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Mountain View, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Mountain View, United States of America
to
San Francisco, United States of America

How to Get from Mountain View 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.

$5 by busBest price
64 kmDistance
42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Mountain View 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
Caltrain
Train
Average Duration
1h  14m
Estimated price
$8-10
Recommended
Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
3h  32m
Estimated price
$5-13
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 64 km
Duration: 42m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$7-11
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$220-270
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Traveling From Mountain View to San Francisco

Traveling from Mountain View to San Francisco offers you a striking contrast between the peaceful tech hubs of Silicon Valley and the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of the city by the bay.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and cultural flavors.

Chinatown
• Rich cultural heritage with vibrant markets.
• Delicious authentic dim sum and eateries.
Mission District
• Colorful murals and thriving street art scene.
• Known for trendy cafes and diverse restaurants.
Nob Hill
• Stunning views of the San Francisco skyline.
• Historic hotels and upscale dining options.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Weekday tours are less crowded; advance booking boosts your options.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit early in the day to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and fresh seafood.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco's climate is characterized by mild temperatures and fog, often leading to chilly breezes even in summer. Planning your visit around the drier months from September to November can enhance your travel experience by minimizing weather-related disruptions.

Dining Recommendation

A must-try dish in San Francisco is the clam chowder served in a fresh sourdough bread bowl at the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf. This experience contrasts sharply with Mountain View's tech-inspired dining, as it combines the lively coastal atmosphere with rich, local flavors that showcase the city's seafood heritage.

Mountain View - San Francisco operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Mountain View Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$8-10
Bus
Website
http://www.samtrans.com

Bus from Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 to Daly City BART-Bay 3

Average Duration
2h 6m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010
Website
http://www.taxisanjose.com

Taxi from Mountain View to San Francisco

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$220-270
Drive

Drive from Mountain View to San Francisco

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$7-11

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

Traveling between Mountain View 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.

🚗 Driving from Mountain View to San Francisco offers a scenic journey along Highway 101, taking you through the heart of Silicon Valley before reaching the bustling city by the bay. 💰 Prices for the trip can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls, but typically range from $7 to $11 for a one-way journey.
Average price
$7 - $11
🚆 Take a scenic train journey from Mountain View to San Francisco with ease. Departing every 30 minutes, Caltrain provides convenient services for this route every day. 🌉 Enjoy a relaxing 1 hour and 14-minute ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Bay Area. From Mountain View Caltrain Northbound, you'll swiftly arrive at San Francisco Caltrain Northbound station in no time. 📍 Covering a distance of 36.0 miles, this straightforward train route offers a hassle-free travel experience between these two vibrant cities. For more information on schedules and bookings, contact Caltrain at 1 660-4287 or visit http://www.caltrain.com/.
Departure Point
Mountain View Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Caltrain Northbound station
🚌 Starting from Mountain View there isn't a direct bus to San Francisco. You'll need to make transfers, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes. 💸 Prices for this bus trip can vary from $5 to $13. Despite the transfers and duration, it's a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel between Mountain View and San Francisco.
Departure Point
Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 station
Arrival Point
Daly City BART-Bay 3 station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Mountain View to San Francisco.

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The cheapest way to get from Mountain View to San Francisco is by driving. On average, the cost of gas for this trip is estimated to be between $7 and $11. The travel time by car is approximately 42 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Mountain View to San Francisco is by taking a taxi. The journey typically takes around 42 minutes. However, it is important to note that the cost of a taxi ride can range from $220 to $270, depending on factors such as traffic and additional charges.
The distance between Mountain View and San Francisco is approximately 33 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 39.5 miles. The journey typically takes around 42 minutes by car, depending on the traffic conditions. There are also public transportation options available, such as trains and buses, that can take slightly longer but provide an alternative means of travel.
To travel from Mountain View to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take the Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes, and ticket prices range from $8 to $10. The Caltrain provides a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities, with frequent departures throughout the day. From the San Francisco Caltrain Station, you can easily access other parts of the city using public transportation or taxis.
The journey from Mountain View to San Francisco by Caltrain takes approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes, including transfers. Trains depart from Mountain View Caltrain station every 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers. However, it's important to note that travel times may vary depending on the specific train schedule and any potential delays.
There are numerous hotels available in San Francisco, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night and can go up depending on the location, amenities, and ratings. Some popular areas to consider staying in include downtown San Francisco and the Embarcadero. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Mountain View to San Francisco. The driving distance is approximately 40 miles, and it takes around 42 minutes to reach San Francisco by car. The route typically involves taking Highway 101 northbound. However, please note that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the time of day.
Yes, there is a bus service available to travel from Mountain View to San Francisco, but there is no direct bus route. You will need to make transfers at Palo Alto Transit Center and Millbrae BART. The total travel time is approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes, including the transfers. It is advisable to check the bus schedules and plan your journey accordingly.
To catch the bus from Mountain View to San Francisco you will need to go to the Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 station. This is where the bus services operated by SamTrans depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule and plan your journey accordingly. Additionally, it is advisable to arrive at the station a few minutes before departure to ensure a seat on the bus.
The Mountain View to San Francisco bus operated by SamTrans arrives at the Mission St & 9th St station in San Francisco. This station is conveniently located near downtown San Francisco and is a hub for various bus lines. From there, travelers can easily access other parts of the city or transfer to other modes of transportation. The station is well-connected and provides easy access to popular attractions and neighborhoods in San Francisco.
Trains from Mountain View to San Francisco arrive at the San Francisco Caltrain station. The station is located in the northeastern part of the city, near the South of Market neighborhood. It is a convenient location, allowing easy access to various attractions and public transportation options in San Francisco. Passengers can explore the city by using buses, streetcars, or taxis, all of which are readily available near the train station.
Yes, there is a direct train between Mountain View and San Francisco. The train departs from Mountain View Caltrain and arrives at San Francisco Caltrain. The train service operates every day, with departures every 30 minutes. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes.
The cost of a bus ticket from Mountain View to San Francisco ranges from $5 to $15, depending on the specific bus service and any discounts available. It is recommended to check with individual bus operators or online booking platforms for the most up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, some bus services may offer discounted rates for students, seniors, or frequent travelers, so it is worth exploring these options to potentially save money on your journey.
The cost of driving from Mountain View to San Francisco can range from $7 to $11. This estimate takes into account factors such as gas prices and toll fees. The distance between the two cities is approximately 38 miles, and the drive usually takes about 42 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change, so it is advisable to check for current rates before your trip.

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