Best of San Francisco

Microclimates, taquerias, and Pacific overlooks most visitors miss.

5 daysLocal gems

Trip length

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.

Sightseeing
Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center
Walk or bike across for iconic views of the city and bay.
Rest
Crissy Field
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront with stunning Golden Gate Bridge backdrops.
Sightseeing
Palace of Fine Arts
Admire the Greco-Roman rotunda and tranquil lagoon, a beautiful spot for photos.
Rest
Lafayette Park
Relax in this peaceful park with panoramic views of the city and Alcatraz.
Food
State Bird Provisions
Innovative American small plates served dim sum style – reservations essential.

Rest
Mission Dolores Park
People-watch and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with fantastic city views.
Sightseeing
Clarion Alley Mural Project
Explore the vibrant and thought-provoking street art and murals.
Food
La Taqueria
Savor a legendary Mission-style burrito, a local institution.
Food
Tartine Manufactory
Indulge in artisanal pastries, bread, and coffee in a bustling industrial-chic space.

Activity
Lands End Trail
Hike along dramatic coastal cliffs with views of the Golden Gate, shipwrecks, and Sutro Baths ruins.
Sightseeing
Sutro Baths Ruins
Explore the historic ruins of a massive 19th-century public bathhouse.
Sightseeing
Legion of Honor
Discover ancient and European art in a magnificent Beaux-Arts building overlooking the Pacific.
Food
Cinderella Bakery & Cafe
Enjoy traditional Russian pastries and comfort food in a cozy, unpretentious setting.

Shopping
City Lights Bookstore
Browse this historic independent bookstore, a Beat Generation landmark.
Sightseeing
Coit Tower
Ascend for 360-degree views of the city and bay, and admire the WPA murals inside.
Food
House of Nanking
Experience lively, authentic Chinese cuisine in a bustling, no-frills environment (expect a wait!).
Activity
Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory
See fortune cookies being made by hand and grab some personalized souvenirs.

Sightseeing
California Academy of Sciences
Explore a world-class natural history museum, aquarium, and planetarium under one living roof.
Rest
Japanese Tea Garden
Find serenity in this historic and beautifully landscaped traditional Japanese garden.
Sightseeing
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.