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Phoenix, AZ, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $83: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Phoenix, United States of America
to
San Francisco, United States of America

How to Get from Phoenix 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.

$83 by busBest price
1216 kmDistance
3h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Phoenix 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  37m
Estimated price
$48-211
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1216 km
Duration: 3h 37m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$72-383
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  51m
Estimated price
$75-352
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
16h  48m
Estimated price
$83-480
Company
various
Bus
BART
Average Duration
16h  10m
Estimated price
$119-167
Company
n/a
Drive
Average Duration
12h  13m
Estimated price
$481-482
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Phoenix to San Francisco

This journey takes you from the sun-soaked desert of Phoenix, where the heat is bold and the landscapes are arid, to the cool, fog-kissed hills of San Francisco, known for its vibrant culture and iconic coastal views.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its character.

Mission District
• Known for vibrant street art and murals.
• Home to fantastic taquerias and trendy cafes.
North Beach
• Famous for its Italian heritage and dining options.
• Offers stunning views from Coit Tower.
Haight-Ashbury
• Center of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• Features eclectic shops and vintage boutiques.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits to popular attractions can greatly enhance your experience in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early in the morning for fewer tourists and stunning sunrise views.
Alcatraz Island
Plan your trip for midweek afternoons, avoiding the weekend crowds.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Go in the late afternoon for a lively atmosphere and sunset sights.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool summers and chilly winters, making layers essential for any visit. For the best experience, aim for September to November when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are thinner, though be prepared for the infamous fog that can linger throughout the year.

Dining Recommendation

In San Francisco, trying the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf offers a blend of ocean-fresh flavors and local artisanal bread that contrasts sharply with the Southwestern spices you might find in Phoenix. The bustling atmosphere of the waterfront, along with the lively street performers and stunning bay views, creates a dining experience that transcends just the meal.

Phoenix - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$2110-2111

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO) via Las Vegas

Average Duration
3h 48m
Estimated price
$2110-2111
Website
aa.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
2h 14m
Estimated price
$2110-2114

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$2112-2118
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
2h 7m
Estimated price
$2112-2118

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$2112-2118
Website
united.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
2h 13m
Estimated price
$481-2119
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
2h 19m
Estimated price
$750-751
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Phoenix, AZ to Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose

Average Duration
14h 10m
Estimated price
$487-758

Bus from Phoenix to San Jose

Average Duration
14h 10m
Estimated price
$7540-2112
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Santa Clara Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$755-756
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Train from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$752-753

Train from Berryessa / North San Jose to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$754-753

