grayline yosemite tour reviews

The 5 Best Yosemite Tours From San Francisco [2024 Reviews]

Enjoy yosemite national park with these tours from san francisco.

No trip to California would be complete without taking in the beauty and majestic splendor of Yosemite National Park.

With these hugely popular Yosemite National Park day tours from San Francisco you won’t have to chose between a visit to the city or the country.

Opting for a comprehensive, widely-acclaimed Yosemite National Park tour will allow you to experience the best of both worlds in style.

Best Yosemite Tours

Be sure to see our reviews of wine tours to Napa & Sonoma Valley , Muir Woods and Alacatraz tours .

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Rated Tours of Yosemite Park For 2024

• Best Value Tour: Yosemite National Park from San Francisco
• Best Full Day Tour: Yosemite National Park & Giant Sequoias Hike From San Francisco
• Best Multi-Day Tour: 2-Day Yosemite Park Tour at Cedar Lodge From San Francisco
• Best Small Group Tour: Full Day Yosemite Tour from San Francisco
• Best Sightseeing Tour: Yosemite National Park Day Trip from San Francisco

We have reviewed the 5 top rated Yosemite tours from San Francisco, providing overviews and highlighting the details of each. We also make recommendations on visiting San Francisco .

Yosemite Day Tour Reviews

1. best value tour: yosemite national park from san francisco.

• Departure Point: Gray Line Office at Union Square
• Departure Time: 6 a.m. (approx.)
• Duration: 14 hours (approx.)
• Includes: Guided tour, National Park fees, luxury motor coach

This popular, family-friendly day tour is among the best Yosemite tours from San Francisco, offering you the chance to experience one of the nation’s most treasured State Parks.

You will see some of the most famous Yosemite landmarks, experience the park close-up and personal with a 1-mile walk and enjoy free-time to wander and relax.

The Yosemite day trip from San Francisco begins with hotel pickup or pickup at the Parc 55 Hotel as pre-arranged.

You’ll quickly get to know your friendly, informative tour guide driver and fellow travelers onboard a comfortable minivan, as numbers are limited to 15 participants to ensure the highest quality Yosemite National Park tours.

En route you’ll have plenty of amazing views to take in, starting with crossing the San Francisco Bay Bridge from where you can experience a panorama encompassing San Francisco, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

After crossing the bay you’ll delve into San Joaquin Valley with its many fruit and nut orchards, before making a quick halt for snacks and a brief leg stretch.

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On arrival at Yosemite via Groveland, your Yosemite National Park tour will begin with a one-mile hike, giving you the opportunity to wander amongst Yosemite’s giant sequoia trees, before traveling on to Yosemite Valley and the incredible Tunnel View vantage point.

Have your camera at the ready to capture some of Yosemite’s most spectacular sights such as El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall.

Your informative guide, specialized in Yosemite National Park tours, will point out all you need to know and really make your Yosemite National Park tour that bit extra special.

Free time for lunch allows you to relax, explore or just soak in the magic of a Yosemite day trip from San Francisco, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The drive back includes another quick stop for refreshments and your 14-hour San Francisco to Yosemite National Park trip ends with a drop-off at your hotel or pick-up location.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other san francisco experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best full day tour: yosemite national park & giant sequoias hike from san francisco.

• Departure Points: Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Departure Time: Between 6 a.m. to 7 a.m.
• Includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off (or at Hilton Union Square if your hotel is not listed), expert guide, tour commentary, Yosemite National Park entrance fee, Wi-Fi on board tour vehicle.

This spectacular Yosemite day tour from San Francisco will reenergize you with a visit to the Tuolumne Grove containing some of Yosemite’s largest sequoias.

This type of tree, also known as a redwood, includes some of the world’s largest and most long-living trees.

There will also be plenty of other famous sights to take in, making this one of the most comprehensive Yosemite tours from San Francisco.

After pickup, as prearranged, you will enjoy a comfortable drive to Yosemite, with many sights along the way, including excellent views of San Francisco, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge from the Bay Bridge.

The journey through the Sierra Nevada gold rush towns will be brought to life by your tour guide’s lively commentary, before a late-morning arrival at Yosemite.

Weather permitting, a guided walk will allow you to experience the true size and beauty of the sequoia trees, with highlights such as the “Grizzly Giant” and the “Californian Tree Tunnel”.

Your Yosemite National Park tour from San Francisco continues with a visit to Inspiration Point, where you will marvel at the vista of the whole valley below. From this vantage point, you can see the famous landmarks Half Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.

To make the most of your Yosemite day trip from San Francisco, you can choose how to spend your lunch break and additional one or one and a half hour’s free time.

Whether you opt to picnic or to visit one of the restaurants at Yosemite Lodge (cost not included) you are sure to make the most of the stunningly beautiful scenery before it’s time to head back to San Francisco.

Please note that Yosemite National Park tours are subject to change depending upon the weather. The Yosemite Day Trip from San Francisco with Giant Sequoia Visit is best undertaken from May through October to ensure that the trees can be visited.

Should weather prevent visits, other activities may be offered as an alternative for your safety and well being.

Search For San Francisco Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best multi-day tour: 2-day yosemite park tour at cedar lodge from san francisco.

