San Francisco-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

  • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions. Walk along the pier, take in the sea lions at Pier 39, and grab some breakfast at The Crab Shack.

  • 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Explore the Pier 39 Aquarium of the Bay, home to thousands of marine animals from around the world.

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Grab lunch at Alioto’s, a San Francisco institution since 1925. Try their famous seafood pasta or cioppino.

  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Take a stroll through the Ghirardelli Square shopping district, and be sure to stop by the original Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop for a sweet treat.

  • Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hyatt Fisherman’s Wharf, with comfortable rooms and an excellent location.

  • Getting Around: Take public transportation (Muni or BART) or ride-share to get around. Parking in Fisherman’s Wharf can be challenging.

  • Tips:

    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at Pier 39.
    • Don’t miss the sea lions at Pier 39 - they’re a must-see!
    • Take advantage of the free parking lot near Ghirardelli Square.

Day 2: Exploring Golden Gate Park and Haight-Ashbury

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit Golden Gate Park, one of San Francisco’s largest parks. Explore the Japanese Tea Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

  • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Take a stroll through the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, known for its colorful Victorian homes and rich history as the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture movement. Grab lunch at The Alembic, a popular spot for burgers and sandwiches.

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the De Young Museum, home to a diverse collection of art and cultural exhibitions from around the world.

  • Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Tombo, a boutique hotel with comfortable rooms in a quiet neighborhood just a short walk from Golden Gate Park.

  • Getting Around: Take public transportation (Muni or BART) or ride-share to get around. Parking in Haight-Ashbury can be challenging.

  • Tips:

    • Be sure to visit the Japanese Tea Garden during its operating hours.
    • Explore the many shops and cafes along Haight Street.
    • Consider visiting the De Young Museum on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Day 3: Exploring Chinatown and North Beach

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit Chinatown, one of San Francisco’s oldest neighborhoods. Take in the vibrant street art, try some authentic Chinese cuisine at Z & Y Restaurant, and explore the many shops and markets.

  • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore the nearby North Beach neighborhood, known for its Italian-American culture and historic sites like the Coit Tower. Grab lunch at Caffe Trieste, a popular spot for coffee and sandwiches.

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the Wells Fargo History Museum, located in the old bank building that was once the headquarters of Wells Fargo.

  • Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel North Beach, a boutique hotel with comfortable rooms in a quiet neighborhood just a short walk from Chinatown.

  • Getting Around: Take public transportation (Muni or BART) or ride-share to get around. Parking in North Beach can be challenging.

  • Tips:

    • Be sure to try some authentic Chinese cuisine at Z & Y Restaurant.
    • Explore the many shops and markets along Grant Avenue.
    • Visit the Coit Tower for stunning views of the city.

Day 4: Exploring The Presidio and Civic Center

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit The Presidio, a former military base turned national park. Take in the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the many walking trails, and visit the Walt Disney Family Museum.

  • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore the nearby Civic Center neighborhood, known for its historic buildings and government institutions like City Hall. Grab lunch at The Civic Center Cafe, a popular spot for sandwiches and salads.

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the San Francisco Art Institute, located in the former Mint building on Mission Street. Take advantage of the free admission to explore the many art exhibitions and installations.

  • Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Presidio, a boutique hotel with comfortable rooms in a quiet neighborhood just a short walk from The Presidio.

  • Getting Around: Take public transportation (Muni or BART) or ride-share to get around. Parking in Civic Center can be challenging.

  • Tips:

    • Be sure to visit the Walt Disney Family Museum for an interesting look at the life and legacy of Walt Disney.
    • Explore the many walking trails and scenic overlooks throughout The Presidio.
    • Visit the San Francisco Art Institute on a weekday to avoid crowds.