book your stay

  • Room 1 Room Decrease quantity Increase quantity
  • Adults (Maximum: 6 Guests/Room) 1 Adult per room Decrease quantity Increase quantity
  • Children (Maximum: 6 guests/room) 0 Children Per room Decrease quantity Increase quantity
  • Senior Discount
  • Government & Military
  • Corporate/Promo Enter Code

W San Francisco

San Francisco

Get ready for the ultimate urban adventure. the 49 square miles that make up san francisco are filled with breathtaking cityscapes and vibrant cultures from across the globe. from an innovative food scene to unexpected street art on every corner, the city by the bay is sure to leave you amazed..

Vanessa Mina

Vanessa Mina

What to Know

W San Francisco - What to Know

For now, our Living Room Bar is offering limited services. Join us between 6:30AM and 1PM daily for a cocktail, breakfast, or lunch. Grab & Go options available.

SF is best known for The Golden Gate Bridge but when locals refer to “The Bridge,” they often times are referring to The Bay Bridge.

Closest Airport

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

United States Dollar (USD)

Ultimate Access to San Francisco

W San Francisco - What to Do

Sea to table never looked so chic. The city’s most sought after seafood restauran t has finally returned to the waterfront and is now accepting reservations.

Salesforce Park

Sometimes, the best surprises are where you least expect them– and that includes an urban park in the middle of downtown. Take the lift to level 4 at the Salesforce Transit Center and discover tranquility among skyscrapers.

The Great Highway

This once busy West Coast highway recently transformed into the city’s longest promenade. Walk along Ocean Beach or wander into the streets of The Sunset for a taste of local flavors.

The perfect gathering place for good food and good friends. Delarosa is locally famous for their rustic Roman pizzas and anti pasti.

Book W San Francisco

Book W San Francisco

Retreat to the smart style, dynamic design and cool comfort of our downtown San Francisco Hotel.

Logo

  • W Residences
  • Destination Guides
  • Marriott Bonvoy
  • Travel Professionals
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Center

W San Francisco

181 Third Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States of America – Excellent location – show map – Subway Access

w san francisco travel weekly

W San Francisco Reserve now

Lock in a great price for W San Francisco – rated 8.2 by recent guests!

Enter dates to get started.

Cleanliness

Value for money

Excellent location!

  • Pet friendly
  • Wifi in all areas
  • Air conditioning
  • Private Bathroom
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Baggage storage

The W is a fixture of San Francisco’s hip SOMA district, amid art exhibitions, film screenings, fashion shows, clubs and concerts. A restaurant and gym are located on-site at the property. Styled in modern decor and urban finishes, each room features a flat-screen TV, WiFi, and a Bluetooth Speaker alarm clock with USB charging ports. California wines and local snack delights are available in the mini-bar. Each room is equipped with a Nespresso machine and complimentary coffee capsules are replenished daily. Trace serves locally-sourced sustainable cuisine nightly at this environmentally friendly hotel. Guests can mix and mingle in the Living Room Bar while enjoying hand-crafted cocktails. The fully-equipped FIT sky-lit gym offers a mix of cardio and weight equipment. The Golden Gate Bridge is 5 mi away. Union Square is 8 minutes' walk away from the W San Francisco.

Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.0 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

  • Private Parking
  • Family rooms
  • Fitness center
  • 2 restaurants
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Very Good Breakfast

Property highlights

Located in the heart of San Francisco, this hotel has an excellent location score of 9.0

Breakfast Info

Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, American, Breakfast to go

Private parking available

Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Property practices

Categories:, see what guests loved the most:.

w san francisco travel weekly

Hotel area info

Restaurants 2 restaurants on site.

  • Cuisine American
  • Open for Breakfast • Brunch • Lunch
  • Ambience Modern
  • Dietary options Vegetarian • Vegan • Gluten-free • Dairy-free
  • Open for Dinner • Cocktail hour
  • Ambience Family-friendly • Modern • Romantic

Amenities of W San Francisco Great facilities! Review score, 8.6

  • Bicycle rental
  • Special diet meals (on request)
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • ATM on site
  • Express check-in/out
  • Suit press Additional charge
  • Ironing service Additional charge
  • Fax/Photocopying Additional charge
  • Meeting/Banquet facilities Additional charge
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Smoke alarms
  • 24-hour security
  • Smoke-free property
  • Hypoallergenic room available
  • Visual aids (tactile signs)
  • Visual aids (Braille)
  • Lowered sink
  • Raised toilet
  • Toilet with grab rails
  • Wheelchair accessible

House rules W San Francisco takes special requests – add in the next step!

Child policies.

Children of all ages are welcome.

Children 12 and above will be charged as adults at this property.

To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.

Crib and extra bed policies

Prices for cribs and extra beds aren't included in the total price. They'll have to be paid for separately during your stay.

The number of extra beds and cribs allowed depends on the option you choose. Check your selected option for more info.

All cribs and extra beds are subject to availability.

The fine print Must-know information for guests at this property

Please note: For all rates that include breakfast, breakfast is limited to two people, per room. This is not valid for in-room breakfast.

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

In the event of an early departure, the property will charge you the full amount for your stay.

FAQs about W San Francisco

How much does it cost to stay at w san francisco.

The prices at W San Francisco may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates, hotel's policy etc.). To see prices, enter your dates.

How far is W San Francisco from the center of San Francisco?

W San Francisco is 2,300 feet from the center of San Francisco. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

Is W San Francisco popular with families?

Yes, W San Francisco is popular with guests booking family stays.

What are the check-in and check-out times at W San Francisco?

Check-in at W San Francisco is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is until 12:00 PM.

What kind of breakfast is served at W San Francisco?

Guests staying at W San Francisco can enjoy a highly-rated breakfast during their stay (guest review score: 8.1).

  • Gluten-free
  • Breakfast to go

What is there to do at W San Francisco?

What type of room can i book at w san francisco, does w san francisco have a restaurant on site.

  • Living Room Bar

The Best of San Francisco

Convention centers.

  • Moscone Center

Institutions

  • St. Patrick's Catholic Church
  • Academy of Art University
  • San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
  • Contemporary Jewish Museum
  • Yerba Buena Center For The Arts
  • Children's Creativity Museum
  • Cartoon Art Museum

Popular Areas

  • SPiN San Francisco
  • Yerba Buena Ice Skating and Bowling Center

w san francisco travel weekly

Personalized recommendations

We provide personalized recommendations based on your activity on our platform. If you prefer, you can opt out of this option. Opting-out only affects your current device. Adjust this setting to your preference on other devices as well.

Verified reviews from real guests.

We have more than 70 million property reviews, all from real, verified guests .

How does it work?

It starts with a booking.

The only way to leave a review is to first make a booking. That's how we know our reviews come from real guests who have stayed at the property.

Followed by a trip

When guests stay at the property, they check out how quiet the room is, how friendly the staff is, and more.

And finally, a review

After their trip, guests tell us about their stay. We check for naughty words and verify the authenticity of all guest reviews before adding them to our site.

If you booked through us and want to leave a review, please sign in first.

