3 perfect days in San Francisco
Cable cars, outstanding food, and captivating views that even the locals love.


If you get bored in San Francisco you will be bored anywhere. This city offers endless options for entertainment, outdoor activities and dining adventures that you just aren't going to get in any other place.
Whether you're hopping on a cable car at Fisherman’s Wharf, hoofing it up the hills of North Beach or biking through Golden Gate Park you'll find something surprising around every corner. What other urban park in the U.S. has a herd of bison? Where else can you gawk at the house where the Grateful Dead once lived?
This three-day itinerary covers 49 square miles of SF charm from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, with Tripadvisor recs included. Grab your fleece (it gets cold at the drop of a dime) and lace up your sneakers. You’re in for a wild ride.
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Top attractions in San Francisco
DAY ONE

MORNING: Rise and shine in Fisherman's Wharf
Start your day with a stroll around Fisherman's Wharf. Go early for a less crowded, more peaceful experience. At Pier 47, you can watch the fisherman deliver their daily catch to Scoma’s. Fuel up with a frittata or crepes at Eight AM on Columbus Street. Head to Pier 39, order an espresso from the Biscoff Coffee stand (you get a free cookie!), then go see our local celebrities, the sea lions.
Discover the area with these guided tours
AFTERNOON: Whisk off to Alcatraz and stroll along the waterfront
You definitely need to take the ferry to Alcatraz Island. Sure, it was one of the most notorious federal prisons in US history, but it’s also got some killer views of the bay! They operate tours daily, but make sure you book your tickets well in advance.
From Pier 33, make your way down the Embarcadero and visit the Exploratorium. There are tons of interactive science exhibits, so it’s a great option for kids. If you’re feeling fancy, book lunch at the bayside chic Terrene. If you’re not feeling fancy at all (think: plastic chairs), park yourself on the patio at Pier 23 Cafe with fish tacos and a pitcher of sangria. Head to the Ferry Building Marketplace to pick up food gifts and souvenirs from local artisans.
Travelers say: “Exploring Alcatraz Island feels like stepping back in time, a powerful tribute to the strength of the human spirit. The blend of captivating history, breathtaking landscapes, and meticulously maintained architecture creates an experience unlike any other. Whether you're passionate about history, enchanted by nature, or just in search of an unforgettable adventure, Alcatraz deserves a prime spot on your must-visit list.” —@bradsM1671FF
EVENING: A night out in North Beach
For happy hour, sit in the parklet at Belle Cora (tables are first-come, first-serve, but you can reserve banquet space for bigger groups). They have great beer and wine, outdoor fire pits, and live music on most nights. People typically end up dancing on the sidewalk.
Do dinner at the cozy Tosca Cafe, a North Beach legend since 1919. Enjoy the vintage vibes and spring for the braised short rib rigatoni (I’m pretty sure I’ve had dreams about it). Burn off your meal with a walk past the Saints Peter and Paul Church on Washington Square. It’s where Marilyn Monroe married former North Beach resident Joe DiMaggio. Need a nightcap? 15 Romolo has tasty cocktails and a real jukebox. It’s tucked away in a tiny alley, which feels very cool and mysterious.
DAY TWO

MORNING: Dive into Chinatown for dim sum and a hidden temple
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America and is full of rich history and delicious food. The day should begin with dim sum at City View, one of my all-time favorite spots. The service is impeccable, and so are the BBQ pork buns.
Marvel at the colorful flags and hanging lanterns on Waverly Place, and pay a visit to Tin How Temple. It’s an off-the-beaten-path shrine where you can light incense in honor of the Chinese sea goddess Mazu, who blessed the early migrants to San Francisco. For a real treat, stop by the tiny Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory (it can be hard to find, so just follow the smell). You can watch the team make cookies by hand or sign up for a tour of the factory online. Whatever you do, buy a bag to bring home.
Shop for unique souvenirs along Grant Avenue (I love Jing Ying for crystals and Kim + Ono for handcrafted silk kimonos) and snap a few photos at the Dragon Gate. The best time to visit is in February, during the Chinese New Year — you can find a celebration every weekend of the month!
