San Francisco, California-5-day-itinerary

San Francisco 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and North Beach

Morning

  • Start your day at Fisherman’s Wharf, one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions. Take a stroll along the pier, sample some fresh seafood, and watch the sea lions at Pier 39.
  • Visit the Musee Mecanique, a unique museum featuring antique arcade games and musical instruments.

Afternoon

  • Head to North Beach, San Francisco’s historic Italian-American neighborhood. Explore the charming streets, visit Washington Square Park, and grab a coffee at one of the many cafes.
  • Stop by City Lights Bookstore, an iconic independent bookstore founded in 1953.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Alioto’s, a family-owned Italian restaurant with stunning views of the Bay Bridge.
  • Take a romantic evening stroll along the waterfront, starting from Fisherman’s Wharf to the Hyde Street Pier.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying at Hotel Zelos, a boutique hotel in the heart of San Francisco, within walking distance to Union Square and public transportation.

Transportation

  • Use Muni Metro (T-line) or Bus 30 to get to Fisherman’s Wharf from Union Square.
  • Walk or take a short taxi ride to North Beach.

Day 2: Discover Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge

Morning

  • Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island, the former maximum-security prison turned national park. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
  • Explore the island, learn about its infamous history, and take in the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic symbol of San Francisco. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride across the bridge for breathtaking views.
  • Stop by the Walt Disney Family Museum, located in the Presidio, to learn about the life and legacy of Walt Disney.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Plant Cafe, a farm-to-table restaurant with organic and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Take a sunset walk along the Crissy Field Promenade, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Where to Stay

  • Continue staying at Hotel Zelos or explore other options in the Fisherman’s Wharf area.

Transportation

  • Use Ferry 21 to get to Alcatraz Island from Pier 33.
  • Walk or take a short taxi ride to the Golden Gate Bridge from the Presidio.

Day 3: Explore Haight-Ashbury and the Mission District

Morning

  • Visit Haight-Ashbury, the epicenter of San Francisco’s 1960s counterculture movement. Explore the colorful Victorian homes, vintage shops, and cafes.
  • Stop by Golden Gate Park, a sprawling urban park featuring several lakes, gardens, and the Japanese Tea Garden.

Afternoon

  • Head to the vibrant Mission District, known for its street art, independent boutiques, and delicious Mexican food.
  • Explore the Mission Murals, a collection of colorful murals depicting the neighborhood’s history and culture.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Taqueria, a San Francisco institution serving authentic Mexican cuisine.
  • Catch a show or live music performance at the The Chapel, a historic music venue in the Mission District.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying at Hotel Tomo, a fun and affordable boutique hotel in the heart of Japantown, within walking distance to the Mission District.

Transportation

  • Use Muni Metro (N-line) or Bus 6 to get to Haight-Ashbury from Union Square.
  • Walk or take a short taxi ride to the Mission District.

Day 4: Visit Chinatown and Union Square

Morning

  • Explore Chinatown, one of the largest and oldest in the United States. Wander through the colorful streets, sample some authentic Chinese cuisine, and visit the Golden Boy Pizza, a popular spot for dim sum.
  • Stop by the Chinese Historical Society Museum to learn about the history and culture of San Francisco’s Chinese community.

Afternoon

  • Visit Union Square, a bustling public square surrounded by shopping centers, theaters, and restaurants. Take a stroll through the square, visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), or catch a show at the Curran Theatre.
  • Shop at Macy’s or explore the high-end boutiques at Westfield San Francisco Centre.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Z & Y Restaurant, a family-owned Szechuan restaurant in Chinatown.
  • Take a stroll through the beautifully lit streets of Union Square, especially during the holiday season.

Where to Stay

  • Continue staying at Hotel Tomo or explore other options in the Union Square area.

Transportation

  • Use Muni Metro (T-line) or Bus 1 to get to Chinatown from Union Square.
  • Walk or take a short taxi ride to Union Square.

Day 5: Explore the Presidio and Lands End

Morning

  • Visit the Presidio, a former military base turned national park. Explore the scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and historic sites like the Walt Disney Family Museum.
  • Stop by the Presidio Officers’ Club, a historic building featuring exhibits on the Presidio’s history.

Afternoon

  • Head to Lands End, a rugged and scenic coastline offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Seal Rocks, and the Pacific Ocean. Take a leisurely walk along the coastal trail.
  • Visit the Cliff House, a historic restaurant with breathtaking views of the coastline.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Cliff House Restaurant, featuring fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
  • Take a romantic sunset stroll along the Lands End coastal trail, ending at the iconic Lands End Labyrinth.

Where to Stay

  • Continue staying at Hotel Tomo or explore other options in the Fisherman’s Wharf area.

Transportation

  • Use Muni Metro (T-line) or Bus 29 to get to the Presidio from Union Square.
  • Walk or take a short taxi ride to Lands End.

Things to Know

  • San Francisco can be chilly, even in the summer, so pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Be prepared for steep hills and uneven sidewalks when walking around the city.
  • Tipping is customary in San Francisco, especially at restaurants and bars.
  • Download the Muni Mobile app to plan your public transportation route.

Tips

  • Book Alcatraz Island tickets well in advance to avoid sold-out situations.
  • Take advantage of San Francisco’s many free museums and attractions on certain days of the week or month.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square.
  • Explore beyond the popular tourist areas to discover hidden gems and local favorites.