• Departure Point: Hotel pickup
• Departure Time: Between 6:15 a.m. to 7 a.m.
• Duration: 2 days (approx.)
• Includes: SF hotel pickup and drop-off, National Park entrance fees, bio-fueled mini-coach transportation, tour guide, overnight accommodation at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Cedar Lodge.

Experience the true splendor of Yosemite National with this Two Day San Francisco to Yosemite National Park trip, one of the most complete and immersive Yosemite National Park tours available.

As this tour is fully-guided you will gain valuable insights into all aspects of the park and the chance to discover all of its most famous landmarks, visiting both the famous Yosemite Valley, as well as discovering areas of the park that lie more further afield.

Your Yosemite National Park tour from San Francisco begins with an early departure from your San Francisco hotel on day one. Enjoy the views of the bay from a comfortable mini-coach as you cross the Bay Bridge taking in the vista of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and San Francisco, before crossing Central Valley’s orchards, Sierra Nevada and Gold Country.

After the journey from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, you will hike down to the park’s famous giant sequoia trees for a picnic lunch, followed by a fully guided tour through the valley lasting an hour and a half.

There will be plenty of opportunities to stop to admire the numerous rock formations and cascades, followed by free time at Yosemite Falls. You’ll be free to choose whether to hike to the base of the falls, to take a trip to the visitor’s center or to go swimming, hiking or biking.

In the evening, you’ll head to your accommodation to dine and relax. If you’re staying at Cedar Lodge near to the Merced River you can take a riverside walk or a visit to the pub. There’s also private beach access for guests as well as indoor and outdoor pools and a jacuzzi, so whatever the weather, you’re guaranteed to have a relaxing time.

Guests staying at Yosemite Lodge, at the foot of Yosemite Falls, can focus upon enjoying the stunning natural setting and the falls themselves. The lodge provides an ideal place to escape from the stresses of modern living and to reconnect with nature.

Wake up refreshed after your overnight stay on your Yosemite National Park tour and get ready for another fun-packed day of discovery with a drive to Glacier Point with its breath-taking views of the Yosemite Valley.

Choose to hike back down to the valley or return in the mini-coach and spend the day by the river, relaxing, hiking or biking, it’s your call.

On the return trip to San Francisco there will be a stop for food (own expense) and plenty of time to look over your photos of El Captain, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls, Yosemite Falls and other famous landmarks. Arrival at San Francisco is scheduled around 9 p.m.

What to Take:

• Small non-rigid overnight bag (approx. airline carry-on dimensions)
• Camera/Smartphone and charger(s)
• Comfortable footwear suitable for hiking (sneakers or hiking boots)
• Change of clothes
• Swimwear and towel
• Sun cream & insect repellent
• Refillable water bottle
• Warm layers (cool evenings)

Trips to Yosemite National Park made in early spring or late fall will also require:

• Hiking boots or waterproof sneakers/durable footwear
• Warm layers
• Waterproof jacket & pants
• Gloves, warm hat & socks.

4. Best Small Group Tour: Yosemite National Park Full-Day Trip From San Francisco

• Departure Points/Times: #1. Sheraton Fisherman’s Wharf – 6:20 a.m. #2. Le Meridien – 6:35 a.m. #3. Hilton Union Square – 6:50 a.m. #4. Holiday Inn Civic Center – 7:10 a.m. #5. Dublin BART Station – 7:45 a.m.
• Duration: 15 hours (approx.)
• Includes: Hotel pickup & drop-off, guide/driver with live commentary, National Park entrance fees, luxury bio-fueled van transport.

Taking the Small-Group San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Tour is a fantastic way to get the very most out of your trip to San Francisco.

Luxury van transport and an experienced tour guide, alongside three hours free time to explore, make this one of the very best Yosemite National Park tours from San Francisco.

Your journey begins in style, crossing the Bay Bridge with its unparalleled panorama of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco and Alcatraz.

From the comfort of a luxury 20-seater bio-diesel van you’ll watch the orchards of Central Valley, one of the largest agricultural areas in the country, fly by. After a quick refreshment stop, you’ll continue on through Gold Country and the Sierra Nevada.

Once the journey from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is complete, the visit begins with an hour and a half long guided tour of Yosemite Valley, a fascinating glacier-carved valley, complete with extraordinary rock formations and cascades.

There will be multiple occasions for photo stops, especially on arrival at Tunnel View Overlook with its incredible vantage point. The tour pauses for lunch near to the base of Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America.

Your Yosemite day tour from San Francisco continues after lunch (not provided) at your own pace.

With three hours free time to explore the park, take in the many sights, go for a hike or just relax around the visitor center, where there’s a huge amount you can learn about the park’s history, its present and plans for the future.

The group reconvenes at a set time for the return journey with a quick refreshment stop halfway. This popular Yosemite day tour from San Francisco strikes a perfect balance with its invaluable and informative guided tour combined with plenty of free time for a personal encounter with the great outdoors.

5. Best Sightseeing Tour: Yosemite National Park Day Trip from San Francisco

• Departure Point: Gray Line Visitor Center, 478 Post Street or pickup at selected hotels (prior to departure time)
• Departure Time: 7 a.m.
• Includes: Hotel pickup, Yosemite National Park entrance fee, transport (in luxury motor-coach with a/c, restroom, Wi-Fi and power outlets), 1 hour guided tour, 3 hours free time at the park.

