Planning a San Francisco Itinerary can be quite the task, especially if you only have a weekend! The ‘City by the Bay’ boasts iconic sights, delectable food and an abundance of fun activities.
The numerous attractions make it difficult to choose what to see – and what to skip – with just 3 days in San Francisco for sightseeing.
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We understand the struggle. We’ve made countless weekend trips to SF – in fact it’s one of our Top 3 Day Escapes. So, we created this guide to the Perfect San Francisco Weekend Trip for you!
How To Plan a Trip to San Francisco
When we lived in Phoenix, Arizona, we often escaped the heat on quick SF weekend trips. Having done the tedious research, planning your getaway to the bay should be breeze!
As you begin to make reservations, organization is key. We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables to stay on top of all the details!
Our 3 Day San Francisco Itinerary
We have fit as much sightseeing as possible into our San Francisco Weekend Itinerary. Plus, we include a helpful SF map and honest travel tips at the end of the article.
Day 1 in San Francisco
On the first day of your 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary spend time enjoying the iconic sights and feasting on classic SF cuisine.
Shop at Ferry Building Marketplace
A symbol of SF, the Ferry Building opened in 1898 and has long been the entry point for passengers arriving by boat.
In the early 2000s, it was transformed into an upscale marketplace featuring a variety of regional goods.
Recchiuti Confections, Acme Bread Company and Stonehouse Olive Oil are a few of our favorite shops here. If you’re looking for a boost, Blue Bottle Coffee is our go-to spot.
Additionally, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, an artisan farmer’s market is held in the Ferry Building Plaza.
Ride the Ferry to Sausalito
Now hop aboard a Golden Gate Ferry for a 30-minute scenic ride over to Sausalito.
If weather permits, find a spot on the bow of the ship for the best views. You will also get a look at Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island.
Explore Sausalito
This small seaside town is well-known for its artistic flair and houseboat community.
Visitors are invited to stroll along the waterfront, wander through the marina, shop at Sausalito galleries and browse the unique boutiques.
After exploring Sausalito, get an Uber/Lyft to Vista Point at the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Walk Across The Golden Gate Bridge
As one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, taking a walk on the Golden Gate Bridge is an essential activity for every San Francisco Itinerary!
The two-tower, steel-cable span was built in the 1930s and stretches 1.7 miles across SF Bay. We believe it’s best to walk from north to south, so that you have a view of the San Francisco skyline.
The Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center on the south end offers exhibits and information. Also pop into the art deco Equator Coffee (aka the Round House Café).
Discover Crissy Field Park & The Presidio
Once a military base, Crissy Field was converted into a national park in the early 2000s. It’s marked with trails, beaches, lookout points and picnic areas.
Now walk east along the water towards The Palace of Fine Arts and detour out to The Wave Organ, if time allows.
If you are really feeling energized, trek through The Presidio. Head toward the southeast corner to the famous Lyon Street Steps – which offer even more phenomenal views. Then hop an Uber/Lyft to…
Drink an Irish Coffee at The Buena Vista
Established in 1916, Buena Vista Café is legendary. In 1952, the owners created their own version of an Irish Coffee – a potent concoction of coffee, whiskey, sugar and cream. It’s a perfect warmer on cool days!
Get a Sundae on Ghirardelli Square
The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company opened in San Francisco in 1852. Although the factory itself is long gone, an ice cream shop and the gigantic Ghirardelli sign still grace the space.
Tourists flock to the Ghirardelli Experience for ice cream sundaes covered in chocolate and to buy gifts and souvenirs from the shops.
Check Out the Maritime National Historical Park
The shoreline SF Maritime Park hosts a fleet of historic vessels, the 1929 Muni Pier, a museum (ticket required) and an informative (and free) visitors center.
Those interested in learning more about military ships can take a tour of the USS Pampanito. The World War II submarine is docked at nearby Pier 45.
Eat a Clam Chowder Bread Bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf
Eating clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is an essential experience that needs to be on your San Francisco Itinerary!
We would wager that just about every restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf has bread bowl clam chowder. The Boudin Bakery Café is one of the most popular spots along with Scoma’s Restaurant.
Pro Tip: Not a fan of seafood, but still want a classic California dining experience? Head to In-N-Out Burger for a Double-Double (Animal Style)!
See the Sea Lions on Pier 39
Featuring shops, restaurants, street performers, a carousel and aquarium, Pier 39 is crowded and touristy. It’s also a must-see in San Francisco!
For us, the top reason to visit Pier 39 is the California Sea Lions. Since 1989, they have taken up residence on the floating docks on the west side of the pier – and they are hilarious to watch and listen to.
Another attraction at Fisherman’s Wharf is Musee Mecanique, which features old school arcade games and instruments. If you want to join SF Bay Cruises or Alcatraz Tours, this is the prime place to do it!
Hop on a SF Cable Car
The famous San Francisco cable cars have been in operation since 1873. At one time, there were a total of 8 lines, but only 3 remain today.
