Your 7-Day San Francisco & Los Angeles, United States Itinerary

Experience iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge from a viewpoint near the Presidio. Take a leisurely walk along the accessible paths to capture photos and appreciate this engineering marvel and its natural surroundings.

"Great bridge views, and adventurous hikes down to the water! For older people there are easy paths, and for younger people cool bunkers to climb and steep hikes down to the water."— Kris Wakamiya

Visit the beautiful Palace of Fine Arts, a monumental structure originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Stroll around the tranquil lagoon and admire the stunning architecture.

"Honestly, I didn’t expect the Palace of Fine Arts to be this beautiful until I saw it in person. I was only in San Francisco for two days and dealing with rain, so I made a quick must-see list—and this ended up being one of my favorite stops. The scale alone is incredible. The architecture is massive, detailed, and makes you feel tiny in the best way. It’s very accessible too. My boyfriend at the time was on crutches, and the entire area is wheelchair- and disability-friendly. The layout is one large loop, easy to walk, and perfect for photos—especially if you love Instagram shots with dramatic backdrops. The lake adds so much charm with ducks, geese, turtles, and beautiful greenery all around. The history, the art, the nature—everything comes together perfectly. We stopped here before heading to the Golden Gate Bridge, and it’s an ideal pairing (Lombard Street → Palace of Fine Arts → Golden Gate). Rain or shine, this spot is absolutely worth it. Highly recommend—check the photos and you’ll see why."— Savanna J

Explore the historic Ferry Building Marketplace, a vibrant hub of local food purveyors, artisan shops, and diverse eateries. Sample some local treats or enjoy a coffee while taking in the Bay views.

"The Ferry Building Marketplace is a perfect, charming starting point for a Bay Area journey. The highlight, however, is the ferry ride itself. ​As the boat pulls away, you are instantly treated to the a breathtaking view: the full, iconic panorama of the San Francisco skyline. The ride is smooth and refreshing, with chilly breeze, offering incredible perspectives of the city as it shrinks into the background. You can see the Salesforce tower towering the other infrastructures. ​I took a ferry ride to Oakland/Alameda, and this trip is a scenic tour. Highly recommended as the best way to experience the beautiful landscape of the San Francisco Bay."— Gleeko Magpoc

Take the ferry to Alcatraz Island and explore the infamous former federal prison with its award-winning audio tour. Learn about its notorious inmates and escape attempts while enjoying stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.

"This was worth the effort. Get there early. Worth doing once. We were 45 minutes early to the first cruise and there were already at least 70 people queuing. Sit in the bottom deck on the way there so you can exit the ship quickly and get positioned closest to the hill to get to the jail quickly after the ranger talk. Ride on top on your way back to make pictures."— Carl Clark

Experience San Francisco's legendary music scene with an evening at The Fillmore, an iconic venue known for its rich history and diverse live performances. Enjoy a memorable night of cultural entertainment.

"This was my first time seeing a show at the FILLMORE and I am impressed. It looks so cool with the chandeliers in the floor area. I really liked all the posters and art inside too. One cool thing no other venue I have been to does that they do is they hand out posters of the show you just saw for free on the way out. I didn't drive there so I can't comment on parking. Bus stop right down the block and they run 24 hours on FILLMORE Street. I definitely want to return for another concert."— Jason Zerbel

Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of San Francisco's Chinatown, one of the oldest and most established in North America. Wander through Grant Avenue, browse unique shops, and admire the vibrant architecture and temples.

"My experience here during Lunar New Year was incredible. Even the process of finding parking and walking through the neighborhood was enjoyable. This Chinatown stands out from any other I’ve seen across the country; the local ceremonies are truly special and something I’d highly recommend to anyone visiting."— Rokhsareh Alvandi

Ascend to Twin Peaks for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay. It ’s an ideal spot for sunset photos and taking in the city's expansive landscape.

"This site is the best place to take panoramic view of the city center, golden gate of SFO day and night. There are many couples and friends to get the best memory by watching together nice view. However, someone has smoked “Not Good Thing” and the door lock of toilet are need to fix."— Henry Chung

Explore diverse collections of American art, international textiles, and art of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas within the beautiful Golden Gate Park. This visit covers the 'cultural' interest.

"de Young Museum is one of those places that just feels special. The building itself is beautiful, but what really stood out was how calm and spacious everything felt,even with people around, it never felt overwhelming. The collections are thoughtfully curated, and it’s easy to take your time and actually enjoy what you’re seeing instead of rushing through rooms. The observation tower is a must, amazing views of the city and Golden Gate Park, and it’s included with admission. I also liked how the museum balances classic works with contemporary pieces; there’s a lot of variety, so it never feels repetitive. It’s a great place to spend a few hours, whether you’re really into art or just want a peaceful, inspiring break from the city. Definitely worth the visit."— rachana karri

Hike the scenic Lands End Trail for dramatic coastal views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge, concluding with a visit to Baker Beach. This activity covers the 'nature' and 'beach' interests.

