Four-Day Itinerary for San Francisco: 4 Perfect Days Visiting SF

With this four-day itinerary for San Francisco, you will get the chance to see as much as possible during your stay. My guide takes you to top attractions, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, as well as local districts, such as North Beach and Chinatown.

During these four days, you will marvel at the towering trees in Muir Woods, enjoy a variety of activities in Fisherman's Wharf, and visit the top attractions in Golden Gate Park.

You'll also have plenty of photo ops for those classic San Francisco sights, from the brick-lined curves of Lombard Street to the regal colonnades at the Palace of Fine Arts, to the postcard row of Painted Ladies in Alamo Square.

Day One

On Day One, you'll get acquainted right away with our hilly geography as you take in views of the bay from steep, crooked Lombard Street.

Step onto the famous Golden Gate Bridge and take a scenic walk along the water to the Palace of Fine Arts. Top it off with a cable car ride into Union Square to enjoy our city's bustling nightlife.

1.1 Take in the Views on Lombard Street

What makes this a must-see? With its dramatic twists (eight brick-lined hairpin turns in the span of just one block!) and manicured flower beds, Lombard Street has earned its place as one of SF's most iconic photo ops.

Why start your day here? Morning offers the best lighting for photos of this "crookedest street in the world." Plus, you'll find fewer tourists and less traffic early in the day, so you can really appreciate the charm of the street.

How to get here? From Fisherman’s Wharf, it's an uphill walk or short cable car ride on the Powell-Hyde line. From Union Square, you can take the Powell-Hyde cable car from the other direction. Uber and Lyft rideshares are also convenient from anywhere in the city. 

What to do here? From Lombard and Hyde at the top of the crooked street, walk down the steps next to the curved road and take in the views of Coit Tower and the bay in the background. Once at the bottom (Lombard and Leavenworth), turn around to to snap your postcard-perfect shots. 

Estimated Time: 9 to 10 am

>> Discover more about Lombard Street

1.2 Experience the Golden Gate Bridge

What makes this a must-see? For many, the magnificently orange Golden Gate Bridge is San Francisco’s crown jewel—and there's no better way to experience its magnitude than by stepping foot on it. 

Why visit next? In the late morning, the sky often starts to clear as the fog burns off, allowing for bridge views and scenic photos. 

How to get to here? From Lombard Street, walk four blocks toward the bay to North Point Street to catch the #28 Muni bus heading west. This will drop you off right at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. Alternatively, you can take an Uber or Lyft. 

What to do here? Explore the small outdoor museum to learn about the bridge before stepping onto the east sidewalk, where you can stroll to the first tower. Discover more tips and FAQs about walking across the bridge.

If you're ready for a bite or a warm drink when you get back to solid ground, you can stop into the Round House Cafe and continue enjoying close-up views of the bridge from there.

Estimated Time: 10:30 to 11:30 am

>> Find additional details about our iconic Golden Gate Bridge

1.3 Enjoy a Scenic Walk to Crissy Field

What makes this a must-see? Just east of the Golden Gate Bridge lies Crissy Field, beloved for its walking trails, grassy lawns, and sandy beach with unbeatable views.

Why come here next? Following the waterfront trail is a great way to head back from the bridge toward the city. The cool conditions by the water make for an enjoyable and scenic walk with downtown in the background.

How to get here? From the Golden Gate Bridge parking lot, hop on the Battery East Trail which winds down through the scenic Presidio National Park to Crissy Field below.

What to do here? Crissy Field is a great spot for relaxing, taking in the views, and dipping your toes in the (cold!) water. It's also home to the Warming Hut Café. This is one of my favorite beaches in San Francisco. 

Estimated Time: 11:30 am to 1 pm

1.4 Relax at the Historic Palace of Fine Arts

What makes this a must-see? Originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Expo, the Palace of Fine Arts boasts a soaring rotunda, regal colonnades, and peaceful lagoon. It’s one of the most romantic spots in the city.

