If you’re going on a solo trip to San Francisco, you’ll have an experience that won’t disappoint! The city has such great icons, neighbourhoods, and cultural options that it’s one of the best cities you can explore alone. When travelling to San Francisco, one might be worried about how to navigate the hilly streets and how to use public transportation, but you don’t have to. This guide will give you information on the best way to travel around San Francisco, especially as a solo tourist, so you can experience the city safely, affordably, and efficiently.
Why San Francisco Is Perfect for Solo Travel
San Francisco is a dream destination for solo travellers. With a modern approach to life, walkable neighbourhoods, and a plethora of options from art museums to street food, it’s nearly impossible to stay without creating your unique itinerary. San Francisco locals are friendly, and for the most part, the city is a great place to travel solo and is safe, especially in tourist areas like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Mission District.
If you’re solo trip to San Francisco, you’ll find that not having a car is easier – and even better – than dealing with traffic jams, expensive parking, and a lack of parking spaces. Let’s find out the best way to get around San Francisco as a solo traveller.
Public Transport: The Heartbeat of the City
1. Muni Buses & Metro
The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (Muni) operates buses, light rail, and streetcars, and is considered by most locals and tourists as the best way to travel around San Francisco without a car.
- The Muni Metro runs underground in the city center and above ground in outlying areas.
- Muni bus service runs to nearly every neighbourhood in San Francisco, including remote attractions such as Golden Gate Park and the Presidio.
The Clipper card or MuniMobile app makes it easy to pay and transfer between routes. If you’re travelling alone, you’ll appreciate both the cost and the frequency of service. A single ride is only a few dollars, and a day pass offers unlimited rides – all the better to get out and explore for a day.
2. Cable Cars
No solo trip to San Francisco is complete without a ride on the historic cable cars. These vehicles not only bring back memories for tourists, but also serve as a form of transportation that allows one person to get up and down some of San Francisco’s steepest hills.
There are three routes in operation:
- Powell-Hyde Line
- Powell-Mason Line
- California Street Line
The $8 per ride may be steep, but it’s well worth the ticket. Cable cars are especially helpful for solo travellers, visiting some of the most popular sights, including Lombard Street and Fisherman’s Wharf.
BART: For Longer Distance Travel
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) connects San Francisco to neighbouring cities and the airport. If you’re flying into SFO, BART is arguably the best way to travel around San Francisco. It’s faster, cleaner, and significantly cheaper than taking a taxi or rideshare from the airport.
For the solo traveller, BART is reassuring because stations are usually patrolled by transit security and display digital updates when trains arrive. Additionally, BART can be useful for day trips to Berkeley, Oakland, or other points of interest in the Bay Area.
Walking: A Personal and Scenic Way to Explore
San Francisco is extremely walkable, especially in neighbourhoods like:
- North Beach
- Chinatown
- Mission District
- Haight-Ashbury
Walking gives you the freedom to stop at murals, shops or a street vendor to grab a bite to eat. You’ll also be able to discover hidden staircases and viewpoints that bring out the city’s unique Victorian character.
If you’re thinking about the best way to get around San Francisco, walking should be at the top of your list.
Ride-Sharing Services: Quick and Convenient
Apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used in San Francisco. While they’re not the most cost-effective for every trip, they’re a good option, especially when travelling late at night or to less accessible areas.
As a solo traveller, always double-check the car and driver before getting in, share your ride details with a friend or family member, and choose well-lit pickup points. For safety-conscious travellers, both Uber and Lyft offer in-app emergency features.
Ferries: A Scenic Detour
For a unique travel experience, try taking the San Francisco Bay Ferry. It connects the city to the following places:
- Sausalito
- Tiburon
- Alameda
- Oakland
It is an efficient and scenic way to travel. On a clear day, you can see the stunning Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the San Francisco skyline without battling road traffic.
Where to Stay for Easy Transit
Choosing the right accommodation can drastically improve your solo travel experience. Here are a few neighbourhoods with easy access to public transport:
- Union Square: Central, walkable, close to cable cars and BART
- Fisherman’s Wharf: Tourist-friendly, easy to walk or bike
- SoMa (South of Market): Near Muni, BART, and Caltrain
- Mission District: Culturally rich, walkable, Muni and BART accessible
Safety Tips for Solo Travellers in San Francisco
While San Francisco is generally safe, it’s still a big city. Here are some essential tips:
- Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.
- Keep your phone charged—apps like Google Maps and Citymapper are invaluable.
- Don’t flash valuables like expensive cameras or jewellery.
- Use public transport apps for real-time route updates.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t hesitate to leave.
Final Thoughts
Walking, riding a scooter, taking a cable car or a ferry – the city has a plethora of options that are not only easy and safe but also thrilling. For those who are solo, the best way to get around San Francisco is not the only thing that matters – time spent unwinding and lost in the city at your own pace is what matters.
So pack light, keep your Clipper card ready and get ready to discover the top places in San Francisco at your own pace. Your solo trip to San Francisco will undoubtedly be a fulfilling and unforgettable experience.