A popular way to relax away from the city, while exploring a national treasure, this Yosemite day trip from San Francisco offers you the flexibility to chose how you spend your day at Yosemite National Park.

Your San Francisco to Yosemite National Park trip begins with pickup at your hotel or at the Gray Line Visitor Center, before crossing the San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge with its stunning views across San Francisco, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

As the journey progresses through gold mining country, brought to life by your informative tour guide, you’ll be able to make the most of the Yosemite day trip from San Francisco on board a luxury motor-coach complete with Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

Upon arrival at Yosemite you’ll have a total of approximately four hours to spend at the park, with an optional hour-long guided hike to the base of Yosemite Falls.

During this free time, you’ll have plenty of options, such as renting a bike, looking around the visitor center, visiting the Ansel Adam’s art gallery or watching handicraft demonstrations at the Indian Village of Ahwahnee.

Alternatively, you could choose to go for a walk, take in the sights along the river, picnic or just relax in the great outdoors.

Famous landmarks you will see on your Yosemite National Park tour include El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, Yosemite Falls, Cathedral Spires and Half Dome among others.

Your Yosemite day tour from San Francisco finishes at 4 p.m. when the group meets up to board the motor-coach and return back to the city.

This is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing and flexible day trips to Yosemite from San Francisco, leaving you free to plan your own schedule and to do as little, or as much, as you want.

Traveler’s Guide to San Francisco

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodation, attractions.

San Francisco center can be easily reached from both San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK). Both airports are served by the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) for a quick and inexpensive journey. If you’re flying into SFO, you can also take a SamTrans bus to the city.

As with any major city, there are also taxis, ride-shares, private van and shuttle services and limousines available, you can either reserve prior to arrival or on arrival at the dedicated reservation boards in the airport complex.

It is also possible to fly into San Jose Airport (SJC), you can then take the Airport Flyer Bus to the Santa Clara Caltrain Station and then the Caltrain directly to stations on either 22 nd Street or 4 th Street in San Francisco. There are also several shuttle options available run by private companies.

Where possible, make reservations and book any tour trips in advance to be sure not to miss out. Pack a windproof jacket and comfortable, durable footwear for exploring the city and any trips further afield.

Plan what you really want to see, but don’t make a rigid schedule, you never know what you’ll come across in San Francisco and you’ll definitely want time to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

San Francisco has a huge variety of eateries, whatever your tastes are, you’ll be amazed with the level of quality and choice on offer. Try an authentic Chinese in the oldest Chinatown, taste Sicilian delicacies at Alioto’s #8 on Fisherman’s Wharf or breakfast at the Hollywood Café, there’s an excellent range of cuisines for all occasions.

No trip to San Francisco would be complete without a visit to a classic San Francisco deli, such as the popular Molinari’s. Offering great value hearty sandwiches, this traditional-style deli is good for quick, fuss-free food-on-the-go.

Relax and wind-down at the Fog Harbor Fish House, on Pier 39 and enjoy fine sustainable seafood with an ocean view that includes the Golden Gate Bridge. Or for that real holiday sensation, tuck into a custom ice cream sandwich at the Baked Bear.

Fun and quirky, romantic, fine-dining, cheap and cheerful, there’s an eatery for every occasion in San Francisco.

There’s no shortage of good pubs, bars and clubs to visit after a busy day sightseeing. If you’re into beer, you should definitely check out City Beer on Folsom Street for a great selection of local and regional beers for purchase. There’s also a hangout area where the locals gather to chat and try out the latest beers on tap. If you’re looking for an easy going, historical-style bar with great cocktails, try out Twin Peaks Tavern in Castro Street for a relaxed start to the evening.

On the entertainment front, you can’t go wrong with a visit to a cabaret show or live music venue. The Speakeasy, 644 Broadway, is a 1920s cabaret show that comes highly recommended, not only for its immersive theater style and the fact you’re encouraged to dress up, but also for its great ambiance.

If you’re looking for something more soul searching, check out Biscuits and Blues, one of San Francisco’s premier Blues bars. This Jazz bar features some of the best Blues musicians around and great table service, for an unforgettable evening.

Driving in San Francisco can be a real challenge and parking is often expensive and hard to find. So rather than spending precious vacation time searching for parking lots, make the most of Muni, San Francisco’s excellent public transportation system.

Purchasing a Muni CityPASS will give you access to unlimited Muni buses, Muni metro, cable cars and San Francisco’s famous historic street cars, saving you time, hassle and money. Any trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a street car ride, so make travelling around the city’s 49 square miles a central part of your vacation. For information on routes, stops and any other transport related questions, call 511 or use the Munimobile app. CityPASS and regular tickets can be purchased throughout the city.

As in any many city, there are plenty of taxi services and ride-sharing options. Taxis can be reserved in advance or hailed directly, if you want to use a ride-sharing service, download the appropriate app and follow the instructions and recommendations.

The surrounding area is well served with regular tours that will really help you to make the most of your visit if you want to check out the surrounding area. If, however, you do need to reserve a hire vehicle, you’ll find all major vehicle rental companies represented in or nearby the center.

There’s no shortage of places to stay in San Francisco, with accommodation available to suit all tastes and budgets. Hotels range from reasonable 2-stars to lavish 5-stars, check prices, location and availability online to make sure you’re getting one that’s just right for you.