Why come here next? This elegant park is a short walk from Crissy Field. With any luck, the sun will be out by this time in the day, casting a warm glow on the palace’s unique architecture and letting you enjoy some time on the lawn.

How to get here? It’s just a 10-minute walk southeast of Crissy Field at Marina Boulevard and Lyon Street.

What to do here? Explore the path around the lagoon and under the rotunda. Take photos or simply sit back, relax, and people-watch. Many folks come here to take wedding photos! 

Estimated Time: 1 to 2:30 pm

1.5 Ride the Cable Car to Union Square 

What makes this a must-do? There's no better way to top of Day 1 than with the open-air seating, clanging bells, and hilly views from this old-fashioned form of transit.

Why end your day this way? The ride offers a classic SF experience and a fun transition from the waterfront to the heart of the city. You can spend your first San Francisco evening in Union Square, a hub of restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.

How to get here? From the Palace of Fine Arts, you can either walk one block north to catch the #30 bus or one block south for the #28 heading east into Fisherman's Wharf.

Get off at North Point and Hyde Streets and walk one block toward the waterfront to start of the Powell-Hyde cable car line at Hyde and Beach Streets.

There may be a line at the cable car turnaround, but you'll see that the thrilling ride through Russian Hill and Nob Hill is worth the wait.

You can get off right at the Union Square plaza, or ride it all the way to the end, and get off at the bottom of Powell Street. 

>> Find my best tips on riding the cable cars, including how to board and pay your fare

What to do in Union Square? Check out the flagship stores in San Francisco's commercial center. Some of the most popular include Macy's, Nike, and Levi's (born right here in SF!), as well as luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co.

You can also visit historic hotels like the Westin St. Francis and the Sir Francis Drake (now the Beacon Grand). You may even be staying in this area yourself! Most visitors opt for lodging in Union Square or Fisherman's Wharf.

For eat and drink, this is the spot. Check out my favorite Union Square restaurants and top bars in the area, ranging from old-school speakeasies to trendy lounges with rooftop views.

>> Discover nightlife options around Union Square, including performing arts shows, sporting events, and more

Estimated Time: 3 pm onward

Day Two

The morning of Day Two features a trip to Alcatraz Island, where you'll tour the infamous prison. Have lunch in our Italian district, climb up Telegraph Hill to take in the spectacular views from Coit Tower, and then eat your way through Chinatown.

2.1 Ferry to Alcatraz Island

What makes this a must-see? Alcatraz is one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks. Once a notorious maximum-security prison, it’s now a National Park with haunting ruins and dramatic prisoner stories, not to mention incredible views.

Why start your day here? Morning tours tend to be less crowded and offer calmer waters for the ferry ride. Visiting Alcatraz early means freeing up the rest of your day to explore nearby neighborhoods.

NOTE: Tickets to visit Alcatraz on a given day often sell out. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance. You can also check out the following package options.

Popular Alcatraz Tours

How to get here? All ferries to Alcatraz depart from Alcatraz Landing at Pier 33. If you're staying in Fisherman’s Wharf, it's a short walk. Otherwise, take the F-line historic streetcar or Muni bus #8. Rideshares also drop off right at the pier.

What to do here? Explore the cellhouse with the included audio tour, watch the short orientation film, and roam the grounds. Don’t miss the prison recreation yard, the lighthouse, or the island gardens before catching a return ferry.

>> Check out more of my insider tips for visiting Alcatraz

Estimated Time: 8:30 am to 12 pm

2.2 Lunch in North Beach

What makes this a must-see? North Beach is San Francisco’s historic Italian district, known for its laid-back charm, European-style cafes, and rich cultural history. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy a leisurely lunch, people-watch, and fuel up before your next adventure.

Why come here next? After returning from Alcatraz, North Beach is just a short walk away. The neighborhood is lively at midday, with plenty of options for both casual and sit-down meals.

How to get here? From Pier 33, walk southwest up Bay Street, then turn left on Columbus Avenue—you’ll be in the heart of North Beach in about 10–15 minutes.

