LayoverSFO layover guide
San Francisco International. City centre is roughly 30 minutes away each way.
What to do by layover length
Under 4 hours: stay in the airport
- SFO Museum runs free exhibitions throughout the terminals.
4 to 8 hours
Leaving the airport is possible but tight. Getting to town takes about 60 minutes round trip, and you'll need to clear US security again on return.
8 hours or more: leave the airport
BART train to downtown San Francisco, about 30 minutes.
Transit and visa basics
The US has no airside transit: every international arrival clears US immigration, so you need an ESTA or a visa even to connect. Official source. Also check your airline's connection rules and the official San Francisco International website.
Lounges
Lounge access depends on your airline, ticket class, or a membership. Search Priority Pass lounges at SFO, or check lounge listings on the airport's website.
Get Priority Pass lounge accessAffiliate linkStore your bags
Heading into San Francisco for a few hours? Drop your bags at a luggage storage spot.
Find luggage storage with Radical StorageAffiliate linkAirport transfer
Short on time? A pre-booked ride takes the guesswork out of getting to the city and back.
Book a transfer with KiwitaxiWelcome PickupsGetTransferAffiliate linkTours near San Francisco
Long layover? Short tours that fit your time:
GetYourGuide tours in San FranciscoViator tours in San FranciscoAffiliate linkAirport hotels
Grand Hyatt at SFO is connected by AirTrain. For an overnight or a day room:
Hotels near SFO on Booking.comAffiliate linkDelayed or missed your connection?
Under EU and UK rules (EU261/UK261), delayed or cancelled flights can qualify for compensation.
Check your claim with AirHelpCompensairAffiliate linkStay connected
Airport Wi-Fi can be slow or time-limited. An eSIM gives you data the moment you land.
Get an eSIM from AiraloAffiliate linkLast checked: October 16, 2026. Times are typical and can change with traffic, construction and timetables. Confirm before you leave the airport. Some links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.