San Francisco United States 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in San Francisco, USA

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf

Morning

  • Arrive at San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • Take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) train to Montgomery Street Station ($9.65)
  • Check-in at Hotel Zelos or similar in Fisherman’s Wharf area
  • Visit the famous Fisherman’s Wharf and take a stroll along the pier

Afternoon

  • Take a Bay Cruise to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline ($40-$60)
  • Grab lunch at Alioto’s, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the Bay
  • Visit the Musée Mécanique, a unique museum featuring antique arcade games and musical instruments (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Crab Shack, a casual spot for fresh seafood
  • Take a sunset stroll along the pier and enjoy the street performers

Day 2: Alcatraz Island and Chinatown

Morning

  • Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island ($38-$40, including audio tour)
  • Explore the former prison and learn about its infamous history

Afternoon

  • Visit Chinatown, one of the largest and oldest in the United States
  • Walk through the vibrant streets, explore shops, and try some authentic Chinese cuisine at R & G Lounge
  • Stop by the Golden Boy Pizza for a delicious slice (cash only)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Z & Y Restaurant, a Michelin-starred spot for modern Cantonese cuisine
  • Explore the nightlife in North Beach, San Francisco’s historic Italian-American neighborhood

Day 3: Golden Gate Park and Haight-Ashbury

Morning

  • Visit the de Young Museum (free admission), featuring art and cultural exhibitions from around the world
  • Stroll through the beautiful Golden Gate Park, exploring the Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers

Afternoon

  • Head to Haight-Ashbury, a historic neighborhood known for its 1960s counterculture movement
  • Explore the vintage shops, cafes, and music stores along Haight Street
  • Grab lunch at The Pork Store Cafe, a popular spot for sandwiches and salads

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Foreign Cinema, a unique restaurant showing classic films while you dine
  • Take a stroll through the charming Cole Valley neighborhood

Day 4: The Mission District and Dolores Park

Morning

  • Explore the vibrant Mission District, known for its street art, independent shops, and Mexican cuisine
  • Visit the famous Balmy Alley, featuring colorful murals and graffiti
  • Grab breakfast at La Taqueria, a popular spot for burritos and tacos

Afternoon

  • Relax in Dolores Park, a beautiful green space with stunning city views
  • Take a short walk to the nearby Bi-Rite Creamery for unique ice cream flavors

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at El Farolito, a popular spot for Mexican cuisine and margaritas
  • Explore the lively nightlife in the Mission District, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from

Day 5: The Painted Ladies and Union Square

Morning

  • Take a photo opportunity in front of the famous Painted Ladies, a row of colorful Victorian houses
  • Visit the nearby Alamo Square, featuring stunning city views

Afternoon

  • Explore Union Square, a bustling shopping and dining area
  • Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), one of the largest modern art museums in the country ($25 admission)
  • Grab lunch at Epic Steak, a high-end steakhouse with outdoor seating

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Quince, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant featuring creative, farm-to-table cuisine
  • Catch a performance or show at the nearby Curran Theatre

Day 6: The Presidio and Lombard Street

Morning

  • Visit the Presidio, a former military base turned national park with hiking trails and stunning views
  • Explore the Walt Disney Family Museum ($25 admission), showcasing the life and work of Walt Disney

Afternoon

  • Take a scenic drive down Lombard Street, known as the “crookedest street in the world”
  • Visit the nearby Hyde Street Pier, featuring stunning views of the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz Island
  • Grab lunch at The Plant Cafe, a popular spot for healthy, organic options

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Gary Danko, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant featuring French-American cuisine
  • Take a romantic stroll along the pier and enjoy the city lights

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local neighborhood
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to SFO Airport for departure (BART train, $9.65)

Additional Tips and Information

  • Transportation: San Francisco has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, and iconic cable cars. Consider purchasing a Clipper Card, which can be used on multiple forms of transit.
  • Weather: San Francisco’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. Pack layers, as the temperature can drop significantly at night or near the water.
  • Safety: As with any major city, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night.
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in the United States, with 15%-20% expected for good service.
  • Hiking: San Francisco has many hiking trails, including those in Golden Gate Park and the Presidio. Wear comfortable shoes and layers, and bring water and snacks.

Accommodations

  • Hotel Zelos: A stylish hotel in Fisherman’s Wharf area, with comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar.
  • Airbnb: Consider staying in a local neighborhood like Haight-Ashbury or the Mission District for a more authentic experience.

This itinerary provides a mix of popular attractions, cultural experiences, and delicious food options. Enjoy your trip to San Francisco!