San Francisco United States 5 Day Itinerary

San Francisco 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Center and Iconic Landmarks

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Cafe Reveille, a popular spot known for its delicious coffee and all-day brunch menu.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ferry Building Marketplace to explore local food vendors, then head to Governor’s Island for stunning views of the bay and city skyline. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the iconic Painted Ladies houses!
  • Evening: Have dinner at Mrs. Doubtfire’s House (located at 2640 Steiner St.), where you can dine in the famous movie spot, Cafe Flore or Zuni Cafe.
  • Night: Catch a comedy show at Cobb’s Comedy Club or enjoy live music at one of the city’s many bars and clubs.

Day 2: Explore the Golden Gate Park and Surrounding Neighborhoods

  • Morning: Fuel up with breakfast at Tartine Bakery, then head to the California Academy of Sciences or the De Young Museum.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Conservatory of Flowers and stroll through the beautiful gardens. If you’re a fan of cars, check out the California Automobile Museum.
  • Evening: Have dinner at Zazu NorCal Kitchen in the Cole Valley neighborhood, known for its farm-to-table dishes.
  • Night: Explore the vibrant nightlife in the Mission District or the Castro District.

Day 3: Visit Alcatraz Island and Fisherman’s Wharf

  • Morning: Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island. Book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly. Spend a couple of hours exploring the former prison.
  • Afternoon: Head to Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch at Scoma’s Restaurant or Alioto Lounge. Visit the Sea Lion Center, explore the shops, and maybe even take a ride on a historic streetcar.
  • Evening: Dine at Anchor Oyster Bar for fresh seafood or head to North Beach for Italian cuisine.

Day 4: Explore the Mission District and Surroundings

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Mission Minis or Tartine Manufactory.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), then explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District. Don’t forget to check out the famous Graffiti Alley.
  • Evening: Have dinner at Richmond Station or Mission Chinese Food.
  • Night: Take a stroll around the Mission District, visit Dolores Park, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Day 5: Visit the Haight-Ashbury Neighborhood and Golden Gate Park

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at The Kitchen, then head to the Golden Gate Park to visit the Japanese Tea Garden or the Buffalo Paddock.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, known for its ties to the 1960s counterculture movement. Visit the Grateful Dead House and check out the local shops and cafes.
  • Evening: Have dinner at Magnolia Pub & Brewery Haight Ashbury or Zuni Cafe’s second location in the neighborhood.
  • Night: End your trip with a sunset walk along Baker Beach, offering breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge.