San Francisco California 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day San Francisco Itinerary

This itinerary offers a mix of iconic sights, hidden gems, and unique experiences. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests!

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Consider hostels in popular areas like Fisherman’s Wharf or Union Square for a social and affordable stay (e.g., Green Tortoise Hostel, USA Hostels San Francisco)
  • Mid-Range: Boutique hotels in vibrant neighborhoods like the Mission District, Hayes Valley, or North Beach offer charm and character (e.g., Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf, The Golden Gate Hotel)
  • Luxury: Stay in a historic hotel with stunning views (e.g., Fairmont San Francisco, The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco).

Things to Know:

  • Weather: San Francisco is known for its cool, foggy weather. Pack layers and be prepared for anything!

  • Geography: San Francisco is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Transportation:

    • Public Transportation: The MUNI public transportation system is the most efficient way to get around. Purchase a Clipper Card for easy access to buses, trains, and cable cars.
    • Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the downtown areas.
    • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available and convenient for getting around.

Things to Consider:

  • Interests: What do you enjoy? Museums? Parks? Food? Shopping? Tell me what interests you most and I can customize this further.
    • Budget: How much do you want to spend on activities and food?
    • Travel Style: Are you looking for a relaxed itinerary or something packed with things to see and do?

Let’s assume you’re interested in exploring the city’s diverse culture, enjoying its natural beauty, and experiencing the culinary scene. I’ve also included options for various budgets.

Day 1: Golden Gate Bridge & Fisherman’s Wharf (Classic San Francisco)

  • Morning: Arrive in San Francisco and check into your hotel/hostel.

  • Afternoon: Explore the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Walk or bike across it for stunning views of the city, Alcatraz Island, and the bay (bike rentals available at various locations).

  • Budget:

    • Free: Visit the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center for information and exhibits. Enjoy a picnic with a view on a nearby picnic area.

  • Mid-Range: Take a bike tour across the Golden Gate Bridge. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf, see the sea lions, and enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.

  • High-End: Experience San Francisco from above with a private helicopter tour over the city and bay.

Day 2: Culture & History (Golden Gate Park & Museums)

  • Morning: Explore the diverse landscape of Golden Gate Park, including the Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Japanese Tea Garden’s tea house.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Japanese Tea Garden for a peaceful stroll. Enjoy a meal at The Japanese Tea Garden Tea House or another park restaurant.
  • Free: Stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden, explore the Botanical Garden, and visit the free Japanese Friendship Garden.

Day 3: Exploring the City (Golden Gate Park & North Beach)

  • Morning: Visit Lombard Street, “the most crooked street in the world”.

  • Afternoon: Explore the California Academy of Sciences or another museum of your choice. Enjoy a classic Italian meal at a trattoria or cafe in North Beach.

  • Budget: Enjoy a picnic lunch and explore the Japanese Tea House, Musée Mécanique, or Golden Gate Park’s free museums (de Young Museum).

  • High-End: Take a private tour of Alcatraz Island, exploring the prison and its history.

Day 4: Cityscape & Culture (North Beach, Chinatown, Lombard Street)

  • Explore the cultural diversity of San Francisco.

  • Option A: Visit Lombard Street, “the most crooked street in the world”, then enjoy a classic Italian meal at a restaurant in Golden Gate Park.

  • Option B: (Chinatown) Enjoy a delicious and affordable dim sum lunch, followed by a visit to the Japanese Tea Garden in the afternoon.

  • Option C: Explore Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in North America.

Day 5: Fisherman’s Wharf & Beyond

  • Morning: Visit the Exploratorium, a hands-on science museum, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the many cafes in the area.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a final meal and explore other parts of the city, such as the vibrant murals of Mission District.

  • Stay: Enjoy a delicious lunch and explore the city’s history by visiting the historic piers, the Ferry Building Marketplace, or the Fisherman’s Wharf museum.

Budget: Explore the historical side of Chinatown, including the Chinese Historical Society & Museum

  • Free: Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoy a picnic at Fort Point, and explore the vibrant streets of the city.

  • Mid-Range: Enjoy a seafood dinner in a restaurant with a view, take a walking tour of Alcatraz

  • High-End: Enjoy a luxury meal with a stunning bay view, visit one of the free outdoor gardens like the North Beach neighborhood.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore Golden Gate Park’s diverse attractions. Enjoy a final day of sightseeing and take a final ride on a cable car (

Day 5: (cont.)

  • Free: Enjoy a final day of sightseeing and explore the historical streets with a delicious scoop of ice cream from one of the many vendors.

Enjoy your trip!