If you’re looking for more cost-effective or quirky options why not try one of the many comfortable B&Bs for a chance to get a real feel for the city. There are also numerous hostels, vacation apartments and home rentals. You will seldom be so spoilt for choice!

The Metro Hotel is a great friendly place, which won’t blow your budget, while the newly refurbished, luxury Hotel Nikko, near to Union Square has plenty of amenities including a jacuzzi and swimming pool.

Temperatures in San Francisco generally range between 40°F and 70°F, with year-round mild weather. With its temperate marine climate, layering clothes is recommended, as is a windbreaker. July through September are the hottest months, with the amount of daily sunshine peaking in July with an average of 14 hours.

There’s plenty to see and do in San Francisco. It’s well worth making a list of must-sees, and then factoring in a few optional sights to take in if you can, leaving yourself a little time to relax, browse and explore off the beaten track.

Popular must-see sights and activities include: Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, a trip on a historic cable car, a visit to the oldest China town, shopping in Union Square, exploring North Beach and a visit to see the sea lions at Pier 39 in Fisherman’s Wharf.

Tour Guides

The Yosemite in a Day Tour from San Francisco is our Editor's Choice for the best Yosemite tour with its combination of sites seen, tour guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

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Gray Line   Reviews

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A frustrating and expensive trip to Sintra

On a 75euro worth trip to Sintra from Lisbon. An incapable guide, a mess on site, groupe completely dispersed so eventually no guidance in the palace itself. very frustrating and unprofessional.

Date of experience : May 26, 2023

Beware of Shady Sales Practices

I bought a blanket that was clearly marked as an individual item. Price quoted stated for "1 each". I was charged the correct amount for the one blanket. 2 days later someone sounding like they were from India called me to tell me that my order was being cancelled because I did not order at least 12 blankets.

Date of experience : May 20, 2021

Horrible in Porto!

Took their city tour in Porto. It was horrible! The audio never matched the stops. And was badly organized with the actual stop number and the one displayed one the map!

Date of experience : February 23, 2024

so booked Northern lights tour months…

so booked Northern lights tour months in advance. took my son who just turned 18 .arrived in Iceland on the Friday.their policy is you have to wait outside hotel a half hour in advance which we did. After 45 minutes I went inside to sit only to be told by reception the trip was cancelled. you can imagine how we felt. no email or text nothing . I would not book with them again

Date of experience : February 24, 2023

False Advertising - car seat

Disgusting service. No infant car seat as stated on website and email trail. Unwilling to purchase an infant car seat. Story below for anyone interested: We booked online pre-travel specifically with Grayline as they offer infant car seats for their tours. We didn’t bring our car seat from home for this exact reason. We got to the airport transfer and no car seat. The driver said no one had let him know we needed one and to just hold baby. I emailed the company to confirm they had the infant seat, they said yes. It got to the day before our Golden Circle trip and we were informed they only had a large baby seat not an infant size. We spoke to them explaining it was too big and they refused to hire or purchase an infant size - despite advertising them online. The large car seat we were shown was dirty, smelled of cigarettes and didn’t look in good condition. We had to hire a car as a result of this and drive in the snowy Icelandic winter with our infant.

Date of experience : November 29, 2021

Grayline – New York downton tour Aug 10th 4pm

Grayline – New York downton tour Aug 10th 4pm I got on the bus with my wife and 2 kids and went upstairs. One of my kids was crying. The host, a Sr named “Joe” said that my son was disturbing and that if he did not “shut up” he would call the police to get me off the bus. In addition, he said that my son could not be in my lap (he is 2 years old and it is a gray line policy that children under 3 years old have to be on the lap). I was able to calm my son and I went downstairs to speak with this man, informing him that I had found his posture rude. He said: “I know as.sholes like you. I don’t care about what you are thinking”. I decide to not discuss with him and he did not gave me his full name (I photographed him if you require). I want to do this formal complaint because this posture is unacceptable, and this disturbed man cannot continue working in this function with direct interaction with the public and I strongly recommend that you do what is necessary to not lose more customers, as one you has already lost. I will never use GrayLine again.

Date of experience : August 18, 2017

Bad awful service

I am awaiting for a refund for a tour that was not reserved for us for the Alcatraz in San Francisco and were emailed to say we could do the city tour and 100 US dollars would be refunded .i have contacted the grayline worldwide to ask for a refund twice last week to get a generic automated email about taking an interest in their tour and someone would deal with it when in fact the email is to do with a refund which the San Francisco grayline have approved . Very bad service no communication whatsoever I would therefore urge people to not to book with them as you are going to have difficulty in trying to get a refund off them ..A lesson learnt for the future not to use this company again .. I paid with my credit card and passed the information to them to chase up the money now .

Date of experience : October 22, 2018

Totally incomprensive with the client.

Totally incomprensive with the client. I came 5 min late yo de date and they dont help me in nothing, i lost muy tour in Roma anda muy 90 eur...

