Famous Movies and TV Shows Filmed in San Francisco

San Francisco isn’t just a great city to live in; it’s a cinematic icon. With its dramatic hills, fog-draped bridges, and unmistakable skyline, it’s no wonder filmmakers have long turned to the city as a backdrop for unforgettable stories. From cult classics to mainstream blockbusters and beloved sitcoms, San Francisco’s streets, homes, and landmarks have played starring roles.

Whether you're a film buff, a potential homebuyer, or just someone who loves walking where the stars once did, here's a look at some of the most famous movies and TV shows filmed in San Francisco that made the city a character in its own right.

This heartwarming Robin Williams classic is as much a love letter to family as it is to San Francisco. The beautiful Victorian home at 2640 Steiner Street in Pacific Heights is one of the most photographed film locations in the city.

Beyond the house, the film also captures scenes in North Beach and the iconic bridges, showing off the city’s scenic charm. It's a perfect example of how real San Francisco homes (not just studios) become cultural landmarks.

Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller is widely considered one of the greatest films of all time, and it used San Francisco to haunting effect. From Fort Point beneath the Golden Gate Bridge to the historic Mission San Juan Bautista and the now-famous "Vertigo staircase" at 900 Lombard Street, the film is layered with striking cityscapes.

Fans of cinematic history can easily follow Scottie and Madeleine’s footsteps across the city, immersing themselves in the same eerie beauty that captivated audiences in the ‘50s.

You can’t talk about famous TV shows filmed in San Francisco without mentioning Full House. While the show was filmed mostly on a soundstage in Los Angeles, its opening credits famously feature the “Painted Ladies” of Alamo Square and a picnic at the park.

The Victorian row homes, with the skyline behind them, became one of the most recognizable images of family-friendly San Francisco. Even today, fans gather in Alamo Square to snap photos and relive the nostalgia.

An action thriller starring Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage, The Rock turned Alcatraz Island into the ultimate setting for a high-stakes hostage drama. The film features aerial shots of the island, chase scenes through San Francisco streets (including a memorable car crash on Mason Street), and explosive action sequences with the Golden Gate Bridge looming in the distance.

It's a thrilling example of how the city’s geography can become a character all its own: gritty, dramatic, and unforgettable.

Although the first season of Big Little Lies took place in Monterey, Season 2 brought characters into the heart of San Francisco for pivotal scenes. Meryl Streep’s character lives in a sleek apartment with sweeping Bay views, showcasing the sophistication of San Francisco real estate and the city’s upscale appeal.

The visual shift added urban texture to the drama and further elevated the city’s screen presence.

A powerful biopic about Harvey Milk, California’s first openly gay elected official, Milk was filmed throughout the Castro District, where the real-life events took place. The movie recreates 1970s San Francisco with authenticity and care, even using Milk’s original camera store on Castro Street.

For residents and visitors alike, walking through the Castro feels like stepping into an essential piece of both film and civil rights history.

David Fincher’s Zodiac, based on the real-life investigation of the Zodiac Killer, captures San Francisco in a dark, period-accurate light. Filmed on-location throughout the city, including the Chronicle building downtown and various neighborhoods that were meticulously recreated to reflect the late 1960s and '70s, the movie weaves suspense with nostalgia.

Its careful attention to architectural and cultural detail makes it a hauntingly accurate portrayal of a pivotal era in San Francisco.

This feel-good Disney film introduced audiences to Mia Thermopolis and to the idea that you could live in a firehouse-turned-home in the heart of San Francisco. While the school and palace scenes were shot elsewhere, the real standout is Mia’s house in the Lower Haight, which became an instant fan favorite.

The film added a whimsical, teen-friendly charm to the city, showcasing cable cars, crooked streets, and stunning city views along the way.

Another beloved entry on the list of famous TV shows filmed in San Francisco, Charmed followed three sisters navigating magic and mystery in the city. While the show was primarily filmed in LA, the exterior of their “Halliwell Manor” is a real Victorian home in LA’s Angelino Heights, but the series is forever associated with San Francisco’s charm, foggy atmosphere, and Victorian architecture.

The show’s constant city references, sweeping skyline shots, and the use of San Francisco’s distinct neighborhoods made it feel firmly rooted in the Bay Area.

For residents and potential homebuyers, these cinematic moments offer more than entertainment; they highlight the architectural diversity, iconic streetscapes, and cultural cachet of San Francisco neighborhoods. Whether you’re strolling through North Beach, exploring Pacific Heights, or relaxing in Alamo Square, you’re walking through places that have shaped film and television history.

The fact that so many famous movies and TV shows have chosen to film in San Francisco speaks volumes about its timeless appeal.

Whether you're drawn to historic homes, cinematic views, or simply want to live in a neighborhood that's played a role on screen, Novo Real Estate can help you find the perfect place to call home. With deep local knowledge and a passion for San Francisco’s character-rich communities, their team is ready to guide you through every step of the journey. If you’re curious about what’s out there, whether you’re buying, selling, or just starting to explore, reach out and start the conversation.