5 DAYS IN SAN FRANCISCO FOR FIRST TIMERS: THE ULTIMATE ITINERARY & BEST THINGS TO DO!

LOOKING TO PLAN THE ULTIMATE 5 DAYS IN SAN FRANCISCO?
5 DAYS IN SAN FRANCISCO:
THE ULTIMATE ITINERARY
DAY 1: GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE, BATTERY SPENCER LOOKOUT, PALACE OF FINE ARTS & WAVE ORGAN

SPOTTED WILDLIFE!
California Ground Squirrel
Spotted on grassy verge just before Crissy Field Beach. Otherwise known as a “Beechey Ground Squirrel”. They reside in complex underground burrow systems, with each squirrel using their own entrance! Their diet consists of insects, seeds, fruit and nuts – using their cheeks to store any extra! Lifespan is typically up to 6 years.

DAY 2: LOMBARD STREET, MACONDRAY LANE, UNION SQUARE, FISHERMAN’S WHARF & PIER 39



SPOTTED WILDLIFE!
California Sea-lion
Known for their iconic barking, these social animals hang out in groups packed together on ocean ‘rafts’ – Pier 39 being a perfect spot! They feed on fish, squid, octopus and even baby sharks. Their colour ranges from dark to golden brown, and have adorable visible small ear flaps!
DAY 3: ALCATRAZ DAY TOUR & SUNSET CRUISE

Fun fact: San Francisco is built upon 50+ named hills!
Fun fact: The “Fortune Cookie” was invented by a Japanese San Francisco resident!
Fun fact: San Francisco has approximately 10,000+ more dogs in the city than children.
DAY 4: MRS DOUBTFIRE’S HOUSE, PAINTED LADIES, GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE & LANDS END TRAIL






DAY 5: YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK TOUR

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO
When choosing where to stay in San Francisco for the first time, we believe the best area to stay are either around the Marina District (near the Bay area and Golden Gate Bridge) or around Fisherman’s Wharf.
We’ve gathered a few of our top picks in both destinations, listed below:
OUR TOP HOTEL PICKS IN THE MARINA DISTRICT:
π Infinity Hotel San Francisco
π Hotel Del Sol
OUR TOP HOTEL PICKS IN FISHERMAN’S WHARF:
π Argonaut Hotel
π The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square
GETTING AROUND SAN FRANCISCO

75%
If you stay near Marina Bay, most key attractions are within walking distance. Huge tip, walking East to West in San Francisco is relatively flat, walking North to South in San Francisco is up & down huge hills!

20%
We mainly used Uber to avoid San Francisco hills, but super handy to have installed / set up on your phone beforehand. Internet required.
Tip: You tip and rate the driver via the App after the drop off has completed!

5%
Ride the infamous San Francisco cable car for just $8 single ticket! Check out the official website for information on payment methods.
CAN YOU GET AROUND SAN FRANCISCO WITHOUT A CAR? π
ABOUT SAN FRANCISCO:
“KNOW BEFORE YOU GO” FAQ’S
WHY SHOULD I VISIT SAN FRANCISCO? WHAT MAKES SAN FRANCISCO SPECIAL?
WHAT SHOULD I SEE FOR A FIRST TIME IN SAN FRANCISCO?
WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT SAN FRANCISCO?
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO SEE SAN FRANCISCO?
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GET TO SAN FRANCISCO?
SAN FRANCISCO USEFUL FACTS

American Dollar
Β£1 (GBP) = $1.24 (USD)
(figures as per 2025)

Vaccinations
Click here for United States of America vaccination recommendations. Always consult your local travel nurse for the latest advice.

Plug Adaptors
You will require an adaptor to suit Type A & B. Their standard voltage is only 120V.

Required Documents
UK citizens with a British passport must apply & be granted an ESTA before travelling to the USA. It costs $21. Apply only through the official Government website, there are dozens of fraud ‘third-party’ websites.

What To Pack
San Francisco stays relatively mild throughout the year due to its Bayside location. Always pack layers to prepare for unexpected winds or fog, and pack an umbrella for the wetter Winter months! Good walking footwear for the Lands End coastal trail. A portable power pack is recommended while you’re out exploring!

Time Zone
San Francisco is on Pacific Daylight time.
It is 8 hours behind the United Kingdom.
CONCLUSION: 5 DAYS IN SAN FRANCISCO

This blog post was written by Jordie Flain!
Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com
A travel-obsessed Sagittarius creating honest, easy-to-follow guides. Powered by tea, chocolate and a slightly concerning amount of tomato ketchup.
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