Date of experience : September 09, 2023

Refund denied although Grayline initiated cancelation (I did NOT cancel)

For the past 3 weeks, I have been talking to Expedia to get a refund since the tour was cancelled by Grayline SFO (note: Grayline SFO initiated the cancellation although I still wanted to go). I feel that the refund request is legitimate because I'm not supposed to pay something that service provider cannot deliver. However, Expedia informed me that Gray Line SFO denied to refund request: "We have advocated your case with the provider and due to their policy in relation to your reason in requesting refund on your reservation, they have unfortunately denied your request. According to the provider, the voucher was used and you have check in for the activity." The reason given totally doesn't make sense as I could NOT use the voucher or check-in because Grayline SFO canceled the tour due to Yosemite Forrest fire and I could NOT join the tour. I also made a phone call to confirm on 13 Aug that Grayline SFO decided NOT to travel to Yosemite. In Grayline SFO's e-mail on 11 Aug, it says "At this time Gray Line will not travel to Yosemite National park until further notice due to the fires. Please inform Expedia for a refund or to book another tour with Gray Line tours of San Francisco."

Date of experience : September 10, 2018

Terrible service

Terrible service. Buses very packed & infrequent. Not air conned. Dare not hop off in case next bus full. Had to miss 2 buses for this reason. Take a private tour or use public transport.

Date of experience : September 28, 2023

Not impressed!!

Not impressed! I am being very generous giving a two star rating. We had taken the "Big Bus" (another bus tour company) earlier in the week and liked them very much. Our last day in New York City we just wanted to do a little sightseeing and do a hop-on hop-off at a couple of the areas we hadn't seen (like the Fulton Fish Market and the Brooklyn Bridge) and decided to give the Gray Line downtown tour a try. No live tour guide when on the bus - just a lousy recording that was reversed and played over two to three times when the location of the bus didn't line up with what was being said, .....and the ear phones were terrible. The bus looked like it hadn't been cleaned all day. We got off and did some walking in the areas we wanted to see, then went to one of the stops later (near the Fulton Market) to resume the tour. We waited well over half an hour for our bus while their competitors busses picked up people every few minutes. When we got on (we had to sit below - another dirty bus) it had started to rain a bit and the ceiling was leaking over the passengers - my wife being one of them. The air conditioning also had to be turned off making it hot and stuffy as the bus began overheating. We got off before the last stop because we couldn't stand it any more. I would not recommend this company to anyone! They have to smarten up and get their act together! Never again with Gray Line!

Date of experience : September 13, 2017

It is expensive compared what you get

It is expensive compared what you get. The grand circle Tour is just long because you wait a long time at each stop 8-11. Earphones work perfect.

Date of experience : July 06, 2017

My trip was to Dubrovnik from Split.

My trip was to Dubrovnik from Split. Coach ride to split approx 3.5 hrs leaving at 7am. I was told there would be stops on route but to bring snacks. Luckily I had a very early breakfast as my pick up was 06.40. The first stop for toilet breaks was not until after 9am and there were no facilities to buy anything, not even water or coffee, yet we stopped for 20 mins & had passed service areas with drinks & toilets. On raising this rather than a proper explanation I was informed it would take too long for coffee breaks, even though I was asking about a quick take away area for drinks - that I could drink in 20 mins allotted time? I was then informed I was being selfish to other travellers for wanting this and given a lecture around coffee not being good for me ……… Next stop Dubrovnik & tour, we were herded of the bus to immediately start the tour after another long 1.5 hr drive & the tour driver would not even wait for me to use the public toilets, asking that I hang on to when he finished????? I then had to hope I would find the tour who had already moved into Dubrovnik city having started the tour without me… Like many females, there are u fortunately times we do need to use the toilet for sanitation reasons & this was not even considered & very inconsiderate. Last stop was for oysters and wine, the emphasis was that we would only stop for this and be quick? I had to ask, what else we could get and was given a very disgruntled answer that wine would be on one table and oysters on the other, we were not given drinks menu and I had to query if I could get a coffee as I did not want Wine! The tour itself was good, fellow passengers nice but it was clear the tour guide only wanted to move at his pace to get the tour finished so he could have free time in the city at the beach and free oysters and wine on the way home. I would advise Secret passengers on the tours to ID these issues and put in required customer service training. I am happy to discuss further. Regards Anne

Date of experience : September 25, 2023

Never got on tour-refund rejected

I was supposed to go on a tour in July but was never picked up. They claim I should have called and would have found out that the pickup time was 30 min earlier than the time shown on the ticket. They refuse to give any refund now. I was robbed of 115 CAD !

Date of experience : August 13, 2018

Barcelona City tour - worst customer support

4 weeks ago, on 29.08. I had bought 2 tickets online at The homepage of Barcelona City Tour for a day ticket for the sightseeing bus. The total price was 54 EUR. After the purchase, I did not receive any e-mails with the tickets. I waited a few minutes, checked spam and then called a service number (+34933176454). The person on the phone was very nice and explained that there were problems with sending the tickets at the moment. She advised me to send my request by email to get a refund. The same day I sent an email the one I got named. I attached a screenshot of the payment and clearly described the issue. There was no reply from Julia Travel. I wrote further emails on 4 September, 16 September and 22 September. For the last two I also included a mail found on their website in the mails sent. After 4 weeks and 4 mails to 2 mail addresses still no answer. I understand that sometimes something doesn't work and no tickets are sent. But paying for something you can't use and then not getting an answer after 4 weeks is simply not acceptable. I don't understand how a company with such poor customer service can act economically in the long term. I am disappointed in Julia Travel, the employees who saw the email and willingly did not reply. The tour was good and can recommend it, but please do not buy tickets online. There is a risk that you will not get them sent to you. And no one will respond to your attempts to contact them.

