San Francisco California 7 Day Itinerary

San Francisco 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

  • Morning: Start at Fisherman’s Wharf for a morning stroll along the pier. Catch the sea lions at Pier 39.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Musee Mecanique, a quirky museum with antique arcade games and other unique exhibits.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ali Baba Restaurant or look for street performers while enjoying the evening atmosphere.

Day 2: Alcatraz Island

  • Morning: Start early to get tickets to visit Alcatraz. Take the ferry and explore the prison cells, listen to a park ranger’s tour about the island’s history.
  • Afternoon: After visiting Alcatraz, grab lunch at one of the many restaurants near Fisherman’s Wharf or head back to your accommodation for some rest time.

Day 3: Golden Gate Bridge and Presidio

  • Morning: Begin with a visit to the Warming Hut Cafe, located under the southern end of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a great spot for breakfast while taking in the views.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Presidio, which offers scenic hiking trails. Look out for the Walt Disney Family Museum.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at the Cliff House Restaurant, with its stunning views of the ocean.

Day 4: Haight-Ashbury and Golden Gate Park

  • Morning: Visit Haight-Ashbury to experience San Francisco’s hippie past. Explore the neighborhood’s shops and cafes.
  • Afternoon: Head to Golden Gate Park for some outdoor time. The park is home to several attractions including the Japanese Tea Garden, de Young Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences. Try visiting the Exploratorium.

Day 5: Chinatown and North Beach

  • Morning: Visit the vibrant streets of Chinatown. Explore the Dragon’s Gate at the entrance.
  • Afternoon: Head to North Beach, San Francisco’s Italian-American neighborhood. Enjoy coffee at Caffe Trieste or try some pizza at one of the local pizzerias.

Day 6: Exploring the Mission District

  • Morning: Start in Dolores Park for a morning stroll and to see the city’s diverse community.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Mission Murals, a collection of vibrant street art. Enjoy lunch or dinner at La Taqueria for some delicious Mexican food.

Day 7: Golden Gate Park and the de Young Museum

  • Morning: Spend your last morning in San Francisco exploring Golden Gate Park. If you haven’t already, visit the de Young Museum to see their diverse collection of art from around the world.
  • Afternoon: Return any rented bikes or equipment, and make sure you’re packed for departure.

Where to Stay

San Francisco offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are a few suggestions based on location and price:

  • Budget: The Metro Hotel is a great option if you’re looking to save money while still being close to public transportation.
  • Mid-range: The Hotel Tomo in Japantown offers a unique experience with Japanese-inspired rooms.
  • Luxury: If you want to splurge, the Fairmont San Francisco has stunning views of the city and is located near Fisherman’s Wharf.

Transportation

San Francisco has a convenient public transportation system. Here are some tips:

  • Use Muni Metro: The metro is a great way to get around the city without a car.
  • Ride-share or taxi: If you prefer not to use public transportation, ride-share or taxi services are widely available.
  • Bike rental: San Francisco has bike-share programs and many bike-friendly roads.

Tips

Here are some additional tips for your trip:

  • Be prepared for hills: San Francisco is known for its steep hills, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and take breaks when needed.
  • Bring layers: The weather in San Francisco can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to pack layers for your visit.
  • Try some of the local cuisine: San Francisco has a diverse food scene, with plenty of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Things to Know

Here are some additional things to know before your trip:

  • Weather: The weather in San Francisco is generally mild, but it can be cool and foggy in the mornings.
  • Crowds: Some areas of the city, like Fisherman’s Wharf, can get very crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Safety: As with any major city, there are areas that are safer than others. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

By following this itinerary and taking some basic precautions, you’ll be able to have a fun and memorable trip to San Francisco. Enjoy your visit!