San Francisco International Airport (SFO) information

Introduction

Consisting of four separate terminals and handling a plethora of domestic flights as well as international flights to Europe, Latin America and the Pacific Rim, San Francisco Airport is one of America's most important transport hubs. The airport is situated roughly 14 miles from the city centre and acts as the gateway to San Francisco, Silicon Valley and the greater Bay area. Terminals 1 to 3 handle domestic flights and flights to Canada, while international flights operate from Terminal 4.

Airport parking at San Francisco

Visitors to San Francisco Airport have the choice of short-term, long-term and valet parking. Short-term parking is available in parking lots A, B, C, D, E, F and G, and garages A and G. Lots A, B and C cater to Terminal 1, lot D caters to Terminal 2 and lots E, F and G cater to Terminal 3. Short-term garages A and G are most convenient for accessing the International Terminal. The AirTrain provides transport between the short-term parking facilities and the terminal buildings. Slightly farther away from the terminals, long-term parking is available and can be accessed by exiting from highway 101 onto San Bruno Avenue East. Transport from the long-term parking area to the terminals is provided by shuttle bus. A valet parking service is offered from parking facilities serving the domestic terminals.

Getting to and from San Francisco

San Francisco Airport is located near the intersection of highways 101 and 380, and is easily accessible by car from the city centre. The quickest route is along highway 380 east, exiting at 101 south to San Jose. When you reach the San Francisco International Airport exit, markers will lead you to the terminals. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) train services travel frequently from the airport station to locations throughout San Francisco, San Mateo County and the East Bay. The train station can be found at the International Terminal and is clearly signposted from the departures level. Alternative transportation options from the airport include buses, minibuses, shuttle services and taxis.

Amenities at San Francisco International Airport

San Francisco Airport is impressive in both magnitude and facilities, with features such as an aquarium, museums, spa services, an aviation library and a Reflection Room - far beyond the scope of amenities at most international airports. The terminals are linked via the AirTrain transportation system, making all facilities easily accessible.

A bank is located in Terminal 3 and ATMs and currency exchange counters are available for quick service. A post office is situated at Terminal 3, while a lost property office is located at Terminal 1 in the Arrivals area. Fax and photocopying services are available at the Airport Travel Agency at the International Terminal, and the Turpen Aviation Museum has extensive conference space. Plentiful shops, restaurants, cafés, fast food outlets and bars can be found throughout all four terminals.

Information counters can be found at all terminals as well as automated information booths at the desks and widespread Travellers' Aid kiosks.