First timer

Question

In San Fran for 2 days. Recommendations for itinerary. I’m wanting to visit Alcatraz, Lombard street, Golden Gate Bridge. Anything else a must see? Thanks

Answer

For a two-day visit to San Francisco, you can cover the highlights you mentioned—Alcatraz, Lombard Street, and the Golden Gate Bridge—while also including a few other iconic spots to make the most of your short stay.

Day 1: Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf Area

Alcatraz Island: Book your tickets in advance, ideally for a morning departure. The audio tour is highly recommended for first-timers and takes about 2–3 hours including ferry rides.
Fisherman’s Wharf: After returning from Alcatraz, explore Pier 39, watch the sea lions, and perhaps grab a seafood lunch.
Ghirardelli Square: Just a short walk away, great for dessert or chocolate treats.
Lombard Street: Walk or drive down the “crookedest street” for a fun photo opportunity; it’s near the Russian Hill neighborhood.

Day 2: Golden Gate Bridge and Nearby Neighborhoods

Golden Gate Bridge: Start early to avoid crowds. You can walk partway across or drive to viewpoints such as Battery Spencer or Fort Point for classic photo spots.
Presidio & Crissy Field: Offers great walking trails, picnic areas, and unobstructed views of the bridge.
Golden Gate Park: If you have time, explore highlights like the Japanese Tea Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, or the California Academy of Sciences.
Painted Ladies & Alamo Square: Iconic Victorian houses with a backdrop of downtown skyscrapers, perfect for photos.
Optional neighborhoods: Mission District for murals and Mexican food, or North Beach for coffee and Italian cuisine.

Additional Tips:

Use public transportation or rideshares, as parking can be difficult in popular areas.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; San Francisco streets are famously hilly.
Plan for layers—weather can change quickly and fog is common near the bridge.

This itinerary balances iconic landmarks with local experiences, giving you a well-rounded first-time visit to San Francisco in two days.