Discover the area with these guided tours
AFTERNOON: Enjoy the art in SoMa
Head south of Market Street to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and soak in contemporary exhibits from artists around the world. I’m also a huge fan of the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD); it’s small, but beautifully curated, and they’ve always got interesting events going on.
Take a leisurely walk to Yerba Buena Gardens, an urban oasis in the midst of the city. Explore the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and relax by the reflecting pool. If the weather doesn’t permit a park day, tuck into The Grove’s casual, farm-to-table comfort food for lunch. Order the Berkeley Bowl and a chicken pot pie at the counter, then find a table on the plant-filled covered patio. It's the perfect pit stop during an art-filled day.
Travelers say: “I loved coming to [Yerba Buena Gardens], a gorgeously verdant rest in the middle of a large urban area. You can hang out and relax, people watch, or walk around and enjoy the scenery. There are museums bordering the gardens as well.” —@dustythoughts
EVENING: Dinner and a show in Union Square
Union Square can get a bad rap, but it remains one of the best places in the city to catch a show or do some luxury shopping. Get tickets to a play at The Curran Theatre or San Francisco Playhouse. Both venues have a cozy, intimate vibe that’s ideal for date night. Grab a drink at the award-winning Pacific Cocktail Haven. They’ve got a huge menu of signature cocktails, plus wine, beer, and sake.
For dinner, do tapas and martinis at Ula. The moment you walk in, you’ll feel like you’re under the sea. My favorite thing about Union Square is the sleek, sexy hotel bars. For post-show drinks, I love Corzetti at Hotel G, The Clift’s Prohibition-era Redwood Room, and the lounge at Beacon Grand, formerly the Sir Francis Drake.
DAY THREE

MORNING: Discover everything Golden Gate Park has to offer
Stroll or bike through Golden Gate Park. It’s over 1,000 acres, so you should plan what you want to see ahead of time. My suggestions? Hike around and rent a pedal boat at Stow Lake. Nature lovers will also enjoy exploring the Japanese Tea Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, or Botanical Garden.
If the weather isn’t cooperating, head inside the de Young Museum for world-famous exhibits and a surprisingly upscale brunch at the café. The California Academy of Sciences is a great option for kids — between the aquarium, planetarium, and living rainforest, they’ll be fully entertained and educated.
Travelers say: “There's so much to love about [Golden Gate Park] it would be impossible to write enough prose. I'll just say it's San Francisco's gem, and I'll keep on coming back to enjoy the many and unique offerings..” —@Kittygal
AFTERNOON: Time warp to the ‘60s and do it up on Divisidero
Make your way to the iconic Haight-Ashbury district. Grab a pick-me-up at Flywheel Coffee Roasters and explore the vintage shops on Haight Street, the heart of the hippie movement. Don't miss the colorful murals and the famous Painted Ladies houses along Alamo Square Park (you may recognize them from the opening of the sitcom Full House).
For a late lunch or a bit of bar-hopping, head to Divisadero Street. It’s an eclectic area with an artsy, laid-back vibe. Most spots feature work from local artists on the walls. My favorites are The Page, Mini Bar, and Horsefeather (get the duck fat fries and gochujang crispy wings). Go to Madrone Art Bar for the cocktails, but stay for their nightly entertainment. There’s always an art opening or live performance happening — Motown Mondays are especially fun!
Discover the area with these guided tours
EVENING: Finding flavor, art, and culture in the Mission
The Mission district has a strong Latin influence, dating back to the 1940s when many Mexican and Central American immigrants settled there. As you explore the neighborhood, remember that its history and culture have shaped it into the vibrant and diverse place it is today.
Start at Trick Dog and order one of their cocktails named after yoga poses (I’m partial to the Chair Pose). For dinner, head to El Techo — they’ve got one of the best rooftops in the city. Get there early to secure a good spot with a view. If you’d prefer something more laid-back (but equally authentic), go with La Taqueria; they’ve been serving up authentic Mexican cuisine since 1973 and are renowned for their mouthwatering burritos. There will be a line, but it moves quickly. Get the carne asada or carnitas burrito with all the fixings.
