San Francisco 4 Day Itinerary

San Francisco 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and North Beach

  • Morning: Start your day at Fisherman’s Wharf, one of San Francisco’s most popular tourist attractions. Take a stroll along the pier, sample some fresh seafood, and watch the sea lions at Pier 39.
  • Lunch: Head to Alioto’s, a historic Italian restaurant with stunning views of the Bay Bridge.
  • Afternoon: Explore North Beach, San Francisco’s Little Italy. Visit Washington Square Park, browse the shops and cafes on Columbus Avenue, and stop by the iconic City Lights Bookstore.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, a popular spot for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.

Accommodation: Consider staying in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, with options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels like the Fairmont San Francisco.

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for foggy weather, even in the summer months.
  • Take a map or GPS device, as SF’s streets can be confusing.
  • Don’t forget to try some fresh Dungeness crab at Fisherman’s Wharf!

Day 2: Alcatraz and Chinatown

  • Morning: Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island, the infamous former prison turned national park. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
  • Lunch: Head to Chinatown for a delicious and affordable meal at R & G Lounge or Z & Y Restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown, browsing shops and markets, and visit the ornate Dragon’s Gate at Grant Avenue.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at House of Nanking, serving up tasty Szechuan cuisine.

Transportation:

  • Use Muni Metro or buses to get around SF. A Visitor Passport offers unlimited rides for 1-3 days.
  • Consider purchasing a Clipper Card for convenient travel on public transportation.

Day 3: Golden Gate Park and Haight-Ashbury

  • Morning: Visit the de Young Museum, featuring an impressive collection of art and cultural exhibitions.
  • Lunch: Head to the nearby Japanese Tea Garden for a serene picnic spot.
  • Afternoon: Explore Golden Gate Park, including the California Academy of Sciences, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the beautiful Stow Lake.
  • Evening: End your day in Haight-Ashbury, the epicenter of SF’s 1960s counterculture. Enjoy dinner at The Pork Store Cafe or Magnolia Gastropub.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the de Young Museum’s observation tower.
  • Explore Haight-Ashbury’s vintage shops and music stores, like Amoeba Music.

Day 4: The Mission District and Castro

  • Morning: Visit the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District, including the famous Balmy Alley.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a delicious burrito at La Taqueria or El Farolito.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Castro District, known for its LGBTQ+ history and culture. Stop by the Castro Theatre and Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy.
  • Evening: End your trip with dinner at Foreign Cinema, a unique spot featuring classic films and California cuisine.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Take a stroll across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge (be prepared for strong winds!).
  • Explore the Ferry Building Marketplace, offering artisanal foods and stunning Bay views.
  • Visit the Exploratorium, a museum of science, art, and human perception.

I hope you enjoy your trip to San Francisco!