Best of San Francisco
Microclimates, taquerias, and Pacific overlooks most visitors miss.
Early fall is the city's warmest, clearest stretch. Summer is famously cool and foggy, so pack layers whenever you go.
Day 1 · Golden Gate & Pacific Heights
- 1Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center
Walk or bike across for iconic views of the city and bay.
- 2Crissy Field
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront with stunning Golden Gate Bridge backdrops.
- 3Palace of Fine Arts
Admire the Greco-Roman rotunda and tranquil lagoon, a beautiful spot for photos.
- 4Lafayette Park
Relax in this peaceful park with panoramic views of the city and Alcatraz.
- 5State Bird Provisions
Innovative American small plates served dim sum style – reservations essential.
Day 2 · Mission District & Dolores Park
- 1Mission Dolores Park
People-watch and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with fantastic city views.
- 2Clarion Alley Mural Project
Explore the vibrant and thought-provoking street art and murals.
- 3La Taqueria
Savor a legendary Mission-style burrito, a local institution.
- 4Tartine Manufactory
Indulge in artisanal pastries, bread, and coffee in a bustling industrial-chic space.
Day 3 · Lands End & Outer Richmond
- 1Lands End Trail
Hike along dramatic coastal cliffs with views of the Golden Gate, shipwrecks, and Sutro Baths ruins.
- 2Sutro Baths Ruins
Explore the historic ruins of a massive 19th-century public bathhouse.
- 3Legion of Honor
Discover ancient and European art in a magnificent Beaux-Arts building overlooking the Pacific.
- 4Cinderella Bakery & Cafe
Enjoy traditional Russian pastries and comfort food in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Day 4 · North Beach & Chinatown
- 1City Lights Bookstore
Browse this historic independent bookstore, a Beat Generation landmark.
- 2Coit Tower
Ascend for 360-degree views of the city and bay, and admire the WPA murals inside.
- 3House of Nanking
Experience lively, authentic Chinese cuisine in a bustling, no-frills environment (expect a wait!).
- 4Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
See fortune cookies being made by hand and grab some personalized souvenirs.
Day 5 · Golden Gate Park & Inner Sunset
- 1California Academy of Sciences
Explore a world-class natural history museum, aquarium, and planetarium under one living roof.
- 2Japanese Tea Garden
Find serenity in this historic and beautifully landscaped traditional Japanese garden.
- 316th Avenue Tiled Steps
Admire the mosaic-covered staircase, a stunning community art project with great views.
Make it your own
Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.