Flights to San Francisco

The flight takes just over ten and a half hours. British Airways operates two direct flights to San Francisco a day: fly from London Heathrow to San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

Spring and summer are the most popular times of the year to visit the city, so book your flights in the winter or autumn to save and enjoy warm and pleasant weather, without the foggy mornings that are typical of the summer months.

San Francisco International Airport is situated 12 miles south of the Downtown area of the city. Hiring a car is an easy way to get around this city and to and from the airport, and gives you the freedom to take day trips to the coast or road trips.

There are several taxi ranks at the airport, and the cost to San Francisco is between $50-$70 (don’t forget there may be an airport surcharge on taxis). Take the hassle out of your airport transfer by pre-booking a Shuttle Transfer with us, simply choose the best option for you when you make you flights or holiday reservation. The cost is around $17 and the time they take to reach your destination will depend on the number of passengers.

A no-reservation-required bus, the SAM Trans, costs just $2-$5 and runs from the airport to various destinations en route to Downtown. Or prebook the BART bus on its website, it departs from outside the International Terminal and costs from just $8.40 for a trip into the city.

You can make a trip to San Francisco fit any budget. Explore the city using its public transport system. Muni buses, light rail and the iconic cable cars offer affordable access to most attractions and areas. You can buy a Visitor Passport for unlimited rides. Many of the city’s best sights are free to explore, including Golden Gate Park and walking through neighbourhoods like the Mission District or Haight-Ashbury.

Hike up to Twin Peaks for panoramic views or enjoy street art and murals throughout the city. Affordable eats can be found at local taquerias, food trucks and markets like the Ferry Building. You can also visit the city’s museums on free admission days.

Once you land in San Francisco International Airport you’re about 19km from the city centre. You can easily travel by the BART train, which takes around 30 minutes or catch the airport bus which takes around 50 minutes. There’s also a taxi rank just outside Arrivals to get you to your destination with ease. 

You can also hire a car with British Airways if you want to see more of what the USA has to offer. You’ll receive great benefits, with all mandatory charges included and 24-hour customer support, plus you’ll collect Avios points on every rental.

Visit San Francisco and discover more than just its well-known sights. Head to the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages.

For a peaceful retreat from the busy city, stroll through the San Francisco Botanical Garden or the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park. Then discover the colourful, flower-lined mosaic staircase on 16th Avenue. Take a ferry to Sausalito for a charming waterfront town experience.

You can explore the historic Presidio, full of art installations and scenic overlooks. Find out more about the city’s LGBTQ+ history and culture in the Castro District.

You can book a hand baggage-only ticket or make the most of our generous baggage allowance. If you choose economy standard or one of our British Airways Holidays’ packages, each passenger can check in a bag weighing up to 23kg – in addition to a handbag, laptop case or other small bag. Families travelling in any cabin with younger children can also check in one car seat and one fully collapsible pushchair. Read more about baggage allowances for children.

If you’re flying in our business cabin, you can check in two bags weighing up to 32kg each. Read our baggage guide for full details.

Citizens of the UK and Ireland and EU passport holders do not need a visa to visit the USA. However, you will need an ESTA, which permits travel to the US for 90 days or less. If you hold a passport from a country or territory outside of the listed areas, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel. You can find out more about visa requirements for all the countries we fly to at the IATA Travel Centre.

Discover outstanding service from the moment you book. Choose to fly with hand baggage only or pick a price that includes a 23kg checked baggage allowance and free seat selection 24 hours before you fly. On board you’ll find HEPA-filtered air, quality on-board catering and a warm, uniquely British welcome.

Simply relax and let us take care of you, every step of the way.