Located across the bay from San Francisco, Berkeley is known for its vibrant culture, historic educational institutions, progressive vibe, and incredible food scene. The Bay Area is full of scenic parks, quirky neighborhoods, and a thriving arts culture. There’s plenty to explore over the course of three days. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, history enthusiast, or looking for an exciting place to spend a long weekend, Berkeley, California, is a great destination. To make the most of your time, we’ve crafted a three-day itinerary featuring the best of Berkeley—capped off with scenic cruises on the water, courtesy of City Cruises.
Day 1: Exploring UC Berkeley and the City’s Downtown Charm
Kick off your adventure by immersing yourself in Berkeley’s intellectual and artistic heart.
Morning: UC Berkeley Campus Tour and Sather Tower
Start your day at the University of California, Berkeley, the birthplace of the Free Speech Movement. Roam the lush campus with towering redwoods, historic buildings, and beautiful open spaces. The campus is home to stunning architecture, including the iconic Sather Tower (The Campanile). You can climb to the top for panoramic views of the Bay Area! The 61-bell carillon chimes throughout the day, adding a unique soundtrack to your tour.
After seeing the school, visit the nearby Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA), where you’ll discover an impressive collection of modern art and independent films.
Midday: Lunch at The Cheese Board Collective
Head to The Cheese Board Collective in the North Berkeley culinary district neighborhood. This worker-owned pizzeria and cheese shop has become a must-visit Berkeley dining experience. Enjoy a slice of their daily-changing vegetarian pizza and live jazz performed by local musicians.
Afternoon: Stroll through Downtown Berkeley
After lunch, walk around downtown, where you’ll find eclectic bookstores, music shops, and local art galleries. Be sure to visit the historic Berkeley Repertory Theatre, a hub for innovative theater performances. If you’re a book lover, Moe’s Books and Pegasus Books are worth a visit.
Evening: Sunset Dinner Cruise with City Cruises
End your first day with the Premier Dinner Cruise. Departing from the Berkeley Marina, you’ll sail along the scenic San Francisco Bay. Savor a gourmet multi-course dinner, cocktails, and live entertainment. The San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz views are spectacular, especially at sunset. We promise delicious cocktails, plated, seasonal chef-prepared menus, and top-notch service. Live entertainment sets the mood on this 2.5-hour cruise while you soak in the Bay Area skyline from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. You’ll delight in awe-inspiring sights, such as Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Bay Bridge.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Gourmet Dining
Berkeley’s green spaces are scattered throughout the city. Dedicate your second day to enjoying the city’s natural beauty and serene landscapes.
Morning: Hike at Tilden Regional Park
Charles Lee Tilden Regional Park is one of the East Bay’s best outdoor spaces. Take the Seaview Trail, which offers stunning vistas of the San Francisco Bay and Mount Tamalpais. After your hike, relax by Lake Anza, a small, scenic lake within the park where you can swim or picnic. If you’re more interested in a relaxing nature walk, explore the peaceful Botanic Garden within the park, featuring native California plants.
The Tilden Little Farm is great for families, as kids can meet goats, pigs, and other farm animals. And don’t forget the Tilden Park Merry-Go-Round.
Midday: Plan a Picnic at the Berkeley Rose Garden
After your morning hike, the Berkeley Rose Garden is an excellent place for a picnic. With over 1,500 rose bushes and a lovely, terraced amphitheater, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a scenic lunch. The gardens are filled with colorful blooms and offer views of the Golden Gate Bridge. You can pack your meal or grab sandwiches and pastries from Acme Bread Company, a local favorite. It’s the perfect spot to recharge before your next adventure.
Afternoon: Botanical Gardens and Lawrence Hall of Science
In the afternoon, visit the UC Botanical Garden, which houses a vast collection of plants from all over the world, including rare cacti, orchids, and California natives. Alternatively, head to the nearby Lawrence Hall of Science if you need a break from exploring nature. The hands-on science museum has interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and outdoor areas offering panoramic views of the Bay Area. It’s a fantastic stop for travelers with kids or anyone with a curious mind.
Evening: Dinner at Gather
Dine at Gather for dinner, a sustainable restaurant offering a farm-to-table menu with seasonal ingredients. Their creative dishes cater to all diets, including vegans and vegetarians. The outdoor patio offers a cozy atmosphere. Some interesting menu items include cannellini bean soup, spicy tomato pizza, and Gather’s veggie burger.
Day 3: San Francisco Bay is Calling
On your final day, explore Berkeley’s waterfront experiences and enjoy scenic views of the San Francisco Bay.
Morning: Berkeley Brunch Buffet Cruise
Unwind with endless mimosas while enjoying the breeze from the Bay on the Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise. Indulge in a gourmet brunch buffet with delicious cocktails and top-notch service. Capture post-worthy photos while you soak up the California sun. As the yacht sails across the Bay on this 2-hour cruise, you’ll have front-row views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco skyline. The relaxed pace of the cruise makes it the perfect way to ease into your final day in Berkeley.
Midday and Afternoon: An Alcatraz Tour with City Cruises
If seeing Alcatraz from the water on your brunch cruise piqued your interest, now is your chance to explore Alcatraz Island and visit the world-renowned Cellhouse without the usual crowds! Step back in time during the Alcatraz Island Day Tour and experience the legendary Island that has been a Civil War fort, a military prison, and one of the most notorious Federal penitentiaries in US history.
Evening: Sunset Cocktails at Skates on the Bay
Wrap up your three-day adventure with cocktails and dinner at Skates on the Bay, a waterfront restaurant at the edge of the Berkeley marina. Enjoy a final view of the Bay Area’s stunning landscapes while savoring fresh seafood dishes. Menu items include fresh oysters, crab legs, sushi, and other seafood staples
Spend 3 Days in Berkeley, California, with City Cruises
Berkeley’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary excellence make it the ideal destination for a three-day getaway. From hiking in Tilden Park to exploring the UC Berkeley campus, this itinerary offers something for everyone. Incorporating City Cruises into your plans adds a touch of luxury and excitement, allowing you to see the Bay Area from a fresh perspective. Whether sunset dinner cruises or champagne brunches on the water, prepare to fall in love with the unique charm of this East Bay gem.