Getting around San Francisco, CA
Planning to travel in San Francisco? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your San Francisco experience. Travel from San Francisco International Airport to popular hotels like San Francisco Marriott Marquis using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations.
Ways to get around San Francisco
Walking
San Francisco’s unique topography, characterized by its iconic hills, offers both challenges and rewards for those exploring the city on foot. Walking is a practical way to navigate many neighborhoods, with sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly pathways enhancing accessibility. The city’s compact layout allows for easy access to numerous attractions, though the steep inclines in certain areas may require some physical exertion. The mild climate generally supports comfortable walking conditions year-round, making it a pleasant option for getting around. However, the hilly terrain might be less appealing for those preferring a more level stroll.
Biking
Biking in San Francisco can be a practical way to get around, thanks to its extensive network of bike lanes and paths. The city’s hilly terrain might pose a challenge in some areas, but many routes are designed to accommodate cyclists. The mild climate generally provides favorable biking conditions year-round. Additionally, bike-sharing options are available, making it easy to rent a bike for short trips. Overall, biking offers a flexible and eco-friendly way to explore the city, though some routes may require extra effort due to the hills.
Car
Driving in San Francisco can be challenging due to its hilly terrain and dense traffic. While cars offer flexibility, navigating the city’s steep streets and finding parking can be difficult. Traffic congestion is common, especially during peak hours, and parking spaces are often limited and expensive. The city’s infrastructure supports various transportation modes, making public transit a convenient alternative. For those unfamiliar with the area, relying on a car might not be the easiest way to explore San Francisco.
Public Transit
The city features a robust public transportation system that includes buses, light rail, and trolleys, making it a convenient way to navigate the city. The Muni system, which covers a wide area, is well-rated and provides access to many neighborhoods and attractions. The city’s infrastructure supports these transit options, although some areas may experience congestion. Public transit is a practical choice for getting around, especially for those without personal vehicles, as it connects efficiently to key destinations across the city.
Train
Trains in San Francisco offer a convenient way to navigate the city, with multiple routes available through the metro system. The trains run frequently, making it easy to plan trips without long waits. The infrastructure supports efficient travel across various neighborhoods, connecting to other transit options for broader access. While the city’s hilly topography can be challenging for some modes of transport, trains provide a reliable alternative for reaching many destinations. Regular schedules ensure that trains are a dependable choice for getting around.
Ferry
Ferries in San Francisco offer a scenic and efficient way to travel across the bay. They are pedestrian, bike, and car-friendly, making them accessible for various travelers. Key routes, such as those from San Francisco to Sausalito or Tiburon, typically take around 30 minutes. Ferries run frequently, with multiple sailings throughout the day, providing flexibility for commuters and tourists alike. The infrastructure supports easy boarding and disembarking, and the mild weather generally ensures smooth sailing. Ferries are a great option for reaching popular destinations while enjoying beautiful views of the bay.
Reserve a ride in San Francisco with Uber
Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in San Francisco. Request a ride anytime up to 90 days ahead, whether you need transportation to San Francisco International Airport, you have plans to visit your favorite restaurant, or you’re going somewhere else.
Rideshare and other services in San Francisco, California
Getting around San Francisco without a car is easy with Uber. Find places to visit, then request a ride on any day and at any time of the week. You can request a ride from San Francisco International Airport to Oceanview or head to another destination with the app. If you’re planning to travel in San Francisco with a large group, request UberSUV to enjoy a comfortable ride.
Open the Uber app and enter your destination to begin exploring San Francisco.
San Francisco-area airport car service
When your travel in San Francisco takes you to an airport from Oceanview, Balboa Terrace or elsewhere, open the app and request a ride at any time of day. Tap below on the name of a nearby airport to learn how to use Uber to get car service to arrivals and departures. On the linked airport page, you’ll find out where to meet your driver for pickup, how much the trip will cost, and more.
Choose the best ways to get around San Francisco
Taxi in San Francisco
Consider Uber as an alternative to taxis when traveling in San Francisco. With Uber, you can trade flagging down cabs for requesting rides on demand, no matter the time of day. You can request a ride from San Francisco International Airport, visit Daly City, or enter another place. Open the app and enter a destination to get around San Francisco.
