Travelling Around San Francisco

Question

My family of myself and 3 teenagers will be staying in San Francisco for 2 days in August and I'm trying to figure out the best and most cost effective way to travel.

We'll be travelling to and from the airport, to and from Union Square (where our hotel is) and other places such as The Embarcadero and Fisherman's Wharf etc.

Any advice is welcome.

Answer

San Francisco is one of the easiest major U.S. cities to navigate without a car, and with a family of four—including teenagers—you’ll find several cost-effective and convenient options for getting around during your two-day stay. Because parking is expensive and traffic can be slow, especially around Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square, most visitors prefer a mix of public transit and occasional ride-share.

Below is a detailed guide to help you travel smoothly between the airport, Union Square, the waterfront, and major attractions.

Getting To and From the Airport (SFO)

BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) is the easiest and most economical public transit option connecting SFO and downtown San Francisco, including Union Square.

BART from SFO: Take the Yellow Line toward Antioch; exit at Powell Street Station, which is only a short walk to Union Square hotels.
Cost: Typically much cheaper than Uber/Lyft for a group, and no traffic delays. Teenagers usually enjoy the ride—it’s quick and efficient.
Travel time: About 30 minutes from the airport to Powell Street.

If you prefer convenience, ride-share or taxi is easy at SFO, but expect a noticeably higher cost for a group of four, especially with luggage.

Getting Around the City (Union Square, Embarcadero, Fisherman’s Wharf)

San Francisco’s public transit network—Muni buses, streetcars, cable cars, and the historic F-line—is reliable for the areas you plan to visit. For a short trip with frequent rides, buying a daily pass can save money.

Muni Passport / Visitor Day Pass: Offers unlimited rides on buses, Muni Metro, and iconic cable cars, which are otherwise expensive for single rides. Great value for tourists doing multiple attractions.
F-Line Historic Streetcar: Runs between the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf with scenic views—perfect for teens and very affordable.
Cable Cars: Fun tourist experience and an easy way to get between Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf, though they can be crowded. With a day pass, rides cost nothing extra.
Muni Buses and Metro: Serve most locations quickly and efficiently, especially along Market Street and the waterfront.

When to Use Uber/Lyft

Ride-share is helpful when you’re tired, traveling later at night, or making longer or less convenient trips beyond common transit routes. For short inner-city routes, public transit is usually cheaper and often faster.

Best for late-evening travel: If the family has been out at Pier 39 or Ghirardelli Square and wants a quick ride back.
Good for families with luggage: If you decide not to use BART for airport trips.
Convenient for less common routes: Such as neighborhoods not directly served by the waterfront lines.

Additional Tips for a Short Visit

Because your trip is only two days, convenience is key, and much of the tourist area is walkable once you’re in the city center. Union Square to the Embarcadero is a straightforward walk along Market Street for those who enjoy city views, and teens often like the lively atmosphere.

Plan around hills: San Francisco is famously steep. If walking back from places like Fisherman’s Wharf, you may prefer transit or Uber.
Start early: Popular spots such as the Ferry Building and Pier 39 are quieter before mid-morning.
Consider the California cable car line: Less crowded than the Powell lines and still iconic.

Final Recommendation

For most families staying two days, the best balance of cost and convenience is: BART to and from the airport, a Muni day pass for unlimited city travel, and occasional Uber rides when needed. This combination keeps your budget reasonable, avoids the stress of driving and parking, and gives your teens a fun, classic San Francisco experience.

Enjoy your visit—August is a fantastic time to explore San Francisco’s waterfront, hills, and vibrant neighborhoods!