San Francisco (SF) is a port city well known for being the starting point for exciting cruises. The Pacific Ocean is your oyster when you leave out of this picturesque destination. From San Francisco, you have access to the entire California coast, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, the Panama Canal, and more!
Before your cruise embarks on its journey, it's worth it to arrive a little early and explore the city. San Francisco is a destination full of iconic landmarks, exciting activities, and world-class cuisine. Fly in a day early, and you can enjoy everything this location has to offer.
Here is our guide for everything you can do in one day before setting out on your cruise.
Navigating San Francisco
San Francisco is much more compact than other major U.S. cities, so you'll have no trouble seeing the major sights within 24 hours.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or the Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (OAK) are the best airports to fly into when visiting. SFO is the closest to the port, but Oakland is an excellent second choice.
We wouldn't recommend renting a car in San Francisco for one day. Parking is hard to come by, and it can be stressful navigating traffic and the city's infamous hills. Car break-ins are also quite common here.
The BART metro system is efficient, convenient and will take you to most major destinations in the Bay Area. Both airports have BART connections.
If you're traveling late or you want to get into town more quickly, you can use a rideshare service, taxi, or the Super Shuttle to get around.
When exploring downtown, you can visit many sights on foot.
Your cruise will embark from the Port of San Francisco or the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal, both downtown.
What to See
While you could spend infinite time in San Francisco exploring, it is possible to see most of its main attractions in one day.
You'll want to concentrate on Downtown San Francisco because that is where most of the significant landmarks are.
If possible, find a hotel that will let you store your luggage in a secure spot until it's time to check-in. The last thing you want to do in San Francisco is to lug your suitcase around on its steep hills.
Once you drop off your luggage, here is a one-day San Francisco itinerary:
Golden Gate Bridge
Start your day off at one of the city's most iconic landmarks, the Golden Gate Bridge. You'll want to get dropped off at Ford Point. This spot is the best for photos and picturesque bridge views.
Golden Gate Park
After spending some time at the bridge, head to Golden Gate Park. It's a massive park with windmills, museums, gardens, and a lake. You could spend a whole day here, but on a one-day itinerary, it's worth spending a few hours exploring.
Haight-Ashbury
If you're on the east side of Golden Gate Park, you can walk to a neighborhood called Haight-Ashbury. It was San Francisco's epicenter for hippie counterculture in the 1960s and still retains that spirit today. There are unique vintage shops and music stores in this area.
Union Square
After walking around Haight-Ashbury, catch an Uber or bus line seven to Union Square. In this part of town, you'll find exciting shopping, dining, and entertainment. Spend some time walking around (and shopping if you want), then head to the intersection of Market and Powell to catch a cable car.
Trolley Ride to Fisherman's Wharf
San Francisco has world-famous cable cars that are a blast to ride. For this itinerary, you'll want to catch the Powell-Hyde line from the intersection of Market and Powell. This route will take you through the city to Fisherman's Wharf. It's a great way to tour downtown and see some incredible views.
Fisherman's Wharf and Ghiradelli Square
Finally, you'll end up at Fisherman's Wharf. It's a very touristy area, but fun to walk around. While there, don't forget to stop off at Ghiradelli Square if you're a chocolate lover. There are free samples and delicious ice cream concoctions.
What to Eat
San Francisco has mouthwatering foods from all around the world to try.
A few of its culinary traditions include New England clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, cioppino fish stew, dim sum, fortune cookies, and mission-style burritos.
Here are a few foodie experiences you can have in San Francisco:
Eating a Hearty Mission-Style Burrito $
Most burritos in the U.S. are Mission-style burritos, created in the Mission District of San Francisco. You'll find some fantastic places to try this delicious comfort food in this neighborhood.
Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl $-$$
Sure, you can get chowder in other parts of the country. However, what makes SF's chowder unique is that it comes in a sourdough bread bowl. Here are the top places to sample this special dish.
Enjoying Dim Sum $$
San Francisco has one of the country's oldest Chinatowns, so it's no surprise that they have some of the best dim sum restaurants in the United States. It's worth trying if you get a chance.
Exploring San Francisco's Italian Heritage $$-$$$
San Francisco has a vibrant Italian community in North Beach. You'll find some world-class Italian cuisine here that will knock your socks off. Don't forget to try the city's famous Cioppino.
Satiate Your Sweet Tooth $-$$
Don't skip dessert in San Francisco! There are excellent choices throughout the city – from mouthwatering cannolis to mochi donuts and delicious ice cream.
Conclusion
San Francisco is a fascinating destination to explore before embarking on your cruise. It is relatively compact so that you can see a lot in a limited amount of time.
When you travel there, you won't need to leave downtown. Everything you'll want to see in a one-day visit is there. Many of the sites are within walking distance of each other or easily accessible by a rideshare service.
The best part is that you'll already be in the area when you leave for your cruise.
Hopefully, you'll feel inspired to book a cruise out of this incredible port destination with this information.
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