San Francisco, known as the City by the Bay, is a destination packed with iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods.
With its stunning architecture and rich history, it’s a place that beckons travelers to explore every corner.
Whether you’re gazing at the Golden Gate Bridge or wandering through the bustling streets of Chinatown, the city offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every interest.
Planning a 3-day itinerary in San Francisco allows visitors to soak in the highlights while also discovering hidden gems.
From riding the famous cable cars to enjoying breathtaking views at Lands End, there’s no shortage of activities.
This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, ensuring a memorable adventure that captures the essence of this remarkable city.
3 Days in San Francisco Itinerary
This itinerary covers the best of San Francisco, offering a balanced mix of iconic sights, delicious food, and memorable experiences over three exciting days.
Day 1: Bay Bridge + City Views
This day revolves around San Francisco’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking views.
Morning: Bay Bridge, Street Cars and City Views
Wake up early and grab breakfast at a Ferry Building food stall. Enjoy your meal at one of the waterfront picnic tables while taking in close-up views of the Bay Bridge.
Next, hop on the streetcar along the waterfront, stopping at the scenic Filbert Steps to ascend Telegraph Hill and reach Coit Tower for stunning city vistas.
Afternoon: Pier 39, Takeout Lunch, Aquatic Park and Alcatraz
Head to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 to see the famous sea lions. Visit the Musée Mécanique, a hidden gem featuring vintage arcade games.
For lunch, pick up some takeout from The Codmother or Wipe Out Hot Dog Cart and relish it at Aquatic Park.
Visit Ghirardelli Square afterward for a giant sundae, then take a brief trip to Alcatraz Island to explore the infamous prison, with boat rides departing from Pier 39.
Late Afternoon/Evening: Beaches, Bridges and Dinner
Continue along the waterfront to Crissy Field East Beach for a prime Golden Gate Bridge view. Stop by the Palace of Fine Arts, a historic remnant of the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition.
For dinner, indulge in Burmese cuisine at Mandalay or classic pizza at Tommaso’s in North Beach.
Things to do in San Francisco at Night
Enjoy nighttime activities like live music at Fisherman’s Wharf, a movie at the Balboa Theatre, or comedy at Cobb’s Comedy Club. Experience drag performances at Oasis and nightlife in North Beach.
Day 2: Downtown, Chinatown + North Beach
Explore San Francisco’s rich neighborhoods, focusing on Downtown, Chinatown, and North Beach.
Morning: Italian Breakfast, Iconic Bookstores and Architecture
Start with breakfast at a local Italian cafe, such as Stella Pastry & Cafe. Satisfy your sweet tooth with chocolate from XOXO Truffles.
Stroll through the historic North Beach neighborhood, visiting City Lights Bookstore, and appreciate the contrasting architecture of the Sentinel Building and the Transamerica Pyramid.
Afternoon: Chinatown
Venture into Chinatown through the Dragon Gate and discover colorful facades and delectable dumplings. Enjoy lunch at Delicious Dim Sum, where you can feast on shrimp dumplings and pork buns for under $20.
For a leisurely experience, picnic at St. Mary’s Square. Afterward, explore Grant Avenue and consider a food tour to learn about the culture behind local cuisine.
Late Afternoon/Evening: Shopping and Dinner at the Mission
Continue to Union Square for shopping, including a visit to Macy’s for aerial views. For dinner, take a quick BART ride to the Mission, the oldest neighborhood in the city, and enjoy a variety of dining options, such as Peruvian at Limon Rotisserie or a classic Mission burrito amidst street art murals.
Day 3: Golden Gate Park + Hikes
Finish your SF adventure with a day in nature at Golden Gate Park.
Morning
Start at Arizmendi Bakery just outside Golden Gate Park for breakfast. Afterward, walk through the park, spending time on paths and visiting must-see spots like the Academy of Sciences or the de Young art museum.
Afternoon
Make your way to Lands End, stopping at the Sutro Baths ruins before embarking on a scenic hiking trail along the cliffs offering incredible views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. Adventurous hikers can descend to Mile Rock Beach for an up-close experience.
Late Afternoon/Evening
Explore the Castro, known for its rich LGBTQ history, and dine at La Mediterranee for comforting Mediterranean fare or visit Sushi Time for fresh sushi.
Stroll along 16th Street to see the Castro Theatre, then wander through Haight-Ashbury, stopping by the Four Seasons Houses before heading to the famous Painted Ladies at 710-720 Steiner Street.
Day 4: Berkeley + Oakland
Cross the bay to explore the cities of Berkeley and Oakland using BART for ease of travel.
Morning
Visit the Oakland Grill at Jack London Square for brunch, then stroll the waterfront or explore the Mexican neighborhood of Fruitvale, checking out the Jingletown Art Trail.
Afternoon
Head to downtown Berkeley for lunch, choosing from options in North Berkeley such as The Cheese Board Collective. After lunch, tour the beautiful UC Berkeley campus and enjoy dessert at Yogurt Park, famous for its delicious frozen yogurt.
Late Afternoon/Evening
Explore Temescal, one of Oakland’s oldest districts, for dinner at spots like Cholita Linda for tacos or Pyeongchang Tofu House for Korean cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a car in San Francisco?
Visitors typically don’t need a car in San Francisco. The MUNI and BART public transportation systems excel, along with convenient rideshare options.
Not only does avoiding a car save you from parking headaches, but it also allows for easier navigation of the city’s compact layout. However, for trips outside the city to areas not served by BART, renting a car is recommended.
What should I pack for San Francisco?
Packing for San Francisco requires careful consideration due to the city’s unpredictable weather. It’s recommended to bring layers to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures.
Essential items include a waterproof coat, a woolen hat for wind protection, comfortable walking shoes, a portable charger, sunscreen, and blister care items for those challenging hills. Remember, the city can be windy, and the climate changes quickly, even during summer.
Final Words
San Francisco offers an unforgettable experience packed with stunning sights and culture. With its unique blend of history and modernity, there’s something for everyone.
Whether it’s savoring local cuisine or exploring picturesque landscapes, each day presents new adventures.
Travelers can easily navigate the city using public transport, allowing them to focus on enjoying their visit.
With thoughtful packing and a well-planned itinerary, your visitors can make the most of their three days. San Francisco’s charm and diversity ensure that memories created here will last a lifetime.
Alicia Richards