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Irvine, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $754: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Irvine 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.

$754 - Night BusBest price
687 kmDistance
3h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Irvine 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  13m
Estimated price
$75-234
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
14h  2m
Estimated price
$30-198
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 687 km
Duration: 3h 13m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$57-329
Company
various
Train
Plane
BART
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$64-326
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
4h  39m
Estimated price
$69-750
Company
various
Train
Bus
BART
Average Duration
9h  49m
Estimated price
$69-751
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  2m
Estimated price
$75-756
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
11h  31m
Estimated price
$752-753
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  44m
Estimated price
$754-755

Traveling From Irvine to San Francisco

Traveling from Irvine to San Francisco offers a shift from sunny suburban landscapes to the vibrant, bustling streets of a city known for its iconic landmarks and cultural diversity.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Mission District
• Known for its vibrant murals and street art.
• Offers a variety of delicious eateries and cafes.
Chinatown
• One of the oldest Chinatowns in North America.
• Explore unique shops and authentic dining options.
North Beach
• Famous for its Italian heritage and restaurants.
• Close to iconic landmarks like Coit Tower.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Maximize your experience in San Francisco by timing your visits strategically.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for stunning views and fewer crowds.
Alcatraz Island
Book tickets for early morning tours to enjoy serene surroundings and avoid long lines.
Fisherman's Wharf
Explore during weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and local charm.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco features a cool Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and dry summers, often accompanied by dense fog. Visiting during late spring or early fall typically offers the best weather, enhancing outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.

Dining in San Francisco: A Culinary Adventure

Try the clam chowder served in a freshly baked sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, which showcases the city’s fresh seafood and unique culinary traditions. This experience vastly contrasts with Irvine's dining scene, offering an authentic taste of the sea in a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of San Francisco.

Irvine - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2342-2340

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2342-2340
Website
united.com

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$2346-301
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2342-2340
Train Show train routes
Website
metrolinktrains.com

Train from Tustin station to L. A. Union Station

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$1980-1981

Train from Los Angeles to Oakland

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$1986-19850
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to Oakland

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$1986-2341
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 35m
Estimated price
$2344-2346
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center to San Francisco

Average Duration
8h 45m
Estimated price
$757-756

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

Traveling between Irvine 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 scenic road trip from Irvine to San Francisco, covering a distance of 427 miles. Enjoy the journey through diverse landscapes and charming California towns along the way. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $75 to $120 for the road trip from Irvine to San Francisco. Plan your stops wisely to make the most of your travel budget while indulging in local cuisine and attractions. 🌁 Arrive in iconic San Francisco after approximately 7 hours and 2 minutes of driving. Discover the city's famous landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and eclectic neighborhoods.
Average price
$75 - $120
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Irvine to San Francisco with a total travel time of approximately 14 hours and 2 minutes. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of California as you make your way towards the iconic city by the bay. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Irvine and San Francisco range from $30 to $198, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. With a total distance of 515 miles to cover, this trip presents a wonderful opportunity to embrace the charm of train travel and witness the beauty of the Golden State along the route.
Departure Point
Tustin station
Arrival Point
Oakland station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: When traveling from Irvine to San Francisco, Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner offers a variety of catering services, including a Café Car where you can purchase snacks and beverages. They also provide complimentary Wi-Fi on select trains, so you can enjoy your journey while connected.
• Seating Options: The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers several seating classes for your trip: Business Class, which provides wider seats and extra legroom, and Economy Class, which is a more budget-friendly option. Be sure to reserve your seat in advance, as demand can be high for Business Class during peak travel times.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at the San Francisco train station (Emeryville), you can take BART to the city center. Note that there are no luggage storage facilities at the Emeryville station, but you will find restrooms available. Expect a seamless transfer with public transportation, as it’s the quickest way to reach downtown San Francisco.
🛫 Flying from Irvine to San Francisco is convenient and efficient with a quick direct flight option that takes just 1 hour and 29 minutes from Santa Ana Airport to San Francisco Airport. 💸 The prices for flights from San Francisco to Irvine range from $75 to $234, making it a relatively affordable and accessible travel option for those looking to explore California's beautiful destinations.
Departure Point
Santa Ana Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Traveling from Irvine to San Francisco by bus involves a journey with a transfer at Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center. The total duration of the trip is approximately 11 hours and 31 minutes. 🚌 With ticket prices ranging from $47 to $112, travelers can enjoy a scenic bus ride from Irvine to San Francisco, experiencing the beauty of California along the way.
Departure Point
Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Irvine and San Francisco is approximately 385 miles by air, 426.7 miles by road, and the travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Taking a train from Irvine to San Francisco typically takes about 14 hours and 2 minutes. If you take a combination of train and bus, the travel time is around 9 hours and 53 minutes. Flying from Irvine to San Francisco is the fastest option, with a travel time of approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes. Driving by car takes around 7 hours and 2 minutes, while taking a bus from Irvine to San Francisco can take approximately 11 hours and 31 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Irvine to San Francisco is to take the night bus, which costs $35-$130 and takes approximately 10 hours and 44 minutes. This option may be suitable for budget-conscious travelers. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly, which costs $70-$220 and takes about 3 hours and 9 minutes. This option allows you to reach your destination faster, but it comes at a higher cost.
The prices for traveling from Irvine to San Francisco can vary depending on the mode of transportation. For train travel, the prices range from $30 to $198. If you choose to take a bus instead, the prices can range from $47 to $112. It's advisable to check with the respective transportation companies for current prices and any promotions or discounts that may be available.
To travel from Irvine to San Francisco without public transportation, you can drive. The distance is approximately 427 miles, and it takes about 7 hours and 2 minutes on the road. The cost of fuel and tolls will vary but can range between $75 to $120 round trip.
To travel from Irvine to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take the train and bus combination, which takes approximately 9 hours and 53 minutes and costs $45-$95. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes and costs $70-$220. If you prefer a more economical choice, you can take the bus, which takes 11 hours and 31 minutes and costs $45-$120. Lastly, there is the train option, which takes 14 hours and 2 minutes and costs $30-$200.
No, there is no direct link between Irvine and San Francisco. For trains, you would need to transfer at least once and the journey takes approximately 14 hours and 2 minutes. For bus services, you would also need to transfer and the journey takes approximately 11 hours and 31 minutes. However, please note that these travel times may vary depending on factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and the specific routes chosen.
The flight between Irvine and San Francisco typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, with prices ranging from $74 to $213. Factors such as the airline, time of booking, and seat availability can impact the cost of the flight. It's always a good idea to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available, you can choose from a range of choices that suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $74, making it possible to find affordable accommodation in the city. You can explore different neighborhoods and areas to find the best hotel that fits your needs and provides easy access to attractions and landmarks in San Francisco.

Trips from Irvine

Trips to San Francisco