STANDARD ITINERARY: 3 Days in San Francisco

STANDARD ITINERARY: 3 Days in San Francisco

Thatch
This is a sample itinerary for a client who wanted a 3 day trip to SF. The client shared that they had been to SF before, so had seen many of the key sites. They wanted to focus on nature, the ocean, art, boutique shopping, and food. The main difference between this and the PREMIUM itinerary is that it does NOT have detailed day to day plans - instead, it focuses on the key events of each day. It also doesn't have any reservations made.
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Day 1 - Arrive SF, Take in the art & culture of the Mission District

AM: Morning flight into SFO

San Francisco International Airport
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SF's international airport. Be sure to check driving times to and from AT YOUR FLIGHT TIME because traffic can vary hugely depending on commuter hours. The 101, the highway the airport is off of, is the main commuting artery down to Silicon Valley.
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Grab lunch, then

Head to your hotel

Hotel Recommendations

Top Recommendation:

Hotel Kabuki - JDV by Hyatt
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The Hotel Kabuki is in a central part of the city, tucked into atmospheric Japantown and it spares you the indignity of being stuck in the consumery Union Square or too deep into the not-very-pleasant downtown area.
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Alternate Recommendations

Hotel VIA
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In a less central location, but a nice part of town, close to the Bay. This is a mid-range hotel that can go up in price based on events at the ballpark and Chase Center.
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The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco
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Centrally located, but near to the part of town that's seen the most decline since the pandemic. It's a nice, boutique hotel though, once you're inside.
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PM: Explore the street art & trendy vibes of the Mission, then have a nice dinner.

Learn about the Mission District Mural Culture

See Murals & Browse the Shops of Valencia Street. A few favorites:

Clarion Alley Street Art
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One of the most concentrated areas for street art in the Mission. Take some time to sit with the art you'll see there.
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Dog Eared Books
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A great bookshop that sells overstock from other booksellers, meaning you can get new books for a fraction of their retail price. I often find the not-quite-so-famous books of well-known authors, and it can be a joy to find an unexpected read there.
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Women's Building
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A famous landmark in the Mission and key piece of political art.
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Dinner Ideas:

Penny Roma
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Lively atmosphere and beautiful, unique dining room. Part of the broader Flour + Water hospitality group, so you know they've got delicious takes on modern Italian meets California cuisine. Tip: Opt for their 'dinner party' option, it's a great value and a lot of fun!
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Tartine Manufactory
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Great breads and seasonal fare. Really nice vibe inside. Reservations required.
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Day 2: Day Trip to Marin

Spend the day exploring some key spots north of San Francisco. Here are a few favorites:

Muir Beach
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Park in the parking lot and plan to hike a 4ish mile lollipop - go along the coast until the trail heads down into Pirate Cove and then up steep steps back to the bluff. Here, you'll turn inland and head back in the direction you came. Eventually, you'll intersect the trail you were on before, and will return to your car.
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Stinson Beach
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This charming seaside town has a few little restaurants, so you can sit in the sun on a patio, or grab food to go and sit on the beach.
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The Marshall Store
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This spot is a more casual option - it’s first come first serve, and it’s a great place to enjoy oysters and some beer after exploring Point Reyes. They serve raw and bbq’d oysters, as well as some other menu items such as soup, sandwiches, local cheeses, an some other seafood. Save room for some soft serve ice cream too! The seating overlooks the water.
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Petaluma
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A funky town north of the city - it has a mix of agrarian and bohemian culture. It's now home to an increasing number of people who've left San Francisco for cheaper housing but a still-cool vibe.
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Day 3 - San Francisco Beach & Art

Then walk down Judah St straight out to Ocean Beach to go for a walk. Then browse a few of its shops.

Ocean Beach
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There's a long stretch of beach to walk along San Francisco's coastline. Here, you can make a loop along the beach, and then back up the now-closed Great Highway which is frequently covered with sand.
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GENERAL STORE
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Vibey homewares and clothing shop. Has a curated vintage section and a cute outdoor area!
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Black Bird Bookstore and Café
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An adorable book shop with great options for kids and adults. They also sell homewares and plants. And have coffee and pastries. What more could you want?
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Hook Fish Co
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Great poke burritos and other fresh fish dishes. Grab to go and eat at ocean beach.
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In the afternoon, Explore Golden Gate Park:

de Young Museum
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Great collection and an excellent observation deck. Spend some time walking through the park while you’re here.
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Japanese Tea Garden
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Originally created for the 1894 California Midwinter Exposition as a 'Japanese Village' this is a beautiful Japanese style garden tucked into the middle of Golden Gate Park! You do have to buy a ticket to enter.
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Thus ends your final night in San Francisco. Pack your bags and get ready for your early flight out in the morning!

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