SF for 1.5 days - Quick Itinerary

Question

Coming to SF on coming weekend for a business trip, I’ll have half Sat and full Sun with me and then work week will start. What all touristy places should I visit? I’ve been to SF 10 yrs back and seen Golden Gate, Coit Tower, Fishermen Wharf, Twin Peak, but don’t mind going to some of these again. Want to go to lively areas, have good food.

Don’t have much time left to search and plan a good itinerary, so looking forward for good suggestions to quickly create a plan

Answer

With just 1.5 days in San Francisco, you’ll want to focus on a mix of iconic sights, lively neighborhoods, and great food. Since you’ve already visited the classic landmarks before, you can revisit favorites quickly while adding some fresh experiences.

Saturday afternoon: Since you’ll only have half a day, it’s best to concentrate on one area for easy walking and maximum enjoyment.

Ferry Building Marketplace: A foodie’s paradise with artisan foods, local coffee, and a lively waterfront vibe.
Embarcadero & Bay Walk: Enjoy views of the Bay Bridge, maybe grab a quick ferry view of Alcatraz.
Chinatown: Walk through Grant Avenue for shops and street sights; stop for dim sum or a bubble tea treat.

Sunday full day: Plan a mix of scenic views, iconic streets, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Morning: Start with a walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge if you want classic views.
Presidio & Crissy Field: Great for scenic photos of the bridge and bay, with casual cafes for coffee.
Lunch in Marina or Cow Hollow: Trendy spots with lively streets and a variety of cuisines.
Afternoon: Explore Haight-Ashbury for quirky shops and historic vibes, or Mission District for street murals and taquerias.
Evening: North Beach for Italian dinner and lively nightlife, or return to the waterfront for seafood near Pier 39 and enjoy sunset views.

Optional quick stops depending on time:

Lombard Street for a classic photo op of the “crookedest street.”
Coit Tower if you want panoramic views of the city.
Fisherman’s Wharf for souvenir shopping, quick bites, and sea lion viewing.

Tips for efficiency:

Use ride shares or the historic cable cars for faster transport between districts.
Prioritize neighborhoods rather than trying to hit every landmark.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on hills!

This plan balances scenic views, lively areas, and great food while making the most of your limited time.