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

Traveling between Phoenix 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 exciting road trip from Phoenix to San Francisco covering a picturesque driving distance of 755 miles. The journey offers stunning desert landscapes and scenic views along the way. 💰 Experience the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $130 to $200 for the road trip from Phoenix to San Francisco. Whether you choose a budget-friendly adventure or opt for a more luxurious journey, the trip promises unforgettable memories. 🌉 Arrive in the iconic city of San Francisco after approximately 12 hours and 13 minutes of driving. Explore its vibrant neighborhoods, indulge in delicious cuisine, and soak in the charm of this eclectic city by the bay.
Average price
$130 - $200
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: For your trip from Phoenix to San Francisco, Amtrak offers a variety of dining options on their trains. Depending on the service class you choose, you can expect a full-service dining car with freshly prepared meals in Sleeper class, while those in Business and Economy can access a café car with snacks, beverages, and lighter meals. Be sure to check Amtrak's website for any updated menus or services.
• Seating Options: Amtrak provides different seating arrangements for this journey. In Economy Class, expect comfortable seats with basic amenities. Business Class offers more spacious seating and complimentary drinks and snacks. If you choose the First Class option in Sleeper Carriages, you'll enjoy private rooms with beds, access to the exclusive lounge, and priority boarding. For more details, visit Amtrak's site at amtrak.com
• Arrival Station Tip: Arriving at San Francisco's historic Transbay Terminal, you will find various amenities such as restrooms. However, free luggage storage is not available at the station. For showers, you might need to seek nearby gyms or hotels. To navigate easily, download the station map available on their website: sfgov.org
• Fastest Way to City Center: To get to San Francisco's city center from the Transbay Terminal, the quickest option is to catch the Muni bus line 5 in front of the terminal. Alternatively, you could take the F-Market Street Car that runs frequently; simply hop on the tram at the terminal for a scenic ride to downtown San Francisco.
🛫 Flying from Phoenix to San Francisco is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that takes just 2 hours. Several airlines, including Frontier Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and American Airlines, offer routes between Phoenix Airport and San Francisco Airport. ✈️ On average, the total flight time from Phoenix to San Francisco is approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes, providing a relatively smooth and efficient travel experience. This allows travelers to reach their destination in a reasonable amount of time, perfect for a weekend getaway or a business trip. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Phoenix can range from $48 to $211, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and travel preferences. With multiple airlines servicing this popular route, finding a suitable and affordable flight should be easily achievable for most travelers.
Departure Point
Phoenix Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Phoenix to San Francisco spanning 775 miles. The trip involves a transfer, starting with a 7-hour 45-minute ride towards Los Angeles Union Station with Greyhound. 🌉 Experience a total travel time of 18 hours 3 mins on another route option, covering a distance of 776 miles with 2 transfers. Begin with a 2-hour 45-minute bus ride to Glendale Transit Ctr, followed by stops at Los Angeles Union Station and finally Berkeley with FlixBus. 🚌 Opt for a 19-hour 15-minute adventure to San Francisco, covering 807 miles with 2 transfers. Travel through cities like Dallas and Sacramento, experiencing different landscapes and cultures along the way with Greyhound, Foothill Transit, and Megabus.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• To make the most of your long journey, ensure you pack snacks and entertainment since the first leg from Phoenix to Los Angeles takes about 7 hours 45 minutes with Greyhound, and there's a transfer involved, potentially causing delays.
• When arriving in San Francisco, expect your bus to drop you off at 5th/Townsend; from there, you can easily catch the Muni light rail or buses to popular destinations like Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf, using schedules available at sfmta.com
• For smoother transfers, familiarize yourself with Los Angeles Union Station by checking out their map before your trip, which you can find at unionstationla.com, ensuring you know where to go for your next bus to San Francisco.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Phoenix to San Francisco is by taking a combination of bus and BART. Greyhound offers bus services from Phoenix to San Francisco, with fares ranging from $75 to $130. The journey takes approximately 17 hours and 57 minutes. This cost-effective option allows you to travel comfortably and enjoy the scenic views along the route.
The fastest way to travel from Phoenix to San Francisco is by plane. The flight duration is approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes, making it the quickest option. The ticket prices for flights range from $40 to $210, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. Flying allows you to reach your destination in a significantly shorter time compared to other modes of transportation.
It is approximately 657 miles from Phoenix to San Francisco. The driving distance is about 755.4 miles. The actual distance may vary depending on the route taken.
The most convenient and affordable way to travel from Phoenix to San Francisco without a car is by taking a combination of bus and BART. You can take a bus from Phoenix to San Jose, which takes approximately 11-12 hours, and then transfer to the BART train from San Jose to San Francisco, which takes around 1-2 hours. The total cost for this journey typically ranges from $110 to $160. Make sure to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
The average travel time from Phoenix to San Francisco is approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes, including any necessary transfers. However, this time may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen and any potential delays. It is always recommended to check the specific schedule and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth journey.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco. There are 835+ hotels available in the area at varying price points. Prices start at $74 per night, making it accessible for different budgets. You can find a range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay during your visit to San Francisco.
Yes, you can drive from Phoenix to San Francisco. The driving distance is approximately 755 miles. However, please note that the journey will take approximately 12 hours and 13 minutes, depending on traffic and other factors. It is advisable to plan for rest stops along the way and consider traffic conditions before embarking on the trip.
To get to San Francisco from Phoenix Airport, you can take a shuttle or a taxi to the Sky Train station located near Terminal 3. From there, take the Sky Train to the 44th Street/Washington light rail station. Transfer to the Valley Metro Rail and take it to the Central Ave/Washington station. From here, you can take the Route 17 bus to Phoenix Greyhound Station. At the station, you can catch a Greyhound bus to San Francisco. The total travel time can vary, but it typically takes around 12-15 hours.
Alaska Airlines, Inc., Frontier Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines all offer flights from Phoenix Airport to San Francisco Airport. These airlines provide various options for travelers to choose from, including different departure times and price ranges. It is advisable to check with each airline for specific details regarding baggage policies, in-flight amenities, and any additional fees.
The fastest way to travel from Phoenix to San Francisco is by plane. The quickest flight takes approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, and there are several airlines that offer direct flights between Phoenix Airport and San Francisco Airport. The total travel time by plane is around 3 hours and 32 minutes. The prices for flights between these two cities range from $43 to $201, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
The flight from Phoenix to San Francisco typically takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes. This is for a direct flight, so it's the quickest option. However, the total travel time may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and airport congestion. It is always recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding flight durations.
The cost of a flight from Phoenix to San Francisco varies depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. On average, prices range from $43 to $201. It is important to book early and compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal. Additionally, be flexible with travel dates and consider flying on weekdays instead of weekends for potentially lower fares.
Driving from Phoenix to San Francisco can cost anywhere between $130 and $200, depending on factors such as gas prices, tolls, and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the approximately 800-mile journey. It is worth considering additional costs such as food, accommodations, and potential parking fees during your stay in San Francisco.

Trips to San Francisco