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If you are looking to travel to a place that is full of beautiful scenery, diving dining experiences, and amazing character–look no further than San Francisco, California. San Francisco has a lot to offer to everyone.

 

Check out the amazing  3-day San Francisco itinerary for the first-time journey to San Francisco that will allow you to have a California getaway that provides rest, adventure, and fun!

 

With rolling hills and waterfront scenery, your 3 days in San Francisco will create memories that last a lifetime! One of the most amazing things about traveling to San Francisco is the ability to have many types of experiences on one trip. You might feel that it is not enough to spend 3 days in San Francisco as the city has so much to offer!

 

When traveling to San Francisco, you can eat extravagant meals, visit old prisons, explore national monuments, walk along the coast, and shop until you drop. The travel guide below has ideas of things to do, places to see, and restaurants to try while you visit San Francisco. So, if you want to travel to San Francisco for the first time or just move to San Francisco, keep on reading to discover the beauties of this city!

The Amazing 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary for a First-Timer

Where to Stay in San Francisco

 

Before we dive into the 3-day Son Francisco itinerary, you need to find comfortable accommodation. There are so many places to stay across the city of San Francisco. From cool hostels, boutique hotels, and localized Airbnb – you can find accommodations that fit your budget. As a first-time visitor, you might actually be overwhelmed with the variety of options. There is not just one neighborhood in San Francisco that is worth checking out but several of them. Here are some accommodation suggestions in San Francisco.

 

5 Best Hostels in San Francisco

1. HI San Francisco Fisher’s Wharf

This hostel overlooks Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. It is a quaint getaway in the center of a bustling tourist area, just a 4-minute walk from Union Square. With organic food options and friendly staff, you will receive all the tips and fuel you need each morning.

The views of the bridge are impressive as well so make sure to bring your camera with you!

2. Music City Hostel

Music City Hostel is one of those thematic accommodations that you can find in this city by the bay. This may be the perfect hostel for you if you love art, culture, and music. Located in the heart of The Polk Gulch neighborhood, you will have proximity to many nearby attractions.

 

3. Green Tortoise Hostel

This is a great place for party lovers. It offers free breakfast, a free sauna, and more amenities. You’ll get a very pleasant experience as many visitors to San Francisco praised this hostel.

 

4. HI Hostel San Francisco – Downtown

Previously voted as San Francisco’s most popular hostel. This safe and secure hostel is located at the center of everything you might need. This hostel offers a wide assortment of amenities and some private bathrooms.

 

5. Orange Village Hostel

Very friendly staff with  24/7 reception. The hostel is conveniently located in Downtown and close to Square station. They offer competitive prices and good service.

 

Best San Francisco Hotels

1. Palihotel San Francisco

The Palihotel is a well-crafted boutique hotel located in the heart of Union Square. The Palihotel has an expansive bar with custom-curated cocktails, vibrant accommodation options, and beautifully designed rooms.

 

2. Palace Hotel San Francisco

The Palace Hotel is a luxury hotel with world-class architecture and world-class service. This Palace Hotel is located in the heart of the city and is perfect for a luxurious getaway (in case you travel with your significant one and you have a special occasion).

 

3. Grand Hyatt San Francisco

Grand Hotel is located at Union Square and offers nice rooms with a city view and free cancellation.

 

Best San Francisco Airbnb’s

1. Mission Suite. This simple suite is located in the heart of the mission and has amenities that accommodate all your needs!

 

2. Tranquil Alley Retreat. This accommodation is perfect for those who want to be within walking distance of all the popular districts. This retreat is on a secluded alley but is designed with beautiful Victorian architecture.

Find your vacation rental with VRBO.

Tip: To save money on accommodation, check Groupon for deals. I’ve only booked a hotel with Groupon once so far, but that deal was brilliant. The hotel was very nice and super cheap. And as always, if you do not mind staying at random people’s houses, search for accommodation on Couchsurfing, but make sure to check their references.

Complete the 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary

Day 1: Get a Feel for the City

 

On the first day of your San Francisco 3-day itinerary trip, make a point to get to know the city’s vibe. The trendy mission district, the beautiful marina district, the bustling financial district, and more. You may wonder, “Why are these hearts in SF placed all across the city?” or “Is the air always this foggy?”

 

Taking time to explore the different parts of the city will help you settle in and experience San Francisco from a more comprehensive perspective. A day in the city will give you a better perspective and you’ll be able to decide on what you want to do for the next two days. You might even decide that you need 5 days in San Francisco to fully take in everything this place has to offer! Everyday trip to this city will be an adventure on itself.

 

Must-See Sites in San Francisco

1. See the “Painted Ladies”

On your first day in San Francisco, make sure to wear your walking shoes and make your way to see the “Painted Ladies.” The “Painted Ladies” are an iconic SF tourist attraction. This attraction is known for the view that includes beautiful Victorian architecture layered onto the San Francisco skyline and the distant water. Across from the “Painted Ladies” is the Palace of Fine Arts, which is lined with amazing flowers and a vast park area.

