In SFO for 10 hrs....what to do?

Question

My son and I have a 10 hour layover in SF before our connecting flight. We reach SFO at 1pm. Based on the posts that I have read the most popular attractions are the Golden gate bridge, Ferry Terminal, Pier 39, cable cars and the Fisherman's Wharf. The advise I need to what is the most efficient and cost effective way to visit these sights with public transportation and/or walk. Details would be appreciated as to what stations I need to go for these attractions and the costs.

Is there a day pass for the transportation that we can purchase or download before? While in SFO, I will have my phone on airplane mode so not sure if I can use any of the transportation apps?

Any other places we should consider given the time in SFO?

Answer

With a 10-hour layover in San Francisco, you have enough time to see the highlights if you plan efficiently. Accounting for airport arrival, customs, and security, you might have roughly 6–7 hours to explore the city.

Getting from SFO to downtown:

Take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) from SFO to Embarcadero station. The ride is about 30 minutes. BART fare is approximately $10 per person one-way.
You can buy a paper ticket at the BART station, so you don’t need a phone app. Day passes for Muni (buses, streetcars, and cable cars) are available separately.

Suggested itinerary (efficient for 6–7 hours in the city):

From Embarcadero, walk a few minutes to the Ferry Building for a quick snack and some local shops.
Walk along the Embarcadero to Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf. This is about 15–20 minutes walking.
For the cable car experience, catch the Powell-Hyde line at the turntable near Market Street and Powell. One ride is $8 per person cash or Clipper Card.
Consider riding the cable car toward Lombard Street for a photo stop, then continue toward Ghirardelli Square if time allows.
If you want to see the Golden Gate Bridge, you can take Muni bus #28 from Fisherman’s Wharf or drive/Uber (approx. 15–20 min each way). Walking from the city to the bridge is too far.

Public transportation options and costs:

Muni day pass: $33 adult, allows unlimited rides on buses, trolleys, and cable cars (but not all cable car lines). You can purchase a paper pass at any Muni Metro station or select newsstands.
BART ticket from SFO to downtown: ~$10 one-way per person.
Clipper Card: reloadable card for BART and Muni; convenient if you plan multiple rides but requires initial purchase.

Tips:

Use the Embarcadero station as your main hub, then walk along the waterfront; it minimizes transfers.
Plan your route to avoid backtracking; walking is scenic and often faster for short distances.
With phone on airplane mode, you can still navigate using pre-downloaded maps or printed directions.
Other optional quick stops: Coit Tower for views, Chinatown for a snack, or a quick photo at Lombard Street (Crooked Street).

Overall, a 6–7 hour window in San Francisco allows you to enjoy the Ferry Building, Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf, a cable car ride, and a quick Golden Gate Bridge view if you prioritize efficiently. Focus on the waterfront for ease of walking and minimal transfers.

In SFO for 10 hrs....what to do?

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