5 Days in San Francisco: Golden Gate, Alcatraz & Foodie Spots
San Francisco is a city that never fails to impress. With its iconic landmarks, rich history, and a food scene that’s second to none, spending five days here offers the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence. Whether you’re gazing at the Golden Gate Bridge, uncovering the eerie past of Alcatraz, or indulging in fresh seafood at the Ferry Building Marketplace, every moment in this city is filled with excitement.
As a traveler who loves both sightseeing and culinary exploration, I found San Francisco to be the ideal destination. It’s compact enough to navigate easily yet packed with must-visit spots. This itinerary ensures you make the most of your visit, balancing famous landmarks with hidden gems and, of course, plenty of unforgettable meals.
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf
Start your trip by diving into one of San Francisco’s most vibrant areas, Fisherman’s Wharf. Stroll along Pier 39, where you’ll spot playful sea lions basking in the sun, browse quirky shops, and grab a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery. The lively atmosphere, street performers, and bay views make it the perfect introduction to the city.
For a deeper look at San Francisco’s maritime history, stop by the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Walk along the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, then make your way to Ghirardelli Square for a decadent chocolate treat. The sunset over the bay from this area is a great way to wrap up your first day.
Day 2: Alcatraz & North Beach
Visiting Alcatraz Island is an absolute must. Book your tickets in advance through Alcatraz Cruises, as they often sell out. The ferry ride provides stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, and once on the island, the self-guided audio tour takes you through the chilling history of one of the most infamous prisons in the world.
After your Alcatraz visit, head to North Beach, San Francisco’s Italian neighborhood. Grab an espresso at Caffe Trieste, a historic coffee shop, before indulging in authentic Italian food at Sotto Mare or Tony’s Pizza Napoletana. If you have time, visit Coit Tower for panoramic city views before ending the day with a classic cocktail at the historic Vesuvio Cafe.
Day 3: Golden Gate Park & The Presidio
A trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge. Start your morning with a walk or bike ride across this world-famous landmark for breathtaking views of the bay and city. Then, head to Golden Gate Park, a massive urban oasis filled with gardens, museums, and scenic trails. Highlights include the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the de Young Museum.
In the afternoon, explore The Presidio, a former military base turned national park. Stop at Crissy Field for unbeatable bridge views, and if you’re up for a short hike, the Batteries to Bluffs Trail offers stunning coastal scenery. Wrap up the day at Off the Grid, a food truck gathering featuring some of the best local eats.
Day 4: Chinatown & Mission District Food Tour
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and largest in North America, making it a must-visit. Wander through Grant Avenue, pick up traditional pastries at Golden Gate Bakery, and stop for a dim sum feast at Good Mong Kok Bakery or City View Restaurant. Don’t forget to visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, where you can watch fortune cookies being made by hand.
In the afternoon, head to the Mission District, a neighborhood known for its vibrant street art and unbeatable Mexican food. Admire the colorful murals along Clarion Alley and Balmy Alley, then grab a legendary Mission-style burrito from La Taqueria or El Farolito. End the night at Trick Dog, a creative cocktail bar that constantly reinvents its menu.
Day 5: Ferry Building & Sunset at Twin Peaks
Spend your final day at the Ferry Building Marketplace, a foodie paradise packed with artisanal stalls. Enjoy freshly shucked oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co., sample local cheeses from Cowgirl Creamery, and sip on a rich espresso from Blue Bottle Coffee. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market offers incredible local produce and specialty goods.
For your last adventure, make your way to Twin Peaks for a breathtaking view of the city at sunset. The short hike to the top is well worth it, offering a 360-degree panorama of San Francisco’s skyline, the bay, and beyond. It’s the perfect place to reflect on an unforgettable five days in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
