How to get from San Francisco International Airport to Downtown San Francisco
High confidenceChecked May 2026
Take BART direct from the SFO station to Downtown — about $10.95, ~30 min.
Best options
Best overall
BART to Embarcadero / Powell.
Cheapest safe
BART with Clipper card.
Best at night
BART last train is around midnight; ride-hailing or taxi after.
With luggage / kids
BART has space; ride-hailing for groups.
Taxi fare
Metered taxi roughly $55–$75 to Downtown SF plus surcharges. Fares vary with traffic.
Ride-hailing
Uber and Lyft operate — designated pickup zones.
available
Public transport
BART (Yellow line).
Compare your options — SFO → Downtown San Francisco
Distance ~22 km, typical journey 30–45 min.
| Option | Typical fare | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Public transport | BART (Yellow line). | Cheapest safe option |
| Official taxi | Metered taxi roughly $55–$75 to Downtown SF plus surcharges. Fares vary with traffic. | Late arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Ride-hailing | Uber and Lyft operate — designated pickup zones. | available |
After landing — step by step
- 1Follow BART signs from the International Terminal
- 2Tap Clipper or buy a single
Scam warnings
Unauthorized 'limo' offers near the curb
Avoid this
- • Curbside private offers
Frequently asked
Q.How much is a taxi from San Francisco International Airport to Downtown San Francisco?
Metered taxi roughly $55–$75 to Downtown SF plus surcharges. Fares vary with traffic.. Always confirm the fare or that the meter is on before pulling away. Watch for: Unauthorized 'limo' offers near the curb.
Q.What is the cheapest safe way from SFO to Downtown San Francisco?
BART with Clipper card.
Q.Does Uber or ride-hailing work at San Francisco International Airport?
Uber and Lyft operate — designated pickup zones.
Q.What's the best way from SFO to Downtown San Francisco at night?
BART last train is around midnight; ride-hailing or taxi after.
Q.What scams should I watch for going from SFO to Downtown San Francisco?
Top reported: Unauthorized 'limo' offers near the curb. Use the official taxi rank, never accept a fare from someone approaching you in arrivals.
SOURCES