Things to do in San Francisco
Plan your trip to San Francisco with real itineraries created by travelers and reviewed with AI.
All published itineraries for San Francisco
3 itineraries for San Francisco created by travelers and reviewed with AI. Copy them as a starting point and personalize.
Related destinations
Explore more travel plans
Why visit San Francisco
Are you planning a trip to San Francisco and don't know where to start? In this guide you'll find everything essential to see in San Francisco: the most-visited landmarks, plans for 1 and 2 days, free activities, where to eat and practical tips to make the most of your trip. We've also collected the best itineraries published by other travelers so you can use them as a base and adapt them to your pace, interests and budget.
What to see in San Francisco in 1 day
If you only have one day in San Francisco, focus on the historic centre, the most representative landmarks and a good local restaurant. Use the published itineraries below as a starting point.
Morning
Historic centre of San Francisco
Walk through the centre to soak up the atmosphere and discover the squares, churches and unique buildings of San Francisco.
Main landmarks
Identify the 2-3 most recognizable landmarks of San Francisco and prioritize them in the morning, when queues are shorter and light is best.
Afternoon
Viewpoint or scenic walk
Finish the day on a viewpoint, park or signature walk in San Francisco. The best way to close the visit with sunset views.
What to see in San Francisco in 2 days
With two days you can dive deeper into the history, gastronomy and natural surroundings of San Francisco. Reserve the first day for the city centre and the second for museums, alternative neighborhoods or a nearby day trip.
Day 2 · Morning
Museums and lesser-known sights
Use the morning to visit the main museum of San Francisco or a less touristy neighborhood.
Day 2 · Afternoon
Nearby day trip
Head out to a town, natural park or scenic spot near San Francisco. It's often the most memorable part of the trip.
Best places to see in San Francisco
Historic centre of San Francisco
The best starting point to discover San Francisco: this is where the main landmarks, restaurants and local life come together.
Panoramic viewpoint
Almost every city has a viewpoint or high spot from which to admire San Francisco. Ask the tourist office which one is most recommended.
Main square
The main or central square is usually the social heart of San Francisco and a great place to rest between visits.
Local market
If San Francisco has a traditional market, don't miss it: local food at fair prices and plenty of atmosphere.
Main green area
City park, riverside walk or a signature promenade — the ideal spot to relax and watch San Francisco life unfold.
Free things to do in San Francisco
Free walking tour of the old town
Book a free walking tour to discover San Francisco with a local guide on a tip-only basis.
Stroll along the main green area
Most destinations have a city park or river walk. A free plan with plenty of local atmosphere.
Visit churches and historic squares
Most churches and squares in San Francisco are free to enter and hold part of the city's soul.
Where to eat in San Francisco
Restaurants in the historic centre
The largest concentration of restaurants is usually in the centre of San Francisco, perfect for typical food without much walking.
Food market
If San Francisco has a traditional or gourmet market, take advantage to try local products at a fair price.
Tapas bars or local cuisine
Ask locals for the typical dish of San Francisco — they'll almost always send you to the right place.
Travel tips for San Francisco
- Book accommodation near the historic centre of San Francisco so you can move around on foot.
- Wear comfortable shoes: most of San Francisco is best explored walking.
- Stop by the tourist office on arrival: they'll give you a free map and current events.
- Use public transport or walk: many city centres are pedestrian-only.
- Check monument opening hours before your visit, especially out of high season.
Frequently asked questions about San Francisco
What to do in San Francisco in 1 day?+
Focus the day on the historic centre of San Francisco, its main landmarks and a typical restaurant. Lean on the real itineraries published at the bottom of this page.
What to see in San Francisco in 2 days?+
With two days you can add museums, alternative neighborhoods and a nearby day trip from San Francisco.
Free things to do in San Francisco?+
Walking the old town, joining a free tour, visiting viewpoints and enjoying the main green area of San Francisco are excellent free options.
Where to eat in San Francisco?+
The largest concentration of restaurants is in the historic centre of San Francisco. Ask locals about typical dishes to get it right.
Best time to visit San Francisco?+
Spring and autumn usually offer the best balance of weather, prices and tourism volume in San Francisco.
Want your own personalized San Francisco itinerary?
Generate a tailor-made plan with days, schedule, places and map in under a minute. Free and in any language.
Create itinerary for free