Boston, MA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $97: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$97 - PlaneBest price

2708.5 kmDistance

8h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Boston 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.

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Traveling From Boston to San Francisco

The journey from Boston to San Francisco offers a fascinating contrast, with Boston's historic charm and East Coast vibes contrasting sharply with San Francisco's vibrant tech culture and iconic landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Mission District

• Renowned for its vibrant street art.

• Offers top-notch dining and coffee shops.

North Beach

• Known as San Francisco's Little Italy.

• Features lively nightlife and historic cafés.

Haight-Ashbury

• Famous for its 1960s counterculture history.

• Home to vintage shops and eclectic boutiques.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Maximize your experience in San Francisco by visiting attractions during optimal times.

Golden Gate Bridge

Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and stunning sunrise views.

Alcatraz Island

Book your tour for late afternoon; avoid peak tourist times.

Fisherman's Wharf

Explore in the early weekday mornings for a more relaxed atmosphere.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool summers and rainy winters, with fog often gracing the city’s skyline. The best times to visit are typically in the fall, when temperatures are pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor attractions and scenic views.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

When in San Francisco, trying the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf is a memorable experience that showcases the city's coastal flavors, distinctly different from Boston’s traditional clam chowder. The lively atmosphere, combined with fresh local ingredients and breathtaking waterfront views, adds a unique depth to your dining experience.

Boston - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

delta.com

Plane from Boston to San Francisco

Average Duration

7h 11m

Estimated price

$180-340

Plane from Boston to Oakland via Salt Lake City

Average Duration

9h 17m

Estimated price

$220-400

Plane from Boston to Oakland via Los Angeles

Average Duration

10h 20m

Estimated price

$230-400

Plane from Boston to San Jose via Salt Lake City

Average Duration

8h 57m

Estimated price

$210-380

Plane from Boston to San Jose via Minneapolis

Average Duration

8h 45m

Estimated price

$210-380

Plane from Boston to San Jose via Los Angeles

Average Duration

10h 54m

Estimated price

$220-380

Plane from Boston to Sacramento via Salt Lake City

Average Duration

8h 50m

Estimated price

$270-500

Plane from Boston to Sacramento via Minneapolis

Average Duration

8h 57m

Estimated price

$270-500

Plane from Boston to Sacramento via Las Vegas

Average Duration

10h 14m

Estimated price

$280-500

Website

united.com

Plane from Boston to San Francisco

Average Duration

6h 45m

Estimated price

$160-410

Plane from Boston to San Francisco via Denver

Average Duration

8h 46m

Estimated price

$160-410

Plane from Boston to San Jose via Denver

Average Duration

9h 15m

Estimated price

$130-600

Plane from Provincetown to San Francisco via Boston, Denver

Average Duration

10h 33m

Estimated price

$240-750

Plane from Boston to Sacramento via Denver

Average Duration

8h 53m

Estimated price

$140-1100

Website

jetblue.com

Plane from Boston to San Francisco

Average Duration

6h 49m

Estimated price

$130-500

Plane from Boston to Oakland via Las Vegas

Average Duration

11h 20m

Estimated price

$130-600

Plane from Boston to San Jose

Average Duration

6h 41m

Estimated price

$220-650

Plane from Provincetown to San Francisco via Boston

Average Duration

10h 20m

Estimated price

$600-1000

Plane from Provincetown to San Francisco via Hyannis, Boston

Average Duration

15h 55m

Estimated price

$600-1000

Plane from Provincetown to San Francisco via Hyannis, New York JFK

Average Duration

16h 3m

Estimated price

$600-1000

Plane from Boston to Sacramento

Average Duration

6h 30m

Estimated price

$200-1100

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from Boston to San Francisco

Average Duration

6h 56m

Estimated price

$180-500

Website

suncountry.com

Plane from Boston to Oakland via Minneapolis

Average Duration

9h 19m

Estimated price

$200-600

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Boston to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

22h 22m

Estimated price

$40-300

Train from Chicago Union Station to Richmond

Average Duration

48h 3m

Estimated price

$100-650

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Train from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$6-10

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Boston to Port Authority Bus Terminal

Average Duration

4h 20m

Estimated price

$23-65

Bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration

23h

Estimated price

$110-210

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration

34h 30m

Estimated price

$170-320

Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 30m

Estimated price

$30-80

Contact phone

1-800-343-9999

Website

peterpanbus.com

Bus from South Station, Boston, MA to Port Authority Bus Terminal

Average Duration

4h 20m

Estimated price

$5-70

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

Traveling between Boston 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 an epic journey from Boston to San Francisco covering a distance of 5027. 💰 The cost of driving from Boston to San Francisco by car can range from $550 to $850, offering budget-friendly flexibility for your road trip adventure.

Average price

$550 - $850

🚆 The journey from Boston to San Francisco by train involves multiple transfers and takes approximately 3 days and 4 hours. Travelers will need to change trains at locations such as Chicago Union Station and Richmond along the way. 🌁 The picturesque train ride offers passengers a unique and leisurely way to explore the diverse landscapes of the United States, from the bustling cityscapes of the East Coast to the stunning vistas of the West Coast. 💸 Prices for train tickets between Boston and San Francisco can range from $147 to $954, depending on the class of service and booking options.

