Travel around San Francisco with Bobby
I chose to visit San Francisco because it’s a city that perfectly blends natural beauty with urban charm. The Golden Gate Bridge, with its sweeping views of the bay, has always been a sight I wanted to experience firsthand. Beyond the iconic landmarks, I was drawn to the city’s unique neighborhoods, each with its own character—from the colorful streets of Haight-Ashbury to the lively Fisherman’s Wharf. I knew the food scene would be incredible, with a mix of seafood, world-class restaurants, and diverse flavors reflecting the city’s cultural richness. Plus, San Francisco’s reputation for art, music, and nightlife made it a place I couldn’t wait to explore both day and night. It’s a city that promised adventure and charm around every corner.
Day 1Welcome to the Bay – Iconic Views and the Famous Golden Gate Bridge
My first day in San Francisco started with the city’s most iconic landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. I took the time to walk across it, marveling at the red-orange expanse stretching over the blue bay, with views that were even more breathtaking in person. The nearby Golden Gate Park was a perfect next stop, where I explored the Japanese Tea Garden—a serene escape surrounded by cherry blossoms and koi ponds. For lunch, I headed over to Fisherman’s Wharf, where the energy was contagious. I grabbed a bowl of clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery; there’s nothing like warm, savory chowder with a hint of sea breeze.
In the evening, I checked into the Hotel Zephyr, which was right on the waterfront. This playful boutique hotel with quirky decor and spacious rooms added to the charm of my trip. I ended my night at Pier 39, watching the playful sea lions as the sun set over the bay, creating a perfect postcard moment.
Start your San Francisco adventure with the essentials. Walking the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoying the city’s seafood is a classic experience that sets the tone for an unforgettable trip.
Day 2Stepping Back in Time – Alcatraz Island and the Historic Cable Cars
Day two was all about history and adventure. I took a morning ferry over to Alcatraz Island, where I joined the audio tour that guided me through the infamous prison’s halls. Listening to stories of past inmates and escapes, all while looking out over the stunning views of the bay, was both eerie and fascinating. After returning to the mainland, I hopped on one of San Francisco’s classic cable cars, which took me up and down the city’s famous steep streets. Riding a cable car, feeling the wind and seeing the city roll by, was an absolute thrill and a must for any visitor.
For lunch, I stopped at Tartine Bakery in the Mission District, where I enjoyed an incredible sandwich and a flaky, delicious croissant. Later, I strolled through Chinatown, exploring unique shops and savoring dim sum at Good Mong Kok Bakery. Chinatown’s bustling streets and colorful lanterns created a unique contrast to the peaceful morning I spent on Alcatraz.
Tartine Bakery in the Mission District delivered an incredible lunch, with fresh sandwiches and pastries that showcased San Francisco’s artisan baking. Chinatown’s dim sum from Good Mong Kok Bakery was a delicious and authentic way to continue exploring the city’s food scene. Both spots brought amazing flavors and local character.
Food
Returning to Hotel Zephyr after a day full of sightseeing was a treat. The comfortable rooms and waterfront views made it a relaxing spot to recharge. With its central location, getting around to all the day’s highlights was a breeze.
Accomodation
The Alcatraz Island tour was fascinating, with an eerie ambiance that brought its history to life. The cable car ride afterward added a fun, classic San Francisco experience as I rode through the steep streets. The combination of history and adventure made the day both exciting and memorable.
Activity
Alcatraz is a surreal, must-see experience—plan for at least a few hours to soak it all in. The cable car ride and exploring Chinatown add a fun and classic touch to the day’s adventures.
Day 3Art, Culture, and the Heart of San Francisco – Haight-Ashbury and Mission District
I started the day by exploring the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art and bohemian history. The area’s mix of colorful Victorian houses, vintage shops, and murals kept me captivated. After a morning of exploring, I enjoyed a hearty brunch at Zazie, a cozy spot with excellent French toast and coffee. In the afternoon, I headed to the Mission District to check out Mission Dolores Park. It was the perfect spot to relax and people-watch, surrounded by locals enjoying the sun and incredible views of the city.
Dinner that night was at Foreign Cinema, a restaurant with a unique vibe where they screen classic films on an outdoor wall. The food was as fantastic as the ambiance—I tried their signature oysters and a flavorful Moroccan-spiced lamb dish. It was an unforgettable experience combining film, food, and the atmosphere of San Francisco’s lively culture.
