How many days in San Francisco do you need? (for a first visit)
Planning a trip to San Francisco and wondering how many days in San Francisco do you need?
San Francisco, a beautiful city along the California coast, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical charm.
It is one of the largest cities in northern California and often the entry point in California for folks wanting to do a coastal road trip along the PCH Highway to Los Angeles or San Diego.
I have lived in the San Francisco suburbs for over 20 years and have enjoyed being able to explore the city anytime I want. I love San Francisco; it holds a special place in my heart!
From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island to the bustling streets of Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco has a lot to see and experience.
If you’re planning a trip to San Francisco or passing by and wondering how many days you should spend there and what to do, my comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit.
How many days do you need in San Francisco?
Planning a visit to a new city always raises the question – how many days are needed?
To determine how many days you need to spend in San Francisco, you will need to have some idea about what attractions the city offers and what else is a must-do nearby. Then, you will be better equipped to decide the number of days to spend in San Francisco based on your interest.
San Francisco is a big city with many attractions, activities, and neighborhoods to explore.
Beyond the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, there are several other attractions, like Alcatraz Island, Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard Street, the historic cable car, and many more, that are a must-visit.
Also, I feel San Francisco is best experienced by strolling around its many iconic neighborhoods like Chinatown, North Beach (Little Italy), Haight Ashbury, Japantown, Presidio, and more.
You need at least 3 days to explore the San Francisco city highlights, from iconic landmarks to local neighborhoods.
San Francisco is also surrounded by several amazing places nearby, which can be explored as day trips or weekend getaways from San Francisco.
From San Francisco, you can explore charming oceanfront towns like Sausalito and Monterey, world-renowned wine country destinations like Sonoma and Napa Valley, hike among the redwoods in Muir Woods, or drive the scenic Pacific Coast Highway.
To visit some of the popular places near San Francisco, you would need at least 5 to 7 days or more, depending on your interests and itinerary.
Some places like Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe are best explored by staying there overnight, while other nearby places like Monterey and Carmel coastal towns and Napa and Sonoma wine countries can be explored as day trips.
One of the best things I love about living in the San Francisco Bay Area is the variety of things to do in San Francisco and the amazing places nearby to explore.
San Francisco Itinerary for 1 to 3 days
If you do not have the liberty to spend a week in San Francisco and can only devote three days or less to it, then I suggest you spend that time exploring the attractions and neighborhoods in the city itself.
Below are some of the most famous sights and landmarks in San Francisco that should be on your San Francisco itinerary for 3 days or less.
If you have just one day in San Francisco, then I suggest you do one of the following to maximize your time –
With a second and third day in San Francisco, you can fit in some more sights and attractions from the list below, based on your interest.
โก๏ธRead here about my review of the Hop-on hop-off bus in San Francisco.
Golden Gate Bridge
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a visit to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, which is my favorite attraction in San Francisco! Marvel at its grandeur and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline.
There are several Vista points from which you can admire panoramic views of the bridge, like the Dana Bowers Rest Area and Vista Point or Battery Spencer. I recently visited Presidio Tunnel Tops park, which also had panoramic views of the bridge.
You can also explore the Golden Gate Bridge on foot or by bike. You can rent a bike or take a bike tour over the Golden Gate Bridge, which is recommended if you are new to the city.
โก๏ธ Check rates and availability for this guided bike tour across the Golden Gate Bridge
โก๏ธCheck out this 1-hour Golden Gate Bay Cruise that goes below the Golden Gate Bridge for epic views!
Taking a Bay Cruise in San Francisco is one of the best ways to see the Golden Gate Bridge views. I have done this cruise several times with visiting family and friends. The cruise boats go under the Golden Gate Bridge and near Alcatraz Island!
Alcatraz Island
A visit to Alcatraz Island is a very popular thing to do in any San Francisco itinerary. Alcatraz Island is a historic site known for its infamous prison. Explore the island’s captivating past and learn about the notorious criminals who were once imprisoned there.
You can take a ferry ride to Alcatraz and embark on a self-guided tour that provides fascinating insights into the prison’s daily life and daring escape attempts. Be prepared to be immersed in the eerie atmosphere of the cellblocks and witness the stark reality of life behind bars.
โก๏ธ Check rates and availability for this Alcatraz Island with San Francisco Bay Cruise , a combo tour that includes a visit to Alcatraz Island and a San Francisco Bay Scenic Cruise.
