Whether you have a layover, are a local looking to play tourist in your home (that’s me!), or just passing through, this guide will make sure every second of your one day in San Francisco is filled with delicious food, Instagram worthy sights, and a whole lot of fun.
This blog post shares a realistic one day in San Francisco itinerary, the exact itinerary I used during my last one day visit!
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
Looking for things to do for one day in San Francisco? Well you are in luck, this guide includes everything you should do (in a realistic way) for one day in San Francisco! 24 hours in a city this big might seem impossible, but let me tell you, it’s not. Follow this guide for where to stay, best places to eat, and how to see as many sights as possible.
Table of Contents
- Hi, I’m Linds! A Northern California native.
- Where to Stay in San Francisco
- Getting Around San Francisco
- My Favorite Areas of the City: Mission, Hayes Valley, Embarcadero + Haight-Ashbury
- 24 Hours in San Francisco – Your One Day Itinerary!
- Summary of How to Spend 24 Hours in San Francisco
- Extra Things to See & Do in San Francisco
Hi, I’m Linds! A Northern California native.
I grew up in the Bay Area, and even though I’ve lived many other places since, it will always be home to me. San Francisco is a spot so close to my heart, and fills me with so much joy every time I am there. This guide is intended to share some of my very own favorite spots with you, so wherever you may go, you can take a piece of S.F. with you. It’s the perfect guide for one day in San Francisco.
Where to Stay in San Francisco
Having lived close to San Francisco most of my life I’ve only stayed the night a handful of times, and to be honest, the only hotel I can truthfully recommend is 1 Hotel. It’s in a super safe area, and is convenient and very clean. It’s pricey, I know and I am sorry in advance, but it is not only the best hotel in San Francisco, but it’s honestly one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever stayed in!
It’s an eco-friendly hotel overlooking the Embarcadero waterfront, making it the perfect spot to truly get that quintessential city experience. You are within walking distance to all the essentials, and it’s super convenient to the airport – so it’s a win win.
How can you not want to wake up to this view?!
Book Your Reservation Here: 1 Hotel San Francisco
Getting Around San Francisco
I don’t recommend renting a car when you’re in the city. Parking can be expensive, there are some safety concerns with vehicles getting broken into. Not to mention navigating the streets can be a bit challenging. Thankfully, you really don’t need a car to explore San Francisco! The city is very walkable + there are plenty of other great ways to get around.
Ride in a Waymo: Have you ridden in a driverless vehicle before? Probably not, so this is a must! It’s safe, super easy, affordable, and an experience you and the whole family will love. Make sure to download the app before you go!
Public transit: San Francisco’s public transit system is excellent. Download the MuniMobile app to purchase all your tickets for streetcars (which are part of this itinerary!), trains, and buses. If you plan to ride more than once, I suggest purchasing a day pass to save money and make your travel hassle-free.
Uber: Uber is widely available in San Francisco and can be a quick and efficient way to get around, especially if you’re short on time or traveling longer distances.
My Favorite Areas of the City: Mission, Hayes Valley, Embarcadero + Haight-Ashbury
San Francisco is full of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. All of these areas besides Haight-Ashbury are all included in this one day in San Francisco itinerary, but I wanted to make sure you get a rundown of them before we dive in. Here are four of my favorite areas that you definitely shouldn’t miss, especially if you have more than one day in San Francisco.
Mission District
The Mission District is known for its eclectic mix of cultures and vibrant street art. Stroll down Valencia Street to discover a variety of trendy boutiques, delicious eateries, and unique coffee shops. The area is also famous for Mission Dolores Park, a perfect spot for relaxing and people-watching with stunning views of the city skyline. You don’t miss the colorful murals at Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley, which showcase the neighborhood’s rich artistic heritage.
A few of my favorite restaurants and drinks spots in the Mission District are:
Local Tip: On your way to Mission Dolores Park grab a pastry at the famous Tartine Bakery to enjoy while you relax in the park!
Hayes Valley
Hayes Valley is a charming, up-and-coming neighborhood known for its stylish boutiques, chic cafes, and trendy restaurants. It is my FAVORITE area of San Fransisco. The restaurant scene is unparalleled, and the vibe is perfection. You can wander through the Hayes Valley Farmers Market on Saturdays for local produce and artisan goods. The area is also home to Patricia’s Green, a small but lively park with public art installations and a great place to unwind. Hayes Valley offers a fantastic mix of old and new, making it a delightful place to explore (and eat + drink!).
Embarcadero
The Embarcadero stretches along the waterfront and offers stunning views of the Bay Bridge and the city’s skyline + is included in your itinerary below! Skip to it here. You can begin your visit at the Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can sample gourmet food, shop for local produce, and enjoy waterfront views. From there, take a leisurely walk along the Embarcadero waterfront, which features parks, piers, and public art. This area is also a great starting point for exploring nearby attractions like Pier 39 and the Exploratorium.
