I've now visited San Francisco and the Golden State three times in my lifetime. The first time was in the '90s as a fresh-faced teenager on his first trip to North America. I next returned in my 40s with a buddy to see an Oakland Raiders game, and then again the following year as part of a family vacation. We arrived after spending time in Oregon, then traveled down through Northern California and the Redwood Coast (stopping to see the Giant Sequoias) to San Francisco for a few days before heading off to Yosemite.
On a San Francisco and Yosemite National Park itinerary, you could spend anything from a few days to a few weeks exploring these places. For this reason, I'm not going to give a strict day-by-day itinerary but rather cover some of the highlights and personal experiences of visiting these places so that you can piece together your own perfect itinerary that fits with your schedule and your interests.
On a San Francisco and Yosemite National Park itinerary, you could spend anything from a few days to a few weeks exploring these places. For this reason, I'm not going to give a strict day-by-day itinerary but rather cover some of the highlights and personal experiences of visiting these places so that you can piece together your own perfect itinerary that fits with your schedule and your interests.
First stop: San Francisco
On my first visit to San Francisco as a teenager, I stayed for about 10 days, which I personally found a little too long. However, this is partly due to the fact that, as an international traveler, I was too young to rent a car. This really did restrict how far we could travel and what we could do.
My second and third visits were for about four days on both occasions, which I found more than adequate to see the highlights of San Francisco, like the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Castro. On my second visit with my buddy, we also did a brewery tour, which I would highly recommend if you're not traveling with kids and enjoy craft beer. It was a great way to spend an afternoon, especially during the colder months, and we also made some new friends.
On my third visit, I was traveling with my family and my two teenage sons. One of my favorite things to do in San Francisco, which I’ve done each time I visited, is to walk along the waterfront from Fisherman's Wharf to the Golden Gate Bridge. This can take about an hour at a leisurely pace, but it’s a great and scenic way to get to the bridge.
My second and third visits were for about four days on both occasions, which I found more than adequate to see the highlights of San Francisco, like the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Castro. On my second visit with my buddy, we also did a brewery tour, which I would highly recommend if you're not traveling with kids and enjoy craft beer. It was a great way to spend an afternoon, especially during the colder months, and we also made some new friends.
On my third visit, I was traveling with my family and my two teenage sons. One of my favorite things to do in San Francisco, which I’ve done each time I visited, is to walk along the waterfront from Fisherman's Wharf to the Golden Gate Bridge. This can take about an hour at a leisurely pace, but it’s a great and scenic way to get to the bridge.
Me at the Golden Gate Bridge in 2019
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Me at the Golden Gate Bridge in 1995
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The Golden Gate Bridge is in sight for the whole walk, and once you're there, I'd also recommend taking a guided tour, which can be booked in advance. I did this on my third visit with my family and learned more about the Golden Gate Bridge and its rich history during that trip than I've learned in the two previous trips combined. It was well worth it.
In fact, you can even continue beyond the Golden Gate Bridge and explore some of the residential neighborhoods, walking amongst the multi-million dollar houses on the Pacific coast, and then head towards the Golden Gate Overlook in the Presidio area for more views of the bridge and the Pacific Ocean. You can even continue to Golden Gate Park, but that's a lot of walking and probably best done as a separate excursion.
I've also found that walking tours can be one of the best ways to learn about a city, especially when you're on a limited time schedule. Walking tours usually last a couple of hours at most, so you can fit them in between other sightseeing on your own, creating a good hybrid of organized tours and independent travel.
In San Francisco, I've taken walking tours of Chinatown, the Golden Gate Bridge area, and Haight-Ashbury. I'll show you how I included these walking tours during my trip to San Francisco when I share my itinerary later in this post.
We also ventured out to Alcatraz Island, which is interestingly a national park. While I wouldn't categorize Alcatraz as one of the absolute must-see places in San Francisco, it certainly ranks among the top attractions, and if you're inclined to visit, I doubt you'll be disappointed. It's crucial to pre-book your tickets for Alcatraz since it's a popular destination and can fill up quickly; otherwise, you might find yourself waiting in line for hours to purchase tickets on the day of your visit.
Where to stay in San Francisco
Whenever I've been in San Francisco, I've always stayed in or around the Fisherman's Wharf area. I know this is super touristy, but I find it's a good base when you're visiting for a few days, and after all, I was a tourist!
The first time I visited San Francisco back in the late '90s, I stayed at the Hosteling International at Fort Mason. I was pleased to see it still existed when I visited again in 2019. This hostel is in a great spot with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, and I wouldn't rule out staying there again. As well as dorm beds, the hostel also has private rooms with multiple beds, making it a great place for families and small groups too.
