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Merced, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $8: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Merced 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.

$8 by busBest price
180 kmDistance
2h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Merced 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
Train
BART
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$10-92
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
BART
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$8-13
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 180 km
Duration: 2h 16m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$14-50
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  16m
Estimated price
$23-35
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$139-437
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Merced to San Francisco

As you journey from the agricultural charm of Merced to the bustling urban landscape of San Francisco, you'll encounter a fascinating blend of serene countryside and vibrant city life.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Mission District
• Vibrant street art and murals everywhere.
• Renowned for trendy cafes and taquerias.
Chinatown
• One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America.
• Offers authentic dim sum and unique shops.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• Eclectic boutiques and vintage clothing stores abound.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits to San Francisco's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or late afternoons offer stunning views and fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Book tours for weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy tranquility.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit in the early hours for fresh seafood and a quieter atmosphere.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco boasts a mild Mediterranean climate with cool summers and wet winters, making it a comfortable destination year-round. The best times to visit are typically spring and fall, as weather patterns can significantly influence your sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation

Indulge in the fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, where a bowl of clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl offers a delightful contrast to the heartier flavors found in Merced. The vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients elevate your dining experience, allowing you to savor the unique coastal flavors that San Francisco is renowned for.

Merced - San Francisco operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Merced Bus Stop to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$14-50
all-pages.transport_night bus
Contact phone
+1 209-521-1274
Website
http://stanrta.org

all-pages.transport_night bus from Roger K. Fall Transit Center to Iron Horse Parkway

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$25-25
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Merced to Richmond

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
$103-1000

Train from Richmond to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$921-922
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Subway from Richmond to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$921-922

Subway from Dublin / Pleasanton to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$103-8
Drive

Drive from Merced to San Francisco

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$23-35

Drive from Merced to Fresno

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$101-102

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

Traveling between Merced 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 drive from Merced to San Francisco, covering a distance of 131 miles. Enjoy the journey that takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes through picturesque landscapes. 💵 The cost of traveling from Merced to San Francisco by car ranges from $23 to $35, offering budget-friendly options for exploring the vibrant city. Plan your trip efficiently to make the most of your travel budget.
Average price
$23 - $35
🚆**Embark on a scenic train journey from Merced to San Francisco** 🌉, though there are no direct services available. The trip involves a transfer at Richmond, taking approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes in total. The Amtrak service departs from Merced station and connects to the BART line at Civic Center / UN Plaza station in San Francisco. 🗺️**Choose from multiple routes to travel between Merced and San Francisco** 🚄, each offering a unique experience. Options include transfers at Oakland or Richmond, with a combination of Amtrak and BART services. Enjoy the mix of train and subway travel while covering a distance of around 155 miles to reach your destination in the bustling city by the bay.
Departure Point
Merced station
Arrival Point
Civic Center / UN Plaza station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Amtrak San Joaquins line include a Café Car, where you can purchase snacks and drinks, including sandwiches, chips, and various beverages. Additionally, complimentary coffee is served in the morning and there are vending machines onboard for quick bites.
• The Amtrak San Joaquins line offers different seating options: Coach Class (Economy) seats that are spacious and feature reclining capabilities, and Business Class seats which provide extra legroom and complimentary snacks. You can reserve seats when purchasing your ticket online at the Amtrak website.
• For your trip, you can travel with Amtrak (amtrak.com) or the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) (aceride.com). Each offers varying schedules and pricing, so be sure to check their websites to find the most convenient options for your journey.
🛫 Start your journey to San Francisco from Merced by heading to Fresno Airport for a quick and convenient flight. United Airlines provides direct flights that will have you in San Francisco in just 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Departure Point
Fresno Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 The journey from Merced to San Francisco by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes with services departing once daily 🕒. Greyhound USA operates the bus route, with the direct bus departing from Merced Bus Stop and arriving at San Francisco Bus Station 🚌. 🌉 Route 3 is a popular option for travelers, taking 3 hours and 49 minutes to cover the 134-mile distance 🛣️. The bus service provided by Greyhound takes passengers directly from Merced to San Francisco Bus Station 🚌. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the bus between Merced and San Francisco can range from $14 to $50 💰. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey with Greyhound USA from Merced to San Francisco 🚍.
Departure Point
Merced Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Merced to San Francisco is by taking the bus and BART. The total cost for this journey ranges from $8 to $13. The trip duration is approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes. This option offers an affordable and convenient mode of transportation for travelers seeking a budget-friendly option.
The fastest way to travel from Merced to San Francisco is by driving. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost for gas and tolls ranges from $23 to $35. It's recommended to check the current traffic conditions before your trip to ensure a smooth and timely drive.
The distance between Merced and San Francisco is approximately 112 miles. If you choose to drive, the road distance is 131 miles. The exact travel time will depend on the route and traffic conditions. It is recommended to check for updates on road conditions and plan your journey accordingly.
The most convenient way to travel from Merced to San Francisco without a car is by taking a train and then transferring to the BART system. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes and fares range from $9 to $95 depending on the class of service and time of travel. The train ride provides scenic views of the California landscape, and then you can easily navigate the city using the BART to reach your desired destination in San Francisco.
The travel duration from Merced to San Francisco can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen and traffic conditions. On average, it takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes to travel between the two cities, including any necessary transfers. This time frame includes factors such as driving to a train station, taking a train, or driving directly by car. It is always advised to check for real-time traffic updates and plan accordingly to avoid any delays.
There are 835+ hotels available in San Francisco, offering a wide range of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night, catering to different budgets and preferences. Some popular areas to stay in San Francisco include Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Financial District, which are well-connected to major tourist attractions and public transportation. It is advisable to book your stay in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Merced to San Francisco. The driving distance is approximately 131 miles, and it usually takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes to complete the journey. It is recommended to check the traffic and road conditions before starting your trip to ensure a smooth and timely drive.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Merced and San Francisco. The bus departs from the Merced Bus Stop and arrives at the San Francisco Bus Station. The bus operates once daily and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Merced to San Francisco at the Merced Bus Stop station. This station is operated by Greyhound USA. It is recommended to check the schedule and purchase your tickets in advance to ensure availability. The station is conveniently located in Merced and offers a comfortable waiting area for passengers.
The Merced to San Francisco bus service operated by Greyhound USA arrives at the San Francisco Bus Station. The station is located in the heart of downtown San Francisco at 200 Folsom St, San Francisco 94105. From there, travelers have easy access to other transportation options to explore the city.
Trains from Merced to San Francisco arrive at the Civic Center/UN Plaza station. This station is located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, making it convenient for travelers to access various attractions and neighborhoods. From Civic Center/UN Plaza station, passengers can easily transfer to other BART lines or use other forms of transportation to reach their final destination in San Francisco.
No, there is no direct train between Merced and San Francisco. Instead, you would need to take a train from Merced to Richmond and then transfer to a train that will take you to Civic Center / UN Plaza in San Francisco. The total journey time, including transfers, would be approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes.
To catch the train from Merced to San Francisco you will need to go to the Merced station. The train services for this route are operated by Amtrak. The station is located at 324 W 24th St, Merced 95340. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The cost of a bus ticket from Merced to San Francisco varies depending on the bus company and the type of ticket chosen. On average, a bus ticket can range from $14 to $50. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the most affordable option. Additionally, prices may also vary depending on the time and day of travel.
The cost of driving from Merced to San Francisco can vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current gas prices. On average, the cost of gasoline for the round trip is around $23 to $35. However, this estimate does not include toll fees, parking charges, or any additional expenses incurred during the journey. It is essential to consider these factors when calculating the total cost of driving from Merced to San Francisco.

Trips to San Francisco