San Francisco, California 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Downtown San Francisco

• Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Cafe Reveille, a popular spot known for its unique coffee drinks and delicious pastries.
  • Visit the iconic Ferry Building Marketplace for local foods, artisan goods, and farmer’s market (Tuesdays & Thursdays).
  • Take a leisurely walk along The Embarcadero, enjoying the views of the Bay and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.

• Afternoon:

  • Visit the Fisherman’s Wharf to see sea lions at Pier 39, explore the Maritime National Historical Park, and enjoy fresh seafood at Scoma’s.
  • Hop on a ferry from Pier 41 to Alcatraz Island. Book your tickets in advance for the Alcatraz Night Tour for a unique experience.

• Evening:

  • Dine at Gary Danko, offering contemporary American cuisine with French influences.
  • End your day with a drink at The Buena Vista Cafe to enjoy the original Irish Coffee.

• Transportation: San Francisco’s public transit system, MUNI, offers bus and light rail services. Consider getting a Clipper card for easy and affordable travel around the city.

Day 2: Discovering Neighborhoods & Parks

• Morning:

  • Start your day with brunch at Mama’s on Washington Square in North Beach, followed by a stroll around the square and a visit to Coit Tower.

• Afternoon:

  • Head to Golden Gate Park and visit the California Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum, and the Japanese Tea Garden (extra fee).
  • Explore the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, famous for its counterculture history. Grab a snack at Magnolia Pub & Brewery for some local craft beer.

• Evening:

  • Dine at Zuni Cafe, known for its roast chicken and wood-fired pizzas.
  • Catch a show at the historic Fillmore Auditorium or enjoy live music at various venues around the city.

Day 3: Tech & Nature in San Francisco

• Morning:

  • Visit the Silicon Valley (about an hour south of SF). Tour Apple Park and the Googleplex.
  • Grab lunch at Stanford University’s Cantor Arts Center Cafe or explore local eateries in the area.

• Afternoon:

  • Return to San Francisco and visit Golden Gate Park’s Conservatory of Flowers.
  • Take a stroll along the Golden Gate Bridge (best at sunset) and grab dinner at Trademark & Co in Sausalito, located just across the bridge.

• Things to Know:

  • San Francisco is known for its foggy weather, so pack layers for your trip.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available if you prefer not to use public transit.
  • Be mindful of homelessness in the city, and avoid carrying valuables when walking around.

Enjoy your 3-day adventure in San Francisco!