Pier 39
San Francisco’s Pier 39 is a very popular tourist attraction and should be on your list! This bustling waterfront destination offers a delightful array of attractions and activities.
Explore the lively atmosphere as you stroll along the pier, taking in the breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
Indulge in delicious seafood at the numerous waterfront restaurants, like the famous clam chowder sourdough bread bowl at Boudin restaurant, or savor a sweet treat from the famous local bakeries.
Be entertained by the playful sea lions basking in the sun, or enjoy live street performances by talented artists.
โก๏ธ From Pier 39, you can take this popular 1-hour Golden Gate Bay Cruise that goes below the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island for epic views! I always recommend this cruise to friends and family!
Fisherman’s Wharf
San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is a vibrant and bustling tourist attraction. Here, you can indulge in delectable seafood, from clam chowder to fresh crab, and explore local shops for unique souvenirs.
Make sure to visit the nearby Ghirardelli Square, where you can savor irresistible chocolate treats and ice cream and also buy chocolate gift packs. Eating an icecream sundae at Ghirardelli Square is a must-do whenever we visit the city with our kids.
You can take a leisurely walk to Aquatic Park and enjoy panoramic bay views and a sandy beach.
Cable Car
A ride on the iconic and historic cable cars of San Francisco is an absolute must during your visit to the city. I have lived near San Francisco for years and only recently got the opportunity to ride the cable car, and it was a thrilling experience.
I highly recommend sitting on the outside seats (but not with little kids) and holding on tight, as there are no seat belts! The cable car goes up and down steep hills, and it is a thrilling experience!
The starting points for the cable car routes are at Powell and Market Street near Union Square and at Hyde Street near Fisherman’s Wharf.
Lombard Street
Lombard Street, a renowned attraction in San Francisco, is known as the “Crookedest Street in the World.”
If you have a rental car and are up for the adventurous drive, you can journey down this zigzag one-way street with hairpin turns by entering from the intersection of Hyde and Lombard St.
However, if you prefer to enjoy the spectacle without driving, the next best option is to view Lombard Street from the vantage point of the intersection of Leavenworth Street and Lombard Street, which is what most tourists do.
From here, you can take a picture of the entire street above. The street is adorned with beautiful plants and seasonal flowers. You can also walk up or down the sidewalk, although it is a steep climb.
Ferry Building
The San Francisco Ferry Building, originally constructed in 1898, serves as a terminal for ferries crossing the bay to Sausalito, Tiburon, and Larkspur.
However, the Ferry Building is much more than a transportation hub and is a destination for food enthusiasts.
Here, you will find a variety of food stalls offering locally sourced products from farmers, bakeries, breweries, and more. Indulge in wines, cheeses, freshly baked goods, and farm-fresh produce. Grab picnic essentials for an adventurous day outdoors.
You can join a food tour led by an expert guide to explore unique delicacies and gain insights into the vibrant food scene of San Francisco.
โก Check rates and availability for this San Francisco food tour at the Ferry Building
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban oasis in San Francisco. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city with its lush greenery, meadows, and scenic landscapes.
The park is home to notable attractions such as the Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Museum, and the stunning Conservatory of Flowers.
You can enjoy outdoor activities like biking and walking the length of the park. The park is free to explore, but the museums and gardens have separate admission fees.
Haight Ashbury
Visiting Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is like stepping back in time to the iconic counterculture era of the 1960s.
Known for its vibrant bohemian atmosphere, the neighborhood is filled with colorful Victorian houses, eclectic shops, and funky street art. You will also find several cafes and restaurants here.
As you walk along the streets, you’ll discover a mix of vintage boutiques, record stores, and unique shops selling tie-dye clothing and psychedelic memorabilia.
Take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the neighborhood, which played a central role in the 1960s hippie movement.
โก Check rates and availability for this 2 hour city tour that starts at Haight Ashbury in a colorful Volkswagen van!
Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood. Its streets are filled with colorful shops, restaurants, and traditional Chinese architecture.
Grant Ave is a popular street here with a lot of shops catered towards tourists. The famous landmark Dragon Gate is at the intersection of Bush St and Grant Ave.
You can explore narrow alleys lined with exotic stores selling everything from herbal remedies to souvenirs.
