San Francisco, CA, USA to Fairbanks, AK, USA from $163: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Francisco to Fairbanks: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$163 - Bus, PlaneBest price

3454 kmDistance

9h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Fairbanks 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.

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Traveling From San Francisco to Fairbanks

The journey from San Francisco, with its vibrant culture and iconic sights, to Fairbanks, known for its breathtaking northern landscapes and rich history, offers a striking contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Fairbanks

Fairbanks boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering something special for visitors.

Downtown Fairbanks

• Home to art galleries and local shops.

• Offers vibrant dining options year-round.

University of Alaska Fairbanks

• Features beautiful campus grounds and trails.

• Hosts educational events and museums.

Chena Riverfront

• Scenic views along the river's edge.

• Ideal for walking, biking, and picnicking.

Best Times To Visit Fairbanks's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Fairbanks.

Chena Hot Springs

Visit on weekdays during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and tranquility.

Museum of the North

Early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays offer a more relaxed atmosphere.

Pioneer Park

Explore during late spring or early fall to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer visitors.

Fairbanks Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Fairbanks experiences a subarctic climate, with long, harsh winters and short summers that showcase stunning natural beauty. Understanding the seasonal variations helps you choose the best times to visit and plan activities accordingly, ensuring an enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Fairbanks

A visit to Fairbanks isn’t complete without trying the reindeer sausage at the iconic Pike's Landing, where you can savor this local delicacy paired with stunning river views. The rustic atmosphere and hearty, flavorful dishes provide a delightful contrast to the urban culinary scene of San Francisco, offering a genuine taste of Alaskan culture.

San Francisco - Fairbanks operators

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

Train

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

http://www.bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

$1638-1639

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration

1h 38m

Estimated price

$6120-6121

Bus

Contact phone

+1 415-921-5858

Website

http://www.goldengatetransit.org

Bus from Larkin St & Grove St to E Washington St & Johnson St

Average Duration

1h 34m

Estimated price

$2651-6123

Plane

Website

http://www.delta.com

Plane from San Francisco to Fairbanks via Seattle

Average Duration

8h 38m

Estimated price

$1632-1837

Plane from San Jose to Fairbanks via Seattle

Average Duration

Estimated price

$1633-1634

Plane from Sacramento to Fairbanks via Seattle

Average Duration

6h 52m

Estimated price

$1635-710150

Website

http://www.alaskaair.com

Plane from San Francisco to Fairbanks via Seattle

Average Duration

9h 2m

Estimated price

$1838-1834

Plane from San Francisco to Fairbanks via Anchorage

Average Duration

7h 22m

Estimated price

$1838-1834

Plane from San Francisco to Fairbanks via Portland, Anchorage

Average Duration

10h 54m

Estimated price

$1838-1834

Website

http://www.united.com

Plane from San Jose to Fairbanks via Denver

Average Duration

12h 48m

Estimated price

$1836-1837

Plane from Monterey to Fairbanks via Denver

Average Duration

10h 38m

Estimated price

$1635-1839

Plane from Sacramento to Fairbanks via Denver

Average Duration

10h 43m

Estimated price

$1636-1637

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Fairbanks is approximately 2146 miles. By plane, the typical travel time is 9 hours and 54 minutes. Alternatively, taking a ferry and then a train to Santa Rosa would take around 12 hours and 21 minutes. The road distance is longer, measuring about 2972 miles.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Fairbanks is by flying. It takes approximately 9 hours and 34 minutes and costs between $390 and $700. Another cost-effective option is to take BART to the airport and then fly, which takes about 10 hours and 38 minutes and costs between $370 and $700. Both options save time compared to other modes of transportation, such as driving or taking a combination of ferry and train.

To travel from San Francisco to Fairbanks without using public transportation, you can drive the entire distance. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 2972 miles, which takes about 2 days and 11 hours. You can expect to spend around $500 to $800 on fuel and other travel expenses for this road trip.

The flight duration between San Francisco and Fairbanks is typically around 7 hours and 35 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available, so travelers will need to be prepared for a layover. The cost of a flight between Fairbanks and San Francisco can vary between $413 and $660 depending on the airline, time of year, and booking in advance.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Fairbanks. There are 123+ hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $68 per night. Some popular hotel chains with locations in Fairbanks include Hilton, Marriott, and Best Western. Additionally, there are also bed and breakfasts, lodges, and vacation rentals available for those looking for a more unique and personalized stay.

San Francisco, CA, USA to Fairbanks, AK, USA from $163: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from San Francisco to Fairbanks: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Francisco to Fairbanks

Best Neighbourhoods in Fairbanks

Best Times To Visit Fairbanks's Attractions

Fairbanks Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Fairbanks

San Francisco - Fairbanks operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Fairbanks

Popular routes