For an easy and often fun way to get around California’s larger cities and communities, do what an increasing number of locals do and hitch a ride on a bus, subway, ferry or light rail system. Using public transportation can be an efficient, affordable, safe and eco-friendly option, particularly in areas where roads, parking and urban traffic can be confusing and frustrating. Some transport systems let you buy multi-day passes. Check ticket options online before you arrive to get the best deals. Two companies, CityPass and Go, also offer deals on local transportation options in San Francisco and Southern California. 

You can also uses buses to take longer trips around the state. Greyhound is the nation’s primary long-distance bus company, offering routes linking big cities and rural destinations state-wide, and heading out of state too.

Here are links to California’s major regional transport organisations. Most offer a variety of travel options, such as buses, subways and light rail, and in some cases, ferries. For more local information on transport options in Northern California, visit 511.org.