The air is filled with the aroma of delicious Chinese cuisine, enticing you to try the many authentic restaurants. As you walk through this lively district, you’ll get a taste of Chinese culture and history right in the heart of San Francisco.
โก Check rates and availability for this Chinatown food tour to sample some authentic Chinese cuisine!
North Beach (Little Italy)
North Beach, also known as Little Italy, is a bustling neighborhood in San Francisco and a great place to walk around and try the popular restaurants and cafes here.
The main attractions are Washington Square Park, Saints Peter and Paul Church, the Little Italy intersection at Union and Stockton St, and strolling on Columbus Ave. Caffe Trieste and City Lights Bookstore are icons, too, reflecting the Beat Generation era.
We tried the award-winning Margherita pizza at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana restaurant here, and it was delicious.
Don’t miss climbing the Filbert Steps (or take the bus like us) to the Coit Tower to check out the 360-degree city views and historic murals in the tower.
San Francisco itinerary for 4 to 7 or more days
If you have 4 to 7 days in San Francisco, then you can add a few nearby places to your San Francisco itinerary based on your interest.
There are several popular things to do near San Francisco, like hiking in the redwoods at Muir Woods, driving on the Pacific Coast Highway, relaxing in charming towns like Sausalito and Monterey, visiting the iconic Yosemite National Park, or exploring the beautiful Lake Tahoe’s water activities and hikes.
Sausalito
Sausalito is a charming coastal town located just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. With its picturesque waterfront and beautiful views of the city skyline, it’s a must-visit from San Francisco.
Whenever we show the city to visiting family and friends, we always drive over the Golden Gate Bridge and take them to Sausalito. Here, you can stroll along the quaint streets lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants.
The marina offers a peaceful atmosphere, and you can even rent a bike to explore the area further. Sausalito’s scenic beauty and relaxed ambiance make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Its close proximity makes it convenient to visit on your trip to San Francisco. You can also take a half-day tour from San Francisco that combines a visit to Sausalito with Muir Woods in the morning.
โก Check rates and availability for this highly-rated small group tour: Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz which combines San Francisco sightseeing with a visit to Muir Woods and Sausalito
Muir Woods
Muir Woods is a magnificent redwood forest located near San Francisco. Muir Woods from San Francisco is only a 40-minute drive, and you can also take the ferry to Sausalito and take the shuttle from there.
Muir Woods is famous for its hikes among the redwood trees. When you visit, you can take a leisurely walk or a strenuous hike along the well-maintained trails that wind through the towering ancient trees.
If you’re interested in learning more, there’s a visitor center where you can gather information about the trees and the park’s history. Muir Woods is a beautiful place, and I love visiting it to connect with nature and experience the serenity of these majestic giants.
You can visit Muir Woods on your own with a rental car (parking reservations are required) or by booking a round trip from San Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle Tour, or you can take a combo tour from San Francisco, which often combines Muir Woods with either Sausalito or Napa Valley.
Napa and Sonoma Valley
If you love wine and vineyards, the world-famous Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley wine regions are less than a couple of hours from San Francisco and are great for a day trip. The region is renowned for its picturesque vineyards, world-class wineries, and breathtaking landscapes.
Wine tasting is a must-do activity, allowing you to sample a wide variety of exceptional wines. You can also indulge in farm-to-table cuisine, gourmet restaurants, and food and wine pairings.
Scenic drives through rolling hills and vineyard-dotted landscapes offer stunning views at every turn. There are also outdoor activities to experience like hot-air balloon rides, cycling, and hiking.
โก Check rates and availability for this highly popular Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco
Pacific Coast Highway 1 Drive
The Pacific Coast Highway drive from San Francisco to Big Sur is a breathtaking journey along the scenic California coastline and is one of the best drives on the West Coast of the US. You will need a full day for this drive from San Francisco.
The route offers stunning ocean views, winding roads, and picturesque landscapes. On this scenic drive, you can enjoy panoramic vistas, visit charming coastal towns, and stop at iconic landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.
The PCH drive is known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged coastline, and beaches. Along the way, you will encounter many popular beaches, cities, and towns like Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-sea.
โก Check rates and availability for this Full Day Pacific Coast Highway Tour from San Francisco covering Monterey, Carmel, and 17-Mile Drive
Santa Cruz
Visiting Santa Cruz from San Francisco is an easy day trip as it is just an hour away. Located on the California coast, Santa Cruz is popular for its beautiful beaches and boardwalk.