Haight-Ashbury
Known for its rich history and bohemian vibe, Haight-Ashbury is where the Summer of Love took place. Explore Haight Street to find vintage shops, eclectic boutiques, and unique eateries. The neighborhood is also home to the Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast, a historic landmark that offers a glimpse into the area’s colorful past. Don’t forget to visit Golden Gate Park, which borders the Haight and offers a lush green space for a relaxing stroll or a visit to attractions like the California Academy of Sciences.
24 Hours in San Francisco – Your One Day Itinerary!
As I researched for this post, I searched for “One Day in San Francisco Guide,” “San Francisco Layover Ideas,” and “Best Things to Do in San Francisco in 24 Hours.” Honestly, I was shocked by the so-called “guides” and tips I found. They were mostly long, like Cheesecake Factory menu long (IKYK), confusing lists that made it impossible to figure out where to start or how to get from one place to another. Plus, there was a lot of touristy stuff that I highly recommend avoiding.
So, here’s the exact itinerary my husband and I followed when we spent 24 hours in San Francisco this past July! As locals who have since moved away, we knew exactly what we wanted to see and do: our favorite spots from when we used to live here.
How to Use This Map: Click on each icon to discover more about each location. To save this map for future reference, click the star next to the map’s title. This will add the map to your Google Maps account. Later, open Google Maps, go to the menu, and select “Your places” to find this map!
#1. Lombard Street and Buena Vista Café
Brunch is up to you, depending on where you are staying! We enjoyed brunch at our hotel, 1 Hotel which was absolutely delicious, plus you can’t beat breakfast with this view.
Next, hop into a Waymo and head to the iconic Lombard Street. Known as the “crookedest street in the world,” it’s a must-see for any San Francisco visit. You can take a leisurely walk down the winding road, snapping photos of the beautiful gardens and Victorian houses along the way.
Once you’ve navigated Lombard Street, make your way to the Buena Vista Café. This historic spot is famous for its Irish coffee, with a show! It’s the perfect place to warm up and enjoy a bit of San Francisco history.
Local Tip: Depending on the weather and what you feel like doing, you could also head over to Ghirardelli Square after as it’s located right down the street!
#2. Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
From Buena Vista Café, it’s a short walk to Fisherman’s Wharf. This bustling area is full of energy and offers plenty of spots to grab a snack. Treat yourself to a delicious lobster roll or some fresh crab – you can’t go wrong with either!
After your snack, stroll over to Pier 39, it’s a bit of a walk but there’s plenty to see along the way. Here, you’ll find an array of shops and attractions, but the main highlight is the sea lions basking on the docks. It’s a quintessential San Francisco experience and really cool to see.
Local Tip: From Fisherman’s Wharf to Pier 39 you’ll walk past and through the main tourist area, don’t eat here and buy anything, but it’s fun to just see.
#3. Lunch at Hog Island Oyster Co.
From pier 39 I suggest hopping onto a city train to save some walking time to the Ferry Building – the pier is quite long! At the Ferry Building lies one of my favorite spots, Hog Island Oyster Co. This is some of the best seafood in the city. You’ll get stunning views of the bay and a menu packed with fresh oysters, clam chowder, and more. They also have amazing glasses of white wine – you’ll be in heaven.
You might also like: 23 Things to Do in San Francisco for First-Time Visitors
#4. Coffee and Shopping at The Ferry Building
After lunch, walk inside the Ferry Building and grab a coffee at Blue Bottle. This is a chain coffee spot, but a beloved one of locals. Take your coffee to go and explore the Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can pick up some famous San Francisco sourdough to take home with you. It’s a hub for artisanal food vendors and local produce, and a great spot for picking up unique souvenirs! We purchased candles, some cat toys, and t-shirts to bring back home with us!
Local Tip: If you stay at 1 Hotel you have to grab coffee from Blue Bottle across the street at the Ferry Building, they open at 7am, and watch the sunrise. This was a highlight of our trip and something I absolutely recommend.
#5. Cable Car to the Painted Ladies
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a ride on one of the city’s historic cable cars. Hop on and enjoy the scenic ride to Alamo Square, home of the Painted Ladies. These colorful Victorian houses are an iconic part of the San Francisco skyline and offer a perfect photo op with the city in the background.
You’ll definitely recognize the Painted Ladies from the opening credits on the famous show, Full House. The actual house from filming is located at 1709 Broderick Street.
#6. Drinks at Smuggler’s Cove
As the evening sets in, you can make your way to Hayes Valley for a drink at Smuggler’s Cove. This tiki bar is famous for for its extensive rum selection and creative cocktails, that are seriously delicious. The nautical decor and fun atmosphere make it a great spot to after a day of exploring. They have an upstairs and downstairs bar that are totally fun.
