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San Francisco, CA, USA to El Centro, CA, USA from $47: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Francisco, United States of America
to
El Centro, United States of America

How to Get from San Francisco to El Centro: 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.

$47 by busBest price
956 kmDistance
5h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to El Centro 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  12m
Estimated price
$160-494
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Train
Bus
Average Duration
20h  2m
Estimated price
$47-247
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 956 km
Duration: 5h 12m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
9h  36m
Estimated price
$82-367
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
10h  12m
Estimated price
$93-1600
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
9h  32m
Estimated price
$95-356
Company
various
BART
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
10h  41m
Estimated price
$1601-1602
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
13h  10m
Estimated price
$1603-1604
Company
various
BART
Bus
Average Duration
13h  40m
Estimated price
$1605-1606
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
15h  29m
Estimated price
$1607-1608
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  56m
Estimated price
$1609-160
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Traveling From San Francisco to El Centro

Traveling from the vibrant hills and iconic landscapes of San Francisco to the laid-back desert charm of El Centro offers an intriguing contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in El Centro

El Centro’s neighborhoods offer a mix of culture, history, and charm.

Downtown El Centro
• Features vibrant shops and local eateries.
• Hosts regular cultural events and festivals.
Imperial Valley Mall Area
• Offers a variety of shopping options.
• Convenient access to dining and entertainment.
Newman Market Neighborhood
• Known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
• Close to parks and recreational facilities.

Best Times To Visit El Centro's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your El Centro experience.

California Border Monument
Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Plaza Park
Enjoy serene walks during weekdays, avoiding weekend family gatherings.
The Imperial Valley Expo
Attend events on opening days for a lively atmosphere without overwhelming crowds.

El Centro Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

El Centro enjoys a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities most of the year. For comfortable temperatures and less heat, spring and fall are the best times to explore, as weather conditions can impact your overall travel experience.

Dining in El Centro: A Taste of Local Flavor

Try the carne asada fries at Las Guitarras, where the generous toppings and vibrant flavors reflect the local culinary traditions distinct from San Francisco’s seafood and artisan influences. The casual, welcoming atmosphere, coupled with the use of fresh, regional ingredients, creates a dining experience that feels both authentic and hearty.

San Francisco - El Centro operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to El Centro (IPL)

Average Duration
5h 12m
Estimated price
$160-494

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$4942-4943
Website
iflysouthern.com

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to El Centro (IPL)

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$160-472

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT)

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$4946-4947
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$2471-2472
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
$2474-160
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$2477-4944

Bus from Los Angeles Downtown to El Centro Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$2479-24705

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to El Centro Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$953-24705
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
$476-1609

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to El Centro Bus Stop

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$952-1601
Contact phone
+52 664 104 7400
Website
abc.com.mx

Bus from Tijuana to Mexicali

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$2479-476
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Other from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$478-479

Other from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$2470-479

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

Traveling between San Francisco and El Centro 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 an unforgettable road trip from San Francisco to El Centro, covering a scenic driving distance of 594 miles. The journey is estimated to take around 9 hours and 56 minutes, promising a captivating experience across the diverse landscapes of California. 🌞 Discover the economical range of prices to reach El Centro from San Francisco by car, ranging from $100 to $160. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving through picturesque towns and open highways, soaking in the beauty of the Golden State along the way.
Average price
$100 - $160
🛫 To travel from San Francisco to El Centro by plane, you will need to take a flight with one stopover, as there are no direct flights available from Oakland Airport to El Centro Airport. The quickest flight option takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes. ✈️ Southern Airways Express and Southwest Airlines are the two main airlines that provide flights from Oakland Airport to El Centro Airport. The total flight duration from San Francisco to El Centro is around 5 hours and 12 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between El Centro and San Francisco can range from $160 to $494, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. It's important to compare prices and schedules to find the best option for your travel plans.
Departure Point
Oakland Airport
Arrival Point
El Centro Airport. The quickest flight takes 9h 30m and has one stopover
🌴 The total travel time for this journey, including transfers, is approximately 13 hours and 10 minutes. This can vary depending on traffic and other factors, so it's wise to plan accordingly for the long ride. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket from San Francisco to El Centro typically ranges from $53 to $183.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
El Centro Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to El Centro.

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The distance between San Francisco and El Centro is approximately 520 miles. If you choose to drive, it would take about 9 hours and 56 minutes. Taking public transportation would take longer, with a total travel time of 20 hours and 1 minute by using Caltrain, train, and then bus. Alternatively, taking a bus from San Francisco to El Centro would take around 13 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to El Centro is by taking the bus, which costs around $50-$190 and takes approximately 13 hours and 30 minutes. This is a more economical choice compared to flying, which can cost around $80-$360 but takes less time, approximately 9 hours and 32 minutes. However, if time-efficiency is a priority, then flying and taking a bus afterward would be the quickest option.
The prices of a bus between El Centro and San Francisco vary from $52 to $181. The exact price depends on factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and the class of service chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus providers and compare prices to find the best deal for your trip.
To travel from San Francisco to El Centro without using public transportation, the best option would be to drive. The driving distance is approximately 594 miles, and it takes about 9 hours and 56 minutes. The cost for this journey can range from $100 to $160, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to El Centro without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and 30 minutes and the cost varies between $50 and $190. By taking the bus, you can sit back and relax while enjoying the scenery along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and El Centro but it requires a transfer in Los Angeles Downtown. The bus service operated by Flixbus USA starts from San Francisco and arrives at El Centro Bus Stop, with the journey taking approximately 13 hours and 30 minutes, including the transfers. There is currently no direct bus service that operates between San Francisco and El Centro.
The flight between San Francisco and El Centro typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. This is for a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Diego Airport, as there are no airports in El Centro itself. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, the time of booking, and other factors, but it is typically in the range of $100 to $300 per person for a one-way ticket.
There are plenty of accommodation options near El Centro with over 78 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at $46, making them affordable for a range of budgets. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly motel or a more luxurious hotel, you should have no trouble finding a place to stay that suits your needs and preferences. It is recommended to check with specific hotels for availability and to make reservations in advance.

Trips from San Francisco