With your taste buds satisfied, it’s time to explore the nightlife and culture of the Mission, deeply intertwined with its history. El Rio is a beloved neighborhood bar with live music and events, stiff drinks, and a legendary back patio. It’s LGBTQ+ owned and operated and a guaranteed good time.
The Mission's history as a hub for artists and activists is prominently displayed in its vibrant street art. Finish the night with a walk through Balmy Alley, known for its colorful and thought-provoking murals. Then, stop for a sweet, late-night treat at Bi-Rite Creamery — try their signature Salted Caramel or head home with a seasonal pint.
Know Before You Go
San Francisco's weather can be a bit unpredictable. It’s generally pleasant during spring and fall. Summer brings warmer temperatures but also the infamous fog, especially in neighborhoods like the Haight. Winter can be rainy, but it's a great time to find cheaper hotel rates. Layer up, and you’ll be fine!
Keep in mind that San Francisco is a year-round tourist destination, so your best bet is to book accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak summer season.
During the week, you can find discounted — and sometimes free — entry to museums and attractions. Some eateries and boutiques are closed on Mondays, but you’ll still have plenty of options.
San Francisco is a city that never sleeps, and there's something happening every night. If you're looking for lively evenings, consider visiting on Thursdays (the new Fridays). Lots of bars and restaurants have special deals and midweek events.
Museums and attractions typically open around 10 am. and close between 5 and 6 pm. Showtimes for theaters and live performances vary (I’ve caught a few pre-dinner shows) but often start in the evening, around 7 or 8 pm.
Many restaurants close their kitchens around 9 or 10 pm, although some stay open later. Most bars in San Francisco close at 2 am, but night owls can often find weekend after-hours spots like The EndUp in SoMa. If you're craving late-night eats, Grubstake is a 24-hour diner known for its Portuguese cuisine and anytime breakfast.
Union Square: If you want to be in the heart of the action, Union Square is perfect. It's close to Chinatown, has lots of shopping, and offers easy access to buses, cabs, and the Powell Street cable car. The newly-renovated Beacon Grand hotel is exactly that — lush, modern, and with spectacular views of the city.
The Haight: For a quieter experience close to Golden Gate Park, choose The Haight. Be prepared for some foggy days, though. The Metro Hotel is situated near the panhandle, in a residential neighborhood. The rooms are small, but there’s a warm, artsy vibe and a communal garden to relax in after the day’s activities.
North Beach/Telegraph Hill: For the best of both worlds, North Beach/Telegraph Hill offers a walkable, bikeable, or cable car-friendly location. Stay at Hotel Zoe — it’s pet-friendly, has free bike rentals, and is close to the Embarcadero if you want to set sail on a little day trip.
By cable car: You’re not going to come to San Francisco without riding the cable cars, are you? The Powell-Mason, Powell-Hyde, and California Street lines run 7 am to 10 pm daily and are a great way to see the city and save your energy by not walking up hills. They date back to the late 19th century and provide both transportation and a glimpse into the city's history. Hold on tight!
By rideshare: Uber and Lyft were literally born here, so you know they’re widely available.
By taxi: Taxis are also readily available throughout the city, and you can easily hail one on the street or find them at designated taxi stands. Yellow Cab SF also has a pretty convenient app.
By bike: San Francisco is a bike-friendly city with regular and electric bike rentals available in most places, particularly in Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and Golden Gate Park. The city has dedicated bike lanes and many hotels offer complimentary rentals for guests.
Public transportation: San Francisco's public transportation system, known as MUNI, includes buses, overground streetcars, and an underground metro system. The MUNI network covers the entire city, so it’s an affordable and efficient way to get around. And don’t forget about the Big Bus, a hop-on-hop-off tour offering unlimited access from 10 am to 5 pm.