Itineraries / San Francisco
2 Days in San Francisco: A First-Timer's Itinerary
San Francisco is compact, but it is hilly and the weather changes fast. This two-day plan puts the waterfront and Alcatraz on the first day, and the Golden Gate Bridge, the park and the painted houses on the second.
Bring layers, since the fog can turn a sunny morning cold. Add any stop, or a whole day, to your trip with one tap.
Day 1: The bay and Alcatraz
The first day stays on the water. The Ferry Building, Alcatraz and the wharf are all along the same stretch of shoreline.
Ferry Building Marketplace
A historic ferry terminal turned food hall, with coffee, pastries and local produce. There is a farmers market outside on some days. It is a good place to start with a view of the bay.
Alcatraz Island
The former federal prison sits on an island in the bay. The ferry leaves from Pier 33, and the included audio tour is excellent. Tickets sell out well ahead, so book as soon as your dates are set.
Pier 39
A busy waterfront pier with shops, snacks and a group of sea lions that lounge on the docks. It is touristy, but it is fun and it is close to the Alcatraz ferry.
Lombard Street
The crooked block with eight tight turns, laid with brick and lined with flowers. Walk down the stairs beside it for the best view, rather than driving through the line of cars.
Day 2: Bridge, park and painted houses
Head west for the second day. The bridge is best early, before the fog rolls in, and the park has plenty of room to wander.
Golden Gate Bridge
Walk out onto the bridge from the south end, or watch it from the viewing area beside it. Fog is common in the morning, so give yourself time to wait for a clear moment.
Palace of Fine Arts
A domed rotunda beside a small lagoon, built for the 1915 world's fair. It is a peaceful stop and a good place for photos, a short ride from the bridge.
Golden Gate Park
A very large park with gardens, museums and a Japanese tea garden. Pick one or two spots, such as the Conservatory of Flowers, rather than trying to see it all.
Alamo Square (Painted Ladies)
The row of Victorian houses in pastel colors, with the skyline behind them. It is a quick stop, and the small park across the street is a good spot to sit and watch the light change.
Common questions about San Francisco
Is 2 days enough for San Francisco?
Two days covers the main sights if you split them by area, as this plan does. A third day is useful for Muir Woods or a wine country trip.
What is the best time to visit San Francisco?
September and October are often the warmest and clearest. Summer brings fog and cool mornings, so bring layers whenever you go.
Do I need to book Alcatraz ahead?
Yes. Tickets sell out well in advance, so book as soon as your dates are set.
Plan it with your group
Jornada keeps the ideas, the days, the map and the shared costs for everyone coming on the trip. Start with this itinerary and change whatever you like.
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