"Beautiful coastal spot with amazing views of the ocean and cliffs. It’s a peaceful place to sit, relax, and take in the scenery. Great for photos and just getting away from the city noise for a bit. Definitely worth visiting if you like nature and ocean views."— Omar Torrentera

Walk down the famous 'most crooked street in the world,' Lombard Street, and then experience an iconic ride on the Powell-Hyde cable car, offering charming city views.

"Riding the Powell–Hyde cable car feels like stepping into the most charming version of San Francisco imaginable. From the moment the gripman rings the bell and the car glides up Powell Street, you know you’re in for something special. The climb through Nob Hill is exhilarating, the breeze is refreshing, and the views only get better as you crest Russian Hill. Suddenly, the bay opens up, Alcatraz appears in the distance, and the city feels like it’s unfolding just for you. What makes this line unforgettable is the blend of scenery and history. You’re not just riding a cable car—you’re traveling on a National Historic Landmark, powered by the same underground cable system that’s been operating for over a century. The route ends near Aquatic Park, where the smell of the ocean and the sight of Ghirardelli Square complete the experience. The Powell–Hyde line is more than transportation; it’s a joyful, open‑air tour of the city’s character. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, this ride delivers pure San Francisco magic. A solid five‑star experience that leaves you smiling long after you hop off"— Donald Becker

Dive into the world of film and television at Universal Studios Hollywood. Enjoy thrilling rides, spectacular shows, and immersive experiences like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the famous Studio Tour. Plan for a full and action-packed visit.

"If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable theme park experience, Universal Studios Hollywood absolutely delivers. I’m not usually a huge theme park person, but I would go back here in a heartbeat — and I’m already looking forward to checking out the Universal Orlando location! One major tip: pay for the early access pass to Super Nintendo World. It allowed us to enter the park an hour early (8am instead of 9am), and nothing else in the park is open yet besides this area. We were able to ride Mario Kart Challenge twice and explore the world and gift shop before the main crowds arrived. Once the park officially opens, people swarm the Super Nintendo World area, so this early access is a game-changer. The level of detail and immersive design in Super Nintendo World was absolutely breathtaking — every little element was thoughtfully executed. The park overall was incredibly clean, and the staff were outstanding. I even needed to visit the medical center due to an injury the day prior, and they took amazing care of me, allowing me to enjoy the park despite my situation. I seriously cannot thank them enough. Without them, my experience wouldn't have been the same. The rides were so much fun! My personal favorite was Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey, which combined visual effects with practical animatronics for an immersive experience. The Mummy ride was way faster than we expected, and the Jurassic World water ride had a drop so steep that my husband got completely soaked — I was grateful for my poncho and had to brace myself for the drop. The Secret Life of Pets ride was fun, though the experience in the line area could have been executed better. Meet-and-greet experiences are short (about 15 minutes), so be sure to get in line early if that’s a priority. Food highlights included the Lard Lad Donuts — the pink donut was sweet, fresh, and delicious. My husband loved the Jurrasic Water drink. It came in a souvenir cup and the drinks was strong. Well worth the price. The studio tour was enjoyable, though I wouldn’t recommend it on a holiday; it was very quiet, and we would have loved to see more activity and action in the studios. Overall, Universal Studios Hollywood was an incredible experience from start to finish. From immersive worlds and thrilling rides to excellent staff and attention to detail, this park is worth every bit of planning and early-morning effort!"— Brittaney McCarthy

Walk along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, discovering the stars embedded in the sidewalks and soaking in the entertainment history. Look for your favorite celebrities' names.

"It is nice street with lots of Hollywood souvenirs and clothing. If you are lucky might spot a celebrity or some red carpet event. Over all a nice place to spend evening. If going with children take a stroller. Wear comfortable shoes as involves lot of walking."— tarun sethi

Admire the legendary forecourt of the TCL Chinese Theatre, where celebrity handprints and footprints are preserved in cement. Soak in the grandeur of this historic movie palace.

"A landmark theater with incredible old-Hollywood charm. The exterior is iconic and the interior feels grand and historic, especially when the curtains open and the lights come down. The screen and sound are great, and watching a movie here feels more like an experience than just a regular screening. Worth a visit if you’re in LA."— Tilly N.

Explore one of the largest art museums in the Western United States, featuring a diverse collection spanning ancient to contemporary art, including the iconic Urban Light installation. Allow time to wander through various galleries and the outdoor exhibits.

"This museum was so beautiful inside and out. Got to see so much art here. Paintings that I've only read about or see on TV. Ancient Statues and modern art on display. So much to see you need whole day to walk around enjoy. A mind blowing experience. Have to see for yourself."— Robert Preciado

Experience the lively Santa Monica Pier, ride the Ferris wheel, play arcade games, and enjoy the beautiful sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. This iconic pier offers classic seaside entertainment.