Check-in date

Check-out date

w san francisco travel weekly

  • Marriott.com
  • / San Francisco

Marriott Bonvoy Home

Find & Reserve

  • Room + Flight |

1 Room : 1 Adult , /Room 0 Children /Room

(Age-based rates may be available)

  • Government & Military
  • Senior Discount
  • Corporate / Promo / SET#
  • Lookup Reservation
  • Worldwide Telephone Reservations
  • Find a Hotel for Groups (10+ rooms)
  • Browse by Destination

Special Offers

  • Experiences by Marriott ℠ Packages
  • Hotels & Flight Packages
  • Cars, Tours & Activities
  • Timeshare Offers
  • All-Inclusive Resorts & Vacations
  • Marriott Traveler

Beach cabana, JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa

Exclusive getaways, member offers & more

  • Meetings & Events Overview
  • Business Meetings
  • Social Events
  • Group Travel

Pools and palm trees with beach in the background

Imagine Your Dream Vacation

  • The Ritz-Carlton
  • The Luxury Collection
  • Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts
  • JW Marriott
  • Marriott Hotels Resorts & Suites
  • Marriott Vacation Club
  • Delta Hotels
  • Le Meridien
  • Autograph Collection
  • Design Hotels
  • Renaissance Hotels
  • Tribute Portfolio
  • Gaylord Hotels
  • MGM Collection
  • Courtyard Hotels
  • Four Points
  • Springhill Suites
  • Fairfield Inn
  • City Express
  • Four Points Express
  • Residence Inn
  • TownePlace Suites
  • Homes & Villas by Marriott International
  • Apartments by Marriott
  • Marriott Executive Apartments
  • Explore All Brands

About Marriott Bonvoy

  • Marriott Bonvoy Overview
  • Member Benefits
  • How to Earn Points
  • How to Use Points / Awards
  • Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card
  • Marriott Insiders

Tropical resort outdoor swimming pool and lounge area

Join Marriott Bonvoy

  • Enjoy our lowest rates, all the time
  • Free in-room Wi-Fi
  • Mobile check-in and more

W Hotels Logo

W San Francisco

  • Phone: +1 415-777-5300 +1 415-777-5300
  • Fax: +1 415-817-7893
  • Sales: +1 415-777-5300
  • Sales fax: +1 415-817-7860
  • Toll-Free Reservation Center: +1 888-627-8391
  • EXCLUSIVE AMENITIES
  • Digital Check-In
  • Service Request
  • Destinations

W San Francisco

W San Francisco is a 2022 Magellan Awards Silver winner Recommended by Forbes - 2019 Recommended by Forbes - 2018 2017 Sustainability Award of the Hotel Council of San Francisco - March 2, 2017 2016 Travel Weekly Gold Magellan Award Winner for Fitness Room Design – September 12, 2016 CA Green Lodging Program – August 16, 2016 AH&LA Outstanding Property of the Year, Large Property – May 18, 2016 2015 LEED Platinum Award – November 2015 Travel Weekly Silver Magellan Award Winner for Eco-Friendly “Green” Resort/Hotel – September 9, 2015 Full list of Press/Awards: wsanfrancisco.com/press

Venue Highlights

Room features and guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Internet access
  • Laundry service
  • Luggage storage
  • Room service
  • View (garden)
  • View (mountain)
  • View (ocean or water)
  • View (urban)
  • Voicemail box
  • Extended stay
  • Onsite catering
  • Onsite restaurant
  • Onsite security
  • Pet friendly
  • Rental car service
  • Wheelchair accessible

Business services

  • AV capabilities
  • Business center
  • Video conference
  • VIP services

Recreational activities

  • Health club

Venue accessibility

  • Dance floor
  • Loading dock
  • Portable heaters
  • Staging area

Getting Here

DRIVING FROM SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SFO): Take Highway 101 North from Airport Access Road to Highway 80 East towards Bay Bridge. Use the 4th Street exit, veer left onto Bryant Street, and continue to 2nd Street. Turn left onto 2nd Street, then turn left onto Howard Street. The hotel entrance is located on the right on Howard Street. Look for the "W" sign and our "Wheels" signage for valet parking. VIA BART: From SFO- Take any San Francisco bound BART train headed north, exit Montgomery Street Station. Walk three blocks to 3rd & Howard. From OAK- Look for BART signs in the airport. Take the Green or Blue line headed for Daly City (inbound San Francisco) and exit Montgomery Street Station. Walk three blocks to 3rd & Howard.

  • Paid parking $36.00 / day
  • Valet parking $75.00 / day
  • Bus parking

Distance from airport

11 mi. from venue

W San Francisco Meeting Space

Floor plans, guest rooms, local attractions, oracle park, union square, fisherman's wharf, san francisco museum of modern art (sfmoma), moscone convention center, the presidio golf course, yerba buena gardens.

A sightseeing utopia; welcome to the vibrant personality of the Bay Area. Revel in the heart of the SoMa district amid art exhibitions, film screenings, fashion shows and concerts. Bask in panoramic views of the Bay Bridge and the city skyline, next door to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and across the beautiful Yerba Buena Gardens. Own the moment and absorb this captivating destination with limitless cultural diversity and magnetic neighborhoods

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel befor three days of check-in date at 4 pm hotel time, the forfeiture amount will be 1 night(s). There may be additional applicable charges and taxes. If you cancel after 4 pm hotel time three days prior to check-in date, the forfeiture amount will be 100.00 percent. There may be additional applicable charges and taxes.

Additional Information

LEED Platinum Certification. Awarded as: USA: California's Leading Business Hotel 2006

  • Virtual tour

Additional Material

  • Cvent Supplier Network
  • Search Event Venues
  • Find Venue Promotions
  • Explore City Guides
  • Onsite Solutions
  • Event Management Software
  • Event Registration Software
  • Mobile Event Apps
  • Strategic Meetings Management
  • Web Survey Software
  • Webinar Platform
  • Customer Support
  • Your Privacy Choices
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Advertise with us

Costco Travel US homepage

  • Help Center
  • 1-866-921-7925

United States

Start Searching

  • Packages  
  • Hotels  
  • Cruises  
  • Rental Cars  

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

W San Francisco

Modern downtown accommodations.

  • Complimentary Room Upgrade
  • Daily $80 Breakfast Credit for Two

San Francisco: W San Francisco Package

Embodying the city's electric energy and style, W San Francisco dazzles with its signature service and wow-worthy amenities.

Vacation Package Details

Included extras.

Complimentary room upgrade

Daily $80 breakfast credit for two (per room, per stay)♦♦

Executive Member Benefit

Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

Vacation Includes

Full-size rental car‡

Accommodations at W San Francisco

Mandatory daily resort fee♦

Hotel and car taxes

♦Daily Resort Fee Includes

Daily $40 food and beverage credit

Enhanced Wi-Fi

Round-trip cable car tickets for two (per stay)

Unlimited bike rentals

One-time tickets to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art for two

One-time tickets to the California Academy of Sciences for two

The fees and inclusions are outside the control of Costco Travel and are subject to change by the hotel without notice.

Accommodations

  

w san francisco travel weekly

Costco Member Reviews

4.0 of 5 stars

Experience newly renovated rooms overlooking downtown and gain insider access to San Francisco's must-sees and exclusive happenings.

The Costco Star Rating assigned to each hotel is only intended as a guideline. The rating is based on information that has been compiled by Costco Travel buyers and might differ from other references.

Property offers the ultimate in elegance and sophistication, with highly personalized service and hospitality.

Property offers upscale design and decor, superior dining venues, manicured grounds, and a high level of service and hospitality.

Property offers above-average accommodations, service, comfort, facilities and grounds.

Property offers basic accommodations, decor, facilities and grounds.

You can navigate into the Hotel property pages, Costco warehouse locations and Region maps by clicking on the following icons on the map:

  • Hotel Property

Costco Wholesale icon

You can see the names of other important landmarks by pointing your mouse over the following icons on the map:

rental car locations icon

Available Dates & Prices

Other room categories and lengths of stay are available. Airfare is available at an additional cost. The vacation shown is based on availability. The price and inclusions will vary based on the selected travel dates.

