San Francisco, California-4-day-itinerary

San Francisco 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

  • Morning: Start at Fisherman’s Wharf, a bustling waterfront district with stunning views of the Bay Bridge. Grab breakfast at Alioto’s, a historic Italian restaurant.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit Pier 39, home to hundreds of sea lions. Take a stroll along the pier and enjoy the street performers and live music.
  • Lunch: Head to Scoma’s Restaurant for fresh seafood and waterfront views.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Musée Mécanique, featuring antique arcade games and mechanical devices.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Crab Shack, serving up fresh Dungeness crab.

Accommodation: Consider staying in Fisherman’s Wharf or nearby North Beach for easy access to attractions. Options include:

  • Hotel Zelos San Francisco
  • Hotel Zeppelin

Day 2: Discover 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 authentic cuisine at R & G Lounge or Z & Y Restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown, visiting landmarks like the Dragon’s Gate and the Chinese Cultural Center.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of San Francisco’s oldest restaurants, Sam Wo.

Day 3: Experience Golden Gate Park

  • Morning: Visit the de Young Museum, featuring a diverse range of art and cultural exhibitions.
  • Lunch: Head to the nearby Japanese Tea Garden for a peaceful picnic lunch.
  • Afternoon: Explore the California Academy of Sciences, home to an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at the stylish Rich Table in the Hayes Valley neighborhood.

Day 4: Explore Haight-Ashbury and The Mission

  • Morning: Visit the iconic “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses on Alamo Square.
  • Lunch: Head to the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood for a nostalgic lunch at the Pork Store Cafe.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant street art and murals of the Mission District, including the famous Balmy Alley.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of San Francisco’s best burrito spots, El Farolito.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for unpredictable weather; dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket.
  • San Francisco is very walkable, but consider purchasing a Clipper card for convenient public transportation.
  • Tipping is customary in the US; aim to tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars.

Transportation

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is easily accessible by BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) or taxi.
  • Use Muni Metro, buses, or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft to navigate the city.

Tips

  • Book Alcatraz ferry tickets well in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39.
  • Take advantage of San Francisco’s many scenic hiking trails, such as Lands End or the Presidio.

Enjoy your trip to San Francisco!