4-Day Scenic and Cultural Exploration from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park

Day 1: San Francisco Culture

San Francisco, USA on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring classic American dishes with fresh ingredients in a cozy setting, popular for its omelets and pancakes. Opens at 8am.
USD25, 1h

9:30am

Explore Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39

Walk through this lively waterfront area with street performers, shops, sea lions, and great views of the bay. A good place to get souvenirs and experience local life.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the historic Alcatraz prison and enjoy an audio tour that reveals its fascinating history and infamous inmates. Tickets should be booked in advance. Opens at 9am, last ferry usually 3:30pm.
USD42, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Boudin Bakery Café

Try their famous San Francisco sourdough bread with clam chowder served in a bread bowl for a classic local experience.
USD20, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Golden Gate Bridge Vista Points

Drive or bike to viewpoints such as Battery Spencer or Crissy Field for stunning photographic opportunities of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Scoma’s Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood in this famous waterfront restaurant known for its fresh fish and excellent service. Reservations recommended. Open until 9pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Travel to Yosemite

Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, CA, USA on May 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Fuel up with fresh pastries and coffee from this famous bakery renowned for its artisan breads and morning treats. Opens 7am.
USD15, 45m

8:00am

Drive to Yosemite National Park

Depart early for the approximately 4-hour scenic drive to Yosemite, passing through the Sierra Nevada foothills with picturesque views and stops for photos.
USD35 Park Entry Fee, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court

Enjoy casual dining with views of Yosemite Falls, offering pizza, sandwiches, and salads for a quick refuel.
USD20, 45m

1:30pm

Explore Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Get information about Yosemite’s natural wonders, then take an easy 1-mile round-trip walk to see the base of Lower Yosemite Falls.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Check-in at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Relax and get ready for the next day’s adventures. The lodge is centrally located with great access to park trails.
Variable, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Dine with spectacular views of Yosemite Falls and enjoy American cuisine with fresh local ingredients. Open until 9pm.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 3: Yosemite Adventure

Yosemite National Park, USA on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at the lodge restaurant to prepare for hiking.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail

Take this iconic trail for up-close views of spectacular waterfalls and granite cliffs. The hike is moderately strenuous and takes about 4-5 hours round trip.
Free, 5h

2:00pm

Lunch picnic in Yosemite Valley

Pack a picnic lunch from the deli at the lodge or nearby market to enjoy outdoors amid impressive scenery.
USD15, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Glacier Point

Drive or take the shuttle to Glacier Point to see breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. Open seasonally, check shuttle schedule.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Relax with dinner indoors or on the patio featuring comfort food after a full day hiking.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Return to San Francisco

Yosemite National Park to San Francisco, USA on June 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Early breakfast to start the return trip refreshed and ready for the drive back.
USD20, 1h

8:00am

Drive back to San Francisco

Enjoy the scenic and relaxing drive back to the city, about 4 hours. Plan for stops along the way for snacks or photos.
None, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Grove

This casual eatery offers fresh and healthy dishes perfect for a midday meal after your drive. Located near downtown San Francisco.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Afternoon stroll at Golden Gate Park

Spend a relaxing afternoon walking the gardens, visiting the Conservatory of Flowers (open 10am-5pm), or boating on Stow Lake (boat rentals available until sunset).
Free to walk; Conservatory USD10; boat rental USD20, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

End your trip with fresh and sustainable seafood at this waterfront restaurant on Pier 39 offering sunset views. Open until 9pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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