On my most recent visits to the Bay Area, I've stayed at the Hotel Zephyr on both occasions. I really like this hotel; it's modern and has great amenities in the public areas like fire pits, games, and an eating area where you can bring your own food to eat in the hotel.
The first time I visited San Francisco back in the late '90s, I stayed at the Hosteling International at Fort Mason. I was pleased to see it still existed when I visited again in 2019. This hostel is in a great spot with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, and I wouldn't rule out staying there again. As well as dorm beds, the hostel also has private rooms with multiple beds, making it a great place for families and small groups too.
On my most recent visits to the Bay Area, I've stayed at the Hotel Zephyr on both occasions. I really like this hotel; it's modern and has great amenities in the public areas like fire pits, games, and an eating area where you can bring your own food to eat in the hotel.
Hotel Zephyr
SAN FRANCISCO, CA | USA
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Mooseful information
Location: Fisherman's Wharf Accommodation: Hotel “ship-yard chic” Noteworthy: Private balcony in select rooms, fire pits, indoor game room 
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It's especially good if you're traveling with a family because there's plenty to do in the evenings, like playing shuffleboard, table tennis, or any number of other games they have for guests, or just sitting around the fire pits, so you don't have to be cooped up in your room or always out and about.
There are several excellent dining options within walking distance of Fisherman's Wharf, making it convenient to pick up takeout and enjoy it back at the hotel. On two occasions, we grabbed takeout from The Italian Homemade Company and brought it back to enjoy in the comfort of our hotel. There's also a Safeway supermarket just a five-minute walk from the hotel, perfect for stocking up on snacks and drinks.
A slightly more upscale hotel, but situated in a similar area, is the Argonaut Hotel. While I haven't personally stayed there, I have arranged accommodations for clients at this hotel, and they have really liked it.
Argonaut Hotel
SAN FRANCISCO, CA | USA
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Mooseful information
Location: Fisherman's Wharf Accommodation: Hotel Noteworthy: On-site dining, fire pit, waterfront location 
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My three-day San Francisco itinerary
Day 1
Morning
On our first day in San Francisco, we got an early start, first heading to Lombard Street to see this iconic San Francisco landmark. It was just a 20-minute walk from our hotel near Fisherman's Wharf. After snapping a few photos, we continued on to Coit Tower, which was only an additional five-minute walk, where we enjoyed views over the Bay Area.
Late Morning
From Coit Tower, it was a further 15-minute walk to the meeting point for our North Beach walking tour. The tour lasted just one hour, and we learned about the history of the Italian immigrants who flooded the area at the turn of the century and still lend the area much of its character. For lunch, we headed to Golden Boy Pizza.
Morning
On our first day in San Francisco, we got an early start, first heading to Lombard Street to see this iconic San Francisco landmark. It was just a 20-minute walk from our hotel near Fisherman's Wharf. After snapping a few photos, we continued on to Coit Tower, which was only an additional five-minute walk, where we enjoyed views over the Bay Area.
Late Morning
From Coit Tower, it was a further 15-minute walk to the meeting point for our North Beach walking tour. The tour lasted just one hour, and we learned about the history of the Italian immigrants who flooded the area at the turn of the century and still lend the area much of its character. For lunch, we headed to Golden Boy Pizza.
Me at Lombard Street
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Bay views from the Coit Tower
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Afternoon
After lunch, we took a rideshare to Haight-Ashbury, where we met our tour guide for another one-hour walking tour to learn all about the Summer of Love and the reasons this old Victorian neighborhood attracted a youth movement that revolutionized the country. We also got to see some of the homes that hosted some of its most influential figures. After the tour, we spent another hour or so exploring the shops and cafes on Haight-Ashbury.
Day 2
Morning
On day two, we had a slightly more leisurely start, as our walking tour of Chinatown didn't start until 10 am. You could spend days wandering the lantern-adorned streets of Chinatown, but this one-hour-long introduction gave us a good overview of its unique history and culture. After the tour, we spent a little more time exploring Chinatown on our own and grabbed some lunch from one of the many restaurants in the area.
Chinatown
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Chinatown
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Afternoon
After lunch, we headed to the Mission District for another one-hour walking tour to learn about the neighborhood, considered to be the historic heart of the city.
Evening
This evening, we ate at Off the Grid Fort Mason Center, a regular gathering of food trucks. It was just a short 20-minute walk from our hotel at Fisherman's Wharf. You can check out offthegridsf.com to find out future dates and other Off the Grid locations in San Francisco.