Terms & Conditions

♦♦The breakfast credit is valid for two guests at the TRACE restaurant. Any unused portion is nontransferable, nonrefundable and not redeemable for cash.

‡Rental car includes unlimited mileage, one additional driver, all taxes and service fees. It does not include gasoline, optional insurance charges, underage driver charges, upgrades, overtime, drop charges or infant-child seats. Parking fees may apply and are paid directly to the resort upon checkout.

See Full Terms & Conditions - Opens a dialog

Package ID: CALSFOWSANFRANCISCO20210106

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Activities Details

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

How to spend a perfect weekend in San Francisco

Valerie Stimac

Jul 11, 2019 • 5 min read

Steep road down with a cable car, ocean in the background and large yellow victorian house in the foreground

Seeing the highlights list of San Francisco's best sites is easy to do on a perfect weekend © Westend61 / Getty Images

San Francisco is a city in a state of constant transformation. From its early days as a booming town fueled by gold from the nearby mountains to reconstruction after the infamous fire over a century ago to the rapid transformation that tech companies have ignited, it’s impossible to completely know San Francisco. There’s always something new.

Steep road down with a cable car, ocean in the background and large yellow victorian house in the foreground. Weekend in San Francisco

Afternoon/evening

Start your weekend in San Francisco in one of the city’s most distinctive neighborhoods: Chinatown . Densely packed into 24 square blocks, Chinatown feels like another world – but it signals a critical chapter of San Francisco’s history and current cultural makeup.

Red lanterns hang over a street lined with street lights adorned in dragons a victorian building on the corner is adorned with a mural . Weekend in San Francisco

For dinner, tuck into one of the area’s many dim sum spots. You might think dim sum is a brunch food, but many of the best restaurants offer steamed pork buns and soup dumplings all day long. Hang Ah Dim Sum House is the longest continually-operating dim sum restaurant in California, and its alleyway entrance is a good indicator of the no-frills experience inside.

After filing up on shumai and egg custards, toast the beginning of your perfect weekend in San Francisco with a mai tai – a drink with its purported origins in the Bay Area. Head to Li Po Lounge for a divey option, or the Tonga Room in the ground floor of the Fairmont San Francisco if you’re seeking a more upscale option.

People walk down market street in San Francisco. Weekend in San Francisco

The Bay Area has a couple caffeine claims to fame: Peet’s Coffee, which started in Berkeley , and Blue Bottle Coffee , which started in Oakland . You’ll find shops for both throughout the city and a cup of local brew is the perfect way to start the day.

Afterward, head down Market Street toward the San Francisco Ferry Building . This street offers a real look at life in San Francisco – hardships included. You’ll pass towering skyscrapers adorned with the names and logos of the city’s biggest tech companies. You can also enjoy the talents of many street performers and buskers, who tend to set up on each block.

The Ferry building atrium from above. Weekend in San Francisco

In the Ferry Building, you can explore local shops for souvenirs and sweets: Book Passage is a literary lover’s paradise whereas ice cream from Humphry Slocombe is a long-time favorite for locals and visitors alike. 

There’s a reason San Francisco’s top sights are popular: they’re actually interesting! Spend the afternoon in the heart of the tourist hub: Fisherman’s Wharf . Catch a streetcar along the Embarcadero or you can walk if you want the exercise.

Clam chowder in bread bowls served over the counter in a cardboard plate. Weekend in San Francisco

Once you arrive, head straight for Boudin Bakery for lunch. Their sourdough is legendary and is perfectly complemented by clam chowder in a bread bowl. It’s one of the few places in Fisherman’s Wharf where you might struggle to tell the locals from the out-of-towners. 

After fueling up, stroll along the Embarcadero; there’s plenty to see. At Pier 39 , corpulent California sea lions have taken over several of the docks while Ghirardelli Square will satisfy your sweet tooth. You can also learn about San Francisco’s waterfront history at the Maritime National Historical Park . 

A boat cruises through the ocean towards a setting sun with hilly islands in the background. Weekend in San Francisco

As the afternoon winds down, board one of the Blue & Gold Fleet ships to Alcatraz for a tour. You’ll get sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline as you journey too and from the island prison, and if you time it right, can enjoy sunset beyond the Golden Gate Bridge .

Once the sun sets it’s the perfect time to sample the nightlife across the city. The best part about an evening on the town is that you’ll be welcome almost everywhere: San Francisco’s notoriously pro-LGBTQ attitude ensures a healthy variety of dance clubs, cocktail lounges, and dive bars for everyone. 

A sign reads Elbo Room over a street where two people walk. Weekend in San Francisco

It’s difficult to narrow down exactly where to go, so focus on exploring one of the following neighborhoods: The Mission has dance clubs in every music genre, and the city’s best burritos available after last call; the Castro is known for gay bars of every kind; and SOMA has both – plus swanky cocktail bars where the city’s newly minted tech millionaires can spend some of their IPO money. 

Whether you made it a late night or an all-nighter, the Mission is the place to start your second day on a weekend in San Francisco. Recover over brunch at Foreign Cinema ; their cocktails are great hair-of-the-dog options and the warm cinnamon bun is a perfect way to start curing whatever might be ailing you after last night.

people walk down an alley where the garages are all painted with colorful images. Weekend in San Francisco

Afterward, head out to explore. This neighborhood has been changing dramatically over the past decade, but the famous Mission Murals still remain. There are guides who offer free walking tours, or you can do your own self-guided exploration. The majority of the murals are located in alleys off 24th Street, but you’ll find colorful murals scattered in other parts of the neighborhood too. Grab a burrito for lunch; La Taqueria is the top place and well worth any wait.

Spend the remainder of the daylight hours exploring Golden Gate Park . This massive urban green space could easily occupy your whole day. 

Green grass is lined with mature trees of different varieties with a pointed hill in the background. Weekend in San Francisco

Walk and explore the paths in the park – stretching three miles long and a half-mile wide, there are dozens of miles of trails for walking and cycling. Or enjoy one of the city’s museums: the de Young Museum houses some of the city’s finest art and the nearby California Academy of Sciences is perfect for families or those who want to learn more about the natural world.

When your legs get tired catch a rideshare to Ocean Beach , where San Francisco meets the Pacific Ocean. This beach is a popular sunset spot, or you can head further north to Land’s End where hilly paths will take you to some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge in the city.

Where to stay

The Mission: Cozy but modern, Nineteen 06 Mission is right in the heart of the neighborhood, a close walk to two BART stations and nightlife (and burrito shops) in the area. It's a great home base for a weekend in San Francisco.

Nob Hill: Some of the city’s historic, budget-breaking hotels, like the Fairmont San Francisco or The Mark (InterContinental Mark Hopkins) sit atop one of the city’s tallest hills. They’re splurge-worthy for the view alone. For more budget-friendly options (at least by San Francisco prices), look further down Nob Hill toward Powell Street toward Union Square and Market Street.

How to get there

Both San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK) have multiple flights daily from most major U.S. cities. Both airports are accessible by public transportation and 30-40 minutes from downtown.

You might also like

24 free things to do in San Francisco

A quick guide to San Francisco's best neighborhoods

Explore related stories

Stocksytxp27712a65QUj300Medium3353319.jpeg

Feb 15, 2024 • 15 min read

San Francisco is an exciting place for families, who will undoubtedly enjoy the city's many green spaces, vibrant culture and good weather.