Where to eat: Some of my favorites include Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, for an award-winning variety of pizza styles (expect a wait), and Golden Boy Pizza, a local institution serving up grab-and-go focaccia-style pizza.

If you have some extra time here: You may want to walk off your Italian lunch and wander the neighborhood a bit. Beyond delicious eats, North Beach has a rich history that includes the Beat Generation that called this area home in the 1950s. Their artistic legacy lives on at the Vesuvio Cafe, the City Lights Bookstore, and the Beat Museum.

You can also visit the Saints Peter and Paul Church (recognizable from Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe's wedding photos) at Washington Square Park.

Estimated Time: 12:30 to 2:30 pm

>> Discover all you need to know about North Beach

2.3 Take in the Views from Coit Tower

What makes this a must-see? Standing atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is another icon that offers 360-degree views of the bay and the city of San Francisco.

Why come here next? Afternoons typically bring clearer skies, making the observation deck views even more stunning. Plus, Telegraph Hill is right next to North Beach.

How to get here? If you're up for a steep climb, a fun way to reach the top of Telegraph Hill from North Beach is by walking east along Filbert Street from Saints Peter and Paul Church. At the end of the street, you'll find a set of stairs that you can follow all the way up to Coit Tower.

To avoid this heart-pumping climb, an easy alternative is to hop on the #39 Muni bus from Washington Square Park. 

What to do here? Take the elevator to the top for panoramic city and bay views (the ticket costs $10 and be prepared to wait in line). View the colorful WPA murals on the ground floor, which are free and open to all.

Estimated Time: 3 to 4:30 pm

>> Find details about and photos of Coit Tower

2.4 Stroll and Eat Your Way Through Chinatown

What makes this a must-see? San Francisco’s Chinatown is one of the oldest, largest, and most vibrant Chinese communities outside of Asia. With lantern-lined alleys, traditional herbal shops, temples, and bustling markets, it offers a full sensory experience.

Why come here next? Afternoons and early evenings are ideal—stores are still open, and restaurants begin preparing for the dinner rush. The neighborhood glows at dusk, especially along Grant Avenue.

How to get here? If you don't mind walking downhill, the northern edge of Chinatown is less than 15 minutes from Coit Tower. Alternatively, you can take the #39 bus back down Telegraph Hill and get off along Union Street at Grant or Stockton. From there, walk south into the heart of the district. 

What to do here? Known as a city within the city, Chinatown has so much to see and do. For shopping, check out Grant Avenue, where you'll also find an assortment of bakeries and photo-worthy architecture.

There are several interesting temples that welcome respectful visitors to admire their colorful shrines. You'll find even more tributes to Chinese folklore and cultural icons in the street art and murals scattered throughout the district. 

Another fun, quick, and free stop is the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in Ross Alley. You probably can't resist all the treats in the bakery and shop windows as you explore, but when you're ready for a sit-down dinner, you'll find many restaurants to choose from, most of which are open late.

Chinatown Night Tour: For a fun way to explore Chinatown by night, consider this haunted pub crawl that dives into the neighborhood's history of opium dens and Gold Rush tragedies.

Estimated Time: 4:30 pm onward

>> Read more about top restaurants, things to do, and annual events in SF Chinatown

Day Three

Day Three offers you a little escape from the city to see our treasured coastal redwoods. Take your time coming back by ferry and then meander through the many attractions in Fisherman's Wharf. Finally, you can call it a day with a spectacular night tour of the city lights.

3.1 Visit Muir Woods and Sausalito

What makes this mini day trip a must? Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods National Monument is a world-famous forest of coastal redwoods, which are among the oldest living things on Earth. It’s a magical escape from the bustle of the city. 

You'll find the charming waterfront town of Sausalito on your way back to San Francisco. 

Why start the day here? By getting an early start, you’ll beat traffic across the bridge and find the park less crowded. You will have plenty of time to enjoy both the forest and the bayside town before returning to the city.

