12 days in San Francisco & Death Valley National Park Itinerary

Explore San Francisco's surroundings by going to Sonoma (Sonoma Overlook Trail, Sonoma Plaza, &more) and Muir Woods National Monument (in Mill Valley). There's much more to do: take in the views from Golden Gate Bridge, step off the mainland to explore Alcatraz Island, take in nature's colorful creations at Japanese Tea Garden, and get great views at Twin Peaks.

To see where to stay, photos, other places to visit, and tourist information, read our San Francisco journey maker tool.

Leipzig, Germany to San Francisco is an approximately 16.5-hour flight. The time zone changes from Central European Standard Time to Pacific Standard Time, which is usually a -9 hour difference. While traveling from Leipzig, expect slightly colder days and about the same nights in San Francisco, ranging from highs of 26°C to lows of 16°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Sun) to allow enough time to fly to Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley National Park is known for nature, sightseeing, and scenic drive. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: explore the striking landscape at The Devil's Speedway, don't miss a visit to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, hike along Daylight Pass, and contemplate the waterfront views at Badwater Basin.

For where to stay, reviews, ratings, and more tourist information, read our Death Valley National Park trip planner.

You can fly from San Francisco to Death Valley National Park in 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus; or do a combination of subway, train, and bus. When traveling from San Francisco in July, plan for warmer days in Death Valley National Park, with highs around 45°C, while nights are somewhat warmer with lows around 26°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 27th (Thu) so you can travel back home.