Quick answer: With 2 days, do Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, cable cars and Chinatown on day 1, and the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park on day 2. Add day 3 for the Mission and Twin Peaks, and day 4 for Muir Woods and Sausalito.
Day 1: Alcatraz and the waterfront
- Morning: early ferry to Alcatraz from Pier 33 (allow 2.5–3 hours).
- Lunch: clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf; sea lions at Pier 39.
- Afternoon: Powell–Hyde cable car to Union Square via Lombard Street.
- Evening: dinner in Chinatown or North Beach.
Day 2: Golden Gate
- Morning: walk Crissy Field to the Golden Gate Bridge, then across it.
- Afternoon: Golden Gate Park: California Academy of Sciences or the de Young, and the Japanese Tea Garden.
- Sunset: Lands End and Sutro Baths.
Day 3: neighbourhoods
- Morning: Ferry Building and the Embarcadero.
- Afternoon: Mission murals, a burrito and Dolores Park; walk to the Castro and Haight-Ashbury.
- Sunset: Twin Peaks.
Day 4: Muir Woods and Sausalito
Drive or take a tour to the redwoods of Muir Woods (reserve parking or the shuttle), then stroll Sausalito and take the ferry back to the city.
Find tours & tickets in San FranciscoTips
- Book Alcatraz before planning the rest: its date drives day 1.
- A 3-day Muni Visitor Passport ($35) covers cable cars, buses and streetcars.
- Napa or Sonoma wine country makes a great extra day.
FAQ: San Francisco itinerary
Are 2 days enough for San Francisco?
Yes for the highlights, but 3 days feels more relaxed.
Can you do Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge in one day?
Yes: take a morning Alcatraz ferry, then go to the bridge in the afternoon.
More San Francisco guides
- San Francisco travel guide
- 25 best things to do in San Francisco
- Where to stay in San Francisco
- Best time to visit San Francisco
- SFO airport to the city
- Alcatraz tickets
- Golden Gate Bridge guide
- San Francisco cable cars
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