You can enjoy a stroll along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, known for its amusement park rides and games. The city’s vibrant downtown area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options like arcades.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning coastline, go surfing, or hike in the nearby redwood forests. Mystery Spot is also a popular and quirky attraction here that defies gravity.
Monterey and Carmel-by-the-sea
Monterey and Carmel are charming beach towns along the California coast and can be reached in a couple of hours’ drive from San Francisco.
Monterey is known for its rich marine life and historic Cannery Row, which offers shops, restaurants, and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. The town’s scenic beauty, beaches, and coastal trails make it a great destination for recreational activities. We loved riding family bikes on the Monterey Bay coastal trail.
The 17-mile Drive near Monterey is a scenic drive offering breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline, iconic landmarks, and beautiful golf courses. The drive provides numerous opportunities to stop and take in stunning vistas and sights like the Lone Cypress tree and Bird Rock.
Carmel-by-the-sea (I love the name of this town!) is a picturesque village with beautiful beaches, quaint cottages, and art galleries. Its storybook charm and scenic views attract visitors from around the world. Nearby Point Lobos Sate Park has excellent hiking trails.
Yosemite
Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty and is a must-visit in any Northern California itinerary.
Yosemite is popular for iconic sights like towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and pristine meadows. Exploring the Yosemite Valley is a must in any Yosemite itinerary.
Here, you can explore the numerous hiking trails for all levels, camping, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
Yosemite is a 3-hour drive from San Francisco and is best experienced with an overnight stay. But if you are short on time, it can be done as a day trip if you start very early in the day.
โก Check rates and availability for this highly-rated Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
Lake Tahoe
Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is renowned for its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning mountain scenery. It is about an hour’s drive from San Francisco and one of my favorite places for a getaway from San Francisco.
To best experience the Lake Tahoe region, I recommend at least an overnight stay; two nights is even better.
At Lake Tahoe, you can enjoy a range of water activities, such as swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the lake.
The surrounding mountains offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing in the winter. Hiking in Lake Tahoe is a very popular activity, and there are some amazing hikes here! My favorites are the Eagle Lake Trail and the Emerald Bay Trail.
You can also enjoy scenic drives, charming lakeside towns, and picturesque beaches.
Where to stay in San Francisco
Fisherman’s Wharf area is a great place to stay during your visit to San Francisco as a lot of tourist attractions are close to Fisherman’s Wharf, including Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, Cable Car, ferries to Alcatraz, etc. A lot of tours also pick up from Fisherman’s Wharf hotels.
Hotel Fairmont Heritage Place is a luxury hotel in the iconic landmark Ghirardelli Square in Fisherman’s Wharf. You can get ocean-view rooms here with great views of the bay!
San Francisco Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf is a great mid-range hotel at a central location in Fisherman’s Wharf. Walk to Pier 39, Lombard Street, and Cable Car stops from here. We stayed here once for a staycation in the city, and the location was perfect.
How to get around San Francisco
San Francisco city has great public transport system like Muni, BART, and buses.
For visiting tourist attractions within the city, San Francisco Hop on Hop off bus is a great option, as parking in popular sightseeing places can be hard to find.
If you are planning to explore places near San Francisco on your own by doing day trips, then you will need a rental car.
โก I recommend checking rental car rates and availability with Discover Cars as they check top car rental brands and provide the best rates.
Final Takeaways: How many days to spend in San Francisco?
San Francisco city has a lot to offer, from famous city landmarks and attractions to a wide variety of places to explore nearby. I am sure my list of things to do in and near San Francisco must have blown your mind!
You should now have an idea of how many days to spend in San Francisco to experience what interests you the most.
Plan to spend at least three days in San Francisco to experience all the main highlights in the city, like Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, Alcatraz Island, and the popular neighborhoods like Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, North Beach, Haight-Ashbury, etc.
Plan for at least a week or more to explore the nearby unique destinations like Napa Valley, Sausalito, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Pacific Coast Highway, and more.
No matter how many days you choose to visit, I hope you have a fantastic time in San Francisco.
Here are some of my San Francisco itineraries to help with your planning –
โญ Got questions about your trip?
Join my private Facebook group – California Travel Advice & Tips! It’s the perfect spot to connect with me and other California locals, as well as past visitors. It’s a great growing community and the quickest way to get answers for your visit!
โก๏ธ Join my Facebook Group here