There are several options on how to get around San Francisco. If you haven’t already done so, check out my list of 5 Awesome Free Things to do in San Francisco on this site and be sure to follow these getting around tips to make your visit the best travel experience you’ve had yet.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to get around San Francisco using public transportation. I’ve listed them from my most to least favorite.
Walk –
Obviously. SF is only 7 miles by 7 miles. Although there are plenty of hills in the North East quadrant, much of the city is easily accessible by walking. Most of the things visitors want to see are within walking distance of each other. Frankly, walking here is often faster than any other means of transportation due to the traffic, navigation and parking challenges.
MUNI (bus) –
MUNI is San Francisco’s city buses (some are trains). For $2.50 you can ride muni which traverses most of the city. Be sure to get your transfer pass from the bus driver/train operator. The transfer is good for 4 hours; you won’t have to pay for rides on muni during that time, just show the driver your transfer the next time you get on. Some of my faves are:
- Bus #30 – The best deal going, bus #30 takes you from ATT, Union Square, China Town and the Marina.
- F Line –This is a muni train. This train will take you to the Castro, down town (Market Street), the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf / Pier 39. I love, love, love these trains. These are historic trains that run the length of Market Street. Each of the train cars are from a different city, pay attention to the name of the city of origin which is posted on the outside of the car. They are a real treat to ride. Very clean and fascinating!
- N Judah – train goes from down town to the ocean! This train will take you within blocks of Ocean Beach and has several stops along the way.
Bike –
For about $10 per day, you can use one of the city’s ride share bikes. Here’s the catch, each ride can only be for minutes. Then you have to check it in at one of the bike stations. Truth be told, you probably won’t need to ride for more than 30 minutes at a time since the city is quite condense.
I have to admit, I’ve not yet used the bike share program. Let me know if you use it and what you think of it.
Cable Cars –
https://www.sfmta.com/getting-around/muni/cable-cars
Cable Cars are iconic to San Francisco. Although I really do enjoy riding them and encourage anyone who wants, to do so. Unfortunately, the Cable Cars are expensive, last I checked a one way ride will cost you $7. My advice is to just take a one way trip to or from Fisherman’s Wharf if you’re coming from downtown (Powell Street). Then, take the F Line (MUNI) the other direction for $2.25. I love the F Line.
Ferries –
http://sanfranciscobayferry.com/
Ferries will take you to other parts of the Bay Area. I gotta say, I’d take the ferry just for the ride; it is beautiful! If you’re contemplating a Bay Cruise but just can’t stomach the cost, take a ferry to Jack London Square in Oakland or Sausalito. These are both wonderful places to visit. You could plan to have lunch by the bay then take the ferry back to SF. Sounds like a lovely day to me!
BART –
Although not my favorite way to travel, if your destination is BARTable (meaning if your start and stop points are near a BART station), it is cheap and convenient. See the BART’s website for routes. Most trains run every 20 minutes or so. Check the schedule if you are pressed for time.
Coming from the airport, BART is your best (only) bet, it costs between $8 and $9. If you have a large party, a shuttle or Lyft may be a better option.
Lyft –
Not nearly as interesting as the above options, but sometimes we need a car. Lyft has become very popular in SF and can be quite economical if you use share ride.
*Please note, driving a car is not on the list for a reason. This is no place for a car. Traffic, parking, getting tickets, getting towed or even worse getting broken into; no thanks.
Let me how you like to get around San Francisco. I’ll be happy to add other options. Sharing is caring. 🙂