San Francisco California 2 Day Itinerary

Title: Two-Day Itinerary for San Francisco, California

Day 1:

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Cafe Reveille, a trendy spot known for its delicious coffee and brunch options.
  • Head to Golden Gate Park, home to several attractions like the California Academy of Sciences, De Young Museum, Japanese Tea Garden, and Conservatory of Flowers.
  • Spend the morning exploring the California Academy of Sciences (note: tickets are required).

Afternoon:

  • Grab lunch at Tartine Manufactory, offering a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and salads.
  • Hop on a bus or rent a bike to head to The Painted Ladies. These iconic Victorian houses are just a short walk away from Alamo Square Park.
  • Take a stroll along Hayes Valley and check out the unique shops and street art.

Evening:

  • For dinner, visit Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, offering great beer and pub fare.
  • Catch a sunset at Golden Gate Bridge. Park at Crissy Field or take a walk along the Marina Green.

Day 2:

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square, a San Francisco institution since 1956.
  • Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. Don’t forget to see the Sea Lions at K-Dock!
  • Explore the Aquarium of the Bay (tickets required).

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Alioto’s, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the bay.
  • Take a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island. Book tickets in advance as they sell out quickly (Alcatraz Cruises).
  • After returning from Alcatraz, stroll around Nob Hill and take a photo with the famous Gravity Hill Sign.

Evening:

  • For dinner, visit Michael Mina for contemporary American cuisine.
  • End your day with a walk through Chinatown, San Francisco’s oldest Chinatown in North America.

Things to Know:

  1. Public transportation in San Francisco is provided by Muni (sfmuni.com). Consider getting a Clipper Card for seamless travel on buses, light rail, and ferries.
  2. Parking can be a challenge, so consider using parking apps like Parkmobile or Parkopedia to help find spots more easily.
  3. Layers are essential as San Francisco’s weather can change rapidly throughout the day.
  4. Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Lyft) are also readily available in the city.

Tips:

  1. Don’t forget to try local favorites like Clam Chowder Bread Bowl, Ghirardelli Square chocolate, and sourdough bread from Boudin Bakery!
  2. Take a scenic drive or bike ride along Lands End for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, and Sutro Baths.
  3. Visit sftravel.com for more information on attractions, accommodations, dining, and events in San Francisco.