Start your day in the bustling Union Square, a public plaza surrounded by high-end boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Stroll around the square to admire the contemporary sculptures and theatrical performances. Next, hop on the cable car, an iconic mode of transportation that takes you to the top of Nob Hill. Take in the panoramic view of the city before heading to the Cable Car Museum, which houses a collection of historic cable cars and machinery. In the afternoon, visit the Exploratorium, a museum of science, art, and human perception with interactive exhibits for all ages.
Start the day with a visit to the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge. Walk or bike across the bridge to enjoy the stunning view of the bay and the city skyline. Afterward, head to the Presidio, a historic park with miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks and museums. In the afternoon, visit Fisherman's Wharf, a lively waterfront district with excellent seafood restaurants and souvenir shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the playful sea lions bask in the sun at Pier 39. End your day with a relaxing bay cruise to enjoy the sunset and skyline views from the water.
If you have extra time, consider visiting Alcatraz Island, a former federal penitentiary turned museum. Tickets sell out fast, so it's recommended to book in advance. For an extra dose of culture, visit the Museum of Modern Art or the Asian Art Museum. If you prefer the outdoors, hike to the top of Twin Peaks for a 360-degree view of the city. For those with less time, skip Fisherman's Wharf and the bay cruise, or combine the activities of both days into one packed itinerary.