Date of experience : September 24, 2021

Completely disappointed and ripped off…

Completely disappointed and ripped off by this company. Emailed a complaint and no reply. We were told to be at the bus stop no later than 7am as they leave at 7.15am. Multiple times we were told not to be late as the bus would leave at 7.15am without us if we were at all late. 6.35am we arrived there. We never got on a bus until after 8am, unsure what time it eventually left at all because two people were late, and supposedly didn’t turn up. After the trip was booked we got a WhatsApp telling us that the Naples part of the trip is cancelled and they would give us 3.30hours at Pompeii instead of the 2 hours. Sadly we only got the 2 hours and the tour guide was in such a rush we missed so many things to see. This was something I personally wanted to see for over 10 years. The tour guide spoke 100mph, us and many others couldn’t understand him. We felt like we were constantly running after the guide as he was extremely quick walking through the place in such a rush. The hotel they took us to for breakfast that we had to pay for was more than 3x times the price of anything else in Rome. Advising us to eat breakfast which we did, but not saying your getting your lunch in just over an hours time. Absolutely disappointed in everything from the start to finish in this trip and basically feel it wasn’t worth the money one bit. The fact a part of the trip was cancelled and not rectified and we still got charged the full amount is disgusting.

Date of experience : October 01, 2023

Physically pushed ! Split store

Store - Split Customer service agent - Gabriella + male colleague The customer service was appalling. We booked to go on the tour of Plitvice Lakes, we headed down to the meeting point and checked in. Initially we enquired if another tour with shorter travel time was available to swap, which we were told no even though it had plenty of space (basically too lazy). We were then shown to a guide that had 28 years experience on the Plitvice Lakes tours and explained to us how good it is. We decided it would be good and to stay on ours. We followed the guide shown to us only to be told at the bus that she was actually on a different tour today…..and that the other tour went to a different bus. We tried to go back only to find out the other bus had left. Whilst this could all partially be bad communication which we would accept, we discussed with the tour desk our options. Gabriella was working the desk, we asked if we could change tours, days or get a refund. She told us “no it’s not possible you missed it”. “That tour guide is usually on the lakes but not today”….. We had a back and forth discussion about how she had literally had shown us the tour guide with “28 years experience” at Plitvice lakes. She told us basically she did not care and her male colleague literally was laughing at us... We were then told to leave….. Gabriella then pushed my Fiancé telling her to leave her shop as she wants to check other people in. This is beyond disgusting as human being let alone customer service. The miscommunication was one thing, but physically pushing my Fiancé was absolutely disgusting. I would not recommend these tour guides EVER unless you want to be laughed at, ripped of and physically assaulted. We are requesting a refund of our tour we were ripped off from. We will be happy to pursue charges for your agent assaulting my partner and pushing her.

Date of experience : August 07, 2022

With reference to buy bill no

With reference to buy bill no. 1924679, paid 400USD, dated 5 August 2018, New York City. I bought 2 days Hop On Hop Off sightseeing in New York today, as first day experience I had been very furious with bad service and very rude Gray Line tour guide. I was traveling with kids and adults (60+ ages), we ended our day trip at Central Park, we had long walk to find Gray Line stop in order to catch it back to our hotels at 32th, 5th Avenue. We were told by a red polo Gray Line guy to catch at 47th, therefore we joined a long line (approximately 30minutes) waiting for getting on the double deck bus. After we get on, I asked a women who was a tour guide on that bus, to know if this bus would stop at 5th Avenue or not, she answered me “yes, but why you will get off at the next station, as this the night tour. You totally mess my life! How many people in your family” and I said “8” , she said “you totally mess up my life, you better get off the bus”. How could she was so rude to me and in front of many other travelers on the bus! I told her “you couldn’t say that to me because this is Hop On Hop Off and I have full right to get on and off at any of your stops, she said “yes, but you are not nice!” She is very very bad person, I have no idea how could she represent Gray Line or this is indeed Gray Line culture!! This is very selfish to kick out customer (olds and kids) in order to full seats of their night tour. I still have one more day sightseeing with Gray Line but I really cannot use their terrible services all my whole life. This is disgusting agency!!! I promise myself that I will never use any of Gray Line services and I will tell the world of my today terrible experience.

Date of experience : August 06, 2018

Bought tickets only to find Greyline no…

Bought tickets only to find Greyline no longer operates in NYC....so with that said why the ____ did they take my money

Date of experience : June 17, 2021

Book with Grayline at your own risk. Choose a smaller independent tour company

Booked a Yosemite tour online in the UK for the 11th April 2022 was informed that the pick up point would be the corner of Jefferson street and Levenson street 2 days before tour date I received an email to say the pick up location had changed to the Hotel Zephyr on Beach street arrived at 05:45 for a 6:00 pick up only to receive an email at 06:30 asking if we were waiting at the Marriot Hotel in Post Street down town ? when I replied that we were waiting at the Hotel Zephyr it took another half an hour for a response to say that they could not get in touch with the drivers phone and would offer to give 30% discount if we choose a alternative date or arrange a full refund, As the next day was our last full day in San Francisco we asked for the refund needless to say like others I am still waiting for the refund.

