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San Francisco, CA, USA to Chico, CA, USA from $10: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco to Chico: 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.

$10 by trainBest price
263 kmDistance
3h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Chico 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
5h  5m
Estimated price
$20-90
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  39m
Estimated price
$10-103
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 263 km
Duration: 3h 1m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
$10-155
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  59m
Estimated price
$10-155
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$29-45
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$113-200
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$169-418
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Traveling From San Francisco to Chico

Your journey from the iconic urban landscapes of San Francisco to the tranquil charm of Chico offers a stark contrast between bustling city life and peaceful, nature-infused surroundings.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chico

Chico offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown Chico
• Bustling cafes and shops line the vibrant streets.
• Hosts local events and farmers' markets regularly.
Kensington Park
• Peaceful residential area with tree-lined streets.
• Close to beautiful parks and outdoor recreational options.
Chico State Area
• Lively atmosphere filled with student energy.
• Home to cultural venues and artistic events.

Best Times To Visit Chico's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Chico's attractions.

Bidwell Park
Early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Chico Museum
Weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday, see fewer crowds for a relaxing visit.
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
Spring and fall provide pleasant weather and vibrant surroundings during tours.

Chico Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chico experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the ideal seasons for comfortable exploration. Understanding the local weather patterns helps you pack appropriately and plan your activities around the finest conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Chico

Try the tri-tip sandwich at The Banshee, a local favorite that captures the heart of California barbecue with its smoky flavors and hearty portions. This experience stands in contrast to San Francisco's culinary scene, offering a laid-back atmosphere and a focus on regional ingredients that truly reflect Chico's agricultural roots.

San Francisco - Chico operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Chico, 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 San Francisco to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$10-45

Bus from Sacramento to Chico Bus Station

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$10-45
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Oakland to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$203-100

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$905-2035

Train from Sacramento to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$905-2035

Train from Richmond to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
5h 52m
Estimated price
$10-155
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Redding (RDD)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$204-205

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$204-206

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Chico 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 bustling San Francisco to the charming town of Chico, covering a distance of 163 miles. Enjoy approximately a 3-hour drive through diverse landscapes and picturesque rural vistas. 💸 Prices for the journey from San Francisco to Chico by car range from $29 to $45, offering budget-friendly travel options for every road tripper. Fill up your gas tank, pack some snacks, and hit the road for a pocket-friendly adventure in Northern California.
Average price
$29 - $45
🚂 Traveling from San Francisco to Chico by train requires making a transfer in Oakland. The journey takes about 5 hours and 39 minutes in total. 🚂 Ticket prices for the train between San Francisco and Chico range from $10 to $103, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for this route.
Departure Point
Oakland station
Arrival Point
Chico Amtrak station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip to Chico, you’ll likely be traveling with Amtrak. Onboard services include a café car that offers a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. To make your trip more comfortable, consider pre-purchasing items at the café since popular items can sell out quickly.
• Amtrak trains generally offer a variety of seating options: Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Most likely, you will be in Coach Class which has comfortable reclining seats and large windows for viewing the scenic California countryside. If you want more space and a quieter environment, consider upgrading to Business Class which offers more legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks.
• The primary operator for your route is Amtrak. You can check schedules and book tickets at their website: amtrak.com Another option is the Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG), which provides bus services for connections in the area. More information can be found on their website: bcag.org
🛫 Flying from San Francisco Airport to Redding Airport in Chico is a quick and convenient option with the direct flight taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Redding Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to Chico by bus requires a transfer in Sacramento. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes with Flixbus USA services. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 191 miles and involves 3 transfers along the way. The total duration of the trip is 8 hours and 10 minutes. 💰 Bus fares between San Francisco and Chico typically range from $20 to $90. Overall, the journey offers a scenic and convenient way to reach Chico from the Bay Area.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Chico Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Chico is approximately 139 miles with a road distance of 163.2 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 5 hours and 39 minutes to reach Chico from San Francisco. Taking a train and then a bus, the total travel time extends to 5 hours and 59 minutes. By car, it takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute to reach San Francisco from Chico, while the bus journey takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes to reach Chico from San Francisco.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Chico is by train, with tickets ranging from $9 to $110. Although it takes 5 hours and 39 minutes, it is an affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. On the other hand, the fastest way to reach Chico from San Francisco is by driving, which takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute and costs between $29 and $45. This option provides the convenience of a shorter travel time but at a slightly higher cost.
When traveling from San Francisco to Chico the prices of a train ticket range from $10 to $103. Alternatively, taking a bus from Chico to San Francisco can cost anywhere from $20 to $87. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the type of ticket purchased, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with the respective train and bus companies for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from San Francisco to Chico without using public transportation, you can opt to drive by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 163 miles, and the drive takes around 3 hours and 1 minute. The cost of the journey by car can range from $29 to $45, depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Chico without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $19 and $90. This is a convenient option for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.
The flight duration between San Francisco and Chico is approximately 1 hour and 1 minute if you take a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Redding Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability, but on average, it typically ranges from $100 to $150 for a one-way ticket. However, it's always advisable to check with different airlines and booking platforms for the most accurate and updated pricing information.
There are various options for accommodation near Chico. With over 45 hotels to choose from, visitors have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in the area start at $75, giving travelers flexibility to select accommodations that fit their budget. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or more affordable options, Chico offers a variety of hotels to suit every traveler's preferences.

Trips from San Francisco