San Francisco is a city of charm, beauty, and endless excitement. If you only have 2 days in San Francisco, you’re in for a treat. San Francisco reminded me more of a European capital city like Barcelona or Dublin than a lot of other places in the United States, all without the hefty price tag of an international flight.
Traffic in San Francisco can be really nasty. Like -you and your husband stop speaking for a little bit because navigating the traffic is so frustrating- nasty. I built this itinerary with that in mind, so the activities and sites are clustered together with minimal driving in between.
This guide will help you make the most of your time with a fun and varied San Francisco 2 day itinerary. If you’re following my 7-day California road trip itinerary, simply follow just Day 1 of this itinerary and leave Day 2 for your next trip back. Let’s dive in!
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Day 1: Explore Iconic Landmarks and Neighborhoods
Morning: Baker Beach and Golden Gate Bridge
Start your day with a visit to Baker Beach. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. Take a relaxing stroll along the sandy shores and snap some memorable photos. The beach is also great for a morning walk or a picnic if you’re up for it.
The fog that regularly blankets the city of San Fran is affectionately known as “Karl,” and you’ll likely run into Karl (he’s got his own Instagram). During our visit, we could barely make out the bottom of the bridge, but the park was stunning. The afternoon typically tends to be better for clear skies, so you’ll have another shot at great views on your afternoon Bay cruise.
After Baker Beach, head to the Golden Gate Bridge. You can walk or bike across this iconic landmark, taking in breathtaking views of the city and the bay. It’s the must-see in any San Francisco itinerary. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike for a more exhilarating experience. If you’re not feeling like you need any cardio, simply enjoy views of the bridge if Karl isn’t in your way.
Late Morning: Palace of Fine Arts
Next on your 2 day San Francisco itinerary is the Palace of Fine Arts. This stunning architectural gem was originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. It’s not actually a palace, but it’s a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. The beautiful rotunda and tranquil lagoon make it a perfect spot for some photos and a peaceful stroll, nevermind the excellent people watching.
Afternoon: Marina District and Bay Cruise
After soaking in the beauty of the Palace of Fine Arts, head to the Marina District. This charming neighborhood is filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and beautiful views. Spend some time exploring the area and grab a bite to eat.
In the afternoon, I recommend cruising the San Francisco bay area and visiting Alcatraz Island. This tour departs from the Marina District is one of the most popular things to do in San Francisco because it allows you to do both of those things at a great price.
Alcatraz Island, famously known as “The Rock,” was home to one of America’s most notorious federal prisons from 1934 to 1963. It housed infamous criminals like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. And as an added bonus, if you didn’t see the Golden Gate Bridge in the morning, you’ll be able to get spectacular views on this tour if the fog cleared up. It’s a highlight of any San Francisco two day itinerary.
After your tour, grab dinner near Lombard Street. You’ll for sure want to hit up Lombard Street if you’re after a little thrill and a lot of charm. This is the place where San Francisco’s steep hills and quirky design meet, creating the most famous crooked street in the world. It’s not just a photo op—it’s a fun ride with jaw-dropping views, eye-catching gardens, and unique street style.
Evening: Ghirardelli Square
End your day at Ghirardelli Square nearby. This historic landmark and popular destination is located in the Fisherman’s Wharf area. It was the site of the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company’s factory and has been transformed into a shopping and dining complex that includes the Ghirardelli Chocolate and Ice Cream Shop, where you can enjoy sundaes and chocolates (prices are pretty steep and not necessarily Basic Economy B approved, but the sundaes were delicious).
Hotel Recommendations for San Francisco:
Remember my European city comment at the beginning? Rooms in SF are generally small so definitely leave the big suitcases at home. Very few hotels in SF will include paid parking, so plan for that additional cost as well.
- Golden Gate Hotel: Located in the historic Nob Hill neighborhood, this is a super charming boutique hotel known for its warm hospitality and classic decor. Rooms start at $109 per night. Book here.
- The Grove Inn: Situated in the Fillmore District, this inn is a cozy and inviting boutique hotel that blends modern comfort with a bit of classic charm. Rooms start at $180 per night. Book here.
