San Francisco’s steep hills may seem intimidating, but they’re home to some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery and one-of-a-kind attractions. Fortunately, the city offers plenty of ways to get around—even if you’re short on time or looking to avoid strenuous climbs. With a little upfront planning and a few insider tips, you can experience San Francisco’s best views and bites in just 48 hours.
Before you set off, be sure to do these three things:
- Consult a neighborhood map to plan your itinerary around a centrally located hotel or vacation home rental.
- Book popular attractions well in advance. Tours of Alcatraz, for instance, often sell out quickly.
- Pack layers to stay comfortable in the city’s famously unpredictable weather.
Day 1: Panorama of world-class culture and cuisine
Your adventure starts with a brisk walk or bike ride to the one-and-only Golden Gate Bridge, where astonishing views stretch across San Francisco Bay and the Marin Headlands. Grab an invigorating cup of coffee from Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters on your way to Fort Point National Historic Site, tucked beneath the Golden Gate’s southern arch, for a glimpse into the rugged roots of San Francisco’s shoreline defense, where echoes of cannon fire and Gold Rush dreams still linger.
As lunchtime rolls around, Fisherman’s Wharf is the place to be. Sweet treats abound at legendary Ghirardelli Square on your way to Boudin Bakery for piping-hot clam chowder in a sourdough bowl, a quintessential San Francisco dish. Fancy a waterborne adventure? Catch a bay cruise from Pier 39 for views of the infamous prison grounds at Alcatraz Island, once home to some of the world’s most notorious criminals.
Dusk holds another feast for the senses in Chinatown, one of North America’s oldest and largest cultural districts. Sample street fare from the plethora of vendors as you make your way to the tiny Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory for a peek behind the scenes at the hand-folded custom cookies made since 1962. Next, head to the kitschy-cool Tonga Room, where retro Polynesian-inspired dishes and tiki cocktails are served around a glowing lagoon complete with thundering indoor rainstorms.
San Francisco’s North Beach Italian quarter is a great place to end your first day. Savor authentic Neapolitan pizza from Tony’s Pizza Napoletana before riding the elevator to the Top of the Mark at the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel. This rooftop bar boasts signature cocktails that are almost as impressive as the 360-degree panoramic views of the city and San Francisco Bay.
Day 2: Scenic tranquility and artful encounters
It’s back to Golden Gate Park for a peaceful start to the morning. Matcha lattes from the Japanese Tea Garden café or coffee and pastries from nearby Arizmendi Bakery are perfect for a picnic amid tranquil koi ponds and pagodas.
For a quieter outdoor lunch, hit up Tartine Bakery—whose Croque Monsieur and Banana Cream Tart are beloved local favorites—before heading up to the overlooks at Twin Peaks, a dreamy hillside neighborhood with incredible views of San Francisco Bay.
Fittingly, your 48-hour journey through San Francisco winds down with a sunset stroll along the Lands End Trail. Follow the coastal path to the remnants of Sutro Baths, a once-grand seaside bathhouse that drew thousands in the late 19th century, and soak in the sights and sounds of the majestic Pacific.
In the immortal words of Robert Frost, “Nothing gold can stay.” But there’s still time to savor one last culinary vista before you bid farewell to the Golden City. Mere steps from where your two-day journey began, Greens Restaurant offers an array of locally sourced decadence on a seasonally inspired menu that may include miso-glazed beets and leek and cauliflower griddle cakes, as well as seasonal samosas. Against a dazzling backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge at night, you can reflect on the high points—and start planning for your inevitable return.