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Tucson, AZ, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $95: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Tucson 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.

$95 by busBest price
1221 kmDistance
3h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tucson 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  12m
Estimated price
$174-522
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
22h  50m
Estimated price
$42-348
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1221 km
Duration: 3h 12m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
21h  33m
Estimated price
$89-180
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
21h  26m
Estimated price
$95-157
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
14h  1m
Estimated price
$150-230
Company
Various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
6h  11m
Estimated price
$183-544
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  35m
Estimated price
$196-593

Traveling From Tucson to San Francisco

Embarking on a journey from Tucson's desert landscapes to San Francisco's iconic skyline offers you a vivid contrast between sun-soaked days and vibrant city life.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct vibe.

Mission District
• Renowned for vibrant murals and street art.
• Home to fantastic taquerias and trendy cafes.
North Beach
• A hub for Italian culture and cuisine.
• Features the historic City Lights Bookstore.
Haight-Ashbury
• Famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture.
• Boasts eclectic shops and vintage clothing stores.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at San Francisco's highlights.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or weekdays offer stunning views with fewer crowds.
Alcatraz Island
Visit in the late afternoon for a quieter tour and beautiful sunsets.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Weekdays in the early fall provide pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild, Mediterranean climate with cool summers and mild winters, making it a comfortable destination year-round. Visiting during late spring and early fall typically offers the best weather, while fog and chill can influence your travel plans, especially near the coast.

Dining Recommendation

You can’t visit San Francisco without savoring the renowned clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, where the briny, fresh flavors differ strikingly from Tucson’s spicy Southwestern fare. The lively atmosphere by the waterfront and the use of local seafood create a unique dining experience that captures the essence of the city.

Tucson - San Francisco operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+52 644 410 2444
Website
tufesa.com.mx

Bus from Tucson to San Jose

Average Duration
16h 20m
Estimated price
$85-140

Bus from Tucson to Merced

Average Duration
16h 10m
Estimated price
$75-130
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Tucson to Merced

Average Duration
14h 25m
Estimated price
$110-160
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Merced Bus Stop to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$14-50
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Tucson Amtrak Station to Los Angeles

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$21-180

Train from Los Angeles to Oakland

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$19-170
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
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
$9-12
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Tucson (TUS) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
$174-522

Plane from Tucson (TUS) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$196-593

Plane from Tucson (TUS) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
6h 11m
Estimated price
$183-544
Website
aa.com

