San Francisco Getting Around

Getting Around San Francisco - Hop on board a famous historic cable car
The city of San Francisco has some of the most unique modes of public transport in the USA and for visitors; it offers a unique and rewarding way of getting around San Francisco and seeing its myriad of sights and attractions. The most rewarding way to travel downtown is by iconic cable car tram, made famous in countless films over the years. This is complimented by a network of historic trolley buses which also offer a delightfully relaxed way of getting around San Francisco and extremely popular with visiting tourists. San Francisco Bay is also a hive of public transportation with numerous commuter ferry services and pleasure cruises. Boats sail up and down the bay filled with local workers or leisurely cruise to attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

Getting Around San Francisco - A user friendly network of buses and trains
More conventional means of getting around San Francisco are provided by an extensive bus network which is modern and efficient. Many buses are low emission and some even provide wifi internet access during the journey. Around 20% of all routes operate 24 hours a day seven days a week. Trains are also an important means for city residents and visitors and cover a wide range of city and suburban routes including most attractions popular with visitors. San Francisco's main central rail station is the terminus for Amtrak intercity services which serve cities such as Seattle, Los Angeles and Dallas.

Getting Around San Francisco - Explore by bicycle or on foot
Bicycle travel is surprisingly popular in the city where around 30% of all commuter journeys involve pedal power. Buses and trains have bike racks to help with longer journeys and the city has a good network of bicycle only lanes on its roads. Due to its hilly nature, not everywhere is suitable for bicycles in San Francisco. In certain areas, getting around San Francisco is best on foot. Fisherman's Wharf and the Financial District offer many hidden attractions that can only be reached by walking and for more comprehensive exploration taxis can be found everywhere and can be simply hailed by the roadside.