- Hotel Zoe – Fisherman’s Wharf: Located in Fisherman’s Wharf district, this hotel puts you in the heart of the action with a great location to access your Day 1 activities. Rooms start at $200 per night. Book here.
Day 2: Art, Gardens, and Shopping
Morning: Painted Ladies and Botanical Garden
Assuming you love Full House, you’ll start your second day with a visit to the famous Painted Ladies. These Victorian houses are known for their vibrant colors and picturesque setting against the backdrop of the San Francisco skyline.
This popular tourist attraction is located at Alamo Square and is a must-see on any trip to San Francisco. Going in earlier in the morning will allow you to walk around the park and snap some pics without a ton of other tourists around.
Next, head to Golden Gate Park. This park is HUGE. Epic, sprawling, I would love to live near that kind of huge green space. You’ll start at the Botanical Garden at the edge of the park.
The serene garden features a wide variety of plants from around the world. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy nature and take a relaxing walk, especially if you time it in late summer to see the hundreds of blooming dahlias. It’s a total hidden gem right in the middle of the city.
Late Morning: Japanese Tea Garden
From the Botanical Garden, make your way to the Japanese Tea Garden. This beautifully landscaped garden is a tranquil retreat with traditional Japanese architecture, koi ponds, and serene pathways. Enjoy a cup of tea and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Now, you’ve got a choice depending on how hungry you are. If you need to break for lunch, skip to Haight Street and find a spot to eat before coming back. If you’re good and/or grabbed a granola bar, proceed.
Afternoon: California Academy of Sciences and De Young Museum
Your afternoon will be filled with culture and discovery. Start at the California Academy of Sciences. This museum is a fantastic place to explore, with its aquarium, planetarium, and natural history exhibits. It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
After the Academy, head over to the De Young Museum. Still located in the massive Golden Gate Park, the museum has an impressive collection of American art, as well as contemporary and international pieces. The museum itself is an architectural marvel, and the artwork inside is equally stunning.
Late Afternoon: Shopping and Lunch in Haight Street
Wrap up your day with some shopping and a delicious lunch in the Haight Street area. Known for its eclectic vibe and historical significance, Haight Street offers a mix of unique shops, vintage stores, and trendy boutiques.
It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat at one of the many quirky cafes or restaurants. Karma Cafe was by far my favorite spot we ate in San Francisco.
Tips for Your 2 Day San Francisco Itinerary
- Wear comfortable shoes: San Francisco is a city best explored on foot, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Dress in layers: The weather can change quickly, so it’s best to be prepared for both cool and warm temperatures. When the fog is out, it’s colder than you’d expect. And when there’s not a cloud in the sky, it’s hotter than you’d expect.
- Plan ahead for parking: If you’re driving, parking can be pretty tricky (easily my least favorite thing about being a California transplant). Consider using public transportation or use Uber or Lyft.
- Do not leave any valuables in your car. We had a police officer on Haight Street tell us to move our car a couple blocks into the residential area and make sure we didn’t have anything like a laptop or phone left in the car. Thieves have scanners where they can tell if you have large electronics in your car, even if they’re covered up.
With this 2 day itinerary for San Francisco, you’ll experience some of the city’s best sights and activities. Have an extra day? Why not head to nearby Napa and find an inexpensive wine tasting to complete your adventure! Looking for a remote destination to tack on to your visit to the bustling city? Head to the incredible redwoods and check out my guide to Shelter Cove, 4 hours north of the city.
From iconic landmarks and beautiful gardens to delicious food and unique shopping, there’s something in San Francisco for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this 2 days in San Francisco itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Have a fantastic trip!
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Comments
3 responses to “Your San Francisco 2 Day Itinerary: Best of the Bay”
Wow, there’s so many unique places to explore in San Francisco. I’ve been, but only got to spend a day there so obviously need to save this for when I go back.
Looks like a perfect itinerary!
[…] San Francisco, explore to your heart’s content. I recommend following Day 1 of my 2 Day San Francisco itinerary. Going to Golden Gate Bridge Park and trying to sneak a view of the bridge is a must. Karl, the […]