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Reno, NV, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $14: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Reno, United States
to
San Francisco, United States

How to Get from Reno 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.

$14 by trainBest price
299.3 kmDistance
3h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reno 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  6m
Estimated price
$97-346
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
8h  21m
Estimated price
$14-114
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 299.3 km
Duration: 3h 4m

See more options

Company
FlixBus, Capitol Corridor
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
$20-134
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
6h  35m
Estimated price
$20-75
Company
Amtrak Thruway, Capitol Corridor
Bus
Train
Average Duration
6h  42m
Estimated price
$20-140
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
4h  35m
Estimated price
$86-398
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
3h  4m
Estimated price
$134-817

Traveling From Reno to San Francisco

The journey from Reno to San Francisco offers a fascinating contrast between the tranquil, high-desert vibes of Reno and the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of San Francisco's urban landscape.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco's neighborhoods each offer distinct charm and character for visitors.

Mission District
• Renowned for its vibrant street art and murals.
• Home to delicious taquerias and trendy cafes.
Fisherman's Wharf
• Famous for fresh seafood and lively waterfront views.
• Offers access to Alcatraz Island tours.
Chinatown
• One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America.
• Features unique shops, markets, and authentic cuisine.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits can make a significant difference in your San Francisco experience.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early morning or late afternoon offers fewer crowds and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Midweek visits typically have smaller crowds, enhancing the immersive experience.
Fisherman's Wharf
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and shorter lines.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco's climate is characterized by cool, foggy summers and mild, wet winters, making layering essential for comfort throughout the year. Visiting during September and October often brings the warmest weather and clearer skies, enhancing your exploration of the city's iconic sights.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Don't miss out on savoring the famous Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, where the freshness of local seafood shines. This contrasts with Reno's hearty, land-locked cuisine, offering you a vibrant dining experience infused with the essence of the Pacific Ocean.

Reno - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reno 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 Reno (RNO) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$150-600
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Reno (RNO) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$95-330

Plane from Reno (RNO) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$90-320
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Reno to Richmond

Average Duration
7h 23m
Estimated price
$9-110

Train from Sacramento to Richmond

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$3-75
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Train from Coliseum to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$3-5

Train from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$6-10
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Reno Downtown to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$13-55

Bus from Reno Downtown to San Francisco

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$20-75
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Reno Amtrak to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$24-70

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

Traveling between Reno 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 picturesque road trip from Reno to San Francisco, covering a distance of 352.4 km in about 3 hours and 46 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $40 to $60 for a drive from Reno to San Francisco by car.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚆 The train journey from Reno to San Francisco involves a transfer at Richmond station, adding a touch of adventure to your trip. The total travel time is approximately 8 hours and 21 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the Reno to San Francisco train range from $14 to $114, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to experience the charm of a train ride between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Reno station
Arrival Point
Richmond station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your journey from Reno to San Francisco include dining options provided by Amtrak. They offer a café car where you can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and hot meals. Amtrak also provides complimentary coffee and tea in their Acela business class service, which could be an option depending on your selected train service.
• The primary train operator for this route is Amtrak, which offers several seating options including Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. In Coach Class, you can expect comfortable reclining seats and access to power outlets. Business Class provides larger seats with more legroom and complimentary snacks and beverages. Check Amtrak's website for booking and more details: Amtrak.
• Upon arriving at the Embarcadero station in San Francisco, expect to find ample facilities. However, note that there are no luggage storage options on-site. You can use restrooms located in the station but not showers. To navigate the city easily upon arrival, the fastest way to reach the city center is by taking the Muni Metro. The F-Line streetcar services runs directly from the Embarcadero station to various stops in the downtown area, which is incredibly convenient. For further local transport schedules, refer to the SFMTA website.
🛫 Traveling from Reno to San Francisco by plane is a convenient and quick option, with the shortest direct flight lasting only 1 hour and 16 minutes. United Airlines provides flights between Reno Airport and San Francisco Airport. 🌉 The flight duration from Reno to San Francisco is approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes, allowing for a comfortable journey across states. 💸 Flight prices for the route between San Francisco and Reno can range from $97 to $346, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the fare that suits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Reno Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Depart from Reno Amtrak station and arrive at San Francisco Bus Station on a direct bus operated by Greyhound USA. The journey, which runs three times a day, takes approximately 6 hours and 35 minutes. 💸 Prices for the bus ride between Reno and San Francisco range from $20 to $75, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore these two popular destinations in the United States.
Departure Point
Reno Amtrak station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Upon arrival at the San Francisco Bus Station, take advantage of the nearby public transportation options, including Muni and BART; check out the Muni schedules and maps at https://www.sfmta.com/ for easy navigation around the city.

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Reno and San Francisco is approximately 300.9 km by air or 352.9 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation vary. It takes about 8 hours and 20 minutes by train, 6 hours and 41 minutes by bus and train combination, 5 hours and 19 minutes by plane, and 3 hours and 46 minutes by car to reach San Francisco from Reno.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Reno to San Francisco is by train, with tickets ranging from $13 to $120. However, this option takes the longest time, approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes. For a faster option, driving is the best choice, taking only 3 hours and 46 minutes with costs ranging from $40 to $60.
The prices for traveling from Reno to San Francisco by train vary from $14 to $114. Alternatively, the prices for taking a bus between San Francisco and Reno range from $20 to $110.
To travel from Reno to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 352.4 km by car. The journey takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Rental cars can be easily obtained from Reno, and the cost typically ranges from $40 to $60 for the trip.
The best way to travel from Reno to San Francisco without a car is to take the Burner Express Bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and ticket prices range from $20 to $110.
Yes, there is a direct link between Reno and San Francisco. While there is no direct train service, you can take a train from Reno to San Francisco with a transfer in Richmond, which takes approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus service that operates once daily from Reno Airport to San Francisco, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours.
The flight between Reno and San Francisco typically takes around 1 hour and 17 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $86 to $383.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices start at $74 per night, so you can find affordable options as well as luxury ones.