Visiting San Francisco without a vehicle? It can be overwhelming trying to pack all the essential must-see sites in one trip, however, luckily we have compiled the ultimate route using various transportation modes for you to follow that hits all the spots, both touristy and local off-the-beaten-path.
Following our guide will allow you to accomplish everything in one day, with recommendations on the exact transportation, essential food stops that perfectly happen to be along the way, and more!
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Our guide begins at the Embarcadero (or the corresponding Muni/BART station), for both those staying inside the city proper or commuting from anywhere else in the Bay. The Embarcadero station is the first metro stop when getting into the city, and it is only proper that we begin here.
Walking out from the station, head straight to the Ferry Building for breakfast, as you will not only pass the cutest art vendors right outside of it, but will also be entered into a bazaar of the most delicious eateries and cafes. If you happen to visit on Saturday, you will also catch the massive bustling farmer's market!
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After grabbing a solid breakfast (we recommend Roli Roti for a portable and impeccable porcetta sandwich!), take a leisurely waterfront stroll along the piers to the tourist-famous Pier 39. You will encounter several photographable views such as the Coit Tower, Pier 7, the TransAmerica Pyramid, and The Exploratorium.
Pier 39 is globally known for their fresh seafood restaurants, creative shops, clear view of Alcatraz, and other family-friendly activities.
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Fisherman's Wharf is right next door and the Musee Mechanique is a must-visit for the fun vintage penny arcade. Jefferson Street is also thriving with several shops and historic seafood restaurants, which leads directly to the Hyde Street Pier, Aquatic Park, and world-famous Ghirardelli Square waiting for you at the end.
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It is imperative you try the artisanal chocolate from Ghirardelli, which will fuel you for a slightly challenging hike up Russian Hill to see the world's curviest street of Lombard. There is definitely nothing like this historic alley, which also provides a sweeping view from the top.
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From here, catch the Powell-Hyde classic cable car for a momentous and breezy ride down the hills to Union Square. This is the perfect opportunity to feel like a true San Franciscan by taking the traditional trolley seen in television, such as Full House. Bonus points if you are able to hang outside of it!
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Hop off of the exhillarating trolley at Union Square, our famous shopping district, akin to New York's Time Square. Here, you can shop at major brands and also find a spot to have lunch near or inside the massive Westfield Mall. Right around the block is also the SFMOMA.
The mall also holds the Powell Muni station which you will take to not only experience the metro, but to escape the touristy areas into the locally-known Mission Dolores Park.
See also: The Ultimate Style & Food Guide For A Perfect Dolores Park Outing
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Now you're in the neighborhoods! Get off of the efficiently quick metro at the top of Dolores Park to catch panoramic views of both downtown and the lush greenery of the picnic-famous park. After relaxing here, walk down 18th street in either direction and you will find Valencia Street with many trendy independent, "hipster" shops on one end, or the historic LGBTQ district of the Castro.
See also: Do You Know This Hidden San Francisco Park With The Most Instagrammable Panoramic View?
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After exploring all the queer resources and extremely enjoyable gay bars the Castro offers for happy hour, take the 33 Bus for this transportation experience and be taken up more hills before being dropped off at Haight Ashbury, the epicenter of the 1960's Summer of Love movement.
See also: These Best Dispensary Boutiques In San Francisco Are Both High-Class And High-Quality
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Haight Ashbury offers numerous unique record, vintage, and secondhand stores, as well as great music. Its close proximity to Golden Gate Park and Hippie Hill make it easy to walk straight through the historic street and appreciate its vibrant stores before entering the grand park.
See also: Find Your Next Groovy Vintage Haul At These Best Haight Ashbury Thrift Boutiques
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Golden Gate Park contains several museums and natural attractions, such as The DeYoung, The Botanical Garden, The Conservatory of Flowers, and The Japanese Tea Garden.
This is a great way to end the day, for the Conservatory often displays evening light shows. If you truly want more, head all the way to the western end of the park to see the Dutch Windmills, the Park Chalet, The Cliff House, Sutro Bath Ruins, and even have an evening bonfire right at Ocean Beach!
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This is definitively the most comprehensive guide to San Francisco in one day for all things classic and non-traditional!
Photography by: Daniel Abadia/Unsplash