Our favorite route is the Powell-Hyde Line that passes Lombard Street along the way. There will likely be a long line, but go ahead and hop aboard and ride back to downtown SF!
Day 2 of Your San Francisco Weekend Trip
Today you’ll discover the Chinatown/North Beach area along with a couple of iconic SF neighborhoods. At the end of the day, attend a sporting event or theater performance.
Eat at Mama’s on Washington Square
Opened in 1951 as an ice cream shop, Mama’s has evolved into an iconic breakfast spot featuring classic American, homestyle eats. French toast, omelets and eggs benedict are the stars of the menu.
Go to the Top of Coit Tower
Standing atop Telegraph Hill since 1933, Coit Tower provides a stunning perch over the city.
Standing as a monument to the city’s firefighters, you can go inside (with a ticket) and ride the elevator up to the observation deck.
Browse at City Lights Booksellers
This independent shop and publisher was established in the 1950s. Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, it is worth swinging by.
Known for selling and publishing progressive literature, the store is often acknowledged as being an integral part of San Francisco counter-culture that blossomed in the 1960s.
Now check out Jack Kerouac Alley and step inside Vesuvio Cafe. The charming and nostalgic dive bar is decorated with 1960s memorabilia and local artwork.
Walk Through Chinatown
Considered to be the oldest and largest in the United States, San Francisco Chinatown dates to 1848 and covers 24 square blocks.
It was within these streets that the American version of Chinese food was created. In addition to eateries and bubble tea shops, there’s ornate temples, the decorative Dragon Gate and sign-filled Ross Alley.
Visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company for a behind-the-scenes look at how they are made. Plus, you have the chance to eat warm-from-the-oven treats.
The Golden Gate Bakery, where they make authentic moon cakes and exquisite custard tarts, is just around the corner, too!
Shop at Union Square
This 2.6-acre space is at the center of San Francisco’s once renowned shopping and theater district.
Designed in 1850 and named for the Civil War pro-Union rallies held here, the 85-foot-tall Dewey Monument stands at its center and the iconic Westin St. Francis is just across Powell Street.
Tour the Mission District
The Mission ranks as one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Francisco and holds a few fine points of interest and epic Mexican food!
The namesake Mission San Francisco de Asis chapel was built in 1776 and is the oldest structure in the city, surviving many devastating earthquakes.
Mission Dolores Park attracts hippies, picnickers, dog walkers, and people watchers. It is a place to kick back, relax and take in the SF skyline view, too.
The Mission-style burrito – meat and rice stuffed into a flour tortilla – was born in San Francisco in the 1960s. The top spots are Taquería El Farolito and the famed La Taqueria.
If you are not in on the burrito craze, check out Tartine Bakery. In addition to their excellent hot pressed sandwiches, they offer delectable sweet treats.
View the Painted Ladies
The term ‘Painted Ladies’ refers to the colorful Victorian and Edwardian-style homes that were built from the late 1800s until 1915.
SF’s famous row of houses is on Steiner Street, across from Alamo Square Park. They are often featured in movies and ads, but probably most recognized from the TV show Full House.
Go to a Game or the Theater in San Francisco
On countless occasions we have created an entire San Francisco travel itinerary that revolved around attending a game.
The 49ers and Giants are our fav teams to see. However, there is also the San Jose Earthquakes (MLS Soccer), Golden State Warriors (NBA Basketball) and San Jose Sharks (NHL Hockey).
Alternatively, the San Francisco Theater District hosts an array of performances, including everything from Broadway plays to musical acts to comedians. Our suggested venues are The Orpheum and The Curran.
Day 3 in SF
On the last day of your itinerary for San Francisco, check out an infamous district and stretch your legs in a park. Then, wind down your weekend watching the sunset from a spectacular beach.
Get Groovy in Haight-Ashbury
Centered on Haight and Ashbury Streets, this district has long played a significant role in modern culture.
The location kicked-off the 1967 Summer of Love and was the epicenter of the hippie movement in the 1960s.
In addition to the smoke shops and the free society Diggers community that flourished here, several members of the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane as well as Janis Joplin – lived in Haight-Ashbury.
Start your morning at the greasy spoon Pork Store Café for a hearty breakfast of comfort classics. For a lighter option try Coffee to the People or The Coffee Lama.
Stroll through the neighborhood admiring the beautifully restored Victorian homes (including Jerry Garcia’s former house at 710 Ashbury).
Also keep an eye out for colorful street art and pop into shops – like the classic Amoeba Music, Love on Haight, Piedmont Boutique.
Do you really want to feel the groove of the 60s and 70s in San Francisco? Take the Love Tour aboard a 1970s VW Van!
Hike Twin Peaks
Standing at nearly 1000 feet, the San Francisco Twin Peaks (Eureka and Noe) are the best place to go on a clear day. A popular 1.5-mile roundtrip trek takes you to the summit for unsurpassed vistas.
