San Francisco, CA, USA to Scottsdale, AZ, USA from $521: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$521 by busBest price

1068 kmDistance

4h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

Embarking on a journey from San Francisco to Scottsdale takes you from the cool, fog-kissed coast of California to the warm, vibrant desert landscape of Arizona, offering a fascinating contrast between urban exploration and outdoor adventure.

Best Neighborhoods in Scottsdale

Scottsdale boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm and attractions.

Old Town Scottsdale

• Vibrant nightlife with many bars and restaurants.

• Art galleries showcasing local and national artists.

North Scottsdale

• Upscale shopping and dining options available.

• Access to stunning desert golf courses.

South Scottsdale

• Cozy boutiques and unique shops abound.

• Known for its rich cultural events and festivals.

Best Times To Visit Scottsdale's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Scottsdale experience.

Desert Botanical Garden

Early mornings or weekdays offer a quieter experience to enjoy the blooms.

Old Town Scottsdale

Visit on weekdays to explore shops and art galleries without the rush.

McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Early mornings before 10 AM provide cooler temperatures and fewer hikers.

Scottsdale Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Scottsdale enjoys a warm desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall are ideal for outdoor activities, while summer's heat invites visitors to seek indoor attractions and enjoy refreshing poolside experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Scottsdale

Try the prickly pear cactus salad at The Mission, which showcases the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine and offers a vibrant atmosphere that differs from San Francisco's seafood-centric dining. The use of locally sourced ingredients and the warm desert ambiance create a dining experience that stands apart from the coastal city's culinary scene.

San Francisco - Scottsdale operators

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

Train

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Coliseum

Average Duration

25m

Estimated price

0-0

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

0-0

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to Santa Clara Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration

1h 32m

Estimated price

0-0

Plane Show flights

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Phoenix Airport

Average Duration

2h 4m

Estimated price

$521-790

Plane from San Jose Airport to Phoenix Airport

Average Duration

1h 59m

Estimated price

$521-790

Website

aa.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Phoenix Airport

Average Duration

2h 3m

Estimated price

$2183-2187

Plane from San Jose Airport to Phoenix Airport

Average Duration

1h 59m

Estimated price

$521-790

Website

flyfrontier.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Phoenix Airport

Average Duration

2h 3m

Estimated price

$799-3590

Website

united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Phoenix Airport

Average Duration

2h 6m

Estimated price

$527-390

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to San Jose Downtown

Average Duration

Estimated price

$3594-799

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Tempe

Average Duration

7h 20m

Estimated price

$35920-771

Contact phone

+1 833 766 3553

Website

tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose to Phoenix, AZ

Average Duration

15h 45m

Estimated price

$771-775

Bus from San Jose to Phoenix

Average Duration

15h 45m

Estimated price

$772-521

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Scottsdale 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 scenic road trip from San Francisco 🌉 to Scottsdale 🌵 covering a distance of 767 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way. ⏰ With a driving time of approximately 12 hours and 28 minutes, the journey offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the freedom of the open road as you make your way to the vibrant city of Scottsdale. 💰 Prices for a car trip from San Francisco to Scottsdale range between $130 to $210, providing an affordable and flexible travel option. Discover the enchanting desert oasis of Scottsdale at your own pace, creating unforgettable memories along the route.

Average price

$130 - $210

🛫 Flying from San Francisco to Scottsdale is a convenient and efficient way to travel. The quickest flight option is a direct route from San Francisco Airport to Phoenix Airport, with a travel time of just 1 hour and 50 minutes. 🌵 Upon arrival at Phoenix Airport, travelers can choose from multiple airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Inc., Frontier Airlines, and American Airlines for connecting flights to Scottsdale. The total duration of the journey from San Francisco to Scottsdale by plane is approximately 5 hours and 53 minutes. 💸 When it comes to pricing, flights between Scottsdale and San Francisco can range from $77 to $390, offering passengers flexibility in choosing a fare that fits their budget and travel preferences. Overall, flying from San Francisco to Scottsdale provides a convenient and relatively quick way to reach this vibrant desert destination.

Departure Point

San Francisco Airport

Arrival Point

Phoenix Airport

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Consider booking a direct flight on Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, or Frontier Airlines for the quickest travel time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), avoiding potential delays associated with layovers.

• Upon landing at PHX, navigate the airport easily by following the signage to your specific terminal. If you're headed to Scottsdale, it’s about a 10-15 minute taxi ride; be prepared for a fare of approximately $40-$50, depending on traffic and exact drop-off location.

• For local transportation, download the Lyft or Uber app before your trip as they are widely available at PHX and often cheaper than traditional taxis, ensuring a smooth ride to Scottsdale. More info on airport transport options can be found at Phoenix Sky Harbor Transportation.

🌵 The bus route involves stops at San Carlos & Convention Center, Santa Clara / S 24th St in San Jose, before arriving at McDowell Rd & 27th Av in Scottsdale. 💰 Prices for this 19-hour and 25-minute bus journey between Scottsdale and San Francisco typically range from $120 to $205.

Departure Point

San Francisco station

Arrival Point

Phoenix, AZ station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Scottsdale is 663 miles by air, with a road distance of 767 miles. By flying and then taking a bus, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 39 minutes. If traveling by plane alone, it takes 5 hours and 52 minutes. Driving between the two cities typically takes 12 hours and 28 minutes, while taking a bus can take 19 hours and 24 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Scottsdale is to take Caltrain and a bus, with prices ranging from $75 to $130. However, this option takes the longest time, with a travel time of approximately 20 hours and 19 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to fly and then take the line 44 and line 50 buses. This option takes around 4 hours and 39 minutes, with prices varying from $45 to $210.

The prices for a bus ticket between San Francisco and Scottsdale range from $110 to $185. It is important to note that the prices can vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and any promotional discounts available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal.

To travel from San Francisco to Scottsdale without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance is approximately 767 miles and it takes around 12 hours and 28 minutes to reach Scottsdale by car. The prices for renting a car range from $130 to $210, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle chosen.

To travel from San Francisco to Scottsdale without a car, you can take the BART to the Dublin/Pleasanton station. From there, you can transfer to a bus that will take you to Scottsdale. This journey typically takes around 16 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $85 and $150. It's a longer travel time compared to other modes of transportation, but it allows you to reach your destination without needing a car.

Unfortunately, there is no direct link between San Francisco and Scottsdale. However, there are options available that involve transfers. The bus journey from San Francisco to Scottsdale takes approximately 19h 24m, with transfers at San Carlos & Convention Center, Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose, and McDowell Rd & 27th Av. Both Flixbus USA and Tufesa operate bus services between San Francisco and Phoenix where one can then transfer to Scottsdale.

The flight between San Francisco and Scottsdale typically takes 1 hour and 50 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can range from $72 to $240, depending on the airline and time of booking. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best possible price.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Scottsdale. With over 2379 hotels available, you can find a range of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $47 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly motels, you can easily find a place to stay near Scottsdale.

San Francisco, CA, USA to Scottsdale, AZ, USA from $521: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Francisco to Scottsdale

Best Neighborhoods in Scottsdale

Best Times To Visit Scottsdale's Attractions

Scottsdale Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Scottsdale

San Francisco - Scottsdale operators

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

Useful tips for plane travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Scottsdale

Popular routes