A mid-century modern church bell tower is framed by a blue abstract sculpture by Henry Moore in Columbus Indiana on a sunny day

Sep 10, 2018 • 4 min read

w san francisco travel weekly

Aug 28, 2024 • 12 min read

Huge octopus art car installation that emits fire. Fire show in the middle of a desert with people dancing around it. Partying at the music festival and enjoying the fire show at Burning Man Festival.

Jul 16, 2024 • 9 min read

w san francisco travel weekly

May 22, 2024 • 7 min read

w san francisco travel weekly

May 20, 2024 • 4 min read

Castello di Amorosa Vineyard in Calistoga (Napa) or Kunde Family Winery in Kenwood Sonoma © Allard Schager / Getty Images; Matthew Micah Wright / Getty Images

Apr 29, 2024 • 7 min read

w san francisco travel weekly

Apr 29, 2024 • 11 min read

w san francisco travel weekly

Apr 23, 2024 • 6 min read

w san francisco travel weekly

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

The Best Way To Travel to San Francisco Itinerary for a Weekend Trip

San Francisco Itinerary: How To Plan a Weekend Trip To SF

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Planning a San Francisco Itinerary can be quite the task. Especially if you only have 3 days in San Francisco over a long weekend. The Northern California city by the bay boasts iconic sights, delectable food and an abundance of fun activities. The numerous attractions make it difficult to choose what to see – and what to skip – with just 3 days in San Francisco for sightseeing. 

We understand the struggle. We’ve made countless weekend trips to San Francisco – always eager to visit our favorite SF spots and seek out something new. Using our experience, we created this guide to the Perfect San Francisco Weekend Trip to help you plan your best SF vacation!

Why Take a Weekend Trip to San Francisco?

San Francisco has long ranked as one of our favorite cities in the world. In addition to the sights and the food (both of which are fabulous things to do in San Francisco), we relish the fun atmosphere and casual vibe of the city. Spending a long weekend in San Francisco is a great way to get an introduction.

On weekend vacations in San Francisco, travelers can see the top sights, seek out lesser-known locales, indulge in the tasty fare and spend time in nature. The city is incredibly diverse – and a weekend getaway to San Francisco is an ideal way to experience it!

How To Plan a Trip to San Francisco

We know how challenging it is to plan a trip to San Francisco. During the many years that we lived in  Phoenix, Arizona , we often escaped the heat to the cool coastline on quick San Francisco weekend trips. The more we visited the bay area, the more we fell for it…and our list of what to see in San Francisco grew.

In order to make the most of our limited time, we had to meticulously plan our weekend trips to SF. Eventually planning the absolute Best Itinerary for San Francisco.

Having done all the tedious research, planning a trip to San Francisco should be breeze for you. We have fit as much sightseeing as possible into our San Francisco Weekend Itinerary. Plus, we include a helpful San Francisco map of attractions at the end of the article.

San Francisco Itinerary Weekend Trip by JetSettingFools.com

Stay Organized on a 3 Day Trip to San Francisco

Our San Francisco Itinerary 3 Days Trip Plan is packed with tips and advice for your West Coast vacation. However, as you begin to make reservations, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables – to stay on top of all the details!

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

3 DAYS SAN FRANCISCO ITINERARY

The San Francisco City Sky Line viewed from the bay

Day 1 of your 3 Day Itinerary San Francisco

On the first day of your 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary spend time enjoying the iconic sights – and feasting on classic SF cuisine.

Shop at Ferry Building Marketplace

Ferry Building Market Clocktower, San Francisco, California, USA

A symbol of SF, the Ferry Building opened in 1898 and has long been the city’s entry point for ferryboat passengers. In the early 2000s, the building was transformed into an upscale marketplace featuring a variety of regional goods. It’s the perfect place to kick off visiting San Francisco in a weekend.

Recchiuti Confections, Acme Bread Company and Stonehouse Olive Oil are a few of the popular shops in the Ferry Building. Additionally, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, an artisan farmer’s market is held in the Ferry Building Plaza.

Pro Tip: Enjoy breakfast at the marketplace coffee shop, Blue Bottle Coffee. Then assemble items to eat later as a picnic lunch.

Ride the Ferry to Sausalito

San Francisco Bay Sailing, California

Hop on a Golden Gate Sausalito Ferry (from the pier at the Ferry Building Marketplace) for a 30-minute ride to Sausalito. If weather permits, find a spot on the bow of the ship for the best SF Bay views. Passengers will also get a look at Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island.

Top Tip: The SF to Sausalito Ferry has room for 200 bikes, so bring one along if you want to spend your day pedaling around San Francisco Bay Area!

Explore Sausalito

Approaching Sausalito on the ferry from San Francisco, CA, USA

The small seaside town of Sausalito is well-known for its artistic flair and houseboat community. It’s a fabulous place to spend some time during a weekend in San Francisco. Visitors are invited to stroll along the waterfront, wander through the marina, shop at Sausalito galleries and browse the unique boutiques. 

Travel Tip: After exploring Sausalito, get an Uber/Lyft to Vista Point at the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge, which is the next stop on our San Francisco 3 Days Itinerary.

Walk Across The Golden Gate Bridge

Walk Golden Gate, San Francisco, California, USA

As one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, taking a walk on the Golden Gate Bridge is an essential activity for every San Francisco Itinerary! The two-tower, steel-cable orange bridge was built in the 1930s and stretches 1.7 miles across SF Bay. We think it is best to walk from north to south, so that you have a view of the San Francisco skyline.

Beginning at Vista Point, the walk across the bridge takes about an hour. This allows plenty of time to take in the San Francisco Bay views and look for sea lions in the water below.

Pro Tip: The Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center on the south end of the bridge offers exhibits and information. It’s worth stopping in during your weekend San Francisco trip. Also, if you didn’t bring lunch or just want a beverage, pop into the art deco Equator Coffee (aka the Historic Round House Café).

Picnic Lunch in Crissy Field Park

Golden Gate view from Crissy Field Beach, San Francisco, CA, USA

Once a military airfield, Crissy Field was converted into a national park in the early 2000s. Marked with trails, beaches, lookout points and picnic areas, it’s the perfect spot for an outdoor lunch on your 3 Day San Francisco Itinerary. 

Eat what you brought with you from the Ferry Marketplace (or Round House Café), enjoy the view and rest your feet. Then walk east along the water towards The Palace of Fine Arts (and detour out to The Wave Organ, if time allows).

View of the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco, CA, USA

Alternatively, take one of the hikes diagonally through The Presidio toward the southeast corner to the famous Lyon Street Steps – which offers more phenomenal views. 

Pro Tip : To get to the next destination, visitors can take an Uber to the SF cable car station at Hyde and Broadway Streets. It’s one of the top highlights of a weekend trip to San Francisco! 

Hop on a SF Cable Car

Ride a Cable Car, San Francisco, CA, USA

The famous San Francisco cable cars have been in operation since 1873. At one time, there were a total of 8 lines, but only 3 remain today. Our favorite route is the northbound Powell-Hyde Line that terminates near Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman’s Wharf – passing Lombard Street along the way.

Riding one of the cable cars should definitely be on your 3-day San Francisco Itinerary. However, catching a ride on the SF historic trolleys can be time consuming, as wait times at the most popular stops can stretch up to 3 hours in the summertime.

For shorter lines, we recommend hopping on the cable car in the middle of the line at one of these Hyde Street stops: Broadway, Vallejo, Green or Union. Check current SF Cable Car Ticket info on the official site .

Top Tip : Those who want to walk down Lombard Street – the Crookedest Street in the World – could skip the cable car and Uber/Lyft there directly from Crissy Field. Then walk down the 8 hairpin turns and on to Fisherman’s Wharf. However, we think the cable car is a San Francisco must do. Plus, the ride down the backside of Russian Hill (after passing Lombard Street) offers spectacular views of the SF Bay and Alcatraz Island.

