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Planning a trip to San Francisco but not sure how to fit it all in? We’ve got you covered!
With steep streets, cable cars, foggy mornings, and a patchwork of colorful neighborhoods, San Francisco is one of those cities that feels both iconic and unexpected. But between the historic sights, quirky corners, and world-class food scene, figuring out what to see can get a little overwhelming.
After multiple visits (and a lot of sourdough bread bowls), we’ve crafted this 3-day itinerary to help you experience the best of San Francisco without the stress. This guide will take you through unforgettable views, unique neighborhoods, and can’t-miss experiences—all mapped out in an easy-to-follow, day-by-day plan.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in San Francisco was this sightseeing tour in a ’70s VW bus! We cruised around the city in style, taking in top sights like Lombard Street, Haight-Ashbury, and the Golden Gate Bridge – of course!
Check out the 2,200+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Where to Stay in San Francisco
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Day 1
Breakfast – Fiddle Fig Cafe & Coffee
Kick off your morning at Fiddle Fig Cafe & Coffee, a bright and cozy spot known for its excellent coffee and ridiculously good sandwiches. It opens early and is just a 12-minute walk from today’s tour meeting point near Fisherman’s Wharf, making it the perfect place to grab breakfast before your day begins.
We loved starting the day here with a toasty breakfast sandwich and a cappuccino in hand. Plus, the walk to the wharf is half the fun—San Francisco is made for wandering, and you’ll pass colorful murals, quirky storefronts, and plenty of people-watching along the way. While we mostly stuck to walking or taking quick Ubers, the city is also well-connected with public buses if you’re feeling adventurous.
Morning – Tour San Francisco in a vintage ’70s VW bus
Kick off your late morning with this small-group bus ride through San Francisco in a classic VW bus. Select the 11:00 am departure, which gives you just enough time to enjoy breakfast and make the short walk over from the cafe to the meeting point near Fisherman’s Wharf.
From the second we climbed into the retro blue van—shag carpet, funky paint job, and all—it felt like stepping into a time capsule. The windows were down, the music was playing, and it was clear we were in for something special.
Our guide, Dave, made the entire ride feel like a mix of history lesson and joyride. As we cruised through neighborhoods like the Mission, North Beach, Chinatown, the Castro, and Haight-Ashbury, he kept the group laughing and learning with stories from San Francisco’s colorful past.
A highlight was hearing the Grateful Dead as we rolled past their former home in the Haight—surreal and unforgettable.
Since the bus is compact, we could navigate side streets and squeeze into places the big tours can’t reach. We even snagged incredible photo ops at the Golden Gate Bridge and tucked-away neighborhood gems.
The tour wraps up back at Fisherman’s Wharf around 1:00 pm, leaving you perfectly placed for a waterfront lunch and more exploring.
See the THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews and book this popular tour here!
Lunch – Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands
After the tour wraps up, stay right in the neighborhood for a classic San Francisco lunch you have to try at least once. Just a few steps from the drop-off point near Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll find a string of sidewalk chowder and crab stands that serve up warm, comforting bowls of clam chowder in iconic sourdough bread bowls.
San Francisco sourdough is famous for a reason, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than paired with creamy chowder, eaten streetside with views of the Bay. One of the best spots is right near the Boudin Bakery & Museum—which, by the way, is more of a bakery and restaurant than an actual museum (though you can peek at their sourdough starter from 1849 if you’re curious!).
If you’d rather sit down inside, you can grab a table at Boudin’s full-service restaurant, but we loved the casual vibe of grabbing lunch from one of the nearby sidewalk stands and finding a bench with a view.
Afternoon – Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Ghirardelli Square
After lunch, spend your afternoon exploring San Francisco’s lively northern waterfront. This stretch between Ghirardelli Square and Pier 39 is perfect for wandering on foot, offering a mix of local history, scenic views, and classic San Fran experiences. Start with a sweet stop at Ghirardelli Square before strolling down to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, where street performers, unique shops, and sea lions steal the show.
With 2 to 3 hours, you’ll have time to explore both areas at a relaxed pace, enjoy a few snacks or souvenirs, and maybe duck into the Aquarium of the Bay if time allows. Aim to wrap things up around 5:45 pm so you can grab dinner nearby before your evening cruise.