Electric scooters in San Francisco
Renting a scooter is a fun, affordable way to get around the city. With electric power, you'll get to where you need to go with ease.
Popular destinations in San Francisco, CA
Uber makes San Francisco travel easy. While riders can use Uber to request a ride to pretty much anywhere, some destinations are more popular than others. Uber riders getting around San Francisco request rides to San Francisco Caltrain Train Station more than any other spot.
Here, you can explore popular routes requested by riders near you—with dropoff locations and average route prices.
Destination | Average price with UberX* |
|---|---|
San Francisco Caltrain Train Station | $15 |
Chase Center | $21 |
Pier 39 | $16 |
Oracle Park | $21 |
Embarcadero BART Station | $15 |
San Francisco taxis and other ride options
Car rentals near San Francisco, CA
Frequently asked questions
- Is Uber available in San Francisco?
Yes. The Uber app gives you the power to request a ride to get around San Francisco anytime, 24/7.
- What’s the most affordable way to travel in San Francisco?
With Uber, you can choose the ride option that works best for your budget when you travel in San Francisco. To get an estimated cost, sign in online or open the app and input your destination in the “Where to?” box. The price estimate for each ride option will appear. Scroll to explore what’s currently available.
- Can I get around San Francisco without a car?
Yes. Sign in online or open your Uber app to request a ride in San Francisco, and let your driver take you where you want to go. (You might see other San Francisco transportation options available in your app, too.)
- Can I rent a car in San Francisco?
Sign in to your Uber account on Uber.com or open your Uber app to find out if car rentals are available in your city. If so, choose Rent and complete your reservation with a rental provider on Uber.com or using the Uber app. Then travel in San Francisco or wherever the road takes you.
- How does Uber in San Francisco help keep riders safe?
Your safety when traveling in San Francisco is a top priority. In a few taps, you can access in-app features like the emergency assistance button to call authorities if you need help.
- Is Uber Eats available in San Francisco?
Yes. Uber Eats offers pickup or food delivery in San Francisco from your favorite restaurants. Browse lots of food delivery options, place your order, and track it by the minute.
- Can I order groceries or other non-restaurant items through Uber Eats in San Francisco?
Yes, in San Francisco, Uber Eats delivers groceries from retailers like Safeway, Hmart, Andronico’s, and more.
Uber does not tolerate the use of alcohol or drugs by drivers using the Uber app. If you believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please have the driver end the trip immediately.
Commercial vehicles may be subject to additional state government taxes, which would be over and above the toll.
After the driver has ended the trip, please report any feedback when rating your trip in the Uber app, visiting help.uber.com, or calling 800-664-1378.
You may also contact the California Public Utilities Commission at 800-894-9444 or CIU_intake@cpuc.ca.gov.
In California, due to CPUC requirements, you cannot transport an unaccompanied minor on trips arranged through the Uber app. Keep in mind that in California, a rider must be over 18 to sign up for an Uber account, but if you believe a rider might be underage, you can ask them to confirm their age and let them know that you’ll have to cancel the trip if they are indeed under 18. In addition, you can report requests to transport unaccompanied minors by submitting in-app feedback.
All trips to or from SFO are subject to a $5.50 SFO airport surcharge that applies per vehicle, regardless of the number of riders or type of ride as well as any applicable tolls. All trips to or from OAK are subject to a $3.70 OAK airport surcharge that applies per vehicle, regardless of the number of riders or type of ride as well as any applicable tolls. All trips to or from SJC are subject to a $3 airport surcharge and any applicable tolls. All trips to or from MRY are subject to a $3 airport surcharge and any applicable tolls. UberX, Comfort and Assist trips to or from SMF are subject to a $2.5 surcharge and any applicable tolls. UberXL and Uber Black SUV trips to or from SMF are subject to a $3.00 surcharge and any applicable tolls.
*Sample rider prices are average UberX prices only and do not reflect variations due to geography, traffic delays, promotions, or other factors. Flat rates and minimum fees may apply. Actual prices for rides and scheduled rides may vary.
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