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San Francisco, CA, USA to Vancouver from $85: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Francisco, United States
to
Vancouver, Canada

How to Get from San Francisco to Vancouver: 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.

$85 by busBest price
1007 milesDistance
5h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Vancouver 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  21m
Estimated price
$111-414
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$78-410
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1007 miles
Duration: 5h 21m

See more options

Company
Flixbus USA, Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
23h  45m
Estimated price
$85-290
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
28h  23m
Estimated price
$85-290
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$103-465
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  37m
Estimated price
$117-470
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
8h  15m
Estimated price
$172-688
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
16h  33m
Estimated price
$210-320
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Vancouver

Expect a fascinating contrast as you journey from San Francisco's iconic hills and vibrant cultural scene to Vancouver's stunning waterfronts and serene natural landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Vancouver

Vancouver boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Gastown
• Historic district with unique cobblestone streets.
• Famous for the iconic Gastown Steam Clock.
Granville Island
• Vibrant market with artisan food and crafts.
• Stunning waterfront views and artistic spaces.
West End
• Close to English Bay Beach and Stanley Park.
• Diverse dining options reflecting global cuisines.

Best Times To Visit Vancouver's Attractions

Planning your visits around peak times can enhance your Vancouver experience.

Stanley Park
Early mornings during weekdays offer tranquility and fewer visitors.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy shorter lines and beautiful lighting.
Granville Island Public Market
Weekday mornings are quieter, allowing for leisurely exploration and tastings.

Vancouver Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Vancouver enjoys a temperate climate with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers, making it an appealing destination year-round. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan your activities better, from soaking up the sun at the beaches in summer to exploring the city's vibrant fall foliage.

Dining in Vancouver: A Culinary Journey

Experience the distinct flavors of Vancouver by indulging in a plate of local spot prawns at Blue Water Cafe, where freshness meets sustainability. Unlike the diverse but often fusion-driven cuisine in San Francisco, Vancouver’s focus on fresh, ocean-sourced ingredients creates a dining atmosphere that celebrates the region's unique maritime bounty.

San Francisco - Vancouver operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Francisco to Vancouver

Average Duration
4h 38m
Estimated price
$180-700

Plane from San Francisco to Vancouver via Seattle

Average Duration
4h 38m
Estimated price
$180-700

Plane from Oakland to Vancouver via Seattle

Average Duration
5h 56m
Estimated price
$190-600

Plane from Oakland to Vancouver via Portland

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$190-600
Website
aircanada.com

Plane from San Francisco to Vancouver

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$140-650

Plane from Oakland to Vancouver via Seattle

Average Duration
3h 59m
Estimated price
$220-650

Plane from Sacramento to Vancouver

Average Duration
2h 7m
Estimated price
$230-750

Plane from Sacramento to Vancouver via San Francisco

Average Duration
4h 44m
Estimated price
$270-950
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco to Vancouver

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$140-650

Plane from Oakland to Vancouver via Seattle

Average Duration
3h 59m
Estimated price
$220-650

Plane from Sacramento to Vancouver

Average Duration
2h 7m
Estimated price
$230-750

Plane from Sacramento to Vancouver via San Francisco

Average Duration
4h 44m
Estimated price
$270-950
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Oakland to Bellingham

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$180-600

Plane from Oakland to Seattle

Average Duration
2h 7m
Estimated price
$85-360
Website
delta.com

Plane from San Francisco to Vancouver

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
$160-750

Plane from Oakland to Vancouver via Salt Lake City

Average Duration
5h 43m
Estimated price
$270-950

Plane from Oakland to Vancouver via Los Angeles

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
$240-850

Plane from Sacramento to Vancouver via Seattle

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$220-900

Plane from Sacramento to Vancouver via Salt Lake City

Average Duration
5h 8m
Estimated price
$270-950
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$3-75

Train from Seattle to Vancouver

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$6-95

Train from Oakland to Seattle

Average Duration
22h 24m
Estimated price
$35-280
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Seattle Bus Station to Vancouver

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$15-55

Bus from San Francisco to Vancouver via Sacramento and Seattle Bus Station

Average Duration
23h 45m
Estimated price
$85-290
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$10-45

Bus from Sacramento to Seattle Bus Station

Average Duration
15h 40m
Estimated price
$60-190
Contact phone
1.800.665.2122
Website
quickcoach.com

Bus from Bellingham Airport to River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$25-35

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Vancouver 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.

