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Monterey, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $13: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Monterey, United States
to
San Francisco, United States

How to Get from Monterey to San Francisco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$13 by busBest price
128 milesDistance
1h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Monterey to San Francisco with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
1h  31m
Estimated price
$162-437
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$13-53
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 128 miles
Duration: 1h 31m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$13-85
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
5h  18m
Estimated price
$13-90
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  4m
Estimated price
$20-30
Company
Monterey Airbus
Drive
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$58-68
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Traveling From Monterey to San Francisco

The journey from Monterey to San Francisco offers a striking contrast between Monterey's serene coastal charm and San Francisco's vibrant urban landscape.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions for visitors.

Mission District
• Renowned for vibrant street murals and art culture.
• Home to diverse dining options and trendy cafes.
Fisherman’s Wharf
• Features fresh seafood restaurants and waterfront views.
• Close to attractions like Pier 39 and Alcatraz.
Haight-Ashbury
• Famous for its hippie history and vintage shops.
• Offers a bohemian atmosphere with eclectic boutiques.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits to San Francisco’s attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or late afternoons offer stunning views with fewer crowds.
Alcatraz Island
Visit during weekdays to enjoy more tranquil tours and better availability.
Lombard Street
Weekdays in the morning provide clearer paths and less congestion along the curves.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild maritime climate, with cool summers influenced by coastal fog and relatively wet winters. Understanding the seasonal weather patterns can help you plan your visit to enjoy the city’s attractions comfortably.

Dining Recommendation

For an unforgettable experience in San Francisco, try the spicy Sichuan hot pot at Little Sheep, where the vibrant flavors and communal dining set a lively contrast to Monterey's seafood-focused cuisine. The energetic atmosphere and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients create a culinary adventure that reflects the city's diverse palate.

Monterey - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Monterey and San Francisco, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$162-437
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to San Francisco

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$11-50
Contact phone
1-888-678-2871
Website
mst.org

Bus from Tyler / Franklin to Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
$2-4
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Salinas to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2-70
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$9-12
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Shuttle from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to SFO Airport International Arrivals

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$45-60

Monterey to San Francisco: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Monterey and San Francisco offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Monterey to San Francisco, spanning 183.5 km of stunning coastal roads and picturesque landscapes. 💸 Experience wallet-friendly travel options, with car transportation costs ranging between $20 to $30 for the trip from Monterey to San Francisco. 🌉 Arrive in the vibrant city of San Francisco after a smooth 2-hour drive full of adventure and memorable moments along the California coast.
Average price
$20 - $30
Useful tips for train travellers
• The Amtrak Cascades service operates between Monterey and San Francisco, offering a Café Car onboard with a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. You can enjoy local specialties like clam chowder and fresh salads while taking in the views.
• For seating options, Amtrak offers Business Class and Economy seats on this route. Business Class provides larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom and access to additional amenities, while Economy Class is cozier and more budget-friendly. You can reserve your preferred seating when booking your ticket at amtrak.com
• Upon arrival at San Francisco's Salesforce Transit Center, you’ll find convenient public transport connections. To reach the city center quickly, take the Muni Metro T-Line or the 5 bus, both available at the Transit Center. The Muni Metro will get you to major areas like Union Square in about 15 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Monterey to San Francisco is a convenient and quick journey, with a direct flight taking just 56 minutes. United Airlines provides flights between Monterey Airport and San Francisco Airport. ✈️ The total duration of the flight from Monterey to San Francisco is approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Monterey can range from $162 to $437, offering passengers different options to suit their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 The journey from Monterey to San Francisco by bus involves transfers and takes approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes. 🚏 Route options for the Monterey to San Francisco bus journey vary in duration, with transfers at different locations such as Salinas and SFO International Terminal. The prices for the bus ticket between the two cities range from $13 to $53, providing travelers with flexible options based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Tyler / Franklin station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When departing from Tyler / Franklin station in Monterey, make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as buses may arrive and depart on time without much notice, and you want to ensure you catch the right bus operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit.
• Prepare for a transfer at Salinas Transit Center; keep an eye on the bus schedules for the Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach to San Francisco, which leaves regularly after the Monterey-Salinas bus, ensuring you don’t have to wait too long. You can check the schedule here: amtrak.com
• Upon arrival in San Francisco at Mission St & 9th St, familiarize yourself with the local public transit options immediately; Muni buses and BART are just a short walk away and can efficiently take you to various neighborhoods, attractions, and hotels. Maps and schedules are available at sfmta.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Monterey to San Francisco.

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The distance between Monterey and San Francisco is approximately 140.0 km by road. Travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking Line 20 bus, then bus, and then Caltrain it takes around 4 hours and 46 minutes to reach San Francisco. By plane, the travel time is approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes, while by ferry it takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. Driving by car, the journey from Monterey to San Francisco typically takes 2 hours and 4 minutes, and taking the bus can take around 4 hours.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option to travel from Monterey to San Francisco would be to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes and costs around $20-$30 for fuel. Other options, such as taking a bus or train, may be cheaper but they also have longer travel times, ranging from 4 hours to almost 5 hours.
The prices for traveling from Monterey to San Francisco differ depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The bus fare ranges from $13 to $53, while the ferry costs between $57 and $68.
To get from Monterey to San Francisco without public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 183.5 km, which takes about 2 hours and 4 minutes. The drive is quite scenic, taking you along the beautiful California coastline. The cost of a car rental or using your own vehicle can range from $20 to $30, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and any tolls along the route.
To travel from Monterey to San Francisco without a car, you have a few options. The most cost-effective way is to take the line 20 bus and a regular bus, which takes around 4 hours and costs $13-$55. Alternatively, you can take a train and then Caltrain, which takes about 5 hours and costs $13-$90. If you prefer a quicker option, you can fly from Monterey to San Francisco, which takes about 2 hours and 32 minutes and costs $160-$430.
Yes, there is a direct link between Monterey and San Francisco, but it involves transfers. You can take a bus from Monterey to Salinas Train Station, and then transfer to another bus that will take you to San Francisco. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours.
The flight between Monterey and San Francisco typically takes 49 minutes. The prices for these flights can vary between $160 and $422.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available, you'll have a wide range of choices to fit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $74, so you can find something suitable for any price range.