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Salinas, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $19: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Salinas 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.

$19 - OtherBest price
172 kmDistance
1h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Salinas 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  10m
Estimated price
$11-50
Recommended
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  52m
Estimated price
$19-28
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 172 km
Duration: 1h 46m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway, various
Bus
BART
Average Duration
2h  54m
Estimated price
$11-110
Company
Amtrak Thruway, various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
2h  56m
Estimated price
$11-110
Company
Amtrak, various
Train
Train
Average Duration
3h  29m
Estimated price
$12-82
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
1h  46m
Estimated price
$200-482
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Traveling From Salinas to San Francisco

Your journey from Salinas to San Francisco offers a remarkable shift from the laid-back charm of expansive agricultural landscapes to the vibrant streets and iconic landmarks of the City by the Bay.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe.

Chinatown
• One of the largest Chinatowns outside Asia.
• Vibrant markets and authentic eateries throughout.
Mission District
• Known for colorful murals and street art.
• Top-notch Mexican cuisine and nightlife options.
North Beach
• Famous for its Italian heritage and eateries.
• Bustling atmosphere with lively cafes and bars.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

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

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning views and fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Book tickets for early or late tours to beat the crowds.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Weekdays earlier in the day offer a quieter atmosphere and less congestion.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a cool-summer Mediterranean climate, marked by foggy mornings and sunny afternoons, with temperatures averaging from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit. The best times to visit are late spring and early fall, when the weather is typically mild, providing an enjoyable travel experience for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation

Head over to Fisherman’s Wharf and indulge in a bowl of clam chowder served in a freshly baked sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery; this dish captures the essence of San Francisco's vibrant seafood culture. Unlike the agricultural focus of Salinas, this experience blends local ingredients with a lively waterfront atmosphere, offering a delightful culinary journey.

Salinas - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Salinas 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 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to San Francisco

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$11-50

Bus from Salinas Amtrak Station to San Francisco Salesforce Plaza

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Salinas to San Jose

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Salinas to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$11-1172

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$12-114
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from Berryessa / North San Jose to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$112-113
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$12-114
Plane Show flights
Website
https://united.com

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

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$200-490
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Other from Salinas to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 52m
Estimated price
$19-28

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

Traveling between Salinas 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 road trip from Salinas to San Francisco, covering a distance of 107 miles in just under 2 hours of driving time. 💲 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $19 to $28 for the journey by car, providing budget-friendly travel choices for every traveler.
Average price
$19 - $28
🌉 The journey from Salinas to San Francisco by train takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes, including transfers. Passengers will experience scenic views and a comfortable ride on the Amtrak and Caltrain services.
Departure Point
Salinas station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Caltrain Northbound station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Amtrak Coast Starlight route include a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Depending on your travel time, they may also offer a dining car with full meals for passengers in First Class. Be sure to check the Amtrak website for a current menu and item availability.
• On the Amtrak Coast Starlight, you have several seating options: First Class offers spacious seating with additional legroom and complimentary meals; Business Class provides comfortable seating and access to the lounge car; Economy is more affordable but still provides ample comfort. Consider booking in advance for the best choice of seats and to secure the experience you desire.
• There are multiple operators for your route: Amtrak Coast Starlight (amtrak.com), and you may also find options from local transit services depending on your travel schedule. For bus services, you could check Greyhound (greyhound.com) or FlixBus (flixbus.com). For detailed schedules, visit Caltrain's site (caltrain.com) for local connections once you arrive in San Francisco.
🛫 Flying from Salinas to San Francisco is a convenient and quick journey, with a direct flight from Monterey Airport to San Francisco Airport taking just 56 minutes with United Airlines. 🛄 The total travel time from Salinas to San Francisco by plane is approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes, providing a hassle-free way to reach the bustling city by the bay. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Salinas typically range from $200 to $482, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Traveling by bus from Salinas to San Francisco is a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination. Services depart twice daily and operate every day, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. 🛣️ The route covers a distance of 89.4 miles and the bus trip typically lasts around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride from Salinas Train Station to San Francisco station on a Flixbus USA bus. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between San Francisco and Salinas range from $11 to $50.
Departure Point
Salinas Train Station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Salinas and San Francisco is about 87 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By taking a bus and then Caltrain, it takes approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes to reach San Francisco from Salinas. If you prefer to drive, it would take approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes to travel from San Francisco to Salinas by car. Taking the bus directly, it would typically take around 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach San Francisco from Salinas.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Salinas to San Francisco is to drive. The road distance is 107 miles and it takes approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes to reach San Francisco by car. Driving also provides the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Additionally, carpooling with friends or family can further reduce costs and make the journey more enjoyable.
The prices for a bus ticket from Salinas to San Francisco range from $11 to $50, depending on the specific bus company and various factors such as the day and time of travel. It is advisable to compare prices from different providers to find the best deal. Additionally, prices may be subject to change, so it is recommended to check with the bus company or online platforms for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Salinas to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 107 miles which takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes. The driving route offers convenience and flexibility as you can leave at your own preferred time and make stops along the way. The cost of this option can vary between $19 and $28 depending on factors such as the current gas prices and toll fees.
To travel from Salinas to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes and the ticket prices range from $11 to $50. This is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach San Francisco while avoiding the hassle of driving and parking. Buses provide a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation for travelers.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Salinas and San Francisco. The bus service, operated by Amtrak, departs from Salinas and arrives in San Francisco. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, there is no direct train service between the two cities, but there are train services that require transfers in San Jose. The train journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes.
There are numerous options for accommodations near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available, visitors have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for these hotels start at $74 per night, making it feasible for various travelers to find suitable accommodations. It is advisable to research and compare options to find the best fit in terms of location, amenities, and price.

Trips from Salinas

Trips to San Francisco