🌉 Starting your journey in San Francisco, prepare for an epic road trip covering 1536.9 km to reach the vibrant city of Vancouver. The drive of approximately 16 hours and 33 minutes promises breathtaking scenery and exciting adventures along the way. 🚗 Depending on factors like fuel costs and accommodation choices, the price for your road trip from San Francisco to Vancouver typically ranges between $210 to $320. ⛰️ As you traverse the diverse landscapes of California, Oregon, and Washington on this West Coast road trip, you'll witness the stunning beauty of the Pacific Northwest before finally arriving in the picturesque city of Vancouver.
Average price
$210 - $320
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Amtrak Cascades route from San Francisco to Vancouver include a café car that offers a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages. Be sure to try the local Pacific Northwest wines and keep an eye out for seasonal offerings on the menu. Meals can be purchased at reasonable prices, and there are vegetarian options available. Also, access to Wi-Fi is provided in certain parts of the train.
• The Amtrak Cascades service on this route offers various types of seating; in particular, First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides spacious seating and meal services, while Business Class features more legroom and upgraded amenities. Economy Class is comfortable and budget-friendly, but make sure to book early for the best selection of seats.
• The main operators for this route are Amtrak and VIA Rail Canada. For your journey, you can visit their websites for schedules and bookings: Amtrak Cascades - amtrak.com VIA Rail - viarail.ca Additionally, you can find useful local transport schedules and maps at the TransLink website: translink.ca Upon arrival in Vancouver at Pacific Central Station, you can leave luggage at the convenience store for short periods while you explore the area, which is convenient for last-minute sightseeing.
A direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Vancouver Airport takes just 2 hours and 23 minutes with options from multiple airlines. ✈️ Enjoy a smooth journey as WestJet, Flair Airlines, Air Canada, and others offer flights between these beautiful cities. The average flight duration from San Francisco to Vancouver is 5 hours and 21 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Vancouver and San Francisco range from $111 to $414, providing flexibility for your travel budget while exploring the stunning destinations on the West Coast.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Vancouver Airport
🚌 Embark on an adventurous bus journey from San Francisco to Vancouver with transfers in Sacramento and Seattle Bus Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 23 hours and 45 minutes. 🌉 Traverse a distance of 1590.0 km over the course of 2 transfers during the 1 day and 5-hour trip. Step 1 involves traveling from San Francisco to Sacramento Greyhound bus station, while Step 2 takes you from Sacramento to Seattle. The final leg, Step 3, transports you from Seattle to Vancouver. 💰 Prices for the bus ride between Vancouver and San Francisco range from $85 to $290.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Vancouver station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The most cost-effective option to travel from San Francisco to Vancouver is by train, with prices ranging from $40 to $380. However, this option takes the longest time, with a travel time of 28 hours and 53 minutes. On the other hand, the fastest option is to fly, which takes only 5 hours and 18 minutes, but the cost ranges from $110 to $400.
The prices for a train journey from San Francisco to Vancouver can range from $44 to $378, depending on the type of ticket and class of travel.
To get from San Francisco to Vancouver without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 1537 km. It takes around 16 hours and 33 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Vancouver. The cost of driving can vary, with prices ranging from $210 to $320.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Vancouver without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 27 hours and 16 minutes. Another option is to fly, which takes around 5 hours and 18 minutes and typically costs between $110 and $400. Lastly, there is the option to take a train, which takes 28 hours and 53 minutes and costs between $40 and $380.
There is no direct link between San Francisco and Vancouver by train. However, there are train services available that include transfers in Oakland and Seattle, with a total travel time of approximately 28 hours and 53 minutes. Similarly, there is no direct bus service, but buses can be taken with transfers in Sacramento and Seattle, taking approximately 27 hours and 16 minutes.
The flight between San Francisco and Vancouver typically takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific flight and any layovers. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $110 to $394, depending on factors such as the airline, class of service, and how far in advance you book your ticket.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Vancouver. With over 740 hotels to choose from, you'll be able to find something that suits your preferences and budget. Prices start at $47, so there are options available for different price ranges.