4-Day Local's Guide to San Francisco: Outdoor and Shopping Escapade
San Francisco, California
4 days
About San Francisco, California
Experience the vibrant culture and iconic landmarks of San Francisco, California. Marvel at the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, explore the infamous Alcatraz Island, and ride the historic cable cars. Wander through the bustling Chinatown, the oldest in North America, and indulge in world-class dining at Fisherman's Wharf. Visit the diverse neighborhoods like the hippie haven of Haight-Ashbury and the colorful Castro district. Enjoy the serene beauty of Golden Gate Park and the stunning views from Twin Peaks. San Francisco offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and progressive spirit. Whether you're a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history buff, the City by the Bay has something for everyone. Come and immerse yourself in the unique charm of San Francisco.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Presidio and Union Square
Morning
Start your day at the Presidio, a park and former military post. Enjoy the hiking trails and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café in the Marina District. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views of the bay.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the shops and boutiques in Union Square. This area is known for its high-end retail stores and art galleries.
Dinner
Dine at a trendy restaurant in the Mission District. This neighborhood is known for its diverse culinary scene, from gourmet eateries to food trucks.
Evening
Enjoy a live performance at one of the city's many theaters. San Francisco has a vibrant arts scene, with a variety of shows and performances happening every night.
Day 3
Botanical Garden and Ocean Beach Adventure
Morning
Visit the San Francisco Botanical Garden in the morning. Enjoy the diverse plant life and peaceful atmosphere.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery in the Sunset District. This neighborhood is known for its diverse food scene, with a mix of Asian, Mexican, and American cuisines.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at Ocean Beach. Enjoy the sandy beach, surf the waves, or simply relax and watch the sunset.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local Italian restaurant. North Beach, the city's Little Italy, is known for its authentic Italian cuisine.
Evening
End your day with a visit to Coit Tower. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the bay.
Day 4
Ferry Building Marketplace and Alcatraz Night Tour
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Explore the various food stalls, artisanal shops, and local produce.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local seafood restaurant along the Embarcadero. Enjoy the fresh catch of the day and stunning views of the bay.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the shops and boutiques in the Hayes Valley neighborhood. This area is known for its unique, locally-owned shops.
Dinner
Dine at a trendy restaurant in the SoMa district. This neighborhood is known for its innovative culinary scene and hip eateries.
Evening
End your 4-day San Francisco adventure with a night tour of Alcatraz Island. Learn about the island's history as a federal prison and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (20)
1Golden Gate Park
A large urban park consisting of 1,017 acres of public grounds. It is administered by the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department, which began in 1871 to oversee the development of Golden Gate Park.
2Japanese Tea Garden
The oldest public Japanese garden in the United States located inside Golden Gate Park. It features classic elements such as an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds and a zen garden.
3Conservatory of Flowers
A historic landmark housing a collection of rare and exotic plants in a Victorian-style greenhouse.
4Haight-Ashbury
Known for its history of hippie subculture, Haight-Ashbury is filled with vintage clothing boutiques, record stores, and eclectic local restaurants.
5Alcatraz Island
A small island located in the middle of San Francisco Bay. It served as a lighthouse, a military fortification, and a prison.
6Presidio
A park and former military base offering hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and historic buildings.
7Marina District
The Marina District is a neighborhood located in San Francisco, California. The neighborhood sits on the site of the 1915 Panama–Pacific International Exposition, staged after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake to celebrate the reemergence of the city.
8Union Square
Union Square is a shopping haven filled with high-end department stores and boutiques, salons, two square blocks of jewelry stores, art galleries and more.
9Mission District
Known for its vibrant arts scene and cultural heritage. This neighborhood is rich in Latin American traditions, and it's the origin of the celebrated Mission burrito.
10San Francisco Botanical Garden
A 55-acre living museum within Golden Gate Park, offering 8,000 different kinds of plants from around the world.
11Sunset District
A large neighborhood in the western part of San Francisco, known for its quiet residential streets, diverse food scene, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
12Ocean Beach
A beach that runs along the west coast of San Francisco, adjacent to Golden Gate Park, the Richmond District and the Sunset District. It is popular with surfers and bonfire parties.
13North Beach
Italian neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and old-world delis.
14Coit Tower
A historic tower in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood, offering panoramic views of the city and the bay.
15Ferry Building Marketplace
A historic building that houses a food hall, farmers market, and office buildings, featuring a 245-foot tall clock tower.
16Embarcadero
A vibrant waterfront area offering a variety of attractions such as the Ferry Building Marketplace, Exploratorium, and stunning views of the Bay Bridge.
17Hayes Valley
Hayes Valley is a fashionable neighborhood in San Francisco with boutique shops, high-end restaurants, and hip cafes. It's also known for its vibrant street art and cultural institutions like the SFJAZZ Center.
18SoMa
Short for 'South of Market', this neighborhood is known for its tech companies, museums, and nightlife.