Drink an Irish Coffee at The Buena Vista

Best Irish Coffee The Buena Vista, San Francisco, California

Established in 1916, The Buena Vista Café in San Francisco is legendary. Your San Francisco travel plan is simply not complete without stopping by. In 1952, the saloon owners created their own version of an Irish Coffee – a concoction of coffee, whiskey, sugar and cream. The delicious (and potent!) drink is an ideal afternoon warmer – and a must-try in SF!

Travel Tip : The classic San Francisco café is located just across from the end of the Powell and Hyde trolley line.

Get a Sundae on Ghirardelli Square

Ghirardelli Sign, San Francisco, California, U

If your San Francisco trip itinerary is for family and kids, then an afternoon sundae might be a better option than the Irish Coffee. 

The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company opened a factory in San Francisco in 1852. Although the factory long ago moved from Ghirardelli Square, an ice cream shop and the gigantic landmark Ghirardelli sign still grace the space. Tourists flock to the Ghirardelli Experience for ice cream sundaes covered in chocolate and to buy gifts and souvenirs from the shops.

Pro Tip : The complex of brick buildings dates to the 19th century and is listed on the National Historic Register. Even if you don’t want a chocolaty treat, it is worth navigating your way here on your San Francisco three day itinerary. 

Stroll Through Maritime National Historical Park

The shoreline SF Maritime National Historical Park is an interesting place to visit during a weekend in San Francisco. The site hosts a fleet of historic vessels, the 1929 Muni Pier, the Maritime Museum (ticket required) and an informative (and free) Visitors Center. 

Top Tip : Visitors who are interested in learning about military ships can take a tour of the USS Pampanito. The World War II submarine that is docked at nearby Pier 45. Get the details!

Eat a Clam Chowder Bread Bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf

Classic Clam Chowder Bread Bowl

Eating clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is an essential experience that needs to be on your San Francisco Itinerary. We would wager that just about every restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf has bread bowl clam chowder on their menu. So, there are plenty of places to choose from – including classic seafood restaurants and kiosk take-away spots.

The Boudin Bakery Café is one of the most popular places to get sourdough bread bowl clam chowder. Another hot spot for clam chowder is Scoma’s Restaurant, a SF institution.

Pro Tip : Not a fan of clam chowder or seafood, but still want a classic California dining experience? Head to In-N-Out Burger for a Double-Double, fries (ask for them Animal Style) and a shake!

See the Sea Lions on Pier 39

Pier 39 Sea Lions, San Francisco, CA, USA

Pier 39 is a hub of entertainment – and a fantastic place to end the first day of your SF weekend. Featuring shops, restaurants, street performers, a carousel and aquarium, Pier 39 is crowded and touristy, but it’s also a must-see for your vacation planner San Francisco. 

For us, the top reason to visit Pier 39 is the sea lions. Since 1989, California Sea Lions have taken up residence on the floating docks on the west side of Pier 39 – and they are hilarious to watch and listen to!

Travel Tip : Other attractions at Fisherman’s Wharf are Madame Tussauds , Musee Mecanique (a fun museum featuring old school arcade games), evening Sunset Cruises and Alcatraz Tours .

Perfect San Francisco Itinerary by JetSettingFools.com

Day 2 of Your San Francisco Weekend Trip

On the second day of your itinerary in San Francisco discover the Chinatown/North Beach area and explore a couple of iconic SF neighborhoods. At the end of the day, attend a game or theater performance in San Francisco.

Eat Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Opened in 1951 as an ice cream shop, Mama’s has evolved into an iconic breakfast spot featuring classic American, homestyle eats. French toast, omelets and eggs benedict are the featured stars of the menu. 

Top Tip: Mama’s is an absolute hotspot on San Francisco weekends, so expect a line to get a seat in the quaint diner. 

Go to the Top of Coit Tower

Coit Tower and neighborhood, San Francisco, California

The next stop on your San Francisco 3 Day Itinerary is Coit Tower. Standing atop Telegraph Hill, it offers stunning 360-degree views of the bay and bridges. The landmark tower was built in 1933 as a monument to the city’s firefighters. Visitors can go inside the tower (with a ticket) and ride the elevator up to the observation deck.

Pro Tip : There is a Memorial to Volunteer Firefighters in nearby Washington Square that was funded by the same benefactor, Lillie Hitchcock Coit.

Buy a Book at City Lights Booksellers

The most famous bookstore in SF, City Lights Booksellers is an independent shop and publisher that was established in the 1950s. Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, it is worth swinging by on your three days in San Francisco.

Known for selling and publishing progressive literature, the store is often acknowledged as being an integral part of the San Francisco counter-culture that blossomed in the 1960s. The City Lights bookstore business was bestowed the honor of an Official Historic Landmark in 2001.

Travel Tip : From City Lights, cross Jack Kerouac Alley and step inside Vesuvio Cafe. The charming and nostalgic dive bar is decorated with 1960s memorabilia and local artwork.

Walk Through Chinatown

Considered to be the oldest and largest in the United States, the San Francisco Chinatown dates to 1848 and covers 24 square blocks. In our opinion, Chinatown is an absolute must on your San Francisco weekend itinerary. 

It was within the streets of Chinatown that the American version of Chinese Food was created. In addition to eateries and bubble tea shops, top attractions include ornate temples, the decorative Dragon Gate and sign-filled Ross Alley.

Foodie Tip : Visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company for a behind-the-scenes look at how fortune cookies are made. Plus, you have the chance to eat warm-from-the-oven treats from the famed fortune cookie factory. The Golden Gate Bakery, where they make authentic moon cakes and exquisite custard tarts, is just around the corner, too!

Shop at Union Square

If you have time in your San Francisco trip planner for shopping, then Union Square is the place to go! The 2.6-acre Union Square is at the center of San Francisco’s renowned shopping and theater district.

Designed in 1850 and named for the Civil War pro-Union rallies held here, the space features the 85-foot-tall Dewey Monument at its center. Another important place to see is the iconic Westin St. Francis Hotel on Powell Street.

Travel Tip : To get to the next stop on our San Francisco in a Weekend Itinerary, you can use an Uber/Lyft or ride the BART.

Tour the Mission District

The Mission District – or simply, The Mission, ranks as one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Francisco. It is another must-see on your weekend in San Francisco.

When you visit San Francisco Mission District, seeing the namesake Mission San Francisco de Asis chapel (often called Mission Dolores) is a must! Built in 1776, the building is the oldest structure in San Francisco, surviving many devastating earthquakes. The modest chapel sits in the shadow of the striking Mission Dolores Basilica.

Mission Dolores Park is another top place to include in your San Francisco travel itinerary. Attracting hippies, picnickers, dog walkers, and people watchers, the park is a place to kick back, relax and take in the SF skyline view.

Pro Tip: In addition to the two main sights, we recommend exploring The Mission on foot. Seek out street art and cool shops on Calle 24 and in the Valencia Corridor.

Sink Your Teeth into a San Francisco Burrito

There may be no greater love in San Francisco than the burrito. The Mission-style burrito – meat and rice stuffed into a flour tortilla – was born in San Francisco in the 1960s. As such, it would be a shame to visit SF and not get one!

Taquerias all over the city sell burritos, but The Mission is where you get the best burritos in San Francisco. The top recommended spots for an epic burrito are Taquería El Farolito and the famed La Taqueria (although, expect a line). 

Foodie Tip: If you are not in on the burrito craze, check out Tartine Bakery instead. In addition to their excellent hot pressed sandwiches, they offer delectable sweet treats. 

