7 days in California Itinerary

San Francisco is a top holiday destination featuring scenic beauty and great ethnic and cultural diversity.

On the 4th (Thu), take a stroll through Fisherman's Wharf, then explore the wealth of natural beauty at Alcatraz Island, and then snap pictures at Golden Gate Bridge. Here are some ideas for day two: get great views at Twin Peaks, then take a stroll through SoMa, and then wander the streets of Union Square.

To find ratings, traveler tips, where to stay, and more tourist information, refer to the San Francisco visit planner

Umea, Sweden to San Francisco is an approximately 23.5-hour flight. You'll gain 9 hours traveling from Umea to San Francisco due to the time zone difference. In January, San Francisco is warmer than Umea - with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 6th (Sat) so you can go by car to Monterey.

Monterey is a city in the U.S. Kick off your visit on the 6th (Sat): immerse yourself in nature at Point Lobos State Reserve and then appreciate the extensive heritage of Pacific Grove Oceanview Boulevard.

To find maps, photos, traveler tips, and other tourist information, read Monterey road trip planning tool

Traveling by car from San Francisco to Monterey takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly; or take a bus. In January in Monterey, expect temperatures between 20°C during the day and 7°C at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 7th (Sun) to allow enough time to travel to Santa Monica.

A famed resort town since the early 20th century, Santa Monica sits on the picturesque Santa Monica Bay, bordered on three sides by the city of Los Angeles.

On the 7th (Sun), see the interesting displays at Getty Center The Publications, then don't miss a visit to Santa Monica Pier, and then kick back and relax at Venice Beach and Boardwalk. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: kick back and relax at Will Rogers State Beach, steep yourself in history at El Pueblo de Los Angeles, and then pause for some photo ops at Guitar Center.

To find other places to visit, where to stay, maps, and more tourist information, refer to the Santa Monica online road trip planner

Getting from Monterey to Santa Monica by combination of flight and bus takes about 2.5 hours. Other options: drive; or take a bus. Plan for a bit warmer nights when traveling from Monterey in January since evenings lows in Santa Monica dip to 11°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 8th (Mon) so you can travel back home.