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Foster City, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Foster City, United States of America
to
San Francisco, United States of America

How to Get from Foster City 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.

$1 by busBest price
35 kmDistance
24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Foster City 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
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$1-5
Recommended
route map
Distance: 35 km
Duration: 24m

See more options

Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
2h  44m
Estimated price
$2-10
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$3-6
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
1h  18m
Estimated price
$6-12
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$120-150
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Traveling From Foster City to San Francisco

The journey from quiet, serene Foster City to the vibrant energy of San Francisco offers a striking contrast in experiences, allowing you to transition from peaceful waterfront views to the bustling cityscape filled with iconic landmarks.

Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco is defined by its diverse and vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Mission District
• Famous for its colorful murals and street art.
• Offers a variety of trendy eateries and coffee shops.
Fisherman’s Wharf
• Known for fresh seafood and lively street performances.
• Home to historic ships and stunning bay views.
Chinatown
• One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the U.S.
• Features vibrant shops and authentic Chinese cuisine.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in San Francisco's iconic attractions.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer tourists and beautiful light.
Alcatraz Island
Book the first ferry of the day to beat the crowds and enjoy quieter exploration.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Weekdays, especially in the morning, provide a more relaxed atmosphere.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild coastal climate with cool summers and chilly winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are typically during the fall and spring when the weather is most agreeable, though the famous fog can impact visibility and your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Indulge in the fresh Dungeness crab at Fisherman’s Wharf, where the vibrant atmosphere and bustling seafood markets create a lively dining experience that contrasts sharply with the more laid-back eateries in Foster City. The use of locally sourced ingredients and the focus on bold, coastal flavors brings a unique twist to your culinary journey.

Foster City - San Francisco operators

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

Bus
Website
samtrans.com

Bus from Edgewater Blvd & E Hillsdale Blvd to Mission St & 8th St

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$1-5

Bus from Metro Center Blvd & Vintage Park Dr to 28th Ave & Hillsdale Station

Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$1-5

Bus from W Hillsdale Blvd & Edison St-Bay 6 to Mission St & 9th St

Average Duration
2h 1m
Estimated price
$1-5
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Hillsdale Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$5-8
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
yellowcabsf.com

Taxi from Foster City to San Francisco

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$120-150

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

Traveling between Foster City 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.

🚗 Setting out from the peaceful shores of Foster City, the scenic drive to bustling San Francisco spans just 22 miles, promising a quick and enjoyable journey through the Bay Area. 💸 With prices ranging between $3 and $6 for the trip, embarking on this road adventure proves to be not only convenient but also affordable, making it an accessible option for travelers of all budgets.
Average price
$3 - $6
🚌 The journey from Foster City to San Francisco by bus is a convenient and affordable option offered by SamTrans. The direct bus route takes approximately 50 minutes to complete. 🚌 Operating once daily on weekdays, the bus service departs from Edgewater Blvd & E Hillsdale Blvd in Foster City and arrives at Mission St & 8th St in San Francisco. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride while admiring the scenery during the short journey. 🚌 With fares ranging from $1 to $5, passengers can easily access San Francisco from Foster City without the hassle of driving or parking. Sit back, relax, and let SamTrans take you from one city to the next swiftly and safely.
Departure Point
Edgewater Blvd & E Hillsdale Blvd station
Arrival Point
Mission St & 8th St station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Foster City to San Francisco.

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The distance between Foster City and San Francisco is 17 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 22 miles. Typical travel times by various modes of transportation vary. It takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach San Francisco from Foster City by taking the Line 251 bus and then the Caltrain. The travel time by car or bus in the opposite direction, from Foster City to San Francisco, is not specified.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Foster City to San Francisco is by bus, which costs between $1 and $5, with a travel time of approximately 49 minutes. This is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. However, if you're looking for a quicker journey, taking a taxi is the most time-efficient option, with a travel time of around 24 minutes. Though it is more expensive, costing between $120 and $150, it can be worth it if time is a priority for you.
When traveling from Foster City to San Francisco, the prices for a bus ticket can range from $1 to $5. The specific cost may depend on factors such as the time of day, the bus company, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with the bus service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Foster City to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the 22-mile distance, which typically takes around 24 minutes. This option provides flexibility and convenience as you can travel at your own pace and potentially make stops along the way. The price for this journey by car varies between $3 to $6, depending on factors such as toll fees and fuel consumption.
The easiest way to travel from Foster City to San Francisco without a car is by taking the bus. It typically takes around 49 minutes and the bus fare ranges from $1 to $5. There are several bus routes available that can take you directly to San Francisco, providing a convenient and affordable mode of transportation.
Yes, there is a direct link between Foster City and San Francisco. SamTrans operates a bus service that departs from Edgewater Blvd & E Hillsdale Blvd in Foster City and arrives at Mission St & 8th St in San Francisco. The bus journey takes approximately 49 minutes and operates once daily from Monday to Friday. This provides a convenient and direct transportation option for travelers between Foster City and San Francisco.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco, with over 835 hotels available. Prices start at $74, offering a range of choices to fit different budgets. Some popular areas to consider staying include Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Embarcadero, as they are centrally located and offer easy access to attractions and transportation options. It is advisable to book in advance, as San Francisco is a popular tourist destination and hotels can fill up quickly.
Yes, you can get from Foster City to San Francisco by bicycle. The route typically includes biking on dedicated bike paths and roads, such as the Bay Trail, and provides scenic views of the San Francisco Bay.

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