San Francisco, CA, USA to Chico, CA, USA from $10: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from San Francisco to Chico: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$10 by trainBest price
263 kmDistance
3h 1m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Chico 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.
San Francisco - Chico operators
Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Chico, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
https://www.flixbus.com
Bus from San Francisco to Sacramento
Average Duration
2h 5mEstimated price
$10-45Bus from Sacramento to Chico Bus Station
Average Duration
2hEstimated price
$10-45Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from Oakland to Chico Amtrak
Average Duration
4h 10mEstimated price
$203-100Train from Richmond to Sacramento
Average Duration
1h 38mEstimated price
$905-2035Train from Sacramento to Chico Amtrak
Average Duration
1h 48mEstimated price
$905-2035Train from Richmond to Chico Amtrak
Average Duration
5h 52mEstimated price
$10-155Website
https://www.united.com
Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Redding (RDD)
Average Duration
1h 11mEstimated price
$204-205Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Sacramento (SMF)
Average Duration
59mEstimated price
$204-206San Francisco to Chico: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between San Francisco and Chico 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 road trip from bustling San Francisco to the charming town of Chico, covering a distance of 163 miles. Enjoy approximately a 3-hour drive through diverse landscapes and picturesque rural vistas.
💸 Prices for the journey from San Francisco to Chico by car range from $29 to $45, offering budget-friendly travel options for every road tripper. Fill up your gas tank, pack some snacks, and hit the road for a pocket-friendly adventure in Northern California.
Average price
$29 - $45
🚂 Traveling from San Francisco to Chico by train requires making a transfer in Oakland. The journey takes about 5 hours and 39 minutes in total.
🚂 Ticket prices for the train between San Francisco and Chico range from $10 to $103, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for this route.
Departure Point
Oakland station
Arrival Point
Chico Amtrak station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip to Chico, you’ll likely be traveling with Amtrak. Onboard services include a café car that offers a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. To make your trip more comfortable, consider pre-purchasing items at the café since popular items can sell out quickly.
• Amtrak trains generally offer a variety of seating options: Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Most likely, you will be in Coach Class which has comfortable reclining seats and large windows for viewing the scenic California countryside. If you want more space and a quieter environment, consider upgrading to Business Class which offers more legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks.
• The primary operator for your route is Amtrak. You can check schedules and book tickets at their website: amtrak.com Another option is the Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG), which provides bus services for connections in the area. More information can be found on their website: bcag.org
🛫 Flying from San Francisco Airport to Redding Airport in Chico is a quick and convenient option with the direct flight taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Redding Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to Chico by bus requires a transfer in Sacramento. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes with Flixbus USA services.
🛤️ The route covers a distance of 191 miles and involves 3 transfers along the way. The total duration of the trip is 8 hours and 10 minutes.
💰 Bus fares between San Francisco and Chico typically range from $20 to $90. Overall, the journey offers a scenic and convenient way to reach Chico from the Bay Area.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Chico Bus Station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Chico.
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The distance between San Francisco and Chico is approximately 224 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes about 5 hours and 39 minutes to reach Chico from San Francisco by train. If you take a train and then a bus, it will take around 5 hours and 59 minutes. By car, it takes about 3 hours and 1 minute to reach San Francisco from Chico. And finally, by bus, it takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes to travel from San Francisco to Chico.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Chico is by train. Although it may take 5h 39m, prices range from $9-$110, making it an affordable choice. However, for those looking for the fastest way to reach Chico, driving is the best option, taking only 3h 1m and costing $29-$45.
The prices for traveling between San Francisco and Chico vary depending on the mode of transportation. For the train, prices can range from $10 to $103. If you choose to take the bus, prices can vary from $20 to $87.
To travel from San Francisco to Chico without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 262 km, which takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute. The driving route offers flexibility and allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. The cost of driving from San Francisco to Chico can vary between $29 to $45, depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and current gas prices.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Chico without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes and the cost ranges from $19 to $90.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Chico via train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 39 minutes, including transfers. There is also a bus service available, which takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes, but it requires a transfer at Sacramento Bus Station.
The flight duration between San Francisco and Chico is approximately 1 hour and 1 minute. This refers to the quickest direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Redding Airport. As for the cost, it varies depending on factors such as the airline, date, and time of booking. On average, flights between these two cities can range from $100 to $300, but prices are subject to change.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Chico. With over 45 hotels available, you'll have plenty of choices to fit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $75 per night, making it accessible for all types of travelers.