Chances are that if you're spending much time here you'll end up using some form of public transportation at least once. Here's a rundown of what you need to know, and where to find out more. It's also the way to see the real city and the best option for budget transportation. Muni operates buses, streetcars and cable cars in the city 24 hours a day, but service is limited at night.
Exact change is required.
Free transfers are issued when the fare is paid, and they're good for two more rides in any direction for 90 minutes to two hours. A trip to San Francisco is simply incomplete unless you ride a cable car at least once. Both start at the cable car turnaround at Powell and Market and end at Fisherman's Wharf, but the Powell-Mason line has the best views. It ends on the east side of Fisherman's Wharf. Otherwise, take the California line , which runs on California Street from Market to Van Ness Avenue.