19Fisherman's Wharf
One of the city's busiest tourist areas. Souvenir shops and stalls selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls appear at every turn.
20Telegraph Hill
Known for Coit Tower, Telegraph Hill is a neighborhood famous for its gardens, staircases, and stunning views of the city and the bay.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bread Bowl
A creamy clam chowder served in a hollowed-out loaf of sourdough bread, a specialty of San Francisco due to its famous sourdough culture.
Dungeness Crab
A local delicacy, the Dungeness crab is a species of crab that is native to the west coast of North America, and is particularly popular in San Francisco.
Mission-style Burrito
A type of burrito that originated in the Mission District of San Francisco, it is typically larger and includes more ingredients than a traditional burrito.
Fortune Cookies
Although associated with Chinese cuisine, the modern version of the fortune cookie was actually invented by a Japanese resident of San Francisco.
Cioppino
A seafood stew that originated in San Francisco, Cioppino is typically made with a variety of fresh seafood in a tomato and wine sauce.
Anchor Steam Beer
A unique style of beer that originated in San Francisco, it is named for the steam brewing method developed in the city during the Gold Rush era.
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco is famous for its sourdough bread, which has a distinctive tangy flavor due to the local strains of yeast and bacteria used in the fermentation process.
Joe's Special
A scramble of ground beef, spinach, and eggs, this dish was invented in San Francisco during the 1920s and remains a popular local comfort food.
It's-It Ice Cream Sandwich
A San Francisco original, the It's-It is a sandwich made of ice cream between two oatmeal cookies, all coated in dark chocolate.
Martini
While the exact origin of the martini is disputed, San Francisco is one of the cities that claims to be its birthplace. It's a cocktail made with gin and vermouth.
Dim Sum
While not unique to San Francisco, the city's large Chinese community means it has some of the best dim sum outside of China.
San Francisco Garlic Fries
A popular snack in San Francisco, these fries are tossed with minced garlic and parsley, offering a flavorful twist on the traditional French fry.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit San Francisco, California is during the fall months of September to November. During this period, the city experiences warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful autumn colors. However, spring is also a great time to visit, particularly from April to June, when the city is blooming with flowers. The weather is mild and the summer crowds have not yet arrived. Keep in mind that San Francisco is known for its microclimates, so it's always a good idea to carry layers no matter when you visit.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
BART is a public transportation system serving the San Francisco Bay Area. The system connects San Francisco with cities in the East Bay and suburbs in northern San Mateo County. BART operates from around 5 AM to midnight on weekdays, with later start times of 8 AM on Saturdays and 11 AM on Sundays.
Muni Metro
Muni Metro is a light rail system operated by the San Francisco Municipal Railway, a part of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. It serves various parts of the city including popular tourist destinations like Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, and the Castro.
Cable Cars
San Francisco's iconic cable cars are not just a tourist attraction but also a practical means of transportation, especially for navigating the city's steep hills. There are three lines: Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason, and California Street.
Buses
San Francisco has an extensive bus network that covers almost every corner of the city. The buses are operated by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
Bicycles
San Francisco is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. The city's relatively small size makes it possible to get around easily on a bike.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in San Francisco. These services can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Ferries
Ferries operate between San Francisco and several locations in the Bay Area, including Sausalito, Tiburon, and Alameda. The ferry terminals in San Francisco are located at the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf.
Car Rental
While driving in San Francisco can be challenging due to heavy traffic and scarce parking, renting a car can be a good option if you plan to visit areas outside the city.
Walk
San Francisco is a walkable city with many attractions located close to each other. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in areas like Union Square, Chinatown, and Fisherman's Wharf.
Scooters
Electric scooters are a popular mode of transportation in San Francisco. Several companies offer scooter rentals, which can be a fun and efficient way to get around the city.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about San Francisco, California as a first time visitor
1
San Francisco is known for its microclimates. The weather can change dramatically from one neighborhood to another.
2
Always carry a jacket or sweater with you, even in the summer. The city can get quite chilly, especially in the evenings.
3
Public transportation is widely available and includes buses, light rail (Muni), and the famous cable cars.
4
If you plan to use public transportation frequently, consider getting a Clipper card for convenience.
5
San Francisco is a very walkable city, but be prepared for steep hills.
6
Tipping is customary in San Francisco. It's standard to tip 15-20% at restaurants and for services.
7
San Francisco is a foodie's paradise. Be sure to try local specialties like sourdough bread, clam chowder, and Mission-style burritos.
8
The city is very eco-conscious. Many places do not provide plastic bags, and there's a strong emphasis on recycling and composting.
9
San Francisco is a very diverse city with a rich cultural history. You'll find neighborhoods like Chinatown, the Mission District, and the Castro each with their own unique character.
10
The city is known for its progressive values and is very LGBTQ+ friendly.