#7. Omakase Dinner Sushi at Robin
End your day with an unforgettable dinner at Robin, located next door to Smuggler’s Cove. This contemporary sushi restaurant offers an omakase experience that will delight your taste buds. Sit back, relax, and let the chef take you on a culinary journey with a series of expertly crafted sushi dishes.
You choose your menu based on price, starting at $109-$209. The chef will ask you what are your favorite fishes, or items you do not like and create your experience for you! We chose $130 and received 20 plates and left stuffed. That said, everything was absolutely delicious, especially this wagyu with frozen pâté!
Local Tip: Make sure to make a reservation in advance! They have limited seating, and only do 2 seatings per night.
Summary of How to Spend 24 Hours in San Francisco
- #1. Lombard Street and Buena Vista Café
- #2. Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
- #3. Lunch at Hog Island Oyster Co.
- #4. Coffee and Shopping at The Ferry Building
- #5. Cable Car to the Painted Ladies
- #6. Drinks at Smuggler’s Cove
- #7. Omakase Dinner Sushi at Robin
Extra Things to See & Do in San Francisco
Maybe you’re planning to spend more than a day, and if so, I’m so excited for you! Alternatively, if you’ve already done a few of the things above, these are some additional spots I highly recommend.
Museums and Galleries
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
- SFMOMA is a treasure trove of contemporary art, brimming with pieces from both local and international artists. Moreover, if you’re a fan of bold, modern art, you’ll love exploring their impressive collections, especially the works by Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock. It’s like a vibrant journey through the world of art right in the heart of San Francisco!
- de Young Museum (Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco)
- Located in the picturesque Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It’s home to an eclectic mix of American and African art that will captivate you. And don’t forget to head up to the observation tower—it’s the perfect spot to soak in panoramic views of the city and park!
- Asian Art Museum
- The Asian Art Museum is a gem for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Asian culture. With one of the largest collections of Asian art outside of Asia, it offers a fascinating look at both traditional and contemporary works. It’s a deep dive into the artistry and history of a vast and diverse region.
- Contemporary Jewish Museum
- The Contemporary Jewish Museum is not only known for its striking modern architecture but also for its engaging and thought-provoking exhibitions. It’s a fantastic place to learn about Jewish culture, arts, and history in a way that’s both informative and visually captivating.
Parks and Scenic Views (+ Activity Ideas!)
- Golden Gate Park | Here you can explore attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the California Academy of Sciences. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or picnic on the park’s expansive lawns.
- Twin Peaks | Provides panoramic views of San Francisco, the bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s ideal for a sunset visit to capture the city’s skyline.
- Alamo Square | Famous for the Painted Ladies, a row of colorful Victorian houses. This spot offers a picturesque view of downtown San Francisco against a historic backdrop.
- Lands End | Scenic coastal trail with dramatic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. It includes landmarks like the Sutro Baths and the Land’s End Labyrinth.
- Salesforce Transit Center | You probably haven’t heard of this one, but hear me out. On top of Grand Hall is Salesforce Park, a 5.4-acre rooftop park sitting. It’s got everything—walking trails, gardens, spots to chill out, and even a little amphitheater for live events. They do fun things like yoga classes, concerts, and movie nights, so there’s always something going on. Whether you’re grabbing coffee, having a picnic, or just walking around, it’s the perfect little escape above the city chaos!
Additional Sights to See
- Coit Tower | Offers sweeping views of the city and the bay from its observation deck. Features murals painted during the Great Depression, depicting California life in the 1930s.
- Ghirardelli Square | Historic square known for its chocolate and beautiful views of the bay. Visit the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company for a sweet treat and explore the surrounding shops.
- Exploratorium | An interactive museum with hands-on science and art exhibits. It’s perfect for a fun and educational experience, whether you’re traveling solo or with family.
- Chinatown | One of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in North America, you can explore vibrant streets filled with shops, restaurants, and markets. Don’t miss the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory!
- Alcatraz | If you have a bit more time in San Francisco, a visit to Alcatraz Island is a must. Known for its infamous federal prison, Alcatraz offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the inmates who once lived there. The audio tour of the prison itself is a captivating experience, featuring stories from former prisoners and guards. The views from the island also provide stunning perspectives of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. Ferries to Alcatraz depart from Pier 33, and it’s wise to book tickets in advance, as this popular attraction often sells out.
So, there you have it – an unforgettable one day in San Francisco, packed with delicious food, sights, and unique experiences. Whether you’re here for a quick layover, a spontaneous adventure, or just looking to rediscover your own city, this itinerary will make sure you make the most of every moment. But, I promise you – no matter what you do, you will have an amazing time in San Francisco. Let me know your favorite sights to see, or restaurants to indulge in, in the City!
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