Top Frequently Asked Questions
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![Couple looking at maps on a Big Bus Tour]()
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![People on an open-top bus]()
What time do tours start and how often do buses run?
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![Couple looking at maps on a Big Bus Tour]()
Where can I start the tour?
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![Passengers on a tour bus in San Francisco]()
How long does the tour take?
Where can I buy a ticket for the tour?
You can purchase tickets either on this website, on the bus, from a member of Big Bus staff, or at most hotels. Please note that for hygiene reasons we encourage you to pay with card when possible so that all parties can avoid the handling of cash.
What time do tours start and how often do buses run?
Please visit our Service Information page for up-to-date information on tour start times and frequency.
Where can I start the tour?
You're welcome to join our tours from any stop. Please see our Day Tour (Red Route), Sunset Tour (Blue Route) route timetable pages for further details on stop locations.
How long does the tour take?
Day Tour (Red Route): a full circuit takes about 2 hours if you don't hop off the bus.
Sunset Tour (Blue Route): a full circuit takes 1 hour. Please note that the Night Tour isn't a hop-on, hop-off tour.
More Questions & Answers
Do I need to choose a date for my tour?
Yes – when you book, you will need to select the date you’d like to hop on the bus. If you’re touring with us for more than one day, your ticket must be used across consecutive days, and the date you select at time of booking should be the first day of your tour. Some tours also require you to select a time of travel, to secure your seat. If your ticket has extra inclusions, you may also need to book dates and times for these inclusions after your purchase is complete via our Booking Portal. For more information, please see the instructions on your booking confirmation email.
Tell me about Big Bus Tours San Francisco
Big Bus Tours San Francisco operate flexible and exciting city sightseeing tours on open-top double-decker buses. In addition to amazing views of the city's famous landmarks and attractions, guests can enjoy entertaining commentary about the history, culture and architecture of San Francisco, delivered by pre-recorded digital commentary, offered in several languages via complimentary headphones distributed on board the bus. Guests are free to hop on and off the bus tour at any stop, or they can choose to relax and remain on board for the full tour circuit. During the day, discover the city of San Francisco on the Day Tour (Red Route). After dark, don't miss the opportunity to see the sights of the city on the Panoramic Sunset Tour (Blue Route).
What can I see and visit?
During your Big Bus Tour, you'll pass through famous San Francisco neighborhoods like Fisherman's Wharf, Union Square, Haight Ashbury, Golden Gate Park and the Embarcadero. See landmarks like the Transamerica Pyramid, City Hall, and of course, feel the wind in your hair as you travel over the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. Simply hop on to discover, and hop off at any stop to explore further. We stop at over 15 convenient locations, each selected because it provides easy access to an attraction or place of interest. You can hop on and hop off the tour as much as you like, or choose to stay on board for the entire circuit. To read more about San Francisco's landmarks and things to do, visit our Discover San Francisco page. To begin creating your own personalized San Francisco adventure, browse our new range of attraction tickets.
On which days does the tour operate?
The Big Bus tour of San Francisco operates every day of the year.
How do I redeem my ticket?
After you complete your ticket purchase you will receive a booking confirmation email. Please follow the redemption instructions issued in your booking confirmation email.
How does the discount work?
Discounts are only available on tickets purchased online, in advance. Tickets purchased on-street or on the day you intend to travel will be full price. Some special ticket offers are only available for a certain period of time. Please visit our Tickets and Passes page to see discounted pricing.
Is there a discount available for groups?
For information on group discounts please contact us at agentsf@bigbustours.com.
Is it possible to hire one of the open-top buses for a private event?
Yes, buses are available for private hire. Please have a look at our Private Hire page to find out more, or contact us on infoSF@bigbustours.com to discuss your requirements.
What time is the last bus?
The last daytime hop-on, hop-off bus tour departs Stop #1 (San Francisco Visitor Center) at 6:00pm.
How will I know where to get off?
Our commentary will communicate upcoming stops. You can also download our free App for more information on routes and times, and what to see and do at each stop location. The App is available from the App Store or Google Play.
What is the child ticketing policy?
A child ticket is available for children aged between 3 and 12 years. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Children aged 2 years and under may travel free of charge. All passengers aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Strollers and pushchairs must be folded and stowed on the lower deck.
Are accommodations available for persons with disabilities?
Yes, we operate some wheelchair accessible vehicles with ramps that can accommodate up to 650 pounds. However, please be advised that not all of our buses are not wheelchair accessible. If you or your travelling partner(s) require an ADA-accessible vehicle, please contact us at least 48 hours in advance of your tour to confirm. We will then arrange for a suitable vehicle to be available at the time and location required. If you require a different accommodation, please contact us at least 48 hours in advance of your tour so we can make the necessary arrangements for you. Please note that messages left on the office general voicemail do not constitute confirmed arrangements. Please also note that passengers with mobility impairments may not be able to access the upper deck on our buses. We cannot guarantee the accessibility of various landmarks and attractions along the tour.
What is the policy on bringing pets?
No pets are allowed on board the bus, except ADA service animals.
What is the food and drink policy?
No food or alcohol is permitted on board the bus. Non-alcoholic drinks in screw-top bottles are permitted.
Is luggage allowed on board the bus?
No, luggage is not permitted on board the bus.
Can I change the date (and time) of my bus tour?
Yes. If you have a ticket that's 'fully flexible' you can change the date (and time) of your bus tour booking without charge. To make the change, please contact us.
If you don't have a 'fully flexible' ticket, we can still change the date of your bus tour, but please be aware that charges may apply.
If you don't have a 'fully flexible' ticket, we can still change the date of your bus tour, but please be aware that charges may apply.
Is the tour commentary available in my language?
Our San Francisco bus tours feature pre-recorded commentary which offers fascinating insights into the city's history, culture, architecture and landmarks. The commentary is available in the following languages:
Commentary can be accessed via complimentary headphones, distributed when you board the bus. Simply plug them in to the audio transmitter on the seatback and select your preferred language channel. You are also welcome to listen to commentary via your own wired headphones.
- English
- French
- German
- Spanish
- Italian
- Portuguese
- Korean
Commentary can be accessed via complimentary headphones, distributed when you board the bus. Simply plug them in to the audio transmitter on the seatback and select your preferred language channel. You are also welcome to listen to commentary via your own wired headphones.