San Francisco in 5 Days: Budget and Fun

Discover San Fran's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to San Francisco on a limited budget can be an exciting adventure with plenty of inexpensive attractions to explore. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf to the lively Haight-Ashbury neighborhood and the free-entry Golden Gate Park, there is no shortage of sights to see. Accommodation options range from budget hostels to affordable motels, and cheap dining alternatives include street food, food trucks, and farmer's markets.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering the Charm of San Francisco

  • Take the cable car to Fisherman's Wharf for a taste of fresh seafood and stunning views
  • Explore the crookedest street, Lombard Street, with its winding curves and colorful flowers
  • Visit the famously eerie Alcatraz Island and learn about its history as a maximum-security prison
  • Check in at the Hotel Astoria, a cozy hotel in the heart of downtown San Francisco
  • End the day with a visit to the lively Castro district for drinks and live music
Day 2

Adventures in Golden Gate Park

  • Rent bikes and ride through Golden Gate Park, San Francisco's urban oasis
  • Check out the de Young Museum's impressive collection of American art
  • Visit the California Academy of Sciences for an interactive exhibition on natural history and a planetarium show
  • Have a picnic in the park and enjoy the scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge
  • End the day with a pub crawl in the trendy Haight-Ashbury neighborhood
Day 3

Cultural Exploration of San Francisco

  • Start the day with dim sum at Chinatown's iconic Hang Ah Tea Room
  • Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and see works by famous artists
  • Walk along Valencia Street in the Mission District for unique boutiques and street art
  • Catch a theater performance at the historic Orpheum Theatre
  • End the day with a fine Mexican meal at La Taqueria in the Mission District
Day 4

Coastal Adventures

  • Take a day trip to Muir Woods National Monument for a hike among towering redwoods
  • Visit the charming coastal town of Sausalito and have lunch at The Spinnaker overlooking the bay
  • Return to San Francisco and grab a famous sourdough bread bowl of chowder at Boudin Bakery
  • Walk along the historic Embarcadero and watch the sunset over the Bay Bridge
  • End the day with a nightcap at Bourbon and Branch, a secret speakeasy in the Tenderloin district
Day 5

The Last Hurrah

  • Take a scenic drive through the Presidio and stop at Baker Beach for a photo opportunity
  • Visit the Exploratorium, a hands-on museum of science, art, and human perception
  • Shop at the Ferry Building Marketplace for artisanal cheeses, chocolates, and other food products
  • Take in the views from Coit Tower and discover the vibrant murals inside
  • End the trip with a classic Italian dinner at Buca di Beppo in North Beach

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to San Francisco by plane is to fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) which has multiple direct flights from major cities around the world.

Car

Driving to San Francisco is a great option as it allows you to take scenic routes and make stops along the way. The most direct route is to take Interstate 580 West from Oakland or Interstate 101 North from Los Angeles.

Train

While there are no direct trains to San Francisco, you can take Amtrak's Capitol Corridor train from Sacramento and connect to a bus which will take you to San Francisco.

Boat

While it is not possible to take a boat directly to San Francisco, you can take a ferry from nearby cities such as Oakland, Alameda or Sausalito and enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Area.

Bus

The best way to get to San Francisco by bus is to take Greyhound which has multiple daily departures from cities across California and the United States.

More travel plans

San Francisco in 3 days: Budget-friendly Adventure

Experience the vibrant and eclectic city of San Francisco while on a limited budget with these tips. Explore the famous neighborhoods of the city, including the colorful painted ladies of Alamo Square and the funky streets of the Haight-Ashbury district. Take advantage of the city's public transportation system and enjoy affordable activities such as hiking in Golden Gate Park or watching the sea lions at Pier 39.

3 Days of Romance and Adventure in San Fran

A romantic trip to San Francisco, United States will be a magical experience filled with picturesque views and delightful attractions. From strolling across the Golden Gate Bridge to watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, every moment spent in San Francisco is sure to be enchanting. The city's delectable cuisine, charming neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks will create unforgettable memories for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

San Francisco Unleashed: 5 Days of Family Fun!

A family trip to San Francisco offers a perfect blend of entertainment and culture. Explore iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, while indulging in diverse culinary experiences. Visit attractions like the Exploratorium and the California Academy of Sciences for an enriching and educational experience for the entire family.

San Francisco Delights: A Day Trip Guide

Discover the diverse beauty of San Francisco, a city celebrated for its hilly terrain and unique character. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the lively Fisherman's Wharf, explore the city's captivating attractions on a trolley ride or cable car. Indulge in the vibrant culinary culture with local favorites such as clam chowder and sourdough bread, and cap off the trip with a visit to historic Alcatraz Island.