11
San Francisco is in a seismic zone, and earthquakes, while not common, do occur. Familiarize yourself with basic earthquake safety.
12
Parking can be difficult and expensive in San Francisco. If possible, consider using public transportation or rideshares instead of renting a car.
13
The city has a high cost of living. Be prepared for higher prices at restaurants, shops, and hotels.
14
San Francisco has a large homeless population. It's a complex issue that the city is grappling with.
15
The city is bike-friendly with many bike lanes and bike rental services. However, be prepared for hilly terrain.
16
San Francisco is a tech hub. You'll find the headquarters of many major tech companies in the city and surrounding areas.
17
The city has strict smoking laws. Smoking is banned in all public parks and most outdoor seating areas.
18
The city is known for its fog, affectionately called 'Karl the Fog'. It can roll in quickly and dramatically change the weather.
19
San Francisco is surrounded by water on three sides, which can cause wind. It's a good idea to have a windbreaker or heavier jacket.
20
The city has a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. Average summer temperatures are around 67°F (19°C) and winter temperatures are around 57°F (14°C).
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight jackets
Sweaters
Long pants
Shorts
T-shirts
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Hat
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Shampoo
Conditioner
Body wash
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash
Hotel reservation details
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contacts and addresses
Maps and guidebooks
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Laptop
Charger for laptop
Universal travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Travel locks
Umbrella
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel-size laundry detergent
Weather Conditions
San Francisco, California, is known for its unique and diverse weather patterns. It's often said that the city experiences "microclimates," which means the weather can vary dramatically from one neighborhood to the next. Generally, San Francisco is characterized by cool, wet winters and dry summers. The average high temperature in the summer is around 70°F (21°C), while the winter average high is about 57°F (14°C). However, it's not uncommon for temperatures to drop in the evenings, so it's always a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater, even in the summer. One of the most famous weather phenomena in San Francisco is the fog, often referred to as "Karl the Fog." This fog rolls in from the Pacific Ocean, typically in the morning and late afternoon, and can drastically drop temperatures. It's a beautiful sight, but it can also make things chilly, so pack accordingly. Despite the fog, San Francisco gets a lot of sunshine. The city averages 259 sunny days per year, so don't forget your sunscreen. Even when it's foggy, UV rays can still penetrate, so it's important to protect your skin. Wind is also a common feature in San Francisco. The city is known for its breezy conditions, especially in the afternoon and at higher elevations. If you're planning on visiting areas like Twin Peaks or riding a ferry to Alcatraz, you might want to bring a windbreaker. Lastly, while San Francisco doesn't get a lot of rain, when it does, it's usually between November and March. If you're visiting during these months, it's a good idea to pack a raincoat or umbrella. In conclusion, when visiting San Francisco, it's best to dress in layers and be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful and diverse city!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 15° / 8° | January is the coldest month in San Francisco, but it's still relatively mild compared to many other places. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. |
February | 17° / 9° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still on the cooler side. It's a great time to explore indoor attractions like museums and art galleries. |
March | 18° / 10° | March marks the beginning of spring in San Francisco. The weather is pleasant, and the city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit. |
April | 19° / 10° | April is a great time to visit San Francisco as the weather is mild and the city is full of spring blooms. It's also less crowded than the summer months. |
May | 20° / 11° | May offers warm and sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities. It's a great time to visit parks and beaches. |
June | 22° / 12° | June is the start of the summer season in San Francisco. The weather is warm, but not too hot, making it perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. |
July | 24° / 13° | July is one of the warmest months in San Francisco. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy warm weather, but be prepared for the occasional foggy day. |
August | 25° / 14° | August is the peak of summer in San Francisco. The weather is warm and sunny, making it a great time for outdoor activities and beach visits. |
September | 26° / 14° | September is often the warmest month in San Francisco, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities. |
October | 24° / 13° | October sees a slight drop in temperature but it's still quite warm. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy good weather. |
November | 19° / 10° | November marks the beginning of the cooler season in San Francisco. The weather is still pleasant, making it a good time to explore the city's indoor attractions. |
December | 15° / 8° | December is one of the cooler months in San Francisco. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy holiday festivities and don't mind the cooler weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by San Francisco, California
Sausalito
A charming town with stunning views of San Francisco across the bay.
Berkeley
Home to the University of California, Berkeley, and a vibrant arts and food scene.
Muir Woods National Monument
A beautiful forest of old-growth redwood trees.
Half Moon Bay
A scenic coastal town with beautiful beaches and trails.
Napa Valley
Famous for its wineries and vineyards.
Santa Cruz
Known for its boardwalk, beaches, and surf culture.
Monterey
Home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row.
Sacramento
The capital of California, with a historic old town area.
Lake Tahoe
A large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada, known for its beaches and ski resorts.
Yosemite National Park
Famous for its waterfalls, deep valleys, grand meadows, and ancient giant sequoias.
