splurge on San Francisco sourdough at Boudin at the Wharf; or enjoy a luxurious sea bass, sand dab, sole, or Dungeness crab dinner at Alioto’s Restaurant. At the end of the wharf is Pier 39. Once you reach the San Francisco Bay, turn left and keep going until you reach the sea lions, arguably the pier’s highlight.

3. Alcatraz Island

Also known as The Rock, Alcatraz Island is a former federal penitentiary and home to the West Coast’s first lighthouse. Even though this location hasn’t housed prisoners since 1963, it still sees thousands of visitors every year who are eager to learn about its history (including details of infamous prisoners such as Al Capone). Order your tickets in advance to avoid being disappointed by the inevitable sellout.

5 Things You Must Do During Your First Visit to San Francisco

4. The Buena Vista Café

Tired from a long day of walking/hiking/exploring/hanging out with sea lions? Look no further than the Buena Vista Café. Located at 2765 Hyde St. on Fisherman’s Wharf, the café is right across the street from the Powell-Hyde cable car turntable (last stop). Buena Vista is world-famous for its Irish coffee (serving up to 2,000 per day!), and don’t pass up the lobster roll on sourdough.

5. Lombard Street

For the more adventurous type, there’s Lombard Street, an east-west street famous for a steep, one-block section with eight hairpin turns. It’s known as the “crookedest” street in the world. Lombard Street is a major tourist attraction; during busy summer weekends, as many as 17,000 people visit per day — that’s around two million visitors per year. Here’s a tip from the locals: Leave the car at the parking lot and hop on the Powell-Hyde cable car, which stops at the top.

After a long day of exploring, head back to your affordable accommodation in San Francisco, and enjoy your stay at your (new) favorite destination.

This list should get you started. You’re sure to find lots of other things to see and do on your unforgettable San Francisco vacation.