Exploring San Francisco: 7-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, December 5: Arrival and Exploring Downtown

Welcome to San Francisco! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and getting settled. In the morning, take a stroll along the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the bay. In the afternoon, explore Union Square, known for its upscale shopping, art galleries, and theaters. In the evening, head to Chinatown for a delicious dinner at one of the many authentic Chinese restaurants.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: Free, 2 hours
  • Union Square: Free, 3 hours
  • Chinatown: Cost varies, 2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Exploring Alcatraz Island

Start your morning with a visit to Alcatraz Island, the notorious former federal prison. Take a ferry from Pier 33 to the island and explore the prison cells, learn about the history, and enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline. In the afternoon, head to Fisherman's Wharf for a seafood lunch and visit the nearby Pier 39 to see the resident sea lions. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Embarcadero and enjoy the beautiful waterfront.

  • Alcatraz Island: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
  • Fisherman's Wharf: Cost varies, 2 hours
  • Pier 39: Free, 1 hour
  • Embarcadero: Free, 2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Exploring Golden Gate Park

Spend your morning exploring the vast and beautiful Golden Gate Park. Visit the California Academy of Sciences, which houses a natural history museum, aquarium, planetarium, and a rainforest exhibit. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and then visit the de Young Museum to admire its impressive art collection. In the evening, head to Haight-Ashbury, known for its hippie culture and eclectic shops.

  • Golden Gate Park: Free, 4-5 hours
  • California Academy of Sciences: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • de Young Museum: Cost varies, 2 hours
  • Haight-Ashbury: Free, 2 hours
Friday, December 8: Day Trip to Muir Woods and Sausalito

Escape the city and take a day trip to the majestic Muir Woods National Monument. Marvel at the towering ancient redwood trees and enjoy a peaceful hike through the forest. Afterward, head to the charming waterfront town of Sausalito, known for its picturesque views, art galleries, and waterfront dining. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the relaxing ambiance. Return to San Francisco in the evening.

  • Muir Woods: Cost varies, 4-5 hours
  • Sausalito: Free, 3 hours
Saturday, December 9: Exploring the Mission District

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Mission District. Explore the colorful murals that adorn the streets and alleys, and visit the Mission Dolores, the oldest intact building in San Francisco. Enjoy a delicious Mexican brunch at one of the many taquerias in the area. In the afternoon, explore the trendy boutiques, cafes, and bookstores along Valencia Street. In the evening, sample some craft beers at the local breweries.

  • Mission District: Free, 4 hours
  • Mission Dolores: Free, 1 hour
  • Valencia Street: Cost varies, 2 hours
  • Local breweries: Cost varies, 2 hours
Sunday, December 10: Exploring the Embarcadero

Spend your morning exploring the Embarcadero and the Ferry Building Marketplace. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of the artisanal food stalls and browse through the local shops selling gourmet products. Take a scenic ferry ride to the picturesque Angel Island State Park and enjoy a hike or a bike ride around the island. In the afternoon, visit the Exploratorium, a hands-on science museum. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Embarcadero, watching the sunset over the bay.

  • Embarcadero: Free, 3 hours
  • Ferry Building Marketplace: Cost varies, 1 hour
  • Angel Island State Park: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
  • Exploratorium: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Monday, December 11: Exploring the Presidio and Lands End

Start your day with a visit to the Presidio, a former military base turned national park. Explore the historic buildings, enjoy a picnic in the park, and take in the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. In the afternoon, head to Lands End, a rugged coastal park with hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. End your day with a visit to the nearby Legion of Honor, an art museum housing an impressive collection.

  • Presidio: Free, 3 hours
  • Lands End: Free, 2 hours
  • Legion of Honor: Cost varies, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring San Francisco, don't miss out on these off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals:

  • The Wave Organ: A unique acoustic sculpture that creates music from the waves of the bay.
  • Twin Peaks: Hike up to the top of Twin Peaks for panoramic views of the city.
  • The Castro Theatre: Catch a classic movie or a special event at this historic movie palace in the Castro neighborhood.
  • Land's End Labyrinth: Discover a peaceful labyrinth hidden along the coastal trails of Land's End.
  • City Lights Bookstore: Visit this iconic independent bookstore in North Beach, known for its literary history and Beat Generation connections.
These hidden gems and local favorites will provide unique experiences and insights into the vibrant culture of San Francisco.

Plan Your Trip

Check out hotel and flight prices on Kayak.com to plan your trip to San Francisco!

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