Ghiradelli Square
Start your afternoon with a sweet stop at Ghirardelli Square—because what’s a visit to San Francisco without a bit of chocolate? Just an 8-minute walk from Fisherman’s Wharf (and about 18 minutes from Pier 39), it makes the most sense to head here right after lunch.
Originally the site of the iconic Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, the square has been transformed into a lively historic complex filled with boutique shops, cafes, and waterfront views. It’s a fun spot to wander for about 30–45 minutes, especially if you pop into the flagship Ghirardelli Chocolate shop for a sundae—or at the very least, a few free chocolate samples.
There’s plenty of seating around the square, and often live music or local events happen, so take your time soaking in the atmosphere. Once you’ve had your chocolate fix, it’s an easy and scenic stroll down to Pier 39 to continue your afternoon by the water.
Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
From Ghirardelli Square, stroll back toward Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 to spend a relaxed afternoon soaking up the waterfront vibes. This area is packed with personality—street performers, souvenir stands, and picture-perfect Bay views around every corner. Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours of exploring here at a casual pace.
Start at Pier 39, the most famous of the piers, where you’ll find shops selling everything from quirky gifts to classic SF hoodies. Don’t miss the sea lion colony lounging (and loudly barking) at the far end of the pier. It’s a total crowd-pleaser! If you have time, pop into the Aquarium of the Bay to wander through its underwater tunnels full of sharks, rays, and jellyfish.
Although you could spend all day here, aim to wrap up your exploring by around 5:45 pm, so you have plenty of time for dinner before your next adventure.
Dinner – Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
Just steps from where your evening cruise departs, Pier Market Seafood Restaurant is the perfect spot for a fresh, no-fuss seafood dinner with a view. Located right on Pier 39, this casual but quality spot offers waterfront dining and a menu full of San Francisco favorites.
The mesquite-grilled fish is a standout here, but you’ll also find local Dungeness crab, clam chowder, and classic fish and chips—all served up with generous portions and friendly service. If you didn’t already indulge in a chowder bread bowl at lunch, now’s your chance.
Timing-wise, aim to sit down around 5:45 or 6:00 pm so you have plenty of time to enjoy your meal without rushing. Let your server know you have a 7:00 pm cruise, and they’ll help keep things moving. Between the fresh seafood and the views of the Bay, it’s the perfect way to wind down before heading out onto the water.
Evening – San Francisco Bay sunset cruise
Cap off your first day in San Francisco with this sunset catamaran cruise offering some of the best views in the city, without the crowds. Your cruise departs at 7:00 pm from the end of Pier 39, making it an easy stroll from dinner at Pier Market.
Most of the city’s popular sunset spots fill up fast and can be a little underwhelming if you’re stuck behind a sea of people. That’s exactly why this 90-minute catamaran sail stood out. The boat was the perfect size—not too crowded, with plenty of space to move around and enjoy the open-air deck.
We grabbed our complimentary drinks, found a spot on the canvas trampolines, and settled in for a golden-hour ride across the bay. As the catamaran glided past Alcatraz and beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, the sky lit up in shades of gold, pink, and deep blue.
It was peaceful, scenic, and honestly, one of the most memorable parts of our trip. The crew struck the perfect balance of being relaxed but on top of everything, and the background music set the vibe just right.
After the cruise, I recommend grabbing an Uber to your next destination. While San Francisco is generally safe, some areas can feel a little sketchy after dark, and this just makes for a smoother, stress-free end to the evening.
For an unforgettable way to end your day, secure this sunset cruise here!
Related Read: Looking for more fun activities to fill your itinerary? Check out our 10 favorite things to do in San Francisco here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 2
Breakfast – Hollywood Cafe
Kick off your second day in San Francisco with breakfast at the cozy and colorful Hollywood Café. Just around the corner from today’s bike tour meeting point, it’s an ideal stop for a hearty and satisfying start before hitting the road on two wheels.
This local favorite is known for its big portions and fresh ingredients—think stacked pancakes, buttery croissants, fluffy eggs, and vibrant fruit plates. It opens daily at 8:00 AM, giving you plenty of time for a relaxed breakfast before your 10:00 am tour.
Whether you sit inside surrounded by old Hollywood memorabilia or snag a spot on the sunny patio, the service is fast and friendly, making it an easy way to kick off the day right.
Morning – Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge
Seeing the Golden Gate Bridge is a must, but figuring out how to experience it can be tricky. Driving it isn’t really an option unless you’ve rented a car, and walking it can eat up your entire morning. That’s why we loved this bike tour— it gave us all the views and none of the hassle.
