San Francisco United States 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day San Francisco Itinerary: A City by the Bay Adventure

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: The Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square; Hotel Nikko San Francisco
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf; The Golden Gate Hotel
  • Budget: HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel; Green Tortoise Hostel

Transportation:

  • Muni: San Francisco’s public transportation system (buses, light rail, streetcars). Purchase a Clipper Card for easy fares.
  • Cable Cars: Iconic and fun, but can be crowded and slow.
  • Walking: Many neighborhoods are easily walkable.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available.

Things to Know:

  • San Francisco is known for its microclimates - dress in layers!
  • Fog can roll in unexpectedly, even on sunny days.
  • The city is hilly, be prepared for some steep inclines.

Day 1: Fisherman’s Wharf & Golden Gate Bridge

  • Morning: Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, see the playful sea lions at Pier 39, and grab fresh seafood at Boudin Bakery.
  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island (book in advance!), explore the infamous former prison and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view at Scoma’s on Pier 47, known for its fresh seafood and waterfront location.

Day 2: Golden Gate Park & Haight-Ashbury

  • Morning: Rent bikes and explore Golden Gate Park - visit the Japanese Tea Garden, California Academy of Sciences, or de Young Museum.
  • Afternoon: Journey to Haight-Ashbury, the birthplace of the counterculture movement, browse vintage shops and soak up the bohemian vibes.
  • Evening: Catch a live music show at The Fillmore, a legendary San Francisco venue.

Day 3: Lombard Street & North Beach

  • Morning: Visit Lombard Street, the “most crooked street in the world,” for a photo op and enjoy the charming houses.
  • Afternoon: Explore North Beach, known for its Italian heritage, bookstores like City Lights (Beat Generation hangout), and lively cafes.
  • Evening: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Sotto Mare, famous for its cioppino (seafood stew).

Day 4: Sausalito & Muir Woods

  • Morning: Take a ferry to Sausalito, a charming waterfront town with stunning views of San Francisco. Enjoy lunch and browse art galleries.
  • Afternoon: Visit Muir Woods National Monument, home to towering redwood trees. Hike among the giants and breathe in the fresh air.
  • Evening: Dinner at Foreign Cinema in the Mission District, known for its eclectic cuisine and outdoor movie screenings.

Day 5: Explore Diverse Neighborhoods

  • Morning: Explore Chinatown, the oldest and largest Chinatown outside of Asia. Enjoy dim sum, visit bustling markets, and see traditional temples.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Mission District, known for its vibrant murals, Latino culture, and trendy cafes. Check out Dolores Park for people-watching.

  • Evening: Experience fine dining at Atelier Crenn in Cow Hollow, a Michelin-starred restaurant with an innovative tasting menu.

Day 6: Golden Gate Bridge & Farewell

  • Morning: Walk or bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for breathtaking views of the city and bay.
  • Afternoon: Visit Lands End, a scenic coastal park with hiking trails, stunning ocean vistas, and the ruins of Sutro Baths.
  • Evening: Enjoy a final farewell dinner at Zuni Cafe, a San Francisco institution known for its roast chicken.

Additional Tips:

  • Purchase a CityPASS for discounted admission to popular attractions.
  • Check local event calendars for festivals, concerts, and other happenings.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing.
  • Don’t forget your camera! San Francisco is full of photo opportunities.

Enjoy your amazing adventure in the City by the Bay!