San Francisco Landmarks, Silicon Valley Universities, and Highway 1 Coastal Tour
Classic San Francisco landmarks, tech-focused tours of Silicon Valley universities, Napa Valley wine tasting, and a scenic drive along Highway 1 in Monterey.
Trip total
$2,435.06est.
Estimated — actual prices vary by date and availability · 10 not priced yet
Per day
Arrival in the Bay Area and start of the road trip
Arrive at SFO Airport, pick up your rental car, and check into a high-value hotel in San Mateo to begin your relaxing journey.
Rental car pickup at SFO Airport
Pick up your car easily at the airport's Rental Car Center; it is recommended to have your translated driver's license and credit card ready in advance.
SFO Airport
Hotel check-in
Head to the Marriott in San Mateo to check in, organize your luggage, and recover from your long-haul flight.
San Mateo
Linden Tree Cafe
Enjoy a relaxed and comfortable local American dinner nearby; it's clean and a great way to experience the everyday flavors of an American town.
San Mateo
Classic San Francisco Landmarks Day Tour
Cross the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and stroll through the romantic Palace of Fine Arts and the bustling Fisherman's Wharf.
Golden Gate Bridge
Admire the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge from the Welcome Center. On clear days, the red bridge against the blue sky is visually striking. It is recommended to bring a jacket to stay warm.
San Francisco
Palace of Fine Arts
This exquisite building, modeled after ancient Roman ruins, is quiet and elegant, making it one of the most photogenic spots in San Francisco. Swans inhabit the lakeside, which is perfect for a walk.
Marina District
Scoma's Restaurant
A classic seafood restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf. You can taste the local signature Dungeness Crab and clam chowder, with very fresh ingredients.
Fisherman's Wharf
Lombard Street
The crookedest street in the world. The lanes are lined with hydrangeas. Driving down these short, steep slopes is great fun (novices should proceed slowly).
Russian Hill
Silicon Valley Prestigious Universities and Tech Giants Tour
Head south to Silicon Valley, wander through the academic halls of Stanford University, and get an up-close look at the innovation of tech giants.
Tamarine Restaurant
A high-end creative Asian restaurant in downtown Palo Alto with an exquisite atmosphere; dining here for lunch offers a real feel for the daily life of Silicon Valley elites.
Palo Alto
Stanford University
Stroll through this open campus designed in Spanish Mission style. The Main Quad, Hoover Tower, and the beautiful Memorial Church are all worth stopping for photos.
Palo Alto
Computer History Museum
Showcasing the entire history of computing from the abacus to modern smartphones, this is an unmissable hardcore landmark for understanding the history and technological innovation of Silicon Valley.
Mountain View
Napa Valley Wine and Estate Leisure
Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and head deep into the world-famous Napa Valley to experience the perfect blend of California sunshine and exquisite wines.
Castello di Amorosa
A magnificent medieval castle built in the style of a 13th-century Tuscan fortress. You can tour its spectacular underground wine cellars and enjoy a unique California wine tasting experience (please do not drink and drive if you are the driver; it is recommended to have someone in your group drive).
Calistoga
Bouchon Bakery
A legendary French bakery located in the town of Yountville. Founded by Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller, its macarons, croissants, and exquisite sandwiches are highly sought after by locals.
Yountville
Stroll around Sonoma Plaza
Compared to the luxury of Napa, neighboring Sonoma has a more rustic, laid-back atmosphere. Around the central green plaza, you will find charming gift shops, cheese workshops, and tasting rooms.
Sonoma
Driving Down Highway 1: Monterey and Carmel
Leave the Bay Area and head onto the spectacular Highway 1, staying overnight in the historic seaside city of Monterey.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the most famous marine life centers in the U.S., known for its towering kelp forest exhibit and adorable giant sea otters; it is highly educational and visually stunning.
Monterey
17-Mile Drive
One of the most breathtaking toll scenic routes along the Pacific coast. Along the way, you can see the famous 'The Lone Cypress' and numerous world-class golf courses.
Pebble Beach
Strolling Through Carmel-by-the-Sea
This seaside town, founded by artists, is full of fairy-tale charm. The stone cottages along the streets are reminiscent of European architecture, and the distinctive galleries are quite exquisite.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Big Sur's magnificent coast and return to the Bay Area
After taking in the breathtaking classic seascapes of Big Sur, drive back to the Bay Area to check into an airport hotel.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Known as the crown jewel of the California State Park system. Walking along the coastal trails, you can easily spot wild sea lions and witness magnificent cliff and ocean vistas.
Carmel
Bixby Creek Bridge
The most famous and frequently photographed single-arch concrete bridge on Highway 1. The massive structure spans between cliffs and is a true landmark of Big Sur.
Big Sur
Stanford Shopping Center
A beautiful, tree-lined, upscale outdoor shopping plaza. On your drive back to the Bay Area, it's a great place to pick up some exquisite souvenirs and gifts.
Palo Alto
City Cultural Market and Departure
Visit the popular Embarcadero market, then drive to the airport to return the rental car and board your flight back to Hong Kong/Shenzhen.
Ferry Building Marketplace
Enjoy a famous Blue Bottle coffee and experience the elegant, vibrant local market life among the many independent artisanal shops.
Embarcadero
SFO Airport Car Return and Departure Prep
Drive back to the airport's Rental Car Center to return the keys and settle the account, then proceed with your luggage to the terminal to prepare for your return flight.
SFO Airport
- Ensure you hold a valid US B1/B2 visa and have completed your EVUS registration.
- Book your rental car in advance and purchase comprehensive insurance.
- If you plan to visit, book your wine tasting slot at Castello di Amorosa in advance.
- Download a local navigation app (such as Google Maps) for your driving trip.
- Prepare an international credit card that supports dual-currency transactions.
- Bring a windproof, warm jacket (evenings in San Francisco and coastal areas are often foggy and very cold).
- Carry your original driver's license and a qualified translation/notarized document.
- Pack sunscreen and a sun hat (California has very intense sunshine).
- Bring a portable car charger and a phone mount.
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