It’s the perfect in-between: active, scenic, and way more fun than sitting in traffic. We had the wind in our hair, music in our earbuds, and amazing views the entire way across. You can choose between a classic bike or an e-bike, depending on how hard you want to work!
The tour runs from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and meets just around the corner from Fisherman’s Wharf. From there, you’ll follow a mostly flat, waterfront route with stops at iconic sights like Aquatic Park, the Palace of Fine Arts, and Crissy Field. Don’t worry about the hills—electric bikes are available, and they make all the difference.
Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge by bike is a whole different experience, and rolling into Sausalito on the other side feels like arriving in another world. The tour ends there, but you’ll have your bike for the rest of the day.
Ride back, hang out, and take the ferry (ticket not included), or drop the bike off in Sausalito for a small fee. Just be sure to return it before the shop closes!
Book this bike tour here and see San Francisco from a new perspective!
Lunch – Goodfellas Pizzeria & Grill
After wrapping up your ride, grab a quick and satisfying lunch at Goodfellas Pizzeria & Grill. Conveniently located between the bike drop-off point and your ferry connection, it’s the perfect pit stop to refuel without losing time.
This casual spot serves up hot slices, hearty sandwiches, and fresh salads—ideal if you’re short on time and need something fast but filling. We each grabbed a slice and a drink and were back on the move in under 30 minutes. It’s nothing fancy, but it totally hits the spot after a morning of riding (especially if the wind picked up crossing the bridge!).
If you happen to finish the tour early or aren’t rushing to catch the ferry just yet, feel free to wander Sausalito a bit more and opt for a slower, sit-down lunch somewhere by the waterfront. But if you’re on a schedule, Goodfellas is a reliable go-to to keep you fueled and on track for your next adventure.
Afternoon – Visit Alcatraz
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a visit to Alcatraz Island—and this is the perfect time to do it. Head to Pier 33 to catch your ferry with Alcatraz City Cruises. Departure times run throughout the afternoon, with the last boat typically leaving around 3:50 pm, but we recommend arriving a bit early to check in and enjoy the views from the dock.
Alcatraz is more than just a former prison—it’s one of the most compelling historic sites in the U.S. The self-guided audio tour walks you through the cell blocks while former guards and inmates share their stories in your ears. It’s immersive, eerie, and genuinely fascinating. The ferry ride itself also offers awesome photo ops of the San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge, so have your camera ready.
Set aside about 2 to 3 hours total for the ferry ride, tour, and a bit of time to explore the grounds. And be sure to book your tickets in advance here—they cost $48 USD and often sell out, especially in peak seasons.
Evening – Explore Chinatown
While most people visit San Francisco’s Chinatown during the day, we think it’s even better at night. The lantern-lit streets, glowing shop signs, and buzz of activity after dark give the neighborhood a completely different vibe—one that’s both atmospheric and full of character.
After your Alcatraz tour, make your way to Chinatown for a relaxed evening stroll through one of the oldest and most vibrant Chinese communities outside of Asia. Pop into herbal shops, peek into bakeries, or just take your time admiring the historic architecture and colorful murals that line the narrow alleyways.
When you’re ready for dinner, head to Hang Ah Tea Room—tucked away on a side street and proud to be America’s oldest dim sum restaurant. It’s a bit of a hidden gem and definitely has that unassuming, hole-in-the-wall charm, but the food speaks for itself.
We’ve been here and loved it. The dumplings are fresh, the buns are fluffy, and the vibe is delightfully old-school. It’s a great way to wind down your second day in San Francisco, away from the crowds but still immersed in the city’s culture.
Related Read: Traveling further in California? Here is our 3-day Los Angeles itinerary to see all the highlights!
Day 3
Breakfast – Grab on the go!
Today kicks off bright and early, so this is the time to keep breakfast simple. With your tour departing at 7:30 am, there’s not much room for a leisurely morning meal. We recommend grabbing something quick at your hotel or picking up a bite from a nearby café on your way out the door.
Most San Francisco hotels are included in the tour’s pickup route, which makes things super convenient—you’ll be collected right from your lobby and dropped off at the end of the day, no extra planning needed. Just make sure you’re ready to go on time, coffee in hand, and maybe a snack tucked away for later.
