Planning your trip from SFO Airport to downtown San Francisco? Whether you’re visiting the City by the Bay for business or pleasure, getting from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to downtown is the first step in your Bay Area adventure. With multiple transportation options available, from the efficient BART train to convenient rideshare services, this comprehensive guide will help you choose the best way to get from SFO airport to downtown San Francisco based on your budget, schedule, and preferences.
SFO is located approximately 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco, and there are several transportation methods to bridge that distance. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting from SFO airport to downtown San Francisco in 2025, including up-to-date costs, travel times, and insider tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Transportation Options from SFO to Downtown San Francisco: At a Glance
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick comparison of your options for getting from SFO airport to downtown San Francisco:
| Transportation Method | Cost | Travel Time | Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BART | $10.30 | 30 minutes | Every 15 minutes | Budget travelers, avoiding traffic |
| Taxi | $45-64 | 20-35 minutes | On-demand | Groups, door-to-door service |
| Uber/Lyft | $30-40 | 20-35 minutes | On-demand | Convenience, moderate budget |
| Shuttle Services | $17-20 | 30-60 minutes | Every 15-30 minutes | Budget travelers, hotel service |
| Public Bus | $2.50-5.00 | 60+ minutes | Varies by route | Ultra-budget travelers |
Note: Prices may vary, always verify on official websites for the most current details.
Now, let’s explore each option in detail to help you decide the best way to get from SFO airport to downtown San Francisco.
BART from SFO to Downtown San Francisco
The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system provides direct train service from SFO to downtown San Francisco and is one of the most popular transportation options for travelers.
BART Details:
- Cost: $10.30 one-way to downtown stations (Powell, Montgomery, Embarcadero)
- Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes to downtown stations
- Hours of Operation: 5:00 a.m. to midnight (weekdays), 6:00 a.m. to midnight (weekends)
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes during most hours
- Station Location: Inside the International Terminal, with connections to all other terminals via AirTrain
How to Take BART from SFO to Downtown:
- Follow signs for “BART” or “Train to City” within the airport
- If you’re not at the International Terminal, take the free AirTrain to the International Terminal/BART Station
- Purchase your ticket from the ticket vending machines located at the BART station
- Board a San Francisco/Antioch-bound train (yellow line)
- Exit at Powell Street, Montgomery Street, or Embarcadero stations for downtown access
BART Pros:
- Most affordable option for solo travelers
- Avoids unpredictable road traffic
- Environmentally friendly
- Regular service throughout the day
- Direct access to downtown BART stations
BART Cons:
- Less convenient for large amounts of luggage
- May require additional transportation from BART station to your final destination
- No service between midnight and 5:00 a.m. (6:00 a.m. on weekends)
Taxi from SFO to Downtown San Francisco
Taxis provide door-to-door service and are readily available at SFO’s designated taxi zones.
Taxi Details:
- Cost: $45-55 plus tip (15-20% is customary)
- Travel Time: 20-35 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Availability: 24/7
- Pickup Location: Designated taxi zones on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim level of all terminals
Taxi Pros:
- Door-to-door service
- No waiting for scheduled departures
- Fixed rates (not subject to surge pricing)
- Available 24/7
- Can accommodate larger groups (up to 4 passengers in standard taxis)
Taxi Cons:
- More expensive than public transportation
- Subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hour
- Cash payment may be required by some drivers
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) from SFO to Downtown San Francisco
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient and often more affordable alternative to traditional taxis.
Rideshare Details:
- Cost: $30-40 for standard service (can increase during peak times)
- Travel Time: 20-35 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Availability: On-demand through mobile apps
- Pickup Location: Designated rideshare pickup areas on the Departures level of each terminal
Rideshare Pros:
- Often cheaper than taxis
- Door-to-door service
- Easy app-based booking and payment
- Various vehicle options (economy to luxury)
- No need to carry cash
Rideshare Cons:
- Subject to surge pricing during peak times
- Pickup locations require some walking from arrival areas
- Wait times can vary based on driver availability
Airport Shuttles to Downtown San Francisco
Shared and private shuttle services offer another option for getting from SFO to downtown San Francisco.