San Francisco is famous for its “Painted Ladies”, and you’ll find this attraction extremely interesting too. Every corner of San Francisco will get your attention through its rich history and preserved urban beauty. It is a great way to start your trip to San Francisco in a way that you will not forget!

2. Explore the Mission District

If you want to experience a local neighborhood with a bohemian vibe, the Mission District is where you want to be. I suggest checking out this list to see all the top places to eat and visit within the mission district.

3. Shop Around Union Square

Union Square is the number one place for shopping in San Francisco. Although Union Square may be full of tourists, it is a bustling city center that is worth seeing! Whether you venture to the edge and visit Chinatown or shop along the many streets, you will want to have a few hours to explore the city’s heart.

4. Picnic on Baker Beach

Baker Beach is not far outside the city and offers an incredible view of The Golden Gate Bridge, the symbol of San Francisco. Pick up some tacos from a local joint and watch the sunset behind The Golden Gate Bridge. And while you are at it, check out the nearby Golden Gate Park for some great nature spots and a breeze of freshness.

 

In the Golden Gate Park, you will also find the de Young Museum. The museum opened in 1895 and has since become one of the city’s leading cultural institutions. It showcases a diverse collection of art from the Americas, Africa, and Oceania, as well as contemporary art, textiles, and costumes. The museum’s holdings also include American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries, making it a comprehensive archive of American visual culture.

5. Run the San Francisco Cable Car

 

Cable Cars in San Francisco are the most popular transportation for tourists. It is fun to ride, and you have a great opportunity to explore the city.

 

They have different locations across the city, so you can easily pick whatever station is closer to you. If you have never ridden a cable car before, it is similar to hop-on-hop-off tourist buses.

 

I bet you know what those already are. But, just keep in mind that the hop-on/hop-off option will only work if you buy Visitor Passport tickets (1 day,3 days, or 7 days). Prices vary and depend on the option you choose.

 

If you buy a single-ride ticket, which will cost you $7, it will be only valid for a single ride. To learn more about Cable Cars in San Francisco, check out this article.

Do not make your 3-day San Francisco itinerary overwhelming. Make sure you get enough rest and drink plenty of water.

Day 2: A Walk Along the Water

 

On your second day in your 3 day San Francisco itinerary, spend some time along the water! The pastel colors of the water, the skyline, and the sky make for a picturesque scene, no matter which way you turn.

 

Like all cities near the ocean, San Francisco is no exception when it comes to the beautiful beaches and gems specific to this environment. But San Francisco has something that not many cities have: a blend of tradition and modernity that will charm you!

 

Must-See San Francisco Sights

1. Wander the Ferry Building and Along Embarcadero

The Ferry Building located on the Embarcadero is a must-see site. If you are lucky enough to be in San Francisco on a Saturday, the ferry building offers an incredible farmer’s market that will exceed your expectations. With beautiful bouquets of flowers, thousands of fresh produce, and dozens of organic baked goods, the farmer’s market will bring joy and delicious treats to your day!

Get to the San Francisco farmer market for some local goodies and captivating conversations with locals.

2. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf

 

Travel from the ferry building down to Fisherman’s Wharf. You can ride the MUNI F-Line Streetcar from the ferry building directly to Fisherman’s Wharf. It will be the cheapest option ($2.50 per ride).

 

On this walk, you will pass the iconic “Pier 39.” Both Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 have amazing dining options and sites where you can see seals and entertainers filling the streets. Check out 10 things to do at Pier 39 for the best places to eat at Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf.

3. Cruise Out to the Mysterious Alcatraz Island

 

One of the most visited places to visit in San Francisco is Alcatraz Island. Make sure you book your trip to Alcatraz Island a few months in advance because you can only visit it if you make a reservation. Some ferries just loop around the island, but many tours will allow you to wander around the island and learn about its history and mystery.

 

When you visit Alcatraz, make sure to bring your ID, pack a snack, bring layers, and take your time exploring! The regular price of the tour is  $39.90 for a day and $47.30 for a night.

 

Get more info on Alcatraz tickets and tours here. Some sites sell discounted tickets to the island, so make sure you check it in advance as well. If all tickets are sold out (this happens all the time), don’t worry, and check out this guide on Alcatraz tickets, so you will be prepared for what to do.

A trip to Alcatraz is one of the best day trips from San Francisco you can get. It is one of San Francisco’s most fascinating experiences!

4. Head Straight to Twin Peaks

 

You can’t leave San Francisco without enjoying the best city views it offers. Planning a trip to San Francisco definitely can’t be done without visiting this amazing place.

Twin Peaks is one of the best places to go in San Francisco for a great view of the city. It is a residential San Francisco neighborhood with parks, modern houses on curved streets, and 360-degree views of the San Francisco Bay Area.

 

Some tips: Come there early to avoid the crowd, wear warm clothes as it will be windy and choose a sunny day to see the best views.

 

It is not that easy to get there by public transport as you will have to get a transfer and walk. Your best options will be tourist buses (in case you bought a tour), a car or taxi, and Uber/Lyft.

 

Find out the exact recommendations and directions on how to get to Twin Peaks.

