Three-Day Itinerary for San Francisco

  1. Day 1: Golden Gate Bridge
    20 minutes (7.2 miles) from downtown San Francisco
    Get an early start to catch the sunrise and beat the crowds at the Golden Gate Bridge. Take a stroll or bike ride on the bridge to admire the stunning views of the city and the bay. When you're done, head to Golden Gate Park to explore the attractions there, including de Young Museum, California Academy of Sciences and Japanese Tea Garden.
  2. Day 2: Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz Island
    15 minutes (4.0 miles) from Golden Gate Park
    Start your day off at Fisherman's Wharf, and try some local seafood. Then, take the ferry from Pier 33 to Alcatraz Island to see America's most notorious prison, which has now turned into a national park. After returning, head to Lombard Street, known as the "Crooked Street," for a unique photo op. End your day with some shopping or dining at Ghirardelli Square.
  3. Day 3: Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury
    25 minutes (3.0 miles) from Ghirardelli Square
    Begin your day with a visit to the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. Explore the colorful streets and sample some traditional Chinese cuisine. Next, visit Haight-Ashbury, the birthplace of the 1960s counterculture. See iconic landmarks such as the Haight-Ashbury street sign and Janis Joplin's former residence. End your day at the Tank Hill for an incredible view of the city and the sunset.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Golden Gate Bridge (2-3 hours, free)
  • Golden Gate Park (3-4 hours, free)
  • Fisherman's Wharf (2 hours, free)
  • Alcatraz Island (2-3 hours, $38)
  • Lombard Street (30 minutes, free)
  • Ghirardelli Square (2 hours, varies)
  • Chinatown (2 hours, varies)
  • Haight-Ashbury (2 hours, varies)
  • Tank Hill (1 hour, free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $38 (Alcatraz Island Admission Fee)

Useful Tips

If you have an extra day, consider taking a day trip to Napa Valley or Muir Woods. For a shorter trip, you can spend half a day in Sausalito, a charming artist enclave across the Golden Gate Bridge. If you find yourself with limited time, prioritize the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, and Alcatraz Island, as they are the most iconic attractions in San Francisco. Remember to check opening hours and book Alcatraz Island tickets in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.

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