How to spend 24 hours in San Fransico

San Francisco, home to the Golden Gate Bridge, hipster bars and cafés, and the famous sea lions at Pier 39. Popular as a starting/ending point for bigger trips, San Francisco is a great destination to explore with limited time. If you have just 24 hours in the city pre or post trip you will want to make the most of your time, so here’s a little guide to get you started.

The Golden Gate Bridge

This should be on every list. A staple to the San Fran skyline, this famous landmark should not be missed. It’s remarkable size and eye-catching  ‘international orange’ colouring makes it stand out on clear days as well as when the fog crawls in. Perfect for instagram photo ops, this ones a classic.

Ice Cream & Mission Dolores Park 

If you know me (and even if you don’t you will quickly learn) that I have a serious sweet tooth. Obviously I had to search out a place to get my sugar-fix in San Fran and I hit the sweet spot at Bi-Rite Creamery. The guys here are awesome and you can try a multitude of flavours, including Birthday Cake and Salted Caramel. YUM.

Around the corner is Mission Dolores park, where you can people watch, chill and embrace the sugar rush. 

Pier 39

SEA LIONS in a city! Yes. Sea lions. Follow the barking(?) all the way to Peir 39 where you can wander down the esplanade and watch a variety street performers, photograph the labradors of the ocean or choosing the perfect souvenir to commemorate your epic escape.

The Cable Car  

I didn’t actually get to test this one out myself but I’ve heard it’s awesome. Give it a try and let me know how it was, apparently you get some great views of the city! Adventure through San Francisco and look out of the windows to get a unique view of the city.

Explore on foot

In adventure travel, sometimes wandering around is sometimes the best way to get to know a place. Chuck on your day bag and take to the streets to discover this laid back but lively city. Head to Chinatown or the famous Lombard Street for some incredible photo ops or check out the super cool Castro District – home to the Rainbow Honour Walk. Situated near the intersection of Castro Street and Market Street are the plaques of prominent LGBTQ figures commemorated for the phenomenal impact they made to the community.

San Francisco is the city by the bay which welcomes you with wide open arms; with laid back vibes, super-cool cafés and famous landmarks all around, it has it all.