5. Visit Golden Gate Bridge

 

This is the most popular tourist attraction and San Francisco is known for the Golden Gate Bridge. The suspension bridge in the city is located between SF Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The views of San Francisco from the bridge are amazing. The Bay Bridge from San Francisco is one of the most impressive you will find in the States.

 

You can get to the bridge easily by any transport as the entire San Francisco city is connected to it. And, you should have no problem in finding Bay Area rapid transit to help you get around San Francisco. You can walk on a bridge or observe and take nice pictures from different angles.

 

The best option is to rent a bike and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. Expect to pay about $25 for up to 3 hours. You will get to bike through the thick fog and feel the crisp air against your skin. If you happen to be traveling in June, you can frequently see whales migrating through the bay.

 

Tips: Come early, as it might be overcrowded, and have a scarf or light jacket as it is going to be windy as well. Well, it is windy in SF in general, so you do not have to be surprised :).

 

If you wonder about travel tips, things to do, and places to visit near San Francisco, check this San Diego bucket list.

Day 3: Venture Outside the City Limits

After two days of seeing the most important things in and around the city of San Francisco, travel outside the city! Whether you decide to visit a nearby national park, forest, or town–go to the outskirts to see all the things that make the San Francisco area amazing.

1. Wind the streets of Sausalito

Located just a mile from the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito is a nice town to visit. Sausalito is a quaint town across the bay from San Francisco. Sausalito looks like a Mediterranean coast town that is full of beautiful sites, incredible food, and cool shops. Consider stopping by the Salsalito Taco Shop for lunch. The taco shop has local favorites that have rich flavors and overlook a great coastal view.

2. Explore the Muir Woods

 

After walking the town of Sausalito from end to end, rent a car and travel to Muir Woods! Muir Woods is a national monument that is known for its Redwood trees. You can wander the trails and get lost amongst the giant trees until dusk.

3. Lombard Street

The street is famous in San Francisco for its one-way road on Russian Hill between Hyde and Leavenworth streets with flowers and greeneries on the sides. The street is considered the most crooked street in the world.

 

It has a sidewalk on both sides, so if you decide just to explore the street and the area on foot, you can easily do that.

4. Palace of Fine Arts

 

The Palace of Fine Arts is located in the Marina District in San Francisco, and it is a historical monumental building that was built in 1915 but was destroyed and rebuilt after. It is one of the oldest attractions and San Francisco’s most famous historic sight.

 

It is free to visit and open on days and nights. So if you want to explore it at night, it is safe to do. That’s what I did! This San Francisco’s historic heritage was one of the best places in the city for me.

 

It is a small park with a historic palace. A nice and quiet place to visit, which makes it a popular place for celebrating weddings or other events.

 

When you are in San Francisco, I suggest you check local events. To see the full list of San Francisco events in 2024 San Francisco events in 2024 click here.

Must-Eat Restaurants in San Francisco in 3 – Days Itinerary

There are many places where you can eat in San Francisco and for all types of budgets. This city is notorious for its culinary variety. If you go to downtown San Francisco, you will find all types of restaurants with food from the best cuisines in the world. From the staple sourdough bread bowl delicacies to more complex dishes, this city has it all!

 

Upscale Restaurants

1. Chart House (Pier 39)
2. Waterbar (Embarcadero South)
3. Petit Marlowe (South Market)
4. Big 4 Restaurant (Nob Hill)
5. Scoma’s (Sausalito)

 

Mexican Food

1. Lolo (Mission District)
2. Bonita Taqueria (Marine District)
3. Salsalito (Sausalito)

 

Breakfast Spots

1. Beachside Coffee Bar and Kitchen (Sunset District)
2. Cassava (Richmond District)
3. Zazie (Haight Ashbury)

 

Lunch Spots

1. Tartine Manufactory (Mission District)
2. Blue Barn Gourmet (Marina District)
3. Basik Café (Embarcadero)

 

Happy Hour

1. Blackbird (Mission District)
2. Chapeau (Marina District)
3. Outerlands (Sunset District)

 

Casual Dining

1. Flour + Water Pizzeria (Mission District)
2. Verjus (Financial District)
3. Pearl 6101 (Richmond District)
4. Ma (Sunset District)
5. Foreign Cinema (Mission District)

Final Thoughts

If you want to visit San Francisco for the first time, this guide has you covered! The 3-day itinerary in this guide is very flexible so feel free to adapt it to your style. There are so many San Francisco activities to do in and around this California city on your 3-day San Francisco itinerary! From the redwood forests to the divine shopping in Union Square, there are plenty of activities that are perfect for any traveler.

 

When planning your 3-day San Francisco itinerary, check out some other resources, including ones that show the natural sites to see around San Francisco, updated dining guides, and the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

 

Make sure to pack walking shoes, as San Francisco is a very hilly city with many roads to wander! There are many forms of transportation around the city, including public buses, trains, cable cars, taxis, and bicycle rentals.

 

I hope you liked this amazing 3-day San Francisco itinerary for a first-timer post and will be planning your San Francisco vacation soon! Happy travel.

 

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