Palo Alto, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Palo Alto to San Francisco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$1 by busBest price
53 kmDistance
37m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palo Alto 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.
Palo Alto - San Francisco operators
Explore transport companies operating between Palo Alto and San Francisco, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287Website
http://www.caltrain.com
Train from Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound
Average Duration
1h 2mEstimated price
$7-9Website
http://www.samtrans.com
Bus from E Bayshore Rd & Donohoe St to Mission St & 8th St
Average Duration
1h 49mEstimated price
$1-5Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010Website
http://www.taxisanjose.com
Taxi from Palo Alto to San Francisco
Average Duration
37mEstimated price
$180-220Drive from Palo Alto to San Francisco
Average Duration
37mEstimated price
$6-9Palo Alto to San Francisco: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Palo Alto 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 leisurely drive from the bustling city of Palo Alto to the iconic streets of San Francisco, spanning a scenic distance of 33 miles. Enjoy a smooth journey that typically takes around 37 minutes by car, offering ample time to soak in the picturesque views along the route.
💸 Experience affordability and convenience as the prices for a car trip from Palo Alto to San Francisco range between $6 to $9. With cost-effective options available, you can explore the vibrant attractions of San Francisco without breaking the bank, making it an ideal getaway for budget-conscious travelers.
Average price
$6 - $9
🚆 Experience a convenient and scenic train journey 🌉 from Palo Alto 📍 to San Francisco 🌁. Departing from Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound station 🚉, you'll reach San Francisco Caltrain Northbound in approximately 1 hour 2 minutes ⏰. Trains operate daily with departures every 30 minutes 🚄.
🎫 Choose from multiple train options for your trip 🚇, with travel times ranging from 48 minutes to 1 hour 5 minutes ⏱️. Whether it's a quick 48-minute ride with Train Ltd 5 or a slightly longer 1 hour 5-minute journey with Train Local, Caltrain 🚂 offers a reliable and efficient way to travel between these two iconic California cities.
Departure Point
Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Caltrain Northbound station
Useful tips for train travellers
• For your train journey from Palo Alto to San Francisco, consider taking Caltrain, the primary operator for this route. They offer several onboard services including light snacks and beverages from vending machines, as well as Wi-Fi on board. Keep in mind that the availability of catering services may vary, and it’s a good idea to pack some snacks if you prefer a variety of options.
• Caltrain primarily offers three seating options: Standard (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Business Class seats provide more space and complimentary snacks, while First Class offers a quieter environment with extra amenities. If you’re traveling during peak hours, Business Class may be worth considering for a more comfortable ride. Visit Caltrain's official website at caltrain.com
• Upon arriving at the San Francisco station (Caltrain's 4th and King Station), you can easily navigate the area as there are clear signage and information kiosks. Although there are no luggage storage facilities at Caltrain, you can find restrooms on-site. If you need to freshen up, consider nearby cafes or restaurants. For the fastest route to the city center, catch the Muni T line tram from the station, which will take you directly to Castro St in about 15 minutes. Additional information on local transport can be found at sfmta.com
🚌 Traveling from Palo Alto to San Francisco by bus is convenient and affordable. The direct bus route operates three times a day, Monday to Friday, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 49 minutes.
🛤️ The distance covered on this bus trip is around 30.0 miles, offering passengers a comfortable and scenic journey through the Bay Area. The bus services are operated by SamTrans, providing a reliable transportation option for commuters and travelers alike.
💲 Prices for the bus ticket between Palo Alto and San Francisco range from $1 to $5, making it a cost-effective way to travel between these two bustling cities in Northern California. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you make your way from Palo Alto to the vibrant streets of San Francisco.
Departure Point
E Bayshore Rd & Donohoe St station
Arrival Point
Mission St & 8th St station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Palo Alto to San Francisco.
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The distance between Palo Alto and San Francisco is approximately 45.1 km by road. The road distance is slightly longer, at 52.9 km. It typically takes around 35 minutes to drive from Palo Alto to San Francisco by car. Alternatively, it takes about 2 hours and 1 minute to reach San Francisco from Palo Alto by bus.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Palo Alto to San Francisco is by taking the night bus, which typically costs between $1 and $5. This option takes approximately 2 hours and 1 minute. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a taxi, which takes around 37 minutes and costs between $180 and $220.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Francisco and Palo Alto can range from $1 to $5, depending on the specific bus service and the time of day.
To travel from Palo Alto to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 53.1 km which takes around 37 minutes. The cost of this journey by car can vary between $6 to $9 in toll fees.
The best way to travel from Palo Alto to San Francisco without a car is by taking the Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $7 to $9. The Caltrain provides a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between these two cities, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between Palo Alto and San Francisco. You can take a train from Palo Alto Caltrain station to San Francisco Caltrain station, which takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes. There are trains departing every 30 minutes, operating every day. Alternatively, there is an overnight bus option that takes approximately 2 hours and 1 minute, departing from Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 station and arriving at Mission St & 9th St station in San Francisco.
There are numerous accommodation options near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available, visitors have a wide range of choices to suit their needs and budgets. Prices for hotels in the area start at $74 per night, providing affordable options for travelers.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Palo Alto to San Francisco by bicycle. The distance between the two cities by bike is approximately . The travel time will vary depending on factors such as your speed and the route you take, but it usually takes between 2 to 3 hours to complete the journey. Cyclists can enjoy scenic routes such as cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a popular choice for those looking for a more adventurous way to travel between the two cities.