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Monterey, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $13: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Monterey 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.

$13 by busBest price
128 milesDistance
1h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Monterey 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
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
1h  31m
Estimated price
$162-437
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$13-53
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 128 miles
Duration: 1h 31m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$13-85
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
5h  18m
Estimated price
$13-90
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  4m
Estimated price
$20-30
Company
Monterey Airbus
Drive
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$58-68
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Traveling From Monterey to San Francisco

Your journey from Monterey to San Francisco offers a transition from serene coastal beauty and small-town charm to a vibrant urban landscape filled with culture and iconic landmarks.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct character.

Mission District
• Vibrant street art and murals everywhere.
• Fantastic food scene with diverse cuisines.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• Eclectic shops and vintage clothing stores.
Fisherman's Wharf
• Stunning views of the bay and Alcatraz.
• Fresh seafood and lively markets.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits to San Francisco’s attractions can boost your experience and minimize crowds.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer tourists and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Book your tickets for a mid-week visit to dodge the weekend rush.
Chinatown
Explore in the late morning or early evening for a more local vibe.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco enjoys a mild, coastal climate featuring cool summers and damp winters, making layers essential throughout the year. Visiting during the fall offers comfortable temperatures and clearer skies, enhancing your outdoor explorations.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Try the mouthwatering Dungeness crab sandwich at Fisherman’s Wharf, where the bustling atmosphere amplifies the experience with fresh, local seafood flavors. Unlike Monterey’s seafood-focused cuisine, San Francisco's diverse dining scene blends global influences, offering a vibrant twist on traditional dishes.

Monterey - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$162-437
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to San Francisco

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$11-50
Contact phone
1-888-678-2871
Website
mst.org

Bus from Tyler / Franklin to Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
$2-4
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Salinas to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2-70
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$9-12
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Shuttle from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to SFO Airport International Arrivals

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$45-60

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

Traveling between Monterey 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 picturesque coastal journey from Monterey to San Francisco, spanning 114 miles of captivating scenery along the iconic California coastline. The drive promises a mix of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and stunning ocean views, making it a road trip to remember. 💰 Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordable transportation costs, with prices ranging from $20 to $30 for the drive from Monterey to San Francisco. Enjoy the flexibility of a car journey while keeping your travel expenses in check, allowing for more memorable experiences in both cities. 🏙️ Arrive in lively San Francisco after approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes on the road, ready to explore the city's vibrant culture, famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, and delectable culinary scene. Your road trip from Monterey to San Francisco will offer a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, showcasing the best of what Northern California has to offer.
Average price
$20 - $30
Useful tips for train travellers
• The Amtrak Cascades service operates between Monterey and San Francisco, offering a Café Car onboard with a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. You can enjoy local specialties like clam chowder and fresh salads while taking in the views.
• For seating options, Amtrak offers Business Class and Economy seats on this route. Business Class provides larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom and access to additional amenities, while Economy Class is cozier and more budget-friendly. You can reserve your preferred seating when booking your ticket at amtrak.com
• Upon arrival at San Francisco's Salesforce Transit Center, you’ll find convenient public transport connections. To reach the city center quickly, take the Muni Metro T-Line or the 5 bus, both available at the Transit Center. The Muni Metro will get you to major areas like Union Square in about 15 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Monterey to San Francisco is a convenient and quick option, with a direct flight taking only 56 minutes via United Airlines. 🌉 Enjoy a seamless journey that lasts approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes, allowing you to arrive in vibrant San Francisco in no time. 💸 Depending on your travel dates and preferences, flight prices between Monterey and San Francisco typically range from $162 to $437, making it a flexible choice for various budgets.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 The journey by bus from Monterey to San Francisco requires a transfer at Salinas Train Station and takes approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes. 🎟️ Prices for the bus between San Francisco and Monterey can vary from $13 to $53, offering travelers a convenient and cost-effective transportation option for exploring both cities.
Departure Point
Tyler / Franklin station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When departing from Tyler / Franklin station in Monterey, make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as buses may arrive and depart on time without much notice, and you want to ensure you catch the right bus operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit.
• Prepare for a transfer at Salinas Transit Center; keep an eye on the bus schedules for the Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach to San Francisco, which leaves regularly after the Monterey-Salinas bus, ensuring you don’t have to wait too long. You can check the schedule here: amtrak.com
• Upon arrival in San Francisco at Mission St & 9th St, familiarize yourself with the local public transit options immediately; Muni buses and BART are just a short walk away and can efficiently take you to various neighborhoods, attractions, and hotels. Maps and schedules are available at sfmta.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Monterey and San Francisco is 87 miles, with a road distance of 114.1 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes 4 hours and 46 minutes by taking the Line 20 bus, then bus, and finally Caltrain. By plane, it takes 2 hours and 32 minutes, while by ferry, it takes 3 hours and 20 minutes. If driving, the journey from Monterey to San Francisco takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes, and by bus, it takes around 4 hours.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Monterey to San Francisco is to drive. It costs approximately $20-$30 and takes about 2 hours and 4 minutes. Driving allows you the flexibility to leave at your convenience and travel directly to your destination without any transfers or delays.
When traveling from Monterey to San Francisco the prices for a bus ticket can range from $13 to $53. Alternatively, if you choose to take the ferry, the prices can range from $57 to $68. It is important to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To travel from Monterey to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 114 miles. The estimated driving time is about 2 hours and 4 minutes. The cost of the journey by car can range from $20 to $30, depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees.
To travel from Monterey to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take the Line 20 bus and then transfer to another bus, which takes approximately 4 hours and costs between $13 and $55. Alternatively, you can take a train and then Caltrain, which costs between $13 and $90 and takes 5 hours and 19 minutes. Another option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 32 minutes and costs between $160 and $430.
Yes, there is a direct link between Monterey and San Francisco but it involves a transfer. The bus service operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit departs from Tyler/Franklin station in Monterey and arrives at the Salinas Train Station. From there, passengers can transfer to another bus service that takes them directly to San Francisco. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours.
The flight from Monterey to San Francisco typically takes 49 minutes on a direct flight. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from $160 to $422. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking websites to find the best deal for your desired travel dates.
There are numerous accommodation options available near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in the area start at as low as $74 per night, providing affordable choices for travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly stays, there are plenty of options available in San Francisco and its surrounding areas.

Trips from Monterey

Trips to San Francisco