Full day tour to Muir Woods and Northern California wine tasting
With breakfast out of the way and an early hotel pickup around 7:30 am, you’ll jump right into one of the most memorable day trips from San Francisco. This full-day combo tour blends two classic California experiences—a walk through ancient redwoods and an afternoon of wine tasting—into one perfectly paced itinerary.
The day kicks off with a quiet stroll through Muir Woods, where arriving early means you’ll have the trails mostly to yourself. Wandering beneath these towering redwoods, some centuries old, is the kind of peaceful start that sets the tone for the rest of the day. It’s serene, grounding, and absolutely stunning.
From there, you’ll head across the Golden Gate Bridge into Sonoma Wine Country, where golden hills and vineyard views take over the scenery. The tour includes stops at three wineries, each with its own vibe and varietals.
Rows of neatly manicured vines stretched in every direction, and at each stop, we got to taste the very wines made from the grapes just steps from where we stood. It doesn’t get much fresher than that!
The optional wine-paired lunch was a highlight for us, especially the grilled salmon with Pinot Noir, but you can also explore Sonoma Plaza and grab lunch on your own if you prefer more flexibility.
From the peaceful hush of the redwood forest to the sun-soaked vineyards of Sonoma, this tour strikes the perfect balance between nature, culture, and indulgence. It’s the kind of day that leaves you both refreshed and totally content.
This tour frequently sells out, so grab your spot here before it’s too late!
Dinner – The Mission, Union Square, or Haight-Ashbury
After a full day of redwoods and wine, you’ll be back in San Francisco around 6:30 pm—just in time to make the most of your final night in the city. Even if you’re feeling a little tired, trust us, it’s worth rallying for one more great meal.
Depending on where you’re staying or what vibe you’re after, choose between three iconic neighborhoods for dinner: Union Square for upscale spots and lively city energy, Haight-Ashbury for something funky and casual, or The Mission for bold flavors and a buzzy local feel.
We headed to The Mission and had dinner at Picaro, a cozy Spanish tapas spot that hit the mark on every dish. The sangria was flowing, the garlic shrimp were sizzling, and the vibe was the perfect mix of lively and low-key. It was the ideal way to end a packed but unforgettable day.
Where to Stay in San Francisco
San Francisco is packed with iconic landmarks, scenic views, and lively neighborhoods, and luckily, it also has a wide range of great places to stay. From high-end hotels to quirky mid-range spots and budget-friendly picks, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
To help you narrow it down, we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay in San Francisco, so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring the city.
Luxury – $$$
Set in a beautifully restored 1920s building, the Omni San Francisco blends timeless elegance with upscale comfort in the heart of the Financial District. Just steps from the cable car line and a short walk to Union Square and Chinatown, its location is a dream for city explorers. Inside, you’ll find spacious, classically styled rooms, luxurious bathrooms, and standout service that past guests rave about. From plush robes to a charming on-site restaurant and refined lobby, every detail feels elevated.
Rates generally range from $300–$730 USD per night, depending on room type and season. Check availability and book on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Zephyr San Francisco is a fun and modern mid-range hotel located right in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf—just steps from Pier 39. The nautical-themed rooms are playful yet practical, with porthole-style windows, comfortable beds, and all the essentials like Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and a safe. Outside, the hotel’s courtyard is a highlight, complete with fire pits, games, and cozy seating areas to unwind after a day of sightseeing. There’s also a fitness center and a lively atmosphere that makes it great for couples and families alike.
Prices typically range from $180–$360 USD per night. Check Booking.com to see current rates for your travel dates.
Budget – $
For an affordable stay in San Francisco with unbeatable views, HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel is a top pick. Set inside a historic building within a waterfront park, it’s just steps from the bay and offers easy access to the Marina District. Dorms and private rooms are available, with shared facilities kept super clean. Guests can unwind in the cozy lounge, game room, or enjoy breakfast with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Dorm beds start around $38 USD per night and include a continental breakfast. Book your stay now on Booking.com to lock in a great rate!
For more options, see all of San Francisco’s hotels listed here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We loved every second of our three days in San Francisco! From unique city tours to historic sights and food that I still think about today, we never got tired of the city. If you follow this itinerary, I know you’ll love SF as much as we did!
Before you go, check out our other USA blogs! We’ve been to every corner of the country and have put together tons of resources to help you plan one epic holiday. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your travels:
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