Departure Point

Boston station

Arrival Point

Richmond station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard Services: Amtrak is the primary operator for this route. They offer a variety of catering services on board, including the Café Car, where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. You'll find options like sandwiches, salads, and hot coffee. Additionally, if you're in a sleeper car, an attendant will bring meals to your compartment as part of your fare.

• Seating Options: Amtrak provides several seating options for your trip. In the Regional routes, you can choose from: Economy Class (standard seating with limited recline), Business Class (more comfortable seating with additional legroom), and First Class (which includes spacious seating and complimentary meals). Be sure to book early to secure the best option based on your preference!

• Arrival Station Tip: You will arrive at the San Francisco station, which is the Transbay Transit Center. While there is no direct luggage storage available at this station, you can use nearby facilities or consider luggage storage services like LuggageHero in the area. The station has clean restrooms, but no showers. To navigate, follow the signs to the Muni Light Rail or Bus services.

• Fastest Way to City Center: From the Transbay Transit Center, the quickest way to reach downtown San Francisco is by taking the Muni Bus. The 5, 7, and 8 buses all connect directly to popular city areas. Alternatively, you can catch the T Line Muni Metro light rail, which provides an easy route to the financial district and Union Square.

🛫 Flying from Boston to San Francisco is made convenient by several airlines offering direct flights that take approximately 6 hours and 41 minutes. ✈️ Travelers can choose from airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Delta, JetBlue Airways, and United Airlines for their journey between Boston Airport and San Francisco Airport, with a total flight duration of around 8 hours and 11 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Boston range from $120 to $428, providing options for different budgets as you plan your trip out west.

Departure Point

Boston Airport

Arrival Point

San Francisco Airport

🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Boston to San Francisco, you can embark on a scenic journey with multiple transfers. The trip involves stops at places like Port Authority Bus Terminal, St Louis Bus Station, Las Vegas Amtrak Bus Stop, and Bakersfield Train Station. 🌉 The total travel time from Boston to San Francisco by bus, including transfers, is approximately 3 days and 7 hours. 🗺️ Greyhound USA operates the Boston to San Francisco bus services, offering a convenient option for travelers looking to experience a cross-country bus adventure. This mode of transport allows you to soak in the beauty of the United States as you make your way from the East Coast to the West Coast.

Departure Point

Boston station

Arrival Point

San Francisco Bus Station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Make sure to check the schedules and plan your transfers when traveling through major hubs like the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York and the St Louis Bus Station; you can find up-to-date information on Greyhound's website here.

• While transiting in Las Vegas, don’t miss the chance to explore the area for a few hours; the Greyhound station is at 200 S Main St, which is close to the Fremont Street Experience—a great place for dining and entertainment.

• Upon arrival at the San Francisco Bus Station, be prepared to navigate the station, which is located at 200 Folsom St; utilize the Muni transit options readily available outside to reach various parts of the city, including links to BART for easier access to the Bay Area, and check the current schedules on the SFMTA website here.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Boston and San Francisco is approximately 4359.7 km by air and 5027.6 km by road. By plane, the typical travel time is around 8 hours and 7 minutes. By train, it takes approximately 11 hours and 10 minutes, including a flight from Boston to Sacramento and then a train to San Francisco.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Boston to San Francisco is to fly and take the BART system, which can cost between $90 and $350 and takes approximately 9 hours and 47 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to reach San Francisco from Boston is by flying, which takes around 8 hours and 7 minutes and can cost between $110 and $410.

The prices for traveling from Boston to San Francisco by train range from $147 to $954. On the other hand, the prices for traveling by bus vary from $346 to $766.

If you want to travel from Boston to San Francisco without using public transportation, your best option is to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 5027.6 km, which would take approximately 2 days of driving. The cost of driving from Boston to San Francisco can vary, with prices ranging from $550 to $850, depending on factors such as fuel costs and accommodations along the way.

The most convenient way to travel from Boston to San Francisco without a car is by taking a combination of bus and train. This journey typically takes around 2 days and 23 hours, with fares ranging from $110 to $850. If you prefer a faster option, you can also choose to fly, which takes about 8 hours and 7 minutes, with ticket prices starting at $110.

There is no direct train or bus link between Boston and San Francisco. The train journey takes approximately 3 days and 4 hours, with transfers in Chicago and Richmond. Similarly, the bus journey takes approximately 3 days and 6 hours, with transfers in New York, St Louis, and Los Angeles. However, there are other modes of transportation available, such as flying, which takes around 8 hours and 7 minutes.

The flight duration between Boston and San Francisco typically takes around 6 hours and 37 minutes on a direct flight. However, the prices for this flight can range from $110 to $407, depending on the airline, time of travel, and booking conditions.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget. Prices start at $74 per night for basic accommodations, but there are also luxurious hotels available for those looking for a more upscale experience.