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Best of San Francisco

Microclimates, taquerias, and Pacific overlooks most visitors miss.

5 daysLocal favorites
Best time to visit: September to November

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

  • 1
    Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center

    Walk or bike across for iconic views of the city and bay.

  • 2
    Crissy Field

    Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront with stunning Golden Gate Bridge backdrops.

  • 3
    Palace of Fine Arts

    Admire the Greco-Roman rotunda and tranquil lagoon, a beautiful spot for photos.

  • 4
    Lafayette Park

    Relax in this peaceful park with panoramic views of the city and Alcatraz.

  • 5
    State Bird Provisions

    Innovative American small plates served dim sum style – reservations essential.

Day 2 · Mission District & Dolores Park

  • 1
    Mission Dolores Park

    People-watch and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with fantastic city views.

  • 2
    Clarion Alley Mural Project

    Explore the vibrant and thought-provoking street art and murals.

  • 3
    La Taqueria

    Savor a legendary Mission-style burrito, a local institution.

  • 4
    Tartine Manufactory

    Indulge in artisanal pastries, bread, and coffee in a bustling industrial-chic space.

Day 3 · Lands End & Outer Richmond

  • 1
    Lands End Trail

    Hike along dramatic coastal cliffs with views of the Golden Gate, shipwrecks, and Sutro Baths ruins.

  • 2
    Sutro Baths Ruins

    Explore the historic ruins of a massive 19th-century public bathhouse.

  • 3
    Legion of Honor

    Discover ancient and European art in a magnificent Beaux-Arts building overlooking the Pacific.

  • 4
    Cinderella Bakery & Cafe

    Enjoy traditional Russian pastries and comfort food in a cozy, unpretentious setting.

Day 4 · North Beach & Chinatown

  • 1
    City Lights Bookstore

    Browse this historic independent bookstore, a Beat Generation landmark.

  • 2
    Coit Tower

    Ascend for 360-degree views of the city and bay, and admire the WPA murals inside.

  • 3
    House of Nanking

    Experience lively, authentic Chinese cuisine in a bustling, no-frills environment (expect a wait!).

  • 4
    Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

    See fortune cookies being made by hand and grab some personalized souvenirs.

Day 5 · Golden Gate Park & Inner Sunset

  • 1
    California Academy of Sciences

    Explore a world-class natural history museum, aquarium, and planetarium under one living roof.

  • 2
    Japanese Tea Garden

    Find serenity in this historic and beautifully landscaped traditional Japanese garden.

  • 3
    16th 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.