1map logoGo to main page

San Carlos, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Carlos 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 - Night busBest price
40 kmDistance
27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Carlos 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
49m
Estimated price
$6-8
Recommended
Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
1h  27m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 40 km
Duration: 27m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
2h  18m
Estimated price
$4-8
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$4-7
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$130-170

Traveling From San Carlos to San Francisco

The journey from San Carlos to San Francisco offers an interesting contrast between the peaceful suburban charm of San Carlos and the vibrant urban energy of San Francisco.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

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

Mission District
• Vibrant street art and murals everywhere.
• Renowned for its innovative dining scene.
North Beach
• Preserves the city's Italian heritage.
• Lively nightlife with iconic cafes.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s hippie movement.
• Unique boutiques and vintage shops abound.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visit can make all the difference in enjoying the best of San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Alcatraz Island
Book your tickets for the first ferry of the day to explore peacefully.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit during weekday mornings to experience a quieter atmosphere.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco boasts a mild, coastal climate, with summer fog and cool breezes that can surprise even seasoned travelers. The best times to visit are typically in the fall or early spring, when the weather is more predictable and crowds are thinner, allowing you to enjoy the city's attractions to the fullest.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Consider trying the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman's Wharf, a dish that captures San Francisco's rich maritime culture and local ingredients. This experience contrasts with the more subdued dining scene in San Carlos, offering vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere that enhances your meal.

San Carlos - San Francisco operators

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

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

Train from San Carlos Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
49m
Estimated price
$6-8
Bus Show bus routes
Website
samtrans.com

Bus from El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave to Daly City BART-Bay 3

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$1-5

Bus from Daly City BART Station to Mission St & 11th St

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$3-0

Bus from El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave to 11th St & Market St

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi

Taxi from San Carlos to San Francisco

Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$130-170
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from San Carlos to San Francisco

Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$4-7

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

Traveling between San Carlos 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.

🚗 Nestled between the rolling hills of San Carlos and the vibrant cityscape of San Francisco lies a scenic 25-mile drive that takes around 27 minutes to complete. 💰 Embark on this journey with the flexibility of prices ranging from $4 to $7, offering an affordable and convenient way to explore the Bay Area at your own pace.
Average price
$4 - $7
🚆 Experience a convenient and efficient journey from San Carlos to San Francisco by hopping on the direct Caltrain service. Trains depart hourly from San Carlos Caltrain Northbound station and arrive at San Francisco Caltrain Northbound station in just 49 minutes.
Departure Point
San Carlos Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Caltrain Northbound station
🚌 The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes, offering a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two cities. 🕒 🚌 Enjoy the scenic route as you arrive at 11th St & Market St station in San Francisco, with prices ranging from $1 to $5 for this comfortable bus journey. 💵
Departure Point
El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave station
Arrival Point
Mission St & 11th St station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Carlos and San Francisco is approximately 21 miles, with a road distance of 25 miles. By car, it typically takes around 30 minutes to travel between the two cities. However, if you prefer public transportation, taking the bus may take around 1 hour and 7 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option from San Carlos to San Francisco is by taking the bus, which typically costs between $1 and $5. The travel time by bus is around 1 hour and 7 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to travel between the two cities is by taxi, which takes approximately 27 minutes but is more expensive, with fares ranging from $130 to $170. Ultimately, the choice between cost and time efficiency depends on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices of a bus between San Carlos and San Francisco vary, with the range typically being from $1 to $5. The exact price within this range depends on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and the specific bus service chosen. It's advisable to check with the bus service for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Alternative modes of transportation such as driving or ridesharing may have different pricing, so it's worth considering all options before making a decision.
The distance between San Carlos and San Francisco is approximately 25 miles by road. It takes approximately 27 minutes to drive from San Carlos to San Francisco. To get from San Carlos to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can arrange for a car rental or use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft. The prices for these services can vary but typically range from $4 to $7.
To travel from San Carlos to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take the Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 49 minutes and the ticket price ranges from $6 to $8. The Caltrain is a convenient and efficient mode of transportation, offering a comfortable ride with frequent departures. Once you arrive in San Francisco, you can easily explore the city using public transportation such as buses and trams.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Carlos and San Francisco. You can take a train operated by Caltrain, which departs from San Carlos Caltrain station and arrives at San Francisco Caltrain station. The journey takes approximately 49 minutes and the service operates hourly every day. Alternatively, you can take a bus operated by SamTrans, which departs from El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave and arrives at Mission St & 9th St. The bus service operates three times a day from Monday to Friday, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available, you will have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $74 per night, offering options for different budgets. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly accommodations, there are plenty of choices available to suit your needs.
Yes, it is possible to travel from San Carlos to San Francisco by bicycle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 21 miles. The time taken to complete the journey by bike would vary depending on individual cycling speed, but it usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.