San Francisco Itineraries: Several Suggested Ideas to Plan Your Stay

Before I visit any new city, I love setting up a rough itinerary for each day. I want to make sure I don't miss any attractions and that I get the chance to try the best restaurants and local cuisines. I usually spend hours (or sometimes days!) trying to get everything in place.

I've learned that I'm not the only one who loves to build a daily itinerary. My visitors often ask questions about their plans and the best way to tackle everything there is to see in the city. 

Due to the high volume of requests, I've created several one-day and multi-day San Francisco itineraries for your use. Each one includes a detailed walking route with tips and a few alternative options along the way. 

Most include quite a bit of walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. You will also want to bring along a few layers of clothing as the weather in the city can change from one neighborhood to the next.

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One-Day San Francisco Itinerary

In this one-day itinerary, you will visit Lombard Street (our postcard-perfect crooked street), visit Alcatraz (the infamous former federal prison), have lunch in Fisherman's Wharf, stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge, and take a cable car to Union Square.

It's the perfect way to plan a short stay in San Francisco.

>> See this one-day itinerary

>> Check out this one-day itinerary for those traveling with kids

Two-Day Itinerary

With two full days in San Francisco, you get to spend a little longer checking out a few more of our top attractions and neighborhoods.

In addition to the One-Day Itinerary activities, you'll also get to marvel at the historic Palace of Fine Arts, discover the delicious food and cultural treasures of Chinatown, and visit Coit Tower before finishing with the perfect Italian dinner and nightlife options in North Beach.

>> Discover this two-day itinerary

>> Here's a great weekend itinerary for those traveling with kids

Three-Day Itinerary

If you have a third day to add on, you will head to Golden Gate Park to spend some time in our most popular museum, the California Academy of Sciences. You will also explore the Japanese Tea Garden and then head to the Mission District to check out its top attractions.

>> See what's in store on Day Three

Four-Day Itinerary

If you have a fourth day, I suggest visiting our incredible Asian Art Museum, stepping inside SF's beautiful City Hall, and then checking out the famous Painted Ladies of Alamo Square.

>> See what to do on Day Four

One-Day San Francisco Itineraries for Our Top Districts

The Perfect Day in Chinatown

I often refer to Chinatown as a 'city within a city.' The moment you step inside this colorful and bustling district, you will feel the excitement as if you have just arrived in another country.

My 'perfect day' itinerary for Chinatown includes a visit to several working temples, the best places to sample Dim Sum, see the ornate Dragon Gate, and tips on where to shop for inexpensive items along Grant Avenue.

>> Visit Chinatown in One Day

The Perfect Day in the Haight-Ashbury District

Step back in time on this one-day walking tour around the Haight-Ashbury District. This popular SF neighborhood hosted the 1967 Summer of Love Festival and was also home to many famous musicians of the time.

During this self-guided tour, I will introduce you to the Haight's gorgeous Victorians, take you by the houses where some of its famous residents lived, and show you the amazing views from the top of Buena Vista Park.

I'll also give you recommendations on where to eat and shop, and a few other tips to make the most out of your day here.

>> Visit the Haight-Ashbury in One Day

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