Day 3
Morning
On our final full day in San Francisco, we started with a trip out to Alcatraz Island, departing at 9:30 am. We had already pre-booked our tickets online months in advance, which is essential during peak season. The departure point for Alcatraz is only a few minutes' walk from the Zephyr Hotel in Fisherman's Wharf. As Alcatraz is a national park, we were greeted by a National Park Ranger upon arrival at the island for a quick orientation before taking the audio tour around the prison.
Late Morning
After docking back at Fisherman's Wharf from our trip to Alcatraz Island, we started the one-hour walk towards the Golden Gate Bridge. This is a pleasant walk along the waterfront with the Golden Gate Bridge in view at all times. We arrived at the Golden Gate Bridge just in time for our one-hour walking tour of the area, learning all about the bridge and its rich history. While it's not necessary to take a tour of the Golden Gate Bridge, I would thoroughly recommend it, as you learn more than you would visiting on your own.
Late Afternoon
We could have walked back from the Golden Gate Bridge to our hotel in Fisherman's Wharf, but after a long morning, we opted for a quick rideshare and had a short rest before hopping on the F line streetcar, which departs from behind the hotel to the Castro district. The streetcar ride itself is part of the experience, passing through some of San Francisco's main areas like the Civic Center, Union Square, and the Embarcadero.
Visiting the Castro district was a bit of a last-minute add-on, so we hadn't booked any walking tours and just explored on our own, taking in the area and its friendly and slightly cheeky vibe before heading back to Fisherman's Wharf
Bay Views from the Castro district
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Golden Gate Bridge
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Next stop: Yosemite National Park
After our time in San Francisco, we headed to Yosemite National Park. A quick tip for those driving in San Francisco: you can find private parking in some of the warehouses along the Waterfront at a fraction of the cost that hotels charge for a space in their parking lot.
Having a rental car allowed us to explore Yosemite at our own pace, assisted by an in-car audio guide. However, I understand that not everyone will have access to a car, so I will also be including options for guided tours (including Yosemite days trips from San Francisco) for those who may not have their own vehicle.
There are also car rental companies with offices in Fisherman's Wharf, so if you haven't brought your own car, you can still rent one for your Yosemite road trip. Renting a campervan is another option, but it's a good idea to book this in advance.
The drive from San Francisco to Yosemite takes about four hours using the most direct route, heading towards the Groveland park entrance. You could also opt for a less direct route and drive via Coulterville, California, which is about 2 hours and 50 minutes from San Francisco and 45 minutes from Groveland near Yosemite. Coulterville is a Gold Rush-era ghost town. You can book a tour to learn about the Gold Rush history, and there are places to stop for lunch.
Having a rental car allowed us to explore Yosemite at our own pace, assisted by an in-car audio guide. However, I understand that not everyone will have access to a car, so I will also be including options for guided tours (including Yosemite days trips from San Francisco) for those who may not have their own vehicle.
There are also car rental companies with offices in Fisherman's Wharf, so if you haven't brought your own car, you can still rent one for your Yosemite road trip. Renting a campervan is another option, but it's a good idea to book this in advance.
The drive from San Francisco to Yosemite takes about four hours using the most direct route, heading towards the Groveland park entrance. You could also opt for a less direct route and drive via Coulterville, California, which is about 2 hours and 50 minutes from San Francisco and 45 minutes from Groveland near Yosemite. Coulterville is a Gold Rush-era ghost town. You can book a tour to learn about the Gold Rush history, and there are places to stop for lunch.
Where to stay near Yosemite National Park
We stayed at Rush Creek Lodge, which I can easily say is one of the best places I've ever stayed in. This choice wasn't by chance. I had researched hotels quite extensively before booking, and Rush Creek stood head and shoulders above the rest. I wasn't disappointed upon arrival. The hotel had such a lovely ambiance, seeming to fit seamlessly with the surroundings. The free shuttle bus to Yosemite also stopped outside the hotel.
We had a beautiful but simple apartment with a balcony that comfortably accommodated the four of us. The pool area, outdoor fireplace, fire pits, and children's play area were all kept in immaculate condition, making it an absolute pleasure to spend time here. We also had a downtime day when we didn't do any sightseeing, and Rush Creek was the perfect place to relax and unwind. I'll always remember my stay at Rush Creek with fond memories and look forward to returning one day in the future.