Date of experience : April 19, 2022

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Yosemite Overnight Tour from San Francisco with a Stay Cedar Lodge

An overnight stay at the Cedar Lodge takes your Yosemite vacation from good to great.

Slow the pace on this Yosemite overnight tour from San Francisco with a stay at the Cedar Lodge so you can enjoy more free time for leisurely nature hikes, bike rides and exploration in the park.

• Free time to explore hikes and attractions not possible on a 1-day tour
• Hard-to-book Cedar Lodge stay with convenient access to all attractions, restaurants, and the park shuttle
• Unique Giant Sequoias hike in Tuolumne Grove (conditions permitting) on return day
• Five more stops to explore Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan Meadow and Valley View
• Fully guided by park expert in English; foreign language audios available

What’s Included

• 1-, 2- or 3-night reservation at the Cedar Lodge
• Pick up at most downtown San Francisco hotels
• Park reservation and entry fee (pay at checkout)
• Hike to Yosemite’s Giant Sequoia redwoods 
• Local expert guide (English)
• Foreign language audios in 8 languages

What’s Not Included

• Meals or beverages
• Transfer to Cedar Lodge from Yosemite Valley and back
• Oversize baggage fee
• Guide gratuity

Please note: This tour with hotel reservation frequently sells out. Book as soon as possible to guarantee your room

Description, fully experience yosemite with an overnight stay.

Pairing our 5-star guided tour with an overnight stay at the Cedar Lodge makes this the ultimate tour to Yosemite National Park . With a location minutes from the Yosemite Park entrance you can enjoy towering granite peaks, cascading waterfalls and nature hikes at a leisurely pace and on your own schedule. Your visit reaches a climax on the departure day with a unique hike among ancient Giant Sequoia trees. 

The tour begins with a convenient hotel pick up in San Francisco. Sit back and enjoy the scenery as your guide explains what happened in the American River that sparked the California gold rush; the geological forces that created Yosemite’s famous granite monuments; and how John Muir influenced the formation of America’s first protected wilderness. 

Be Blown Away by Awe-Inspiring Valley Views

Once inside Yosemite National Park, the tour makes a stop at Tunnel View , famously photographed by artist Ansel Adams. Stop and take in the view, then capture a selfie with El Capitan , Half Dome , Sentinel Dome, Glacier Point, and Cathedral Peak as your background. Calm yourself as the tour makes a stop to get eye to eye with wispy Bridalveil Fall and a perfect view of Half Dome!

Get Settled In for a Yosemite Park Adventure

You will arrive in Yosemite Valley with plenty of time left in the day to enjoy free time for hiking to Yosemite Falls, bike riding to Mirror Lake, checking out the Ansel Adams Gallery and more. Then, hop on the YARTS shuttle to make your way to the Cedar Lodge accommodations.

Between your departure and return days, you will be able to enjoy experiences not possible on a one-day trip to Yosemite. Your tour guide will describe how to hike the Mist, Vernal Fall or Nevada Fall Trails; take a tour to Glacier Point (summer months); raft or swim in the Merced River (summer only); see the night sky like never before; spot local wildlife in the early morning; bike to Curry Village; or visit the Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove.

Create Lasting Memories On Departure Day

On your return day, you will have time in the morning to plan another fun nature experience or just do some forest bathing near your hotel. In the early afternoon, meet your return vehicle at Stop 7 in Yosemite Valley and enjoy a guided experience to Valley View with its panoramic landscape framing the Merced River, El Capitan and the imposing spires of Cathedral Rocks. 

After all this, the highlight of our tour will still be ahead of you as we reach the entry to the magical and secluded Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. There, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with some of the largest and oldest trees on earth.

When the Tuolumne Grove trail is snow-covered or unsafe, we substitute this experience with other attractions.

By the end of your multi-day tour, you’ll have experienced some of the world’s most incredible landscapes and collected memories to last a lifetime. Don’t wait. Book this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Yosemite National Park with us today.

DEPARTURE DAY: 05:20 AM to 10:30 AM Hotel Pickup, Head to Yosemite

• Convenient hotel pickup
• Breakfast stop. Pick up snacks and lunch for the park
• Your guide prepares you for a day in Yosemite Park

10:30 AM to 12:30 PM Admire Views of Yosemite Valley

• Enter Yosemite National Park
• Stop to ogle and photograph Tunnel View
• Marvel at the beauty of Bridalveil Fall and Half Dome

12:30 PM to 2:00 PM Free Time to Explore and Check In

• Enjoy free time to explore Yosemite Valley
• Explore the trail to the Lower Yosemite Falls
• Check into the Cedar Lodge

IN BETWEEN DAYS

Unguided free time to explore Yosemite’s treasures.

RETURN DAY: 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM Stops at El Capitan and Valley View

• Meet the tour at Stop #7 in Yosemite Valley
• Stop at El Capitan Meadow to spot some climbers
• Capture the Merced River among granite peaks at Valley View

2:45 PM to 4:30 PM Hike to Giant Sequoia Redwoods

• Make the scenic drive to the Tuolumne Grove of redwoods
• Hike the nature trail to the Giant Sequoias (conditions permitting)

4:30 PM to 9:00 PM Return to San Francisco

• Descend the Sierras as you return to San Francisco
• Break for dinner
• Enjoy the ride as we return to your pickup location

Times listed are approximations. Traffic and unforeseen events can cause delays.  Please do not make flight/travel arrangements on the same day as your tour

Book With Confidence

Award-winning tours & customer service, 2000+ 5-star reviews, 460,000+ happy guests since 2002, how long is the tour.