Shuttle Details:
- Cost: $17-20 per person for shared shuttles, $80+ for private shuttles
- Travel Time: 30-60 minutes (with potential stops for other passengers)
- Companies: SuperShuttle, Wingz
- Booking: Online reservation recommended, some walk-up service available
Shuttle Pros:
- More affordable than taxis for solo travelers
- Door-to-door service
- Can be economical for groups using private shuttles
- Some services operate 24/7
Shuttle Cons:
- Shared shuttles make multiple stops, increasing travel time
- Advance booking often required
- Less frequent departures than other options
Public Bus from SFO to Downtown San Francisco
While less convenient than BART, public buses are available for budget-conscious travelers.
Public Bus Details:
- Cost: $2.50 for Muni, $2.25-5.00 for SamTrans (depending on route)
- Travel Time: 60+ minutes (depending on route and transfers)
- Routes: SamTrans Route 292, 398, and 397 (night service)
- Frequency: Varies by route, generally less frequent than BART
Public Bus Pros:
- Most economical option
- Service during BART’s non-operational hours (late night)
Public Bus Cons:
- Longer travel times
- Less convenient for luggage
- May require transfers
- Less frequent service
Which Option is Best for Getting from SFO to Downtown San Francisco?
The best transportation option from SFO to downtown San Francisco depends on your specific needs:
- Best for budget travelers: BART ($10.30 one-way)
- Best for speed during non-peak hours: Uber/Lyft ($30-40) or Taxi ($45-55)
- Best for convenience: Uber/Lyft or Taxi for door-to-door service
- Best for late-night arrivals: Taxi, Uber/Lyft, or SamTrans Route 397 (night bus)
- Best for groups of 3-4: Taxi or Uber/Lyft (cost-effective when split)
- Best for larger groups: Private shuttle service
Tips for Traveling from SFO to Downtown San Francisco
- Consider traffic patterns: During weekday rush hours (7-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.), BART is often faster than road transportation despite the shorter nominal travel time for taxis and rideshares.
- Purchase BART tickets using Clipper: You can buy a Clipper card or use the Clipper app on your smartphone for easier BART access.
- Use the free AirTrain: If you’re not arriving at the International Terminal, use the free AirTrain to connect to the BART station.
- Book shuttles in advance: If using a shuttle service, book at least 24 hours ahead to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates.
- Allow extra time during foggy conditions: San Francisco’s famous fog can occasionally cause delays for all transportation options.
- Consider your final destination: If your hotel isn’t near a BART station, factor in the additional cost of getting from the station to your accommodation.
- Download relevant apps before arrival: Have the BART app, Clipper app, Uber, or Lyft apps installed and set up before landing.
- If you’ve a late flight or are on a long layover, book luggage storage in San Francisco with Radical Storage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting from SFO to Downtown San Francisco
How far is SFO airport from downtown San Francisco?
SFO is approximately 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco.
What is the cheapest way to get from SFO to downtown San Francisco?
Public buses (SamTrans and Muni) are the cheapest at $2.25-5.00, but BART at $10.30 offers a much better balance of cost and convenience.
How much is BART from SFO to downtown San Francisco?
BART costs $10.30 for a one-way trip from SFO to downtown San Francisco stations (Powell, Montgomery, Embarcadero).
How long does BART take from SFO to downtown San Francisco?
BART takes approximately 30 minutes from SFO to downtown San Francisco stations.
Does BART run 24 hours from SFO?
No, BART operates from approximately 5:00 a.m. to midnight on weekdays and 6:00 a.m. to midnight on weekends.
How much is an Uber from SFO to downtown San Francisco?
Standard Uber service costs approximately $30-40, but prices can increase during peak times.
How much is a taxi from SFO to downtown San Francisco?
Taxis cost approximately $45-55 plus tip, depending on your exact destination and traffic conditions.
Are there shuttles from SFO to downtown hotels?
Yes, several shuttle services operate between SFO and downtown hotels, with prices starting around $17 per person for shared services.
Conclusion: The Best Way to Get from SFO to Downtown San Francisco
For most travelers, BART offers the best combination of affordability and reliability when traveling from SFO to downtown San Francisco. At $10.30 for a one-way trip and with a consistent 30-minute travel time that avoids traffic congestion, it’s hard to beat for value.
However, if you’re traveling with family, have substantial luggage, or are in a hurry, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft provide a good balance of convenience and cost. For the ultimate in door-to-door service, traditional taxis remain a reliable, if more expensive, option.
Whichever transportation method you choose, you’ll soon be enjoying all that San Francisco has to offer – from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Union Square, and the city’s legendary food scene.