Brunch at Zazie in Haight-Ashbury was delightful, with their French toast and coffee standing out as some of the best I’ve had. Dinner at Foreign Cinema in the Mission District was an unforgettable experience, blending great food with a unique film-screening ambiance. Each meal felt thoughtfully prepared, adding to the charm of the day.
Food
Hotel Zephyr continued to impress with its comfortable rooms and fun decor. After a full day of exploring neighborhoods, it was the perfect place to relax and unwind. Its close proximity to San Francisco’s main areas made every day’s outing easy to plan.
Accomodation
Wandering through Haight-Ashbury’s vintage shops and murals provided a deep dive into San Francisco’s artistic culture. Relaxing at Mission Dolores Park and people-watching with views of the skyline was a local highlight. This day really captured the city’s vibrant and bohemian spirit.
Activity
Haight-Ashbury and the Mission District are where you’ll feel the heart and soul of San Francisco. Embrace the artistic vibe and relax at Mission Dolores Park—it’s an experience you’ll want to linger in.
Day 4Shopping, Views, and Farewell – Union Square and Lombard Street
On my final day, I explored Union Square, a bustling area filled with shops, galleries, and local art. I enjoyed a bit of shopping and grabbed a coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee, known for its rich flavors and sleek setting. In the afternoon, I walked up to Lombard Street, famously known as the “crookedest street in the world.” Winding down its zig-zag path lined with colorful flowers was a fun and uniquely San Francisco experience.
I wrapped up my trip with dinner at House of Prime Rib, a legendary spot for anyone who loves a classic, hearty meal. The prime rib was cooked to perfection, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming—an ideal ending to a fantastic trip. As I walked back to the hotel, I soaked in my last views of the city lights and vibrant streets, already thinking about the next time I’d return.
I ended the trip with a classic meal at House of Prime Rib, known for its expertly cooked, flavorful prime rib. The restaurant’s warm ambiance and attentive service made it the ideal farewell meal. It was a memorable culinary experience to wrap up my San Francisco journey.
Food
My last night at Hotel Zephyr reminded me of the hotel’s great atmosphere and central location. I enjoyed the waterfront views one last time, grateful for such a convenient and comfortable base during my stay. The hotel’s amenities and proximity made it perfect for exploring the city.
Accomodation
Visiting Union Square for shopping and walking down Lombard Street’s famous zig-zags were the perfect closing activities. Both spots offered unique perspectives on San Francisco’s charm, from urban excitement to quirky landmarks. It was a fun way to say goodbye to the city.
Activity
Union Square is perfect for some last-minute shopping, and the zig-zags of Lombard Street are a fun photo-op. End with a classic San Francisco dinner to truly savor the city’s warmth and charm.
Summary of My Trip
San Francisco was everything I hoped for and more—a city with character, incredible sights, and endless charm. Each day felt like a new adventure, from walking the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to discovering the quirky streets of Haight-Ashbury. The food was an absolute highlight, whether it was fresh clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf or a unique dining experience at Foreign Cinema. Hotel Zephyr provided the perfect base, offering comfort and a prime location by the bay, which made exploring the city a breeze. I loved the contrast of historic sites like Alcatraz with lively areas like Chinatown and the Mission District; it’s a city that has something for everyone. Taking a cable car through those steep hills was both thrilling and nostalgic, and it added to the city’s classic charm. My last night, dining on prime rib and watching the city lights, was the perfect send-off. San Francisco is a place that captures your heart with its beauty, culture, and warmth. I’d come back in a heartbeat to experience it all over again.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
San Francisco left a lasting impression with its blend of iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and unforgettable food. From exploring the Golden Gate Bridge to sampling fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, the city delivered a unique experience at every turn. While there are some costs associated with this popular destination, the richness of experiences and welcoming atmosphere make it well worth the visit.
Starting with a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery was the perfect introduction to San Francisco’s flavors. The creamy chowder combined with the fresh sourdough was delicious, and the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf atmosphere added to the experience. This classic San Francisco meal hit all the right notes.
Food
Hotel Zephyr’s waterfront location made it an excellent choice, with quirky decor and modern rooms adding a unique touch. Being close to Pier 39 meant I could enjoy the bay views and lively nightlife without needing to travel far. The staff were helpful, and the hotel felt vibrant and welcoming.
Accomodation
Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge and exploring Golden Gate Park was a fantastic start. The views from the bridge were unforgettable, and the Japanese Tea Garden offered a serene escape. It set the perfect tone for my trip, balancing iconic sights with peaceful moments.
Activity