Heading to San Francisco? We share how to travel around San Francisco so that you can see all of the sights with ease. We include ways you can do this on a budget and ways you can sightsee if you are short on time.
While you are visiting such an interesting and varicolored city it is significant to be informed about how to travel around its various attractions and different places you need to go. San Francisco is a bustling city with a variety of transportation options. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, it’s important to understand the different ways to get around so you can use time wisely in the city.
How to travel around San Francisco

Cable Cars in San Francisco
The cable car is one of the most well-liked modes of transportation in San Francisco. Since 1873, these recognizable machines have been a mainstay of the city’s transportation network, and they’re a terrific way to travel around and take a look at the sights. The cable cars run from early in the morning until late at night, and you can buy tickets there or on the vehicle itself.
Catching a taxi in San Francisco
When we are talking about a busy city, a taxi shouldn’t be forgotten. If you are going by plane and arrive at The San Francisco International Airport, which is a major transportation hub, then one of the best solutions will be to order a taxi. This makes your trip to the hotel or apartments easy and will be the best transportation method, as you will be tired and way-worn after a flight. The most convenient option to order a taxi is by using an app (Uber or Lyft).

Using the bus in San Francisco
Another popular form of transportation in San Francisco is the bus. The Muni bus system is extensive and covers most of the city, making it a convenient option for getting around. Buses run frequently, and many have bike racks on the front, making it easy to combine biking and bus travel. You can purchase tickets on board the bus or at Muni Metro stations.
Despite the public buses, you have an opportunity to rent a charter bus. San Francisco is a popular destination for business trips, and renting a charter bus is a convenient and cost-effective way to transport groups of employees or clients. Whether you’re planning a group trip, corporate event, or team-building retreat, San Francisco charter bus rental will help to make your experience more enjoyable and efficient.
San Francisco Muni Metro
The Muni metro is another option for getting around San Francisco. It’s a light rail system that operates on several lines throughout the city, including the J, K, L, M, N, and T lines. The metro runs frequently, and it’s a great way to get around if you’re looking to avoid traffic and parking. You can purchase tickets onboard the metro or at Muni Metro station.

Ferries and Boat tours in San Franscisco
If you’re looking for a more scenic way to get around, you might consider taking a ferry. The San Francisco Bay Ferry system operates several routes, including service to Sausalito, Larkspur, and Oakland. The ferry is a great option for those looking to visit nearby cities or for those who want to take in the beautiful views of the bay while they travel.
You will also need to book a boat tour if you plan on visiting Alcatraz; we recommend booking in advance and getting the earliest slot available.
Biking around San Francisco
Another way to get around San Francisco is by bike. The city is home to a network of bike lanes and bike-friendly streets, making it easy to get around by bike. If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one from one of the many bike-sharing companies in the city, such as Ford GoBike or Jump.
What to see and do in San Francisco
There are plenty of San Francisco attractions that you could explore.
San Francisco’s Chinatown is among its top features. The main reason for such popularity is that this attraction is in one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns outside of Asia. It’s a wonderful place to discover and take in the local history, cuisine, and culture.
After a trip to Chinatown, make sure to take a drive or walk down the Zig Zag Road in San Francisco, head to Fisherman’s Wharf, and take a tour of Alcatraz.
If you’re planning group transportation to San Francisco, you may also take advantage to see nearby attractions such as Yosemite National Park. The park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. With pick-up and drop-off services that an experienced driver will give you a charter bus rental may make it simple to visit the attraction. As well as you will have the opportunity to be led through the park.
San Francisco has an impressive transportation system. You may choose different vehicle types or combine them depending on your needs and preferences. As you can see, there is an opportunity to choose different transportation modes when you are alone or on a business trip with a group.
Helpful Resources
Travel essentials:
- We LOVE this camera for our travel photography.
- For a cheap, easy, and compact camera, we use this to vlog and take photographs.
- We use this microphone for all our Youtube voiceovers.
- We use this travel drone (but make sure to check drone laws in your chosen destination first).
- This is our favorite travel insurance because it covers so many activities and travel situations that could arise on longer trips but also offer year coverage.
What to pack
- No matter where we travel, I always take these trusty hand sanitizers and a mini first aid kit.
- We love these toiletry bags (especially great for smaller bathrooms) and choose a laptop bag like this as our hand luggage.
- We keep our devices charged on long travel days with these lightweight battery packs and bring these worldwide travel adaptors on all our trips.
- I still struggle not to overpack so stick to using an expandable suitcase like these and always take my trusty luggage scales to avoid being charged at the airport.