View the Painted Ladies

View of Painted Ladies, San Francisco, CA, USA

The Painted Ladies are one of the interesting San Francisco sights that shouldn’t be missed. The term ‘Painted Ladies’ refers to the colorful Victorian and Edwardian-style houses that were built from the late 1800s until 1915.

SF’s famous row of Painted Ladies is on Steiner Street, across from Alamo Square Park. The row of homes is often featured in movies and ads but is probably most recognized from the TV show Full House .

Pro Tip : The best view of the Painted Ladies is from the top of the hill at Alamo Square Park. 

Go to a Game or the Theater in San Francisco

The ideal way to end the second day of your 3 Days in San Francisco Itinerary is with an entertaining game or theater performance. 

San Francisco Sporting Events

SF Giants, San Francisco, California

Catching a game in San Francisco is a fabulous way to spend time in the city. In fact, on more than one occasion we have created an entire San Francisco travel itinerary that revolved around watching baseball!

For now, the San Francisco Bay Area is home to 6 professional sports teams. NFL Football 49ers, MLB Baseball Giants and Oakland Athletics (moving to Las Vegas in 2025). As well as the San Jose Earthquakes (MLS Soccer), Golden State Warriors (NBA Basketball) and San Jose Sharks (NHL Hockey).

Budget Tip : Attending an SF sporting event is quite the spectacle…but tickets are pricey. If it is not within your trip budget, join the locals at one of the bars around the stadium. The atmosphere is charged and always entertaining. 

San Francisco Theaters

Spending an evening at the theater is one of the top San Francisco things to do. The San Francisco Theater District hosts numerous stages for an array of performances, including everything from Broadway plays to musical acts to comedians. The best venues are the Orpheum Theater, The Curran and The Strand.

Top Tip: Grab a bite to eat before your evening entertainment. There are numerous bar and grills surrounding most of the sports venues and plenty of restaurants in the Theater District for a meal. 

San Francisco Itinerary for a Weekend Trip for First Time Visitors by JetSettingFools.com

Day 3 of Your 3 Day San Francisco Itinerary

On the last day of your itinerary for San Francisco, check out an infamous district – and then stretch your legs in a city park. Wind down your San Francisco weekend watching the sunset from a popular beach.

Get Groovy in Haight-Ashbury

The Haight Ashbury district – centered on Haight and Ashbury Streets – has long played a significant role in modern culture…not only of San Francisco, but of the world. Exploring Haight-Ashbury is one of the top activities to include in your weekend itinerary for San Francisco.

The location that kicked-off the 1967 Summer of Love, Haight-Ashbury was the epicenter of the hippie movement in the 1960s. In addition to the smoke shops and the free society Diggers community group that flourished in the area, several musicians – like members of the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane as well as Janis Joplin – lived in Haight-Ashbury.

What To Do in San Francisco Haight-Ashbury District

Start your morning at greasy spoon Pork Store Café for a hearty breakfast of comfort classics. For a lighter option try Coffee to the People. 

Stroll through the neighborhood admiring the beautifully restored Victorian homes. As you walk, seek out the famous residences (you can find Jerry Garcia’s former house at 710 Ashbury Street). Also keep an eye out for colorful SF street art and pop into shops – like the classic Amoeba Music, Love on Haight, Piedmont Boutique.

Do you really want to feel the groove of the 60s and 70s in San Francisco? Take the Love Tour aboard a 1970s VW Van. 

Pro Tip : In the 1980s, the comedy clubs of Haight-Ashbury were all the rage. Many famous comedians – like Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg – got their start at The Other Café.

Hike Twin Peaks for the Best View of San Francisco

View from Twin Peaks, San Francisco, CA, USA

Standing at nearly 1000 feet, the San Francisco Twin Peaks (Eureka and Noe) are the best place to go on a clear day for an outstanding view. As there is no charge, we think it is one of the best free things to do in San Francisco!

The popular 1.5-mile roundtrip trek takes hikers to the summit for unsurpassed vistas. Although the trail is steep, it is well-worth the climb to get the best San Francisco landmarks – like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

Other points of interest at Twin Peaks are Christmas Tree Point (a third summit that offers fantastic downtown San Francisco views) and Mission Blue Butterflies (an endangered butterfly species that thrives on the Twin Peaks).

Top Tip: The weather on Twin Peaks is often windy and cool. Make sure you are prepared with a jacket or umbrella. You can also drive up Twin Peaks, however parking is very limited.

Take a Photo of the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps

Located in the Golden Gate Heights neighborhood, the mosaic-tiled staircase is a product of a community project and ranks as one of the off-the-beaten-path SF attractions. If you can make room in your San Francisco Itinerary to see them, we highly recommend it.

The 163 steps are adorned with colorful tiles depicting a scene of ‘Sea to Stars’ and gardens line the staircase. It’s a fun spot for photo ops and a cool place to stretch your legs.

Pro Tip: The nearby Hidden Garden Steps are the result of another collaborative community art project. It’s another secret San Francisco gem!

Visit Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA, USA

The 3-mile-long Golden Gate Park, which is bigger than New York’s Central Park , is an expansive green space in the middle of the busy city.

Top attractions are the SF Botanical Garden, the Japanese Tea Garden, Dutch windmills, the Music Concourse and the Academy of Sciences. Additionally, visitors can follow the trails to lakes, statues, memorials, a carousel and even a bison paddock.

Top Tip : Rent a bike to discover Golden Gate Park on two wheels during your San Francisco 3-Day Itinerary!

Walk Ocean Beach and Watch Sunset at Baker Beach

View from Baker Beach, San Francisco, CA, USA

It’s time to wind down your weekend in San Francisco – and Ocean Beach is the perfect place to do it. Ocean Beach sits at the west end of Golden Gate Park and stretches for 3.5 miles.

Although the water is cold and the waves are dangerous, the beach is an excellent place to take a long walk in the sand, watch skilled surfers and see a sunset around a roaring firepit.

Alternatively, Baker Beach, which is further north near the Presidio, is another popular spot that offers fabulous views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is especially stunning at sunset.

Foodie Tip : Cap off your 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary with dinner at the Beach Chalet Brewery and Restaurant. Housed in a historic building within Golden Gate Park, it offers fine views of the Pacific Ocean.

A Perfect Weekend in San Francisco Itinerary by JetSettingFools.com

San Francisco Itinerary Map

The hills of San Francisco streets

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our San Francisco Map of Attractions below.

San Francisco Itinerary Map of Attractions by JetSettingFools.com

More Things To Do in San Francisco

VIew of the bay bridge, San Francisco, California

We included some of our favorite activities in our Weekend in San Francisco Itinerary – but there is actually more to do in the city! 

Ride a Bike in SF

Despite the hills, riding bikes in San Francisco is a popular activity. You can reserve your 24-hour bike rental in advance online.

49 Mile Scenic Drive

If you are planning a trip to San Francisco with a car, then take in the sights on the classic 49 Mile Scenic Drive. Designed as a counter-clockwise route around the best San Francisco sights, the trip is a fantastic way to tour the city.

Hike in Muir Woods

Muir Woods is a magnificent redwood forest just north of San Francisco. Within the national monument park there are 6 miles of trails that wind through epic nature. Visitors can plan their own trek or let a guide lead the way on a hiking tour .

Those willing to travel further for amazing nature can join an organized SF Day Trip to Yosemite National Park to see the Giant Sequoias. Get the details!

