The Best of San Francisco: 1, 2, and 3-Day Itineraries
Day 1: Iconic San Francisco
Focus: Landmarks and Classic Experiences
Morning: Golden Gate Bridge and Presidio
- Start your day: Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoying views of the bay and the city skyline.
- Explore the Presidio: Visit Crissy Field for picturesque views and stroll through the park’s scenic trails.
- How to Get There: Take the 30 or 43 Muni buses or drive and park near Crissy Field.
- Grab lunch: Head to Fisherman’s Wharf for clam chowder in a sourdough bowl at Boudin Bakery or seafood at Pier Market.
- See the sea lions: Visit Pier 39 to watch the famous sea lions basking in the sun. Don’t miss the shops and the Aquarium of the Bay.
- How to Get There: From the Presidio, take the 28 bus or use a rideshare app.
Afternoon: Alcatraz Island
- Take a ferry: Visit Alcatraz, the infamous former prison. Book tickets in advance for a guided audio tour and incredible views of the city from the island.
- How to Get There: Ferries depart from Pier 33.
Evening: North Beach and Coit Tower
- Dinner in North Beach: San Francisco’s Little Italy offers amazing Italian cuisine. Try Tony’s Pizza Napoletana or Original Joe’s or see our Food Guide for more options.
- Sunset views: Walk up to Coit Tower for panoramic views of the city lit by the golden hour.
- How to Get There: Walk from Pier 39 or take a rideshare to North Beach.
Day 2: Neighborhoods and Hidden Gems
Focus: Culture and Diversity
Morning: The Mission District
- Breakfast stop: Start your day at Tartine Bakery for fresh pastries.
- Explore murals: Walk down Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley to see the Mission’s famous street art.
- Visit Mission Dolores Park: Relax and enjoy views of the city from this vibrant community park.
- How to Get There: Take the 14-Mission or 22-Fillmore buses or BART to 16th Street Mission.
Midday: Hayes Valley and Alamo Square
- Lunch in Hayes Valley: This trendy neighborhood has amazing eateries like Souvla (Greek street food) or The Grove.
- Painted Ladies: Walk to Alamo Square and snap a photo of the iconic Painted Ladies with the city skyline behind them.
- How to Get There: Take the 21-Hayes bus or rideshare from the Mission.
- Explore the park: Visit the de Young Museum, the Japanese Tea Garden, or simply enjoy a stroll through this massive urban oasis.
- Optional: Rent a bike to explore more of the park or visit Ocean Beach on the park’s western edge.
- How to Get There: Take the N-Judah Muni line or the 5-Fulton bus to Golden Gate Park.
Evening: The Castro District
- Dinner in the Castro: Head to the historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood for dinner at Harvey’s or Starbelly.
- Nightlife: If you’re up for it, enjoy vibrant nightlife at one of the many iconic bars like Twin Peaks Tavern.
- How to Get There: From Golden Gate Park, take the N-Judah line to the Castro.
Day 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path and More Views
Focus: Local Gems and Panoramic Views
Morning: Chinatown and Union Square
- Dim sum breakfast: Start the day in Chinatown at Good Mong Kok Bakery or City View Restaurant.
- Explore Chinatown: Walk down Grant Avenue and visit the Dragon Gate, shops, and murals.
- Shop in Union Square: Head to San Francisco’s shopping district for iconic department stores and art galleries.
- How to Get There: Chinatown is easily walkable from Union Square or accessible via Muni and BART.
Midday: The Richmond and Ocean Beach
- Lunch in the Richmond: Stop by Burma Superstar for delicious Burmese cuisine or Lou’s Cafe for hearty sandwiches.
- Ocean views: Walk along Ocean Beach or visit the historic Sutro Baths ruins for sweeping Pacific views.
- How to Get There: Take the 38-Geary bus or a rideshare.
Afternoon: Twin Peaks
- 360° views: Drive or take the 37-Corbett Muni bus to Twin Peaks for the best panoramic views of San Francisco. It’s especially stunning on a clear day.
Evening: Sunset in the Marina District
- Dinner in the Marina: End your day at Chestnut Street, known for excellent dining options like A16 (Italian) or Tacolicious.
- Golden Gate views: Walk along Marina Green to watch the sun set behind the Golden Gate Bridge.
- How to Get There: Take a rideshare or the 30-Stockton bus from Twin Peaks.
Pro Tips for All Itineraries
- Use Muni & Cable Cars: The city’s public transportation is efficient and fun! Grab a day pass for unlimited rides on Muni and cable cars. Check out A Guide to Navigating San Francisco’s Public Transportation
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: San Francisco’s hills are no joke—be prepared to walk a lot.
- Book in Advance: Secure Alcatraz tickets, museum entries, and restaurant reservations early.
Whether you have just one day or a few, San Francisco’s charm will leave you wanting to return. This city has an incredible mix of culture, history, and breathtaking views waiting to be explored! Check out Where to Find the Most Breathtaking Views in San Francisco!