Ready for a weekend getaway to the San Fransisco bay area, check out this guide for how to make the best of your trip. Some of the standard tourist stops are included as well as some of our personal favorites from our visit.
Check out some of the best places to eat, things to see and do, places to shop at and how to get around the city. Over 100 recommendations and links included! San Fransisco is made up of over 19 neighborhoods with activities for all types of travelers to enjoy. Depending on what you'd like to focus on, you can base your main location out of one spot to easily get around.
This complete guide includes:
🍽️ Tons of great food options by type
🛣️ Things to do and see
Famous Houses
đźš™ Travel information
🌉 Golden Gate Bridge Crossing tips
🏚️ Safety tips
Nearby Day Trip Options
Home to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Alcatraz, steep rolling hills, and an eclectic mix of architecture, San Fransisco is a great destination for a weekend adventure. Please always mind your surroundings, do not travel with extra belongings in your car as smash and grabs are sadly common in downtown San Fransisco, Oakland, and other surrounding areas.
We recommend bringing a light coat and an umbrella with you year round as it can get a bit chilly with the coastal breeze or chance of rain. This will keep you warm and dry without having to spend money on a new one while in the city.Â
How to Get Around
For those flying into the area, you will most likely land at either San Fransisco International or Oakland International Airport. From here we do recommend renting a car to get around easier but you can get away with only using public transportation/ride shares if staying in a central area downtown SF.Â
IMPORTANT NOTE: please note that this whole area does have a fair amount of smash and grabs from cars. If you rent a car or plan to drive your own car, DO NOT leave anything (literally anything at all not matter how insignificant it may seem) in your car to help reduce this chance. We faced smashed car windows on many of our cars parked at our hotel in Oakland that all had out of state license plates.Â
Located in Oakland, CA just a short 40 minute drive from downtown SF, this slightly smaller airport may provide travelers a slightly cheaper option depending on their arrival location.
If you cross a bridge there is likely a toll charge. It is all plate tolling if you do not have the FasTrak pass. You can pre-pay online or pay online within 48 hours of your crossing. It costs $9 to cross the Golden Gate Bridge only going southbound (no charge going Northbound).Â
For more information on tolls in the Bay Area and how to pay, please visit this page below. If you miss paying a toll an invoice will be mailed to the home address on file. We recommend paying online in advance to avoid paying any late penalty fees. Depending on your rental car agreement, they may automatically include your bridge crossing toll and will bill you after. Ask ahead of time to avoid any penalty fees.
There are tons of standard chain hotels to pick from downtown. We recommend looking to stay in a central spot if you plan to use public transportation to get around or a place that includes parking at your hotel. There are tons of smaller luxury motel experiences to enjoy too.
Top neighborhood recommendations in Downtown SF include: Union Square, Pacific Heights and Nob Hill, Embarcadero, The Castro, and The Presidio. All areas vary a bit in price point with some of the most expensive being waterfront facing rooms in the Presidio neighborhood area.Â
Recently transformed into a nostalgic motel experience but with added safety and enjoyment. They've upgraded the original property for additional comfort as well.
If you are flying out of the Oakland Airport this location is perfect for an easy and safe stay. The parking lot is gated for extra protection. Breakfast is not included but the rooms are clean and the staff members are extremely kind and welcoming.
Add to
Details
Places to Eat
Some top recommended places to eat and a few we checked out ourselves while in town. There is a good array of recommendations to fill your tummy full of good food while exploring the city. We had the chance to try just a few of these options while visiting but these were some of the best recommendations given to us by locals who live in the city. Since our list was expansive, we separated into sections by food option type.
Fancy Spots - Special Occasion, High End Date Night, Milestone Celebrations
Very famous and highly regarded for their food, this place is busy almost all the time. We recommend planning ahead and trying to get reservations if you plan to eat here.
A cute home goods store with decorative pieces to purchase to brighten your home
Add to
Details
Famous Houses to See
San Fransisco is well known for the Golden Gate Bridge and their historic houses that line the city streets. Some of these houses were featured in popular TV shows and movies like Full House. Others are houses of musicians who lived here during their rise to fame.
Two, great streets to wander up and down to see historic houses, hidden wall murals and so much history. Located in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood.
Add to
Details
For an unique experience in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood area, take the Flower Power Walking tour for $25. Register online as the tour is only offered twice a week.Â
Located along the bayside of the harbor, Fisherman's Wharf is a great spot to enjoy fresh seafood. You can buy the daily catch directly from a fishermans boat. There are tons of touristy stores as well for gifts.
Take part in a free walking tour near the Golden Gate Bridge. Register online ahead of time by following the link below. Donations are welcome and appreciated to the volunteers who host the walking tours.Â
Part of the U.S. National Park lands, so if you have an annual pass it is valid here. Otherwise there is a $15 entrance fee. You MUST register for parking online ahead of your arrival too. Parking is $9.50 paid online.
Located about an hour and 15 minutes from downtown San Fransisco, this beautiful national seashore provides the best escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
Check to see if you're in town during one of the Open Studios and "Artists at Work" Days by visiting this website link:
https://icbartists.com/icb-artists-association-events-and-art-shows
Wine Country is located a short drive away, making it the perfect extra stop on a long weekend. If you're in the area for awhile this is the perfect way to fill the day. Make sure you book a tour or have a designated driver to enjoy responsibly.
Hi travelers! I am here to help you enjoy your weekend trips to the fullest to cities near, far, or even in your backyard.
Currently:đź“ŤLouisiana, U.S.A.
Just Posted: Lakeland, FL & Explore Berlin, Germany with a Local
Upcoming Trips: European Summer in Zablajk, Montenegro
----------
Michigander at heart but currently traveling the world one week at a time for work. When not on the road and living out of my suitcase, I am down to spend the day exploring the local city scene or out hiking in nature. I am an adventurous spirit and try to maximize my free time exploring the hidden corners of whatever city I am in. I've been traveling all over the U.S. and Europe for nine years and crave authentic experiences at local hot spots (and sometimes the touristy faves). As a young and avid traveler (16 Countries, 45 U.S. States, 24 U.S. National Parks & numerous cities) my goal is to help you reach your travel goals - no matter the destination.
On Thatch, I create super detailed guides and itineraries to destinations that I've personally visited. These destinations have a little bit of everything that I love about travel (adventure, city life, great eats, beach days and more). I can also create custom guides and itineraries to wherever you may be dreaming of traveling to.
Top bucket list items: Ride in a hot air balloon, visit all 50 U.S. states, and someday be on the Amazing Race with my sister.
—
Check out my free and paid thatch travel guides on my profile, or for a customized itinerary for any of the locations featured, shoot me a message so we can connect. Let's explore!
