Day 1: Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island
Start the day with a walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy the stunning views. Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and learn about its history as a notorious prison. End the day watching the sunset at Baker Beach.
Day 2: Fisherman's Wharf and Chinatown
Begin the day at the bustling Fisherman's Wharf and enjoy a hearty seafood breakfast. Visit the iconic attractions such as Pier 39 and Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum. Stroll through Chinatown and explore the markets and shops, and try some authentic Chinese cuisine for dinner.
Day 3: Museums and Castro
Start the day with a visit to the California Academy of Sciences and explore the aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest exhibit. In the afternoon, visit the de Young Museum and admire the vast collection of American art. End the day in Castro, the historic LGBTQ neighborhood, with dinner and drinks at one of the many bars and restaurants in the area.
Day 4: Golden Gate Park and Haight-Ashbury
Spend the morning at Golden Gate Park, exploring the Japanese Tea Garden, the de Young Museum or the Botanical Garden. In the afternoon, walk through the colorful streets of Haight-Ashbury, the epicenter of the 60s counterculture movement, and visit the vintage clothing shops, vibrant street art, and bookstores before returning home.
Time and Costs Estimates
Golden Gate Bridge (2 hours, free)
Alcatraz Island (3 hours, $45)
Baker Beach (1 hour, free)
Fisherman's Wharf (2 hours, free)
Chinatown (3 hours, $20+)
California Academy of Sciences (3 hours, $40)
de Young Museum (2 hours, $15)
Castro (2-3 hours, $30+)
Golden Gate Park (3-4 hours, free)
Haight-Ashbury (2 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: $150+
Transportation
San Francisco is a walkable city and has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, cable cars, and light rails. A one-way ticket on Muni costs $3, and a one-day pass is $13. If you plan to visit attractions further away from the city center, consider taking a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft, which can cost $20-$30 per trip.
Useful Tips
If you have more time, consider renting a bike and exploring the city's beautiful neighborhoods and parks. If you have less time, prioritize your top must-see sights and plan your days accordingly. Remember that San Francisco has a cool and foggy climate, so bring layers and a jacket.
Airports
San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located 13 miles from the city center, is the main airport serving the city. Other airports in the area include Oakland International Airport (OAK) and San Jose International Airport (SJC).