San Francisco California 7 Day Itinerary

July 19, 2024

San Francisco 7-Day Itinerary

Morning: Arrive in San Francisco and check-in to your hotel or hostel. Recommended stay: Hotel Zelos or HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel
Afternoon: Head to Fisherman’s Wharf, a bustling waterfront district with stunning views of the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Visit Pier 39, home to sea lions, and take a stroll along the pier.
Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at Alioto’s or The Crab Shack. Try some sourdough bread and sample the city’s famous Dungeness crab.

Morning: Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island for a guided tour of the former prison. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
Afternoon: Explore Chinatown, one of the largest and oldest in the United States. Walk down Grant Avenue, visit the Chinatown Gate, and try some authentic Chinese cuisine at Z & Y Restaurant or R & G Lounge.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Cantonese dinner at Hunan Home’s.

Morning: Visit Golden Gate Park, a sprawling urban park that’s home to several attractions, including the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences.
Afternoon: Explore the colorful neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury, known for its 1960s counterculture history. Check out vintage shops, cafes, and music stores.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Pork Store Cafe or Foreign Cinema.

Morning: Explore the vibrant Mission District, known for its street art, independent shops, and delicious Mexican food. Visit Dolores Park for stunning views of the city.
Afternoon: Check out the famous Clarion Alley, a pedestrian alleyway filled with street art and murals. Grab lunch at La Taqueria or El Farolito.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Foreign Cinema or Nopalito.

Morning: Visit The Presidio, a former military base turned national park. Explore the Walt Disney Family Museum, the Presidio Officers’ Club, and the Presidio Promenade.
Afternoon: Head to the Marina District, known for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Visit The Palace of Fine Arts and take a leisurely walk along the waterfront.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Greens Restaurant or A16.

Morning: Explore Union Square, a vibrant shopping district with iconic department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom.
Afternoon: Visit the nearby Tenderloin District, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and theaters. Check out the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) or catch a show at the Curran Theatre.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Angler or Hawker Fare.

Morning: Head to Ocean Beach, a scenic beach with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, grab lunch at The Cliff House, and explore the nearby Sutro Baths.
Afternoon: Explore the charming Sunset District, known for its colorful Victorian homes, cafes, and shops.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at PPQ Beef Noodle House or Koiso Sushi Bar.

Things to Know

San Francisco is known for its foggy weather, so be sure to pack layers.
The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and iconic cable cars. Consider purchasing a Clipper card for convenient travel.
Be prepared for steep hills and uneven sidewalks when exploring the city on foot.

Tips

Book Alcatraz Island tickets in advance to ensure availability.
Take advantage of San Francisco’s diverse culinary scene by trying new restaurants and cuisines.
Explore the city’s many neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm.

Transportation

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a convenient 30-minute drive or BART ride from the city center.
The city has numerous transportation options, including buses, trains, cable cars, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.

I hope you enjoy your trip to San Francisco!