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Oakland, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Oakland 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
13.4 kmDistance
16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Oakland 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
BART
BART
Average Duration
16m
Estimated price
$2-4
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$1-29
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 13.4 km
Duration: 16m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16m
Estimated price
$2-3
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
16m
Estimated price
$60-75
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Oakland to San Francisco

The journey from Oakland to San Francisco reveals two vibrant cities, with Oakland’s laid-back artsy vibe contrasting with San Francisco’s iconic landmarks and bustling urban energy.

Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Mission District
• Known for its vibrant street art.
• Home to some of the best taquerias.
Fisherman’s Wharf
• Famous for fresh seafood and bustling markets.
• Stunning views of Alcatraz Island.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• Unique vintage shops and eclectic boutiques.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your San Francisco experience significantly.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Book your tour for mid-week to avoid weekend crowds.
Chinatown
Explore in the morning for quieter streets and fresh dim sum.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild climate with cool, foggy summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are typically late spring and early fall, as the weather is generally pleasant, enhancing your exploration of this vibrant city.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Try the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf for a taste of San Francisco's iconic seafood scene. This dish, paired with the lively waterfront atmosphere, offers a distinct culinary experience that highlights local ingredients and flavors, setting it apart from Oakland's diverse food culture.

Oakland - San Francisco operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
16m
Estimated price
$2-4
Bus Show bus routes
Website
actransit.org

Bus from 14th St & Broadway to Market St & South Van Ness Av

Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$2-6
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Oakland to San Francisco

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$3-29
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Oakland to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$1-27
Contact phone
+1 415-921-5858
Website
goldengatetransit.org

Bus from 19th St/Oakland BART Station to Salesforce Transit Center-Bus Plaza Bay A

Average Duration
21m
Estimated price
$2-8
Taxi

Taxi from Oakland to San Francisco

Average Duration
16m
Estimated price
$60-75

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

Traveling between Oakland 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 short but scenic journey from Oakland to San Francisco, covering a mere 11 miles in just around 16 minutes by car. 💸 Enjoy the budget-friendly travel option with costs ranging from $2 to $3 for the pleasant drive across the Bay Area bridges.
Average price
$2 - $3
🚆 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Oakland to San Francisco by train. The direct train service operates frequently, with departures every 10 minutes, taking just 16 minutes to reach Civic Center / UN Plaza. 🌉 Enjoy a smooth ride covering a distance of 7.8 miles from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to Civic Center / UN Plaza. Whether you choose Route 1 towards SFO Airport or Route 2 towards San Francisco International Airport, the efficient Bay Area Rapid Transit service ensures a hassle-free commute. 🏙️ Immerse yourself in the bustling urban landscapes as you arrive in San Francisco in under 20 minutes. With the BART train connecting these two vibrant cities seamlessly, your journey promises ease and comfort, allowing you to make the most of your time exploring the iconic landmarks and attractions of San Francisco.
Departure Point
12th Street / Oakland City Center station
Arrival Point
Civic Center / UN Plaza station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The train trip from Oakland to San Francisco is primarily serviced by the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and Amtrak Thruway buses. While BART provides regular commuter service, Amtrak operates more limited services. Check out the BART website (bart.gov) for schedules and ticketing. Amtrak's services can be found at (amtrak.com)
• On the BART train, you'll primarily find Standard Seating, which is comfortable but basic. Unlike BART, Amtrak services may provide First Class or Economy seating options on certain routes, but for this particular route, BART does not offer separate classes of service. If you prefer a more comfortable ride, you might consider taking the Amtrak Thruway, which may have upgraded seating choices on their bus connections.
• When arriving at the Embarcadero BART station in San Francisco, you can expect a quick and easy transfer to various local transport options. Unfortunately, the station does not offer luggage storage or shower facilities. For navigating the city after arrival, catch the Muni F-line streetcar or the 12/30/45 bus routes that connect you to the city center, making your transition smooth.
💸 The prices for a flight between these two cities can vary, with tickets typically ranging from $2 to $4 depending on the airline and time of booking.
🚌 Enjoy a convenient and quick trip from Oakland to San Francisco by bus, with services departing hourly and taking approximately 19 minutes. The direct route is operated by AC Transit, departing from 14th St & Broadway and arriving at Market St & South Van Ness Av. 🗺️ With prices ranging from $1 to $29, travelers can choose from different routes to reach San Francisco from Oakland. One option involves taking the subway towards SFO Airport, with a total journey time of about 13 minutes covering a distance of 7.8 miles. 🎟️ Another route option includes a bus towards 800 San Francisco - 24th St Via Downtown Oakland, with a journey time of 37 minutes covering a distance of 12.9 miles. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of multiple transportation choices for their journey between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
14th St & Broadway station
Arrival Point
Market St & South Van Ness Av station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the 14th St & Broadway station at least 10 minutes early, as the bus departs hourly and punctuality is key; this will ensure you won't miss your bus despite potential delays from boarding or other passengers.
• Take note of the bus fare range ($1 - $29), and be prepared in advance with cash or a Clipper card, as some bus operators like AC Transit may have different payment methods; you can check more details on their website AC Transit.
• Once you arrive at Market St & South Van Ness Av in San Francisco, head toward the bus terminal where you can find helpful information kiosks and nearby dining options; don't forget to check out local favorites such as the San Francisco Soup Company, just a block away on Market Street for a quick bite.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Oakland and San Francisco is approximately 8 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 11 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes a short time to reach San Francisco from Oakland. By car, the travel time is typically around minutes. By bus, it takes approximately minutes to reach San Francisco from Oakland.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Oakland to San Francisco is taking the BART. It costs $2-$4 and takes 16 minutes, making it the quickest way to reach San Francisco. Driving is another affordable option, costing around $2-$3, but it takes the same amount of time as the BART. Overall, both the BART and driving are convenient and economical choices for traveling between Oakland and San Francisco.
The price for a bus ticket between San Francisco and Oakland can vary depending on the specific bus operator and the time of travel. On average, prices range from $1 to $29. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to find the best fare for your desired travel date and time.
To get from Oakland to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 11 miles. It takes approximately 16 minutes to complete the drive. If you have a car, the estimated cost for gas for this journey is around $2 - $3. Driving yourself provides convenience and allows you to have control over your travel schedule.
The best way to travel from Oakland to San Francisco without a car is by using the BART system. The journey takes approximately 16 minutes and the cost of the ticket is usually between $2 and $4. The BART provides a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities and allows for easy access to popular tourist attractions and landmarks in San Francisco.
Yes, there is a direct link between Oakland and San Francisco. You can take a direct train operated by BART from 12th Street / Oakland City Center station to Civic Center / UN Plaza station. The journey takes approximately 16 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus operated by AC Transit from 14th St & Broadway station to Market St & South Van Ness Av station. The bus journey takes approximately 19 minutes.
The flight time between Oakland and San Francisco is typically very short, as the distance between the two cities is only 8 miles. Since they are both located in close proximity to each other in the Bay Area, the flight duration can be as short as a few minutes. However, it is important to note that flying between Oakland and San Francisco is not a common mode of transportation, and there may not be regular commercial flights operating between the two cities.
There are numerous accommodation options available near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night, providing affordable options for those on a tight budget. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly options, finding a place to stay near San Francisco should be easily accessible.
Yes, you can certainly travel from Oakland to San Francisco by bicycle. The distance of the route is typically around 14 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour to complete the journey. The route is generally scenic and includes crossing the Bay Bridge, providing stunning views of the bay area. However, it's important to note that there are some hills along the way, so be prepared for some moderate inclines during your ride.

Trips from Oakland

Trips to San Francisco