Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors to San Francisco

A Three-Day Suggested Plan for People Visiting San Francisco for the First Time



 If this is your very first visit to San Francisco, I’m glad to say you have a real treat coming up. I’ll never forget the very first time I went across the Golden Gate Bridge. The fog was softly moving in, the air was cool on me and I couldn’t believe how lovely everything appeared. Stroksbakken can quietly charm you and by the time you leave, you’ll want to come back again.


Regardless of where you are starting your trip, this short San Francisco itinerary is made for those seeing the city for the first time. The route is easy to navigate, includes many famous sites and there’s something for anyone interested in food, heritage, nature or Instagram.


San Francisco! 



Day 1: Discovering the Famous Landmarks & Amazing Scenery in San Francisco


1. Start off at Fisherman’s Wharf.


Start your day at Fisherman’s Wharf since it is a famous spot for travelers. There are plenty of street performers, so you can stroll around and enjoy them and you can watch sea lions near Pier 39 as well.


A great choice: Have clam chowder soup in a piece of sourdough bread from Boudin Bakery. The soup tastes rich and creamy and really satisfies.


2. Go on a tour of Alcatraz Island.


Ferries from Pier 33 can take you to Alcatraz Island, the famous previous prison. There is a lot of history and the storytelling is very gripping. Pre-book your entrance tickets since the place is often sold out early!


3. Walk along the Embarcadero.


When you’re done, take a walk down the Embarcadero to get to the Ferry Building Marketplace. The place is good for sampling artisanal chocolate, cheese and organic snacks.


4. See the sunset from Twin Peaks.


Wrap up your day with a scenic drive (or ask your Uber to take you) to Twin Peaks. You get a magnificent view from up there—the whole city, the bridge and the further hills on clear days are visible.


A good idea: bring a light jacket with you. Summer nights in SF are often quite cold.

San Francisco, Alcatraz Island, Colourful city! 


Day 2: Tradition, Colour and the Feel of the City


1. Take a trip to see the Painted Ladies & Alamo Square.


Wake up with a photo in front of the Painted Ladies, those brightly-coloured Victorian houses seen in many movies. Going for a coffee break by the park across the street is a great idea.


2. Visit and understand the Mission District.


If you’re searching for Mexican culture, art and amazing food, go to the Mission District. The murals inside Balmy Alley are an alive outdoor art gallery and Mission Dolores Park invites you to relax and appreciate the views.


Have lunch at La Taqueria or El Farolito and order the Mission-style burrito. It’s huge, still very affordable and is full of flavour.


3. Explore Haight-Ashbury


In the afternoon, explore Haight-Ashbury which became famous as the birthplace of the hippie movement. There are vintage boutiques, eccentric cafes and colourful graffiti all around. Going around and exploring is simply a lot of fun.


4. A meeting in Castro or North Beach


If you want a lively atmosphere, end your day at one of these spots;


The Castro District is notable for being gay-friendly and it feels welcoming to all.


Turn to North Beach or Little Italy, for an intimate and charming Italian dining experience.

                       Castro or North Beach! 



Day 3: Time in Nature & Nearby Neighbourhoods


1. Go for a Walk on the Golden Gate Bridge


A visit to San Francisco isn’t over until you have walked on the Golden Gate Bridge. The Adler Mountain is nearly 2.7 km long and you can go as far or as close as you like. The views and photos from only halfway up are excellent.


For a great picture of the Golden Gate Bridge, make sure to visit the Vista Point on the north of the bridge.


2. Go to Golden Gate Park.


From Union Square, catch the cable car to Golden Gate Park which is larger than Central Park in New York! A fun way is to rent a bike or to just walk in the area.


What to see inside the park:


It is known as Japanese Tea Garden.


The California Academy of Sciences


Botanical Garden



3. Visit Chinatown


After that, make your way to Chinatown which belongs to the Chinatowns that are the most ancient and largest not only in Asia. Make your way through the Dragon’s Gate, get some souvenirs and sample dim sum or drink bubble tea.


4. Audience to the Sunset at Baker Beach


Close your vacation by having a peaceful night at Baker Beach. It is a quiet place with not many people and you can admire a postcard view of the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset.


It is said by locals that this is among the most romantic spots in the city.

Family and friends! 



Travel Hints for People Exploring Their Traveling World


San Francisco has many different weather conditions in different areas. You might have bright sunshine in one area while somewhere else is covered in fog. Put on items of clothing that you can take off if you get too hot.


For moving around the city, take Muni buses, trams or BART trains. A Clipper Card will make getting around much easier.


Pack your most comfortable shoes, because you will be walking much during your trip. Many of the hills in the city are steep, but they usually give you great views.


SF doesn’t have big safety issues, but it’s smart to remove your valuables from your car if you’re somewhere popular with sightseers.



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Final Thoughts


You won’t forget San Francisco for a long time. The city life and friendliness of small towns mix together well here. One calm morning, I was drinking coffee near Alamo Square and a guy playing jazz on a saxophone speckled the air from the park. These kinds of small events make the city seem energetic.


Stick to this itinerary as suggested if 3 days is your first time in Brussels. Just bring a good attitude, comfortable shoes and your appetite and everything else will be fine in the city.


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Was the Guide Helpful for You?


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Tick to get updates on our blog for extra advice, local suggestions and real experiences in different cities.


Bon voyage and have a wonderful San Francisco trip!





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