
The oldest metropolis in California, the City by the Bay beckons travelers with its legacy of bohemias past and its promise of the high-tech future. Everyone here seems to be working on something to better the world—whether it’s sustainable farm projects, green design or the next life-changing app.
-
Perfect forArt Lovers | Families | Foodies
-
When to goYear-Round
-
Ideal length of stay3-5 Nights
Designing Your Journey
Work with Indagare to design the perfect itinerary for an immersive journey. Our travel experts know the destination inside and out, and they can make recommendations based on your travel needs and preferences.
3 Days: Essential San Francisco
San Francisco offers historic, artistic and outdoor attractions that are best seen with an in-the-know guide who can arrange special access. Here is just one example of what our specialists can create for you.
Day 1: Cable Car Tour
Start in Union Square, a plaza bordered by hotels, luxury retailers and noteworthy local brands. Then walk to the Chinatown Gate, guarded by two stone lions. Hop on the Powell-Hyde Cable Car (the most scenic line) where you can step off to admire Lombard Street—the “crookedest street in the world”—before re-embarking for the steep ride down to Victoria Park, located in the photogenic western end of Fisherman’s Wharf. With Ghirardelli Square at your back, walk to the Hyde Street Pier for views of the Bay and Alcatraz. End your day with dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Day 2: Iconic Sites
Begin your morning with a tour of Alcatraz, the island prison in operation from 1934 to 1963 that housed infamous criminals like Al Capone. Then, head to the Embarcadero, a waterfront promenade, where children will love the interactive science exhibits at The Exploratorium and foodies must visit the San Francisco Ferry Building. Spend the rest of your day at the de Young Museum or go on the Indagare San Francisco Graffiti Art tour, a trip through the city to view graffiti art. The three-hour tour ends with the opportunity for visitors to try their own hand at spray painting.
Day 3: Excursions
Your third day should be tailored to your interests. Shoppers can head to the hip Mission District and Hayes Valley or the elegant Presidio Heights, while art lovers should stop at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Active travelers might enjoy a morning walk or bike ride in Crissy Field, an inviting green space with inimitable Golden Gate Bridge views, and oenophiles should consider a road trip north to Napa Valley for a day of wine tasting with a private guide who will customize vineyard tours and take you to wineries typically closed to the public.
Where To Stay
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities, including upgrades, early check-in, breakfast, spa credits and more. Look for the Indagare Plus logo in the reviews.
- Read More
Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Host to many of the areas society events, the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco boasts over-the-top, old-fashioned elegance and is the best hotel option in the city.
- Read More
The Battery
This members’ only club offers 14 guest rooms to visitors looking for a hip, exclusive address in San Francisco with a Soho House–like vibe.
- Read More
Hotel Drisco
This intimate hotel in San Francisco’s most prestigious residential area affords a unique opportunity to experience the city like a local.
- Read More
St. Regis Hotel San Francisco
Located next to San Francisco’s MoMA, the St. Regis offers the ultimate in luxury with a modern edge.
- Photo by Don Riddle, courtesy Four Seasons Hotels & ResortsRead More
Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero
This luxury hotel in a modern Financial District high-rise offers superlative service and San Fran’s most sweeping views.