Plane from Tucson to San Francisco

Average Duration
4h 22m
Estimated price
$170-800
Website
delta.com

Plane from Tucson to San Francisco

Average Duration
4h 31m
Estimated price
$140-460
Website
united.com

Plane from Tucson to San Francisco

Average Duration
2h 29m
Estimated price
$160-650

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

Traveling between Tucson 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 road trip from the desert landscapes of Tucson to the vibrant city of San Francisco - spanning a distance of 872 miles. Enjoy the diverse scenery as you make your way through the Southwest and up the California coast. 💰 Prices for the journey by car range from $150 to $230, providing flexibility for different budgets and travel preferences. Plan your stops wisely to explore charming towns, scenic viewpoints, and delicious dining options along the route. ⏳ Relax and take your time during the 14-hour drive from Tucson to San Francisco, allowing for memorable pit stops, photo opportunities, and a sense of adventure as you uncover the beauty and charm of the American West. 🌟
Average price
$150 - $230
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Tucson to San Francisco with Amtrak. While there is no direct route, you'll travel through Los Angeles and Lake Merritt before arriving in the vibrant city by the bay. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the approximately 22-hour and 50-minute ride. 💰 Ticket prices for the Tucson to San Francisco train journey can range from $42 to $348, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and preferences. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly ride or a more luxurious experience, Amtrak provides a convenient and scenic transportation option for your trip to the Golden Gate City.
Departure Point
Tucson Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Oakland station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: When traveling from Tucson to San Francisco, you'll likely be using Amtrak for your journey. Amtrak offers a range of catering services including a café car that serves light snacks, beverages, and meals. In the dining car, if available, you can enjoy more substantial meals. If you're a sleeper car passenger, you'll often find complimentary meals included in your ticket.
Seating Options: Amtrak provides a variety of seating options on this route. You can choose from Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class (when available). Coach Class is the most economical and offers basic amenities. Business Class offers larger seats and extra legroom. If you opt for First Class, you can enjoy premium amenities including a more spacious seat and complimentary meals. Check Amtrak's official website for real-time availability and pricing.
Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive in San Francisco, you will likely be at the San Francisco Amtrak station (Emeryville). Luggage services are not directly available at this station, but you can use the nearby bus and BART services to reach downtown. Facilities such as restrooms are available, but showers are not provided. As for navigating, keep your ticket handy to show bus operators if needed.
🛫 Flying from Tucson to San Francisco is a convenient and efficient journey. The quickest direct flight takes just 2 hours and 26 minutes, allowing travelers to reach their destination in no time. 💸 Depending on the time of booking and availability, the prices for flights between San Francisco and Tucson can range from $174 to $522. It's recommended to plan ahead and compare prices to secure the best deal for your trip to the breathtaking city by the bay.
Departure Point
Tucson Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Tucson to San Francisco, travelers can still make the journey with multiple transfers. 🌉 The approximately 21-hour trip includes stops at Laos Transit Center, Tucson and finally the San Francisco Bus Station. 🕒 It's a long but scenic route from the desert of Arizona to the bustling city by the bay in California. 🌵 The prices for the bus ride between Tucson and San Francisco can vary, ranging from $89 to $180. 🎟️ With a total distance of 831 miles, the journey involves 3 transfers along the way. 🚎 Travelers will switch buses in locations such as Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Indio before reaching their final destination in San Francisco.
Departure Point
Tucson station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Tucson to San Francisco is by taking a bus from Tucson to Oakland and then using BART to reach San Francisco. The bus fare ranges from $80 to $150, depending on the provider and time of travel. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 35 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Tucson to San Francisco is by flying. There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights between Tucson International Airport and San Francisco International Airport. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes. Prices for flights can range from $120 to $650 depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability.
The distance from Tucson to San Francisco is approximately 759 miles. This is the direct distance between the two cities. However, if you are planning to drive, the road distance is approximately 872 miles. Please note that road conditions and traffic can affect travel times, so it is advisable to plan accordingly. Additionally, there are also other modes of transportation available such as flying or taking a train, which may have varying distances and travel times.
The best way to travel from Tucson to San Francisco without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that offer routes between the two cities, with travel times averaging around 21 hours and 33 minutes. The cost of a bus ticket can range from $75 to $170, depending on the company and the time of travel. It is a convenient and affordable option for those who prefer not to drive.
The travel time from Tucson to San Francisco is approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes, including transfers. This can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen, such as a direct flight or driving. It is always a good idea to check for any potential delays or traffic conditions before starting the journey.
The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Tucson to San Francisco is by flying. The flight takes about 4 hours and 35 minutes and prices range from $120 to $650 depending on the airline and time of booking. If you prefer land travel, you can take a bus, which takes around 21 hours and 33 minutes with fares ranging from $75 to $170. Another option is taking the train, which takes approximately 22 hours and 50 minutes and costs between $40 and $350.
Yes, you can drive from Tucson to San Francisco. The driving distance is approximately 872 miles, which would take roughly 14 hours and 1 minute. However, please note that the travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and any stops you make along the way. It is advisable to plan for rest breaks and consider the cost of gas and potential toll fees before embarking on the trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Tucson and San Francisco. However, there are bus services available that require transfers. The journey starts at Alvernon/Broadway in Tucson and ends at the San Francisco Bus Station, with transfers at Laos Transit Center and Merced Bus Stop. This journey takes approximately 21 hours and 33 minutes, including the transfers.
To catch the bus from Tucson to San Francisco you would need to go to the Tucson station. The bus services are operated by Tufesa. Ensure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station on time to catch the bus to San Francisco.
The bus from Tucson to San Francisco arrives at the San Francisco Bus Station. This station is located at 200 Folsom St, San Francisco 94105. It is a centrally located station that provides easy access to various parts of the city. From there, travelers can explore San Francisco and its surrounding areas using public transportation or other modes of transportation.
Several airlines offer flights between Tucson and San Francisco. The airlines include United Airlines, Delta, Alaska Airlines, Inc., as well as two other airlines. These airlines operate regular flights from Tucson Airport to San Francisco Airport. Travelers can choose from a range of options and schedules provided by these carriers for their journey between the two cities. It is recommended to compare prices and check for any additional fees or restrictions before booking the flight.
The fastest way to travel from Tucson to San Francisco is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight from Tucson Airport to San Francisco Airport takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes. Airlines such as United Airlines, Delta, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and a few others offer flights between the two cities. The prices for flights can range from $128 to $611, depending on the airline and time of travel.
The flight from Tucson to San Francisco typically takes around 2 hours and 22 minutes on a direct flight. However, please note that actual flight times may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific airline you choose. It is always recommended to check with the airline directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight durations.
Trains from Tucson to San Francisco arrive at the Oakland station. It is important to note that there is no direct train service from Tucson to San Francisco. Passengers will need to take the train to Oakland and then transfer to other forms of transportation, such as a bus or BART, to reach San Francisco. The Oakland station is conveniently located and offers easy access to various transportation options to complete the journey to San Francisco.
Yes, there is no direct train between Tucson and San Francisco. However, you can take a train from Tucson Amtrak Station to San Francisco with transfers at Los Angeles and Lake Merritt. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 50 minutes. The train offers a comfortable and scenic option for travel between the two cities.
To catch the train from Tucson to San Francisco you will need to go to the Tucson Amtrak Station. This is where the train services, operated by Amtrak, depart from. Be sure to check the train schedule and arrive at the station in advance to ensure a smooth departure. The train journey offers a scenic route and a comfortable mode of transportation to San Francisco.
The cost of a flight from Tucson to San Francisco can vary depending on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book your flight. On average, prices for a one-way flight range from $128 to $611. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and use online travel websites to find the best deals. Additionally, booking your flight well in advance or being flexible with your travel dates can help you secure a lower fare.
The cost of a train ticket from Tucson to San Francisco can range from $42 to $348, depending on the class of service and availability. Prices tend to be higher for sleeper cars and lower for coach seats. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best fares.
The cost of a bus ticket from Tucson to San Francisco can range from $79 to $170, depending on the bus company and the time of travel. The prices may also vary based on whether you choose a direct or indirect route. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost to drive from Tucson to San Francisco can vary depending on various factors such as gas prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency. On average, the cost can range between $150 to $230 for a round trip. This estimate includes fuel expenses for the approximately 1000-mile journey. It is important to note that this estimate does not include any additional costs for accommodations, meals, or parking during the trip.

Trips to San Francisco