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San Francisco, CA, USA to Bakersfield, CA, USA from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Francisco to Bakersfield: 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.

$16 by trainBest price
407 kmDistance
2h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Bakersfield 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
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  56m
Estimated price
$215-455
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
7h  42m
Estimated price
$16-135
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 407 km
Duration: 2h 56m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  50m
Estimated price
$27-90
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
8h  5m
Estimated price
$30-85
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$50-2150

Traveling From San Francisco to Bakersfield

The journey from San Francisco's vibrant city life to Bakersfield's agricultural charm offers a fascinating contrast in scenery and culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bakersfield

Bakersfield features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown Bakersfield
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Great dining options featuring local flavors.
Riverwalk
• Beautiful trails alongside the Kern River.
• Scenic parks perfect for picnicking and leisure.
Westchester
• Historic homes showcasing classic architectural styles.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with nearby schools and parks.

Best Times To Visit Bakersfield's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Bakersfield's highlights.

California Living Museum (CALM)
Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more personal experience.
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
Evenings on weekdays feature less crowded shows and live music.
Bakersfield Museum of Art
Early afternoon visits on weekdays provide a peaceful environment.

Bakersfield Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bakersfield enjoys a hot desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The ideal times to visit are spring and fall, as the pleasant temperatures enhance your travel experience and allow for outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Bakersfield

Try the famous Basque cuisine at Noriega Hotel, where hearty dishes like lamb stew and homemade bread showcase local flavors and ingredients. This down-to-earth dining experience contrasts with San Francisco's upscale culinary scene, providing a warm, communal atmosphere that invites savory indulgence.

San Francisco - Bakersfield operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Bakersfield (BFL)

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$215-455
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Bakersfield

Average Duration
7h 42m
Estimated price
$16-135
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
$30-85
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Bakersfield

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
$27-90
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from San Francisco to Bakersfield

Average Duration
4h 43m
Estimated price
$50-2150

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Bakersfield 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.