We had a beautiful but simple apartment with a balcony that comfortably accommodated the four of us. The pool area, outdoor fireplace, fire pits, and children's play area were all kept in immaculate condition, making it an absolute pleasure to spend time here. We also had a downtime day when we didn't do any sightseeing, and Rush Creek was the perfect place to relax and unwind. I'll always remember my stay at Rush Creek with fond memories and look forward to returning one day in the future.
Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite
GROVELAND, CA | USA
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Mooseful information
Location: Groveland, at the Highway 120 West entrance to Yosemite National Park Accommodation: Hotel & lodge Noteworthy: On-site dining, fire pits, pool, indoor game room, spa, hot tub, children's play park 
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My two-day Yosemite National Park itinerary
On our first full day in Yosemite National Park, we made an early start and took a guided excursion to Glacier Point in the morning. It was an incredible way to kick off the day, as we were treated to amazing views of Half Dome and the Yosemite Valley. You can do the excursions as a round trip stopping at Tunnel View to take photos, or there's the option to take the bus journey one way and hike back down to Yosemite Valley.
Me at Yosemite National Park
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Half Dome, Yosemite National Park
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In the afternoon, we dedicated our time to exploring Yosemite Valley, walking along the Merced River, and craning our necks in awe at the sight of El Capitan. We also embarked on some of the shorter hikes leading to the Yosemite falls.
It's astonishing how much you can see and experience in just one day.
It's astonishing how much you can see and experience in just one day.
El Capitan, Yosemite National Park
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Looking down over Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park
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On our second day, we embarked on a journey along Tioga Road towards Tuolumne Meadows, stopping at Giant Sequoia Groves and taking our time to enjoy several leisurely hikes and a picnic lunch.
We began our day with a family-friendly short hike at May Lake, which was easy for all of us. Then, we made the short drive to Tenaya Lake, where we enjoyed a picnic lunch with scenic views. After lunch, we continued to Tuolumne Meadows for another hike, adding more nature and adventure to our day. We finished by returning to Rush Creek Lodge.
May Lake
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Tuolumne Meadows
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You could easily spend a week or more exploring Yosemite National Park. In fact, no sooner had we left than I'd already decided I need to come back here one day to do more day hikes and take part in some of the outdoor activities, like paddle boarding, fishing, cycling, and rock climbing.
If you're fortunate enough to have more time to explore Yosemite National Park, you might want to consider one of the guided tours, like the one detailed below. Another great option for a San Francisco and Yosemite National Park road trip would be to extend your journey down towards Los Angeles, taking the scenic route via Big Sur.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities in Yosemite
Yosemite National Park is celebrated not only for its stunning landscapes but also for its diverse wildlife. Even if you're only visiting for a day, there's a good chance you'll encounter some of the park's resident creatures.
The park is home to a variety of animals, including black bears, deer, coyotes, squirrels, and numerous bird species. The wildlife is part of what makes Yosemite such a special place, with each animal playing a role in the ecosystem of the park.
The park is home to a variety of animals, including black bears, deer, coyotes, squirrels, and numerous bird species. The wildlife is part of what makes Yosemite such a special place, with each animal playing a role in the ecosystem of the park.
6 Day Yosemite Adventure
CALIFORNIA | USA
DURATION
6 days / 5 nights HIGHLIGHTS • Hike the Mariposa Grove among giant Sequoias • Hike Hetch Hetchy • Swim in the Tuolumne River • Hike Yosemite Valley • Try rock climbing • Watch sunset from Glacier Point • Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Hike INCLUSIONS • Professional guides • Accommodation throughout your trip • Most meals • Activities mentioned in the itinerary • Any necessary equipment - all safe and well-maintained • All transportation from trip start to end • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities • Park and other entry fees |
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate TRIP START (ARRIVAL) Fresno, CA TRIP END (RETURN) Fresno, CA GUIDE PRICE From £3,599 / USD$4,499 per adult From £3,299 / USD$4,099 per child DEPARTURE DATES Adult only Sunday, May 19, 2024 Sunday, May 26, 2024 Sunday, June 2, 2024 Sunday, May 18, 2025 Sunday, May 25, 2025 Sunday, June 1, 2025 Family adventure Sunday, June 9, 2024 Sunday, June 16, 2024 Sunday, June 8, 2025 Sunday, June 15, 2025 
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Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
★★★★★
HIGHLIGHTS • Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias • Tunnel View • Bridalveil Fall • Yosemite Valley • Half Dome • Yosemite Falls • El Capitan INCLUSIONS • Great tour guide • Round trip from San Francisco • National Park fees • All activities • San Francisco hotel pickup and drop-off • Local taxes |
TRIP START (ARRIVAL)
San Francisco, California TRIP END (RETURN) San Francisco, California DURATION 14 hours (approx.) Embark on a small-group day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, a journey to one of the most breathtaking destinations on the planet, often referred to as the crown jewel of America's national parks. Traveling by minibus, this full-day tour ventures through the orchards of the Central Valley to the heart of Yosemite Valley. The day begins with a leisurely walk through a grove of ancient giant sequoias, offering numerous opportunities to capture photos of Yosemite's dramatic landscapes and iconic landmarks like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. With the tour limited to just 15 passengers, you're guaranteed a personalized experience, enriched by the insights of your knowledgeable guide. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and make the most of your free time in Yosemite Valley with a hike or further exploration. 
