San Francisco

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Francisco's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring San Francisco
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride across it to enjoy stunning views of the bay.

afternoon
:

Explore the lively streets of Fisherman's Wharf, sampling fresh seafood and watching the sea lions at Pier 39. Don’t forget to check out the local shops and art galleries.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset cruise on the bay for breathtaking views of the city skyline. Afterward, dine at a waterfront restaurant for a delightful meal.

day 2
Culture & History
morning
:

Visit Alcatraz Island to learn about its fascinating history through an audio tour. Make sure to book tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines.

afternoon
:

Head over to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) to see contemporary masterpieces. Spend some time in the park nearby to relax and take in the scenery.

evening
:

Explore the Mission District for vibrant murals and authentic Mexican cuisine. End your night with a visit to a local bar for some drinks and live music.

day 3
Nature & Parks
morning
:

Take a morning hike in the Presidio National Park for beautiful views and fresh air. Stop by the famed Battery Spencer for a photo op of the Golden Gate.

afternoon
:

Visit the San Francisco Botanical Garden and enjoy the tranquility of its diverse plant life. Spend some time in Golden Gate Park visiting the de Young Museum.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the Palace of Fine Arts, a beautiful venue in the park. You can relax and reflect by the scenic lagoon.

day 4
Foodie Adventure
morning
:

Start your morning with a breakfast stop at a local café in North Beach, known for its Italian influence. Enjoy some fresh pastries and coffee to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour in the Ferry Building Marketplace to taste local delicacies. Sample everything from artisanal cheeses to gourmet chocolates.

evening
:

Dine at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the city for a unique culinary experience. Be sure to make reservations in advance.

day 5
The Great Outdoors
morning
:

Take a day trip to Muir Woods National Monument and see the stunning redwood trees. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the well-maintained trails.

afternoon
:

After the park, head to Sausalito for lunch with a view of the bay. Spend some time browsing local shops and enjoying the waterfront.

evening
:

Return to San Francisco and catch the sunset at Land's End. Finish the day at a cozy café in the city with dessert and coffee.

day 6
Shopping & Local Vibes
morning
:

Start the day in Union Square, where you can browse high-end shops and boutiques. Enjoy a coffee at one of the popular cafés in the area.

afternoon
:

Head to Haight-Ashbury for vintage shops and unique finds. Experience the vibrant cultural history of this iconic neighborhood.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the area. Wind down the night with some live music at a nearby venue.

day 7
Art & Architecture
morning
:

Begin your day at the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum that makes for an engaging experience. It’s perfect for all ages.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the artistic alleyways of the Tenderloin, discovering street art and murals. Visit the Asian Art Museum to appreciate diverse cultures.

evening
:

Admire the stunning architecture of the city by visiting the historic Ferry Building at dusk. Have dinner at a modern eatery nearby with beautiful views.

day 8
City Experiences
morning
:

Ride a cable car for a classic San Francisco experience, helping you navigate up and down the city's steep hills. Take in the sights and sounds as you travel.

afternoon
:

Visit the Exploratorium, a hands-on museum ideal for families and curious minds. Dive into engaging science exhibits and creative displays.

evening
:

Experience a local theater performance or comedy show. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through a nearby neighborhood.

day 9
Tech & Innovation
morning
:

Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation in nearby San Jose to learn about the latest in technology and innovation. Engage with hands-on exhibits.

afternoon
:

Afterward, explore the vibrant downtown area for lunch and structure to see the local tech scene in action. Enjoy a coffee in one of the hip tech cafés.

evening
:

Return to San Francisco and check out the Exploratorium during nighttime hours for special events. Enjoy a unique learning experience.

Discover San Francisco

Read more in our San Francisco 2024 Travel Guide.

San Francisco Travel Guide