How to get here? You can drive, take a shuttle (during the summer months), or take a guided tour from San Francisco. Review the pros and cons of each option here.

I prefer the tours like this one for the convenience. Since the road is windy, they allow you to relax and enjoy the scenery, and most give you the option to stay in Sausalito and take a ferry back to the city. 

What to do here? This morning is all about taking in your breathtaking surroundings. In the park, walk the main boardwalk trail beneath the redwoods, or take a longer loop if you’re up for a bit more hiking. Read more tips for visiting Muir Woods.

Then head to Sausalito, where you can stroll along the water, explore shops and galleries, or grab lunch by the marina. Find specific recommendations here.

Estimated Time: 8 to 11 am (Muir Woods, including transport to and from), 11:30 am to 1 pm (Sausalito)

3.2 Enjoy an Afternoon in Fisherman's Wharf

What makes this a must-see? Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most famous neighborhoods, known for its scenic waterfront, historic ships, clam chowder stands, street performers, and sea lions lounging at Pier 39. 

Why come here next? If you take the ferry from Sausalito, it's likely that you'll end up right here in Fisherman's Wharf. After a morning in nature, this district delivers a lively contrast, full of fun activities and attractions for the whole family.

How to get here? From Sausalito, take the Blue and Gold Ferry to Pier 41, which will leave you right in the heart of this district (see red #2 on the map below). If you take the Golden Gate Ferry, you will end up at the Ferry Building in downtown SF. From there, you can take the historic F-Line streetcar to Fisherman's Wharf.

What to do here? Just a block east of the Pier 41 ferry dock, you'll find Pier 39 (blue #1 on the map below), a hub of restaurants, novelty and souvenir shops, and entertainment. It's home to the famous sea lions, the Aquarium of the Bay with its underwater tunnels, and the Flyer Thrill Zone.

What to do and eat here? The blue numbers on the map above correspond with the following attractions. (The red numbers are transit options.)

1. Pier 39 - Seafood restaurants, specialty shops, family-friendly games and activities
2. Boudin Bakery - Sourdough factory serving the classic SF dish of clam chowder in a bread bowl
3. Fresh Fish Stands - Fresh crab cooked in steaming cauldrons served on the sidewalk
4. Musee Mecanique - Vintage arcade games, free to enter, one of the many attractions on Pier 45
5. Buena Vista - An San Francisco institution famous for their Irish Coffee 
6. Ghirardelli Square - SF's oldest chocolate manufacturer full of delicious treats, shops, and restaurants
7. Maritime Museum - A free museum dedicated to seafaring activities and the history of the district

Estimated Time: 1:30 to 6 pm

>> Discover the best of Fisherman's Wharf

3.3 End the Day with a Panoramic Sunset Tour

What makes this a must-see? Now that you're familiar with the city, you'll especially appreciate getting to see our hilly neighborhoods, downtown area, bridges, and waterfront all lit up agains the evening sky.

Why end your day here? This double-decker bus tour starts and ends in Fisherman's Wharf, making it easy to get to. After a day of walking and sightseeing, this evening ride gives your legs a break while still showing you even more of the city.

How to get here? Make your way over to the Big Bus Tour Visitor's Center at Jefferson and Mason Streets in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf. It's less than a 15-minute walk from anywhere in the district. However, you can also take the 28 bus from the western side (Ghirardelli Square) or the F streetcar from the eastern side (Pier 33).

What to do on the tour? Arrive 20 to 30 minutes before the tour departs to get good seats. Then sit back, relax, and take in the twilight views of the city as you listen to stories about San Francisco's landmarks, history, and culture.

Enjoy the vibrant sights in Nob Hill, Chinatown, the Financial District, and the Embarcadero. Cross the Bay Bridge to Treasure Island and snap photos of the illuminated skyline.

TIP: Bring a warm jacket, as you'll want seats on the open-top upper deck. 

>> Find Panoramic Night Tour tickets here

Estimated Time: 6:30 to 7:45 pm

Day Four

For your last day, you can follow the itinerary I set out below, in which you'll delve a little deeper into some favorite spots for locals.

My plan lets you enjoy the serenity of Golden Gate Park's gardens and its magnificent museums, then do a little dining and shopping in uniquely San Francisco neighborhoods.

Day Tours to Enhance Day 4

Alternatively, you may consider spending part of your day on one of these fantastic tours.

Options for these fun SF experiences include touring historic neighborhoods in a vintage VW van, driving your own zippy GoCar around town with GPS guidance, and visiting over 50 filming locations throughout the city.

4.1 Spend the Morning in Golden Gate Park

What makes this a must-see? Golden Gate Park is San Francisco’s sprawling 1000-acre oasis, filled with world-class museums, gardens, trails, lakes, and even a bison paddock. It’s a top choice for locals and visitors alike, with something for every interest—science, art, nature, or simple relaxation.

Why start your day here? Mornings are peaceful and cool in the park, perfect for a walk, bike ride, or museum visit before it gets busier. TIP: Some park attractions offer free admission for early birds—see below for details. 

How to get here? From Market Street downtown, you have two options. You can take the N-Judah light rail train to the 9th & Irving stop, which will leave you just a block south of the park's main attractions.

You can also ride the 5-Fulton bus to Fulton and 10 Avenue, which will leave you on the northern edge of the park. Either one is an easy walk to the gardens and museums.

What to do here? Soak in the beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden (free hour is Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 to 10 am) or the SF Botanical Garden (free hour daily from 7:30 to 9 am).

Explore the city's most popular museum, the California Academy of Sciences, which contains an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, and four-story rainforest all under one living roof. 

Visit the world-class exhibits at the de Young fine arts museum, and take the elevator ride up to the free observation tower for sweeping views of the expansive Golden Gate Park and beyond. 

Hike around Strawberry Hill or rent a boat to explore Blue Heron Lake. 

Estimated Time: 8 or 9 am to 12:30 pm

4.2 Lunch in the Inner Sunset or Haight-Ashbury

What makes these neighborhoods a must-see? These two charming neighborhoods are adjacent to the park and both offer a unique San Francisco flair. The Inner Sunset is a relaxed residential area with a row of cozy cafes, diverse eateries, and local shops.

The colorful Haight-Ashbury became famous with its 1960s counterculture movement and still rocks the hippie vibe with its vintage shops, record stores, bohemian cafes, and other relics of its heyday.

Where to eat? My Inner Sunset recommendations include Crepevine, Art's Cafe, Pasquale's Pizzeria, and the Yellow Submarine sandwich shop. Check out more of the Sunset District.

In the Haight, I love Cha Cha Cha for Caribbean tapas, Magnolia Brewing for their tasty craft brews and pub fare, and Parada 22 for Puerto Rican comfort food. 

How to get here? Most of the Inner Sunset restaurants are located just a short walk south of Golden Gate Park near 9th Avenue and Irving Street.

The heart of the Haight-Ashbury sits just east of the park. You can either walk here (about 20 minutes from the Music Concourse) or take the 7 bus from Lincoln and 9th Avenue (along the southern edge of the park).

If You Have Extra Time in the Haight: Wander around admiring the street art and colorful Victorian homes, grab some coffee, or pop into the quirky boutiques, bookstores, and vintage shops in the Haight. Don’t miss Amoeba Music if you're a music lover—they often host free concerts. The new Counterculture Museum also makes for a fun and informative stop. Discover more details about the Haight.

Estimated Time: 12:30 to 2 pm

4.3 Visit the Painted Ladies of Alamo Square

What makes this a must-see? The Seven Sisters—a row of colorful Victorian houses also known as Painted Ladies—are one of San Francisco’s most photographed places. You might recognize the scene from the opening credits of "Full House," where the Tanner family has a picnic on the grassy lawns of Alamo Square Park, with these houses behind them and the city skyline in the background. 

