San Francisco California 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day San Francisco Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on popular tourist attractions and is easily customizable based on your interests.

Day 1:

  • Morning:

    • Activity: Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, a vibrant waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and plenty to see. Visit the famous sea lions at Pier 39, watch the ferry boats come and go, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
    • Things to know: Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist destination, so expect crowds. It’s also a great place to catch a glimpse of San Francisco’s iconic sights, like Alcatraz Island (best booked in advance) and the Golden Gate Bridge (visible from many spots in the city).
    • Things to eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along Pier 39. For a more local experience, head to Swan Oyster Depot in the Nob Hill neighborhood for delicious oysters and other classic SF fare.

  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island. This infamous former prison offers a fascinating glimpse into San Francisco’s history. Book your tickets online beforehand as they sell out quickly.

    • Things to eat: Enjoy lunch at the Alcatraz Cafe in the Fisherman’s Wharf area before your ferry departs.

  • Evening: Head back to San Francisco’s mainland and enjoy a scenic walk along the Embarcadero.

    • Things to do: Visit one of the restaurants with stunning Golden Gate Bridge views, like Scoma’s or The Buena Vista Cafe, for dinner.

  • Dinner: Enjoy the view!

Food & Drink Recommendations:

  • Breakfast at Tartine Bakery: This San Francisco institution is known for its incredible sourdough bread and pastries. Be prepared to wait in line, but it’s worth it.
  • Lunch at Brenda’s French Soul Food: Indulge in delicious New Orleans-inspired food with a unique twist. Their beignets are a must-try!
  • Dinner & Drinks at The Buena Vista Cafe: This popular cafe is known for its classic Irish coffee and comforting comfort food.

Transportation:

  • Muni: San Francisco’s public transportation system, the Muni, is a great way to get around. Utilize their buses, trains (streetcars), and cable cars for affordable and efficient travel.
  • Ride-sharing apps: Uber and Lyft are convenient options for navigating San Francisco’s hills and exploring further distances within the city.

Tips for your trip:

  • Book Alcatraz tickets in advance: They often sell out on the day, so plan ahead!
  • Dress in layers: The weather in San Francisco can change drastically throughout the day.
  • Embrace the public transportation: It’s a fun and efficient way to see the city.

Things to do:

  • Take a walking tour: This is a great way to learn about the history of the city, explore different neighborhoods, and get insider tips from a local guide.
  • Ride a cable car: It’s a classic San Francisco experience and a fun way to see the sights.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Start your day with a delicious brunch at Foreign Cinema, a restaurant known for its outdoor seating and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

  • Activity: Explore the vibrant culture of the Mission District. Wander through the colorful murals, sample the diverse culinary offerings (tacos, burritos, burritos!), and visit Mission Dolores Park to enjoy the stunning views.

  • Things to do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden, a tranquil oasis in Golden Gate Park.

  • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at a local spot like La Taqueria for some of their famous tacos, or a more leisurely meal at Tartine Bakery (French cafe food)

  • Activity: Take a ferry to Sausalito and explore the charming waterfront town while enjoying lunch with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

  • Things to do: Enjoy a scenic bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. The journey across the iconic bridge is an unforgettable experience, but book your rental in advance!

  • Afternoon: Explore the diverse and vibrant Mission District on foot, by bike, or through one of its many colorful murals.

  • Things to do: Visit the California Academy of Sciences, explore the shops and restaurants along Valencia Street, or enjoy a picnic with stunning views at Golden Gate Park.

  • Evening: Explore the city’s vibrant nightlife scene with dinner and drinks in North Beach, followed by a visit to The Barbary Coast for live music.

  • Things to do: Enjoy dinner with a view, this time of the Golden Gate Bridge from a distance.

Transportation:

  • Public Transportation: Consider utilizing the Muni’s public transportation system (buses and streetcars) for an efficient and affordable way to explore different areas within San Francisco.
  • Walking: Explore the city’s charm by walking! Many attractions are walkable, and you can use the opportunity to enjoy its diverse architecture and neighborhoods.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy a leisurely bike ride: Rent bikes and explore the Golden Gate Park trails.

  • Walk through the streets of San Francisco: It’s a great way to see the city at its own pace.

  • Take a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft: They are convenient for longer distances and navigating across different hills.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Ferry Building Marketplace: A foodie paradise with local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more.
  • Catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre: A historic venue known for its Broadway productions and stunning architecture.

Day 2:

  • Things to do: Enjoy the vibrant culture of the Mission District, checking out the colorful murals and the charming atmosphere.

  • Eat your way through the Ferry Building: This is a great place to try some local delicacies.

Let me know if you have any specific interests (like museums, parks, historical sites, etc.) and I can tailor the itinerary further!