"I visited Santa Monica Pier for the first time, even though I’ve seen it countless times in movies, shows, and animation. Experiencing it in person was so much better than I expected. The colorful lights from Pacific Park, the ocean breeze, and the lively boardwalk atmosphere made the whole place feel amazing. There are lots of food spots, shops, and photo spots, and everything feels very lively at night. I can definitely see why this pier is so famous — it’s a great place to walk around, relax, and enjoy the view. I’d absolutely come back again."— SAMUEL OKOLE

Immerse yourself in contemporary art at The Broad, home to a vast collection of post-war and contemporary pieces by celebrated artists. Admission is free, but booking ahead is recommended.

"The Broad Museum in Los Angeles is absolutely phenomenal and easily one of the best museums in the city. The collection is world-class, featuring incredible works from artists like Basquiat, Warhol, and Murakami. Seeing these pieces in person is an amazing experience, especially if you appreciate contemporary and modern art. The curation is thoughtful and the galleries are beautifully laid out, making it easy to spend hours exploring. What makes it even more impressive is that admission is free, which is honestly unbelievable considering the caliber of art on display. The building itself is stunning architecturally, and the location in Downtown Los Angeles is perfect, surrounded by other great spots and things to do. The whole experience feels well organized, clean, and welcoming. Whether you live in Los Angeles or you’re just visiting from out of town, this museum is an absolute must visit. It’s one of those places that really makes you appreciate how special the LA art scene is."— sean levine

Explore Grand Central Market, a historic public market in downtown Los Angeles. Wander through the diverse stalls offering everything from gourmet street food to fresh produce and artisan goods.

"Absolutely loved the experience. Love the many different cultures of food and there was nothing that wasn't excellent. The dumplings were phenomenal. The service was excellent and the people were very friendly, both from the service side and even a customers were all very polite and courteous. The atmosphere is just phenomenal. We will be back."— Duane Gray

Discover Olvera Street, a historic monument and marketplace in downtown Los Angeles, often considered the birthplace of Los Angeles. Experience Mexican culture through its vibrant shops, restaurants, and street vendors.

"Olvera Street is in Downtown Los Angeles, right across from the train station. It is open year round but many of the shops close when it rains and many of the outdoor shops close at dusk in the winter. It is about 3 blocks of fun. Kids love it and it is fun for the whole family. Parking is for a fee. It is just fun. All of the eateries are great, are favorite being La Luz Dia. It is not the oldest restaurant there, but it is great. The shops are fun and have cool gifts from Mexico. This is an historic district and should remind you of when all of California was part of Mexico. It is safe and you will have a great time. Have fun."— Vincent C. Lascheid

Visit the iconic Griffith Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin, the Hollywood Sign, and the Pacific Ocean, especially stunning during sunset. Explore the exhibits and telescopes.

"First of all, you can’t beat free! But more importantly, the narrators all seem to love their job. Very insightful and entertaining speakers. They seem very well educated and informed about what they’re speaking about. Everything was clean and well kept and easy to navigate. Parking was super simple as well, but we did go at 12 o’clock in the afternoon. Make sure to check when the sunsets and arrive one hour early if you want to look through the telescopes. The experience was beautiful nonetheless with nice views of LA."— T G

Indulge in a traditional Korean spa experience. Enjoy various saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs for relaxation and rejuvenation, reflecting local wellness culture.

"This was my first time going to a Korean spa and Wi Spa did not disappoint. The place is huge and there are so many different sauna rooms to try. I especially liked the salt room and the clay room. Everything felt pretty clean and organized. I also loved that you can just relax on the heated floors and take a nap. I’d definitely come back when I need a chill day！"— Millie Yu

Explore the unique architectural features and vast collection of new and used books at The Last Bookstore, an iconic independent bookstore in Downtown LA.

"The Last Bookstore is so cool! Unassuming from the outside but you walk into a wonderland of books. Different sections and levels with cool decor and structures. The aesthetics of each area is unique and fits the genre that it holds. I loved the tunnels made of books and there is a "hole in the wall" shaped out of books as well. Highly recommend stopping in if you are in the area just to check it out even if you are not looking for a particular book to purchase. Now for my standard comments. The location is clean and well kept."— Christine L

Allow ample time for travel to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), check-in, and security procedures for your 9:00 PM flight.

"We had a short layover at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and were pleasantly surprised by how smooth and comfortable the experience was. Even with limited time between flights, everything felt organized and easy to navigate. Our connection was straightforward, with clear signage and helpful staff making it simple to move between terminals. For such a large and busy airport, the flow was better than expected, and we never felt rushed or stressed. LAX offers plenty of places to sit, relax, and recharge. Whether you want to grab a quick snack, stretch your legs, or just take a breather before the next flight, there are convenient options throughout the terminals. Even during a short layover, we found several good spots for food and drinks. The variety is great, and it’s easy to pick up something quick without wandering far from your gate. Our brief time at LAX was genuinely positive. Clean spaces, helpful staff, and an easy connection made the layover smooth and enjoyable. For a major international airport, it delivered exactly what we needed."— Lonnie Perry