Why come here next? This is the perfect place to digest lunch and take postcard-worthy photos. If there was any fog in the morning, it should have cleared by now, letting you soak in the San Francisco sights from a different vantage point.

How to get here? The #6 Muni bus will take you from both the Inner Sunset and the Haight-Ashbury. You can pick it up at Judah and 9th Avenue (one block south of Irving) or at Masonic and Haight Street (one block east of Ashbury). Get off at Hayes and Steiner. 

What to do here? Lounge on the grassy hill and take photos of the Painted Ladies as you admire the Victorian architecture.

>> More about the district's history and what to see in Alamo Square

Estimated Time: 2:30 to 3:30 pm

4.4 Have Coffee or Dinner Nearby

What are the best nearby neighborhoods to grab a bite? From the Seven Sisters at Hayes and Steiner, you can either walk across the length of Alamo Square Park and one block farther west to Divisadero Street, or walk four blocks east into the heart of the Hayes Valley neighborhood. 

Both of these neighborhoods are foodie hotspots offering a variety of options from trendy bars and cafes to soul food and tapas.

Where to have coffee or dinner?

On Divisadero, you'll find The Mill for amazing coffee and baked goods, as well as Brenda's Meat & Three for southern soul food, Bar Crudo for seafood lovers, and 4505 Burgers & BBQ for an outdoor meal of American cuisine.

Along Hayes Street in Hayes Valley, you'll find Souvla, a local favorite for casual Greek cuisine, a Mano with incredible handmade Italian pastas, and Dumpling Home for delectable soup dumplings and other Chinese dishes.

Hayes Valley is also a haven for coffee lovers, home to specialty roasters including Ritual Coffee and Blue Bottle.

What to do afterward? If you want to cap off the day on Divisadero, you can have a cocktail at Horsefeather or a scoop at Bi-Rite Creamery just a short walk away.

In Hayes Valley, some great spots to unwind after dinner include the tiki-themed Smuggler's Cove and Birba wine bar with its outdoor patio.

Estimated Time: 4 pm onward

(4.5) Discover Another Local Neighborhood

If you still have energy after a caffeine stop or early dinner near Alamo Square and want to squeeze a little more San Francisco into your four-day itinerary, you can enjoy your last night out in the following local neighborhoods.

• The Mission District: Some of the best food in the city's most culturally diverse neighborhood. Street art, live music venues, dance clubs, and bars ranging from dives to rooftop lounges. Dinner picks: Loló (playful Mexican), Foreign Cinema (romantic), Delfina (Italian), and La Taqueria (casual). Discover more about the Mission
• The Castro: SF's famously queer district with a proud LGBTQ+ history, charming architecture, quirky shops, cute cafes, and fun nightlife. Dinner picks: Harvey’s (historic pub), Canela Bistro & Wine Bar (Spanish tapas), and Anchor Oyster Bar (seafood). Find out more about the Castro

SFTourismTips is made possible by readers like you! If you book through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Learn more.

Tips to Save on Your Visit

Transit Passes

If you plan to use public transit throughout your stay in San Francisco, I recommend you purchase a Muni Visitor Passport (available for 1, 3, or 7 days) for unlimited rides on buses, light rail, streetcars, and cable cars.

The money-saving 3-day passport costs $35 per person and the 7-day option costs $47. It is only valid for public transportation within San Francisco (not on BART or other transit systems, including those to and from the airport).

You can purchase the passport on the MuniMobile app and use your phone to pay for all your rides.

In addition to Muni, there are many ways to get around the city, including Lyft/Uber, the driverless Waymo cars, and bike rentals.

>> Read all you need to know about getting around SF

San Francisco Hotel Deals

There are several ways to save on your stay in SF. Here are my top recommendations.

You will also find great deals for hotels here. This site offers deals such as discounts on room rates, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast in bed. Click here to search for the best prices for your stay.

About Me   |   Contact Me   |   What's New  |  Privacy Policy   |   Terms of Service   |   Advertising Disclaimer