California Wine Tours

California is a known worldwide for its wine production. Two of the best CA wine regions – Napa Valley and Sonoma – are easily reached on day trips from San Francisco. The prime way to truly experience California’s wine country is on this highly rated tour that includes both regions!

Pro Tip : Combine your Muir Woods hiking trip with a Wine Country tour and gourmet lunch on a combo super saver day trip. Get the details!

More Tours for your SF Itinerary

View of Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA, USA

Hiking and wine tours are among the most popular day trips from San Francisco – but there are many, many more options! Other top tours include a Monterey and Carmel Day Tour , a Seaplane or even a Helicopter tour.

Subscribe Packing Checklist by JetSettingFools.com

How Many Days in San Francisco?

View of the US Flag on San Francisco Bay, CA, USA

As many as possible! Honestly, determining how many days to spend in San Francisco will depend on numerous factors. The most important things to consider are your personal interests, overall time and your SF trip budget.

Sample San Francisco Itineraries

We have outlined the best way to experience San Francisco in 3 days for weekend. However, we are offering our advice for shorter and longer Bay Area Itineraries.

San Francisco Itinerary 1 Day

The simplest way to create an easy flowing San Francisco 1 Day Itinerary is to use our SF weekend trip plan as a guideline. Depending on your interests, we recommend following either Day 1, 2 or 3 of our outlined SF Weekend Trip. On the other hand, an ambitious traveler could combine elements from all 3 days, creating an ideal San Francisco 1-Day Itinerary.

2-Day Itinerary San Francisco

In an effort to see the top city sights plus the surrounding region, travelers can condense our trip plan. We recommend choosing all the activities that are most appealing for your first day of sightseeing.

On the second day, join a guided half-day tour – like Muir Woods – in the morning. In the afternoon squeeze in any more SF sightseeing from our Bay Area trip plan that you previously skipped.

San Francisco Itinerary 4 Days

One recommendation for visiting San Francisco in 4 Days would be to use our outlined 3-Days San Francisco Itinerary – then take a day trip! Alternatively, rather than leaving for the day, add other top city of San Francisco activities. Such as going shopping, visiting a museum or delving deeper into a favorite (or missed) neighborhood. 

California Coastal Road Trip From SF to LA

While San Francisco weekend trips are absolutely fabulous, so is the California Coast. If time allows, we suggest extending your California vacation with a classic SF to LA road trip, with stops at Monterrey, Morro Bay, Santa Barbara and Malibu .

Read all the details in our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip guide!

How To Get to San Francisco

Landing at SFO Airport, CA, USA

We think the best way to travel to San Francisco is to fly. In fact, most weekend visitors will arrive by plane at either the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK).

SFO offers flights from around the country and top destinations worldwide with nonstop service from Singapore , Sydney , Tokyo , London , Frankfurt , Amsterdam and Lisbon (plus many more!). 

Across the bay, OAK is dominated by low-cost Southwest Airlines and offers very few international flights. Primarily all the same domestic markets are served from both OAK and SFO.

Start your search for the best deals on flights to SFO or OAK at Skyscanner !

OAK or SFO Airport to San Francisco

There are a few different ways to get from OAK or SFO to San Francisco. The BART – Bay Area Rapid Transit – is the best public transportation route from either into the city. The OAK or SFO BART ticket costs about $10. Travelers can also use Uber or Lyft, which will run at least $50. Private transport to/from either Bay Area Airport can also be booked online .

How To Get around SF

Angel Island Ferry, San Francisco Bay, CA, USA

Our San Francisco travel itinerary covers some ground! While we think the best way to see San Francisco is on your own two feet, we understand other travelers may not want to spend so much time walking.

San Francisco has a good public transportation system, including the BART, Muni Trams, classic trolleys and ferries. The Hop On Hop Off double-decker bus is another option for getting around to see the top SF tourist sights. Pre-book your tickets!

We do not recommend driving in San Francisco – as parking is very limited and extremely expensive. However, those who want to travel beyond the San Francisco city limits may want to rent a car for the day.

Top Tip:  Read our hacks for Renting Cheap Cars first!

Where To Stay in San Francisco

Embarcadero and Ferry Terminal, San Francisco, California, USA

On a quick weekend trip to San Francisco, we believe it is best to stay in the city center. It should be mentioned, that while staying at Fisherman’s Wharf puts you in the heart of the action, it is also incredibly expensive and generally a poor value.

On our San Francisco weekend trips, we prefer staying in the Financial District. It’s close to the Ferry Building, Coit Tower, Chinatown and Union Square. The many hotels (and Airbnb’s) in the area cater to business travelers – and often offer better rates on weekends. The Financial District is also well-connected with public transport options.

San Francisco Hotels

The 4-Star Hyatt Regency San Francisco is a luxury property that is situated just a five-minute walk from the Ferry Marketplace. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and some have bay views. Check availability!

Hotel Griffon offers an excellent location on the Embarcadero just steps from the Ferry Building. Top features are the onsite restaurant, free coffee in the lobby and delightful employees. Check rates!

Use our Tips for Booking the Best Hotels – then start your search for hotels in SF on Booking.com !

What You Need For Your Trip to San Francisco

Sail Boats near Sausalito, San Francisco, USA

We have a few final travel tips and packing hacks for what you will want to bring with you on your weekend trip to San Francisco!

Layer Up for Your Trip to San Francisco

Although California has a reputation for warm, sunny weather, it isn’t necessarily true in SF. More than once, I arrived without enough clothes and had to purchase a sweatshirt to keep warm during our stay!

San Francisco weather changes quickly and can be unpredictable. Summers are cool, while autumn actually has the warmest temperatures. We recommend wearing layers while sightseeing in SF (or be prepared to buy a I LOVE SF sweatshirt as a souvenir!).

Proper Shoes 

Our 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary includes a ton of walking! Make sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes . I wear these NB Trainers , while Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes.

Travel Camera 

San Francisco is beautiful – so bring an actual camera  to capture the stunning landscapes and city sights! We use a  Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens . This set-up takes excellent photos and comes bundled with tons of great accessories that are perfect for beginner photographers !

Anti-Theft Bag for SF Sightseeing

Like most big cities, pickpocketing and petty crimes can be an issue in SF – and tourists are a prime target. I carry a Timbuk2 Messenger Bag that has numerous interior zippered pockets. Travelon is another good brand that specializes in anti-theft travel handbags .

US Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may help with cancelled flights or lost luggage , but it can also be useful in the event of illness or injury . Find out more about coverage and rates at World Nomads .

Looking for more US Weekend Getaways ?

Best Weekend Getaways in USA Top 22 Destinations

Start planning your next trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more advice  Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Visiting Other Top Destinations in the USA?

We’ve had the good fortune of being able to travel extensively around the United States. Now we want to help you do the same! 

Want to avoid the crowds? We’ve created a guide to visiting some for the most Underrated US Destinations as well!

Looking for a US Big City adventure? Use our complete guides for visiting Philly , DC , NYC ,  Boston and Chicago !

Eager to see more of the US West? We have top tips for trips to  Seattle , Spokane and Vancouver WA , as well as Portland , Bend and Florence OR . You can also dive into our itineraries for Austin TX , Denver CO , San Diego  and Flagstaff, AZ!

Is a Road Trip beckoning? In addition to our California Coast Guide , we also have detailed trip plans for the Coast of Oregon , Columbia River Gorge  and the incredible state of Montana !

Find all of our US Destination Guides on our USA Travel Page !

Click here for a Free Vacation Budget Planner Banner by JetSettingFools.com

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

San Francisco What To See Do and Eat by JetSettingFools.com

Share This Story!

