Quick answer: A single cable car ride costs $9. If you’ll ride more than once, a Muni Visitor Passport ($15 for 1 day, $35 for 3 days) is better value. Pay with the MuniMobile app, Clipper or the conductor. For shorter queues, board at stops away from the turnarounds.
San Francisco’s cable cars, running since 1873, are the world’s last manually operated cable car system and a moving National Historic Landmark.
The three lines
| Line | Route | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Powell–Hyde | Powell & Market → Aquatic Park | Lombard Street, bay and Alcatraz views |
| Powell–Mason | Powell & Market → Bay & Taylor | Nob Hill, North Beach edge |
| California Street | Market & Drumm → Van Ness | Fewer queues, Nob Hill |
Fares
Check current prices on the SFMTA fares page. Single tickets don’t include transfers.
Tips
- The Powell & Market turnaround queue can exceed an hour; walk up a few blocks and hop on at a stop.
- Ride on the outside running boards for the best views, and hold on.
- Visit the free Cable Car Museum to see the cables and winding machinery.
- Cable cars stop running in the evening; check times on SFMTA.
FAQ: San Francisco cable cars
How much is a cable car ride in San Francisco?
$9 for a single ride; seniors pay less, and Visitor Passports include unlimited rides.
Which cable car line is best?
Powell–Hyde for views; California Street for short queues.
More San Francisco guides
- San Francisco travel guide
- 25 best things to do in San Francisco
- San Francisco itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in San Francisco
- Best time to visit San Francisco
- SFO airport to the city
- Alcatraz tickets
- Golden Gate Bridge guide
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