The guided tour portion of your overnight Yosemite tour will be 6-7 hours on your departure day and approximately 5-6 hours on your return day. In between your departure and return days, you will have unguided, free time in Yosemite.

Can you drop me off at my hotel in Yosemite?

Our tour route only comes near the Yosemite Valley Lodge. You will be responsible for arranging your own transportation to your hotel and for rejoining the tour on your return day.  For more information on traveling within the park, see our FAQ on this topic.

What activities do you recommend during my free time?

There are many activities to fill your free time in Yosemite. Some fun options are a nature hIke to Lower Yosemite Falls or the Sentinel Bridge; a bike ride to the Ahwahnee Hotel or Mirror Lake; taking the Yosemite Shuttle to Curry Village; or (in summer) having a dip in the Merced River. For a full description of things to do, check out our blog .

Where and at what time will I meet the tour on the return date?

Meet the tour vehicle on your return (to San Francisco) day at the same location where you were dropped off–at Stop 7 near the Yosemite Valley Lodge. Your confirmation email will let you know the time and our staff will try contacting you on the return day to confirm the arrangements. 

Are meals included? Can I buy or bring my own?

You are responsible for your own meals while staying in Yosemite. Gourmet dining is available at the Ahwahnee Hotel (reservations required) and more casual fare can be found at the Yosemite Valley Lodge and at Degnan’s Kitchen in Yosemite Village. You may bring your own snacks or meals into the park as long as they are secured in bear-proof containers.

What do I need to know about the Giant Sequoias hike?

The hike is only available when trail conditions are safe, usually April to October. The hike is a 2-mile round trail with a steep incline on the return. We allocate approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the experience. Individuals with respiratory issues or not used to strenuous exercise may skip the hike and wait in the seating area at Tuolumne Grove trailhead.

What is YARTS?

YARTS is a public transit bus service that operates in Yosemite Valley. The primary year-round routes run along Highway 140 and Highway 120. Additionally, there will be a seasonal route available on Highway 41 from May 5 to September 8, 2023.

The price of YARTS tickets varies depending on the type of ticket purchased. One-way and round-trip tickets are available for $8 to $12. Passengers are allowed to bring bags on the YARTS buses, including backpacks of any size. However, larger bags may need to be stored in compartments located under the passenger seats.

If you need more information, you can contact YARTS directly by calling +1 (877) 989-2787.

Other Popular Tours

Muir Woods Redwood Forest and Sausalito Morning Tour

This is the only Muir Woods tour with guided audio narration inside the park. Walk under the world’s tallest trees, then enjoy charming Sausalito.

Morning Guided San Francisco Sightseeing Tour

Most complete and entertaining San Francisco city tour available. Stops to explore Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, Land’s End, and Twin Peaks.

2-Day to Monterey and Yosemite from San Francisco Private Tour

Home > Tours > 2-Day to Monterey and Yosemite from San Francisco Private Tour

This private tour to spectacular Monterey, iconic 17-Mile Drive, and glorious Yosemite National Park, gives you the opportunity to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Northern California in just 2 days. Cruise along California’s spectacular coastline through Highway 1, pass the mansions on the iconic 17-Mile Drive and explore Monterey and its famous Aquarium on the first day of your tour. On your second day, walk through the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias, enjoy the stunning views of Half –Dome and El Capitan, and swim or bike around the base of Yosemite Falls. Your tour of the N

• Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Northern California
• Walk through the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias
• Enjoy the stunning views of Half –Dome and El Capitan,
• 1-night accommodation nearby Yosemite National Park
• Hotel pick up and drop off
• Private tour services such as transport and guide
• Transport by luxury air-conditioned coach
• Tour along Highway 1 by the towns of Santa Cruz and Capitola.
• 17-Mile Drive entrance included
• Yosemite Park entrance included
• 1 night accommodation included nearby Yosemite National Park.
• Hotel Pick-up and drop-off
• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and beverages. Stops will be made to purchase food at appropriate times during the day.

Please Note

• Buses are air-conditioned and the size of the bus depends on the number of passengers booked.
• The Yosemite tour takes all day. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and bring a pillow to sleep on the drive back!

Restrictions

• This is a private tour, no other participants will join it. The minimum required is 6 persons, maximum 22 persons. If you have other necessities please inquire.
• You can reach us at [email protected] or 1 (415) 353-5310 between 6:00 am to 6:00 pm local time (PST)
• In order to cancel the booking with no penalties, contact us at least 4 days before the departure date.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Luggage is limited to one piece and a small carry-on per person

When would you like to go?

Unavailable, please select:, options selected:, optional extras, price breakdown:, pickup info.

* Please, inform in advance, which hotel/apartment you will stay in. You can do it directly on your reservation or you can inform us by phone or by mail, indicating your booking reference, preferably a maximum of 48h before starting the tour. If we do not receive the Information at least 24h before departure, we will cancel the tour regarding the cancellation fees. You can reach us at [email protected] or 1 (415) 353-5310 between 6:00 am to 6:00 pm local time (PST)

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Yosemite National Park Day Tour

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