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1-Day Yosemite National Park Private Tour from San Francisco
★★★★★
HIGHLIGHTS • Sierra Nevada • Yosemite Valley • Half Dome • Yosemite Falls • El Capitan INCLUSIONS • Private transportation • All Fees and Taxes • Air-conditioned vehicle • Complimentary private pickup /drop-off • 12-hour private custom tour of Yosemite from San Francisco |
TRIP START (ARRIVAL)
San Francisco, California TRIP END (RETURN) San Francisco, California DURATION 12 hours (approx.) Experience Yosemite National Park on a private, full-day tour from San Francisco. Start early with pickup at your accommodation, then enjoy a ride in your private vehicle to the park. You'll see famous sights like El Capitan, Half Dome, and beautiful waterfalls, all in one day. This private tour is a convenient and personal way to explore Yosemite, with all the logistics handled for you. Round-trip transportation from your San Francisco hotel is included, making your trip easy and enjoyable. 
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Field Notes & Mooseful Information
When is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park?
The best times to visit Yosemite National Park vary depending on what you're looking to experience, but understanding the park's peak season and weather conditions can help you plan your visit.
Spring (April to June): This is an ideal time to see the park's famous waterfalls at their fullest due to the melting snow. The weather is pleasant, though it can still be a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings. Crowds are smaller than in summer, but it's beginning to get busier as the season progresses.
Summer (July to August): Summer marks the peak season in Yosemite, with warm weather conditions that are perfect for hiking and exploring. However, this is also when the park is most crowded. The weather is generally sunny and hot, but afternoon thunderstorms can occur.
Fall (September to October): The fall offers a quieter experience with fewer visitors, and the weather remains favorable for outdoor activities. The changing colors of the foliage provide a beautiful backdrop for hikes. While the waterfalls might not be as robust as in the spring, the serene beauty and cooler temperatures make it a great time to explore.
Winter (November to March): Winter in Yosemite is magical, with snow-capped peaks and fewer tourists. It's a fantastic season for those interested in winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing in certain areas of the park. However, some parts of the park, including roads and trails, may be closed due to snow and ice, so it's essential to check conditions ahead of your visit.
Spring (April to June): This is an ideal time to see the park's famous waterfalls at their fullest due to the melting snow. The weather is pleasant, though it can still be a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings. Crowds are smaller than in summer, but it's beginning to get busier as the season progresses.
Summer (July to August): Summer marks the peak season in Yosemite, with warm weather conditions that are perfect for hiking and exploring. However, this is also when the park is most crowded. The weather is generally sunny and hot, but afternoon thunderstorms can occur.
Fall (September to October): The fall offers a quieter experience with fewer visitors, and the weather remains favorable for outdoor activities. The changing colors of the foliage provide a beautiful backdrop for hikes. While the waterfalls might not be as robust as in the spring, the serene beauty and cooler temperatures make it a great time to explore.
Winter (November to March): Winter in Yosemite is magical, with snow-capped peaks and fewer tourists. It's a fantastic season for those interested in winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing in certain areas of the park. However, some parts of the park, including roads and trails, may be closed due to snow and ice, so it's essential to check conditions ahead of your visit.
Hotel Zephyr
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Argonaut Hotel
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Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite
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1-Day Yosemite National Park Private Tour
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Rob is an experienced independent travel consultant and travel content creator.
His love for travel started as a child, playing travel agent with his grandparents using holiday brochures from the local travel agency. Fast forward over 40 years, and Rob has turned this passion into a career, dedicating his time to helping others plan their dream vacations. He says his happy place is in a cozy cabin by a lake in Oregon, sitting at the bar of a honky-tonk on Broadway in Nashville, or closer to home walking and cycling in the Peak District National Park. |