Other points of interest are Christmas Tree Point (a third summit that offers fantastic downtown San Francisco views) and Mission Blue Butterflies (an endangered species that thrives here).
Take a Photo of the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps
Located in the Golden Gate Heights neighborhood, this mosaic-tiled staircase is a product of a community project.
The 163 steps are adorned with a scene of ‘Sea to Stars’ and gardens line the staircase. It’s a fun spot for photo ops and a cool place to stretch your legs.
The nearby Hidden Garden Steps are the result of another collaborative art initiative. It’s a bit of a secret San Francisco gem!
Visit Golden Gate Park
The 3-mile-long Golden Gate Park is bigger than New York’s Central Park. Top attractions are the Botanical Garden, the Japanese Tea Garden, Dutch windmills, the Music Concourse and the Academy of Sciences.
Additionally, visitors can follow the trails to lakes, statues, memorials, a carousel and even a bison paddock.
Walk Ocean Beach and Watch Sunset at Baker Beach
It’s time to wind down your weekend in San Francisco – and Ocean Beach is the perfect place to do it. It sits at the west end of Golden Gate Park and stretches for 3.5 miles.
Although the water is cold and the waves are dangerous, the beach is an excellent place to take a long walk in the sand, watch skilled surfers and see a sunset around a roaring firepit.
Alternatively, Baker Beach (pictured above) offers fabulous views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is especially stunning at sunset.
Cap off your 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary with dinner at the Beach Chalet Brewery and Restaurant. Housed in a historic building, it offers fine views of the Pacific Ocean. Cheers to Cali!
San Francisco Itinerary Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our San Francisco Map of Attractions below.
More Things To Do in San Francisco
We included some of our favorite activities in our weekend in San Francisco Itinerary – but there is actually more to do in the city!
Ride a Bike in SF
Despite the hills, riding bikes in San Francisco is a popular activity. You can reserve your 24-hour bike rental in advance online.
49 Mile Scenic Drive
If you are planning a vacation to San Francisco with a car, then take in the sights on the classic 49 Mile Scenic Drive.
Designed as a counter-clockwise route around the best San Francisco sights, it’s a fantastic way to tour the city!
Hike in Muir Woods
This magnificent redwood forest is just north of San Francisco. Within the national monument park, there are 6 miles of trails through epic nature. Visitors can plan their own trek or book a hiking tour.
Those willing to travel further for amazing nature can join an organized SF Day Trip to Yosemite National Park to see the Giant Sequoias!
Wine Tours from SF
California is a known worldwide for its wine production. Two of the best CA wine regions – Napa Valley and Sonoma – are easily reached in a day from San Francisco.
The prime way to truly experience California’s wine country is on this highly rated tour that includes both!
Budget Tip: Combine Muir Woods hiking with a Wine Country tour and gourmet lunch on this combo super saver trip!
More Tours for your SF Itinerary
Hiking and wine excursions are among the most popular day trips from San Francisco – but there are many, many more options.
Our prime picks include a Monterey and Carmel Day Tour, a Seaplane flight or even a Helicopter ride!
How To Get to San Francisco
We feel the best way to travel to San Francisco is to fly. In fact, most weekend visitors will arrive at either San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK).
Start your search for the best deals on flights to SFO or OAK on Skyscanner!
How To Get around SF
San Francisco has a good public transportation system, including the BART, Muni Trams, classic trolleys and ferries. The Hop On Hop Off Bus is another option for seeing the top tourist sights.
Unless heading off on our California Coastal Road Trip, we do not recommend driving in San Francisco. Parking is very limited and extremely expensive.
Where To Stay in San Francisco
While staying at Fisherman’s Wharf puts you in the heart of the action, it is also incredibly expensive and generally a poor value.
On our SF weekend adventures, we prefer staying in the Financial District. It’s close to the Ferry Building, Coit Tower, Chinatown and Union Square.
The 4-Star Hyatt Regency San Francisco is a luxury property that is situated just a five-minute walk from the Ferry Marketplace. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and some have bay views.
Hotel Griffon offers an excellent location on the Embarcadero. Top features are the onsite restaurant, free coffee in the lobby and delightful employees.
What You Need For Your Trip to San Francisco
We have a few final travel tips and packing hacks for what you will want to bring with you.
Layer Up
Although California has a reputation for warm, sunny weather, that isn’t necessarily true in SF. More than once, I arrived without enough clothes.
We recommend wearing layers, or be prepared to buy a ‘I LOVE SF’ sweatshirt as a souvenir!
Proper Shoes
Our 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary includes a ton of walking. Make sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes. I wear these NB Trainers, while Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes.
Travel Camera
San Francisco is stunning – so bring an actual camera to capture the landscapes. We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens.
This set-up takes excellent photos and comes bundled with tons of great accessories that are perfect for beginner photographers!
Anti-Theft Bag
Like many big cities, pickpocketing and petty crimes can be an issue in SF – and tourists are prime targets. Travelon specializes in stylish, anti-theft day bags.
Start planning your next US Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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