  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

IMAGES

  1. Essential Travel Guide to San Francisco

    w san francisco travel weekly

  2. San Francisco Travel Guide

    w san francisco travel weekly

  3. San Francisco Travel Guide

    w san francisco travel weekly

  4. 4 days in San Francisco Itinerary San Francisco travel guide and San

    w san francisco travel weekly

  5. San Francisco Two Day Itinerary

    w san francisco travel weekly

  6. Things you must do in San Francisco San Francisco Vacation, San

    w san francisco travel weekly

COMMENTS

  1. W San Francisco

    Hotel Zetta San Francisco55 5th St, San Francisco, CA 94103.4 miles InterContinental San Francisco888 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103.3 miles Hotel Zetta San Francisco55 5th St, San Francisco ...

  2. travel42 Hotel Review: W San Francisco

    Omni San Francisco Hotel 500 California St, San Francisco, CA 94104.5 miles JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square 515 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102 .6 miles The Jay, Autograph Collection 433 ...

  3. Luxury Hotel in San Francisco

    181 3rd Street, San Francisco, California, USA, 94103. Toll Free: +1-888-627-8391. Fax: Discover new levels of comfort in our newly renovated rooms and suites. Our dog-friendly hotel in San Francisco, overlooking downtown, lets you live it up through a modern mix of uncompromising luxury and daring design.

  4. W San Francisco features 'Weekend Warrior' package

    The W San Francisco, situated in the SoMa district, is offering the Weekend Warrior package, designed to highlight the city's nightlife experiences as curated by the hotel's W Insider, Sara Hamza.

  5. W SAN FRANCISCO

    2,524 reviews. NEW AI Reviews Summary. #89 of 239 hotels in San Francisco. 181 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA 94103. Visit hotel website. 1 (844) 631-0595. Write a review. Check availability. Full view.

  6. San Francisco

    Get ready for the ultimate urban adventure. The 49 square miles that make up San Francisco are filled with breathtaking cityscapes and vibrant cultures from across the globe. From an innovative food scene to unexpected street art on every corner, the City by the Bay is sure to leave you amazed. For now, our Living Room Bar is offering limited ...

  7. W San Francisco

    W San Francisco. 411 Rooms, 84 Suites. Revel in the heart of the SoMa district of San Francisco amid art exhibitions, film screenings, fashion shows, and concerts. Bask in panoramic views of the city skyline at W San Francisco, across from the beautiful Yerba Buena Gardens. Retreat to the smart style, dynamic design, and cool comfort of the ...

  8. W San Francisco, San Francisco (updated prices 2024)

    Guest reviews (571) Travel Proud. W San Francisco. 181 Third Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States of America - Excellent location - show map - Subway Access. +34 photos. Show on map. City view. Pet friendly. Wifi in all areas.

  9. Hotel Rooms in San Francisco

    A new-found rush of living on the edge unfolds in our newly redesigned rooms and suites, inspired by San Francisco's history of gold mining and the art of searching for fortune. Each renovated room features a signature W Hotels Bed with pillow-top mattress, ergonomic work spaces, Wi-Fi access, bedside tech hookups, and W Mix Bar for a little play.

  10. W San Francisco

    Group Travel ; Imagine Your Dream Vacation. Get inspiration and plan your next getaway. Explore Vacations . CLOSE. Our Brands. The Ritz-Carlton; St Regis; Edition; ... W San Francisco. 181 3rd Street, San Francisco, California 94103 USA +1 415-777-5300. Phone: +1 415-777-5300 +1 415-777-5300; Fax: +1 415-817-7893; Sales: +1 415-777-5300;

  11. San Francisco Hotels with Weekly Rates

    San Diego embodies laid-back California culture, complete with a Boardwalk, surfing communities, and outstanding Mexican food. Breathe in the fresh ocean air at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, then gobble down a fresh fish taco at a La Jolla seafood joint.

  12. W San Francisco

    4.9/5 (8 Reviews) Costco Star Rating. 4.0 Star Hotel. 345 Stockton Street, San Francisco, CA, 94108, United States. Located in the heart of San Francisco's shopping and entertainment district, the fashionable hotel on Union Square welcomes travelers with impeccable services, sophisticated décor and upscale amenities. Learn More.

  13. W San Francisco Meetings and Events

    Meeting space and convention information at W San Francisco. W San Francisco Meetings and Events- Deluxe San Francisco, CA Hotels: Travel Weekly The Travel Industry's Trusted Voice

  14. W SAN FRANCISCO

    Now HK$2,367 (Was H̶K̶$̶2̶,̶6̶7̶1̶) on Tripadvisor: W San Francisco, San Francisco. See 2,520 traveler reviews, 1,325 candid photos, and great deals for W San Francisco, ranked #85 of 238 hotels in San Francisco and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor.

  15. W San Francisco

    W San Francisco is a 2022 Magellan Awards Silver winner Recommended by Forbes - 2019 Recommended by Forbes - 2018 2017 Sustainability Award of the Hotel Council of San Francisco - March 2, 2017 2016 Travel Weekly Gold Magellan Award Winner for Fitness Room Design - September 12, 2016 CA Green Lodging Program - August 16, 2016 AH&LA Outstanding Property of the Year, Large Property - May ...

  16. San Francisco: W San Francisco Package

    Costco Travel Vacations, Travel, All-Inclusive Vacations, All Inclusive Resorts and Vacation Packages. Looking for your Digital Costco Shop Card? Please visit this ... San Francisco: W San Francisco Package. Embodying the city's electric energy and style, W San Francisco dazzles with its signature service and wow-worthy amenities. ...

  17. San Francisco Travel

    Whether you're planning your first trip or your next one, take a look at some of our favorite ideas and begin planning your next vacation. Official site for planning a trip to San Francisco and Northern California. Find the latest on attractions, hotel rooms, restaurants, arts and culture, our neighborhoods, and more.

  18. 4 Days In San Francisco: The Ultimate SF Itinerary (A Local's Guide)

    We've compiled the perfect 4-day San Francisco itinerary for you! This itinerary will contain a good mix of popular activities as well as off-the-beaten-path activities, sights, and eats that we locals love to frequent. While the 4-day itinerary is jam-packed, believe me, you're still not going to see everything SF offers in just 4 days.

  19. How to spend a perfect weekend in San Francisco

    Both San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK) have multiple flights daily from most major U.S. cities. Both airports are accessible by public transportation and 30-40 minutes from downtown. You might also like. 24 free things to do in San Francisco. A quick guide to San Francisco's best neighborhoods

  20. JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square

    Omni San Francisco Hotel 500 California St, San Francisco, CA 94104.5 miles InterContinental San Francisco 888 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103 .5 miles W San Francisco 181 Third Street, San ...

  21. San Francisco Itinerary: How To Plan a Weekend Trip To SF

    Ride the Ferry to Sausalito. Hop on a Golden Gate Sausalito Ferry (from the pier at the Ferry Building Marketplace) for a 30-minute ride to Sausalito. If weather permits, find a spot on the bow of the ship for the best SF Bay views. Passengers will also get a look at Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island.

  22. Four Seasons Hotel at Embarcadero

    The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco600 Stockton Street, San Francisco, CA 94108.4 miles Omni San Francisco Hotel500 California St, San Francisco, CA 94104.1 miles The Jay, Autograph Collection433 Clay ...

  23. 3 Days In San Francisco, CA: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

    A little known fact, the Irish Coffee was actually born right here in San Francisco back in 1952! So come get a taste of the original for yourself! On a regular day, the Buena Vista serves around 2,000 Irish coffees—up to 2,500 on a busy weekend day. These Irish Coffees are made the legit way, with Tullamore Dew.