🚗 Begin your scenic road trip from San Francisco to Bakersfield, covering a distance of 284 miles through beautiful California landscapes. Enjoy the smooth drive that takes approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes. 💰 The cost of journeying by car from San Francisco to Bakersfield ranges from $50 to $75, providing an affordable and convenient way to explore the diverse attractions along the route. Consider budget-friendly pit stops for meals and gas along the way.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Francisco to Bakersfield with Amtrak. Although there's no direct route, you'll transfer at Richmond during the 7-hour 42-minute trip. 🌉 Enjoy the 324-mile route passing through picturesque landscapes and urban hubs. Board the BART Subway towards Dublin/Pleasanton from Montgomery St, then transition to the Amtrak train at Oakland Jack London station. 💰 Ticket prices range from $16 to $135 for this adventure, offering a convenient and comfortable way to explore the diverse landscapes of California between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Richmond station
Arrival Point
Bakersfield station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary based on the operator, but Amtrak typically offers a cafe car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. You might want to plan ahead and bring your own food, especially if you prefer specific dietary options, as selection can be limited.
• The train journey from San Francisco to Bakersfield can be serviced by Amtrak with Economy and Business Class options available. Business Class offers more spacious seating and complimentary beverages, while Economy is more budget-friendly but less spacious. If comfort is a priority, consider opting for Business Class for a more pleasant ride.
• For this trip, Amtrak is the primary operator. You can visit their website at amtrak.com for schedules and ticket booking. Additionally, you can check for local transit options in Bakersfield by visiting the local transit website at bakersfieldtransit.org, which provides bus schedules and routes.
🛫 The quickest flight from San Francisco Airport to Bakersfield Airport is a direct flight lasting 1h 16m, making it a convenient option for travelers. 💸 The prices for flights between Bakersfield and San Francisco typically range from $215 to $455, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Bakersfield Airport
🕒 This relaxing bus ride takes approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes, offering a comfortable way to travel between these two vibrant cities in California. Services operate daily, providing flexibility for your travel plans. 💵 Ticket prices for the San Francisco to Bakersfield bus route range from $30 to $85, making it an affordable option for exploring the diverse landscapes and attractions along the way.
Departure Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Arrival Point
Bakersfield Train Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco to Bakersfield is by taking a night bus. This option typically costs between $26 and $90 and takes approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes. Taking a night bus allows you to save on accommodation costs and arrive in Bakersfield in the morning, ready to explore the city.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco to Bakersfield is by taking a flight. It typically takes around 2 hours and 48 minutes and costs between $180 and $440. Several airlines offer direct flights between the two cities, making it convenient and time-efficient. However, it's important to check for any potential layovers or schedule changes before booking your flight.
The distance between San Francisco and Bakersfield is approximately 253 miles. When traveling by road, the distance increases slightly to around 284 miles. It usually takes around 4-5 hours to drive between the two cities, depending on traffic and road conditions.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Bakersfield without a car is by taking a train. The Amtrak San Joaquin line offers a direct route between the two cities, with a journey time of around 7 hours and 42 minutes. Ticket prices can range from $16 to $140, depending on the class of service and time of travel. The train provides comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and scenic views of the California landscape along the way.
The travel time from San Francisco to Bakersfield typically takes around 2 hours and 48 minutes, including any necessary transfers. This duration can vary based on traffic conditions and mode of transportation. It is advisable to check the estimated travel time before embarking on the journey to account for any potential delays or disruptions.
One of the cheapest options to travel from San Francisco to Bakersfield is by taking a bus or train. The bus fare ranges from $30 to $85 and takes approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train which costs $16 to $140 and takes around 7 hours and 42 minutes. Another option is to fly, which is the quickest way and takes 2 hours and 48 minutes, but it can be a bit more expensive with fares ranging from $180 to $440.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Bakersfield to suit various budgets and preferences. Some popular hotels in the city include Marriott Bakersfield and Courtyard by Marriott Bakersfield. Prices for these hotels start at $54 per night. Additionally, you can also find a variety of other hotels, motels, and vacation rentals in the area to choose from.
Yes, you can drive from San Francisco to Bakersfield. The distance between the two cities is approximately 284 miles, and it takes about 4 hours and 43 minutes to drive without traffic. The most common route is to take Interstate 580 East to Interstate 5 South, which will lead you directly to Bakersfield.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Francisco and Bakersfield. The bus departs from San Francisco Bus Station and arrives at Bakersfield Train Station. The service operates once daily and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes.
You can catch the bus from San Francisco to Bakersfield at the San Francisco Bus Station. This is the departure point for Greyhound USA bus services between the two cities. It is recommended to arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The bus from San Francisco to Bakersfield arrives at the Bakersfield Train Station. This is a convenient location in downtown Bakersfield. The station is well-equipped with facilities and amenities for travelers. From there, you can easily explore the city or continue your journey to other destinations.
To get from San Francisco Airport to Bakersfield there are a few options available. The most convenient option is to take a flight from San Francisco to Bakersfield, which takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $150-$250. Another option is to rent a car at the airport and drive to Bakersfield, which takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can also take a combination of public transportation, such as taking the BART from the airport to a nearby train or bus station, and then taking a train or bus to Bakersfield, which can take around 6-7 hours and costs around $25-$100.
United Airlines is the only airline that offers flights between San Francisco and Bakersfield. They operate direct flights from San Francisco Airport to Bakersfield Airport. It is recommended to check the United Airlines website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco to Bakersfield is by plane. The quickest flight from San Francisco Airport to Bakersfield Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes. United Airlines offers direct flights between the two cities. The total travel time by plane is around 2 hours and 48 minutes. Flight prices between Bakersfield and San Francisco range from $185 to $435.
The flight from San Francisco to Bakersfield takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes. There are direct flights available from San Francisco Airport to Bakersfield Airport, which is the quickest option. However, flight durations may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding flight times.
Trains from San Francisco to Bakersfield arrive at the Bakersfield station. The Amtrak train services operate this route, providing a convenient and comfortable mode of transportation. Bakersfield station is centrally located and provides easy access to various attractions and amenities in the city. Passengers can easily disembark at this station and continue their journey in Bakersfield.
No, there is no direct train between San Francisco and Bakersfield. However, there are train services available with transfers. The journey begins at Civic Center / UN Plaza station in San Francisco and requires a transfer at Richmond station before reaching Bakersfield. The total travel time is approximately 7 hours and 42 minutes.
To catch the train from San Francisco to Bakersfield you will need to go to the Richmond station. This is where the Amtrak train services operate from. From San Francisco, you can take BART to Richmond station, which is approximately 19 miles away. Once at Richmond station, you can board the train to Bakersfield.
The cost of a flight from San Francisco to Bakersfield can range from $185 to $435, depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and availability of flights. It is recommended to book your flight in advance and compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal. Additionally, consider checking for any discounts or promotional offers that may be available.
The cost of a train from San Francisco to Bakersfield can range from $16 to $135, depending on the type of ticket and class. The cheapest option is usually the Economy class, while prices may increase for Business or First class tickets. It is recommended to check the prices on the specific train company's website or through a reliable travel booking platform for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Francisco to Bakersfield can range from $30 to $85, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket you choose. The prices can also vary depending on the time of travel and how far in advance you book your ticket. It is recommended to compare prices and book your ticket in advance to secure the best deal possible.
The cost to drive from San Francisco to Bakersfield can range from $50 to $75, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the approximately 288-mile journey. It's always a good idea to check current gas prices and consider any additional expenses such as parking fees.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Bakersfield