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San Francisco, CA, USA to Fresno, CA, USA from $20: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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

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$20 by busBest price
262 kmDistance
2h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Fresno 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  43m
Estimated price
$142-438
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$12-105
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 262 km
Duration: 2h 43m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$20-60
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$30-1420
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  34m
Estimated price
$46-65
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Traveling From San Francisco to Fresno

The journey from San Francisco to Fresno showcases a striking contrast between the bustling urban vibe of the Bay Area and the serene agricultural landscapes of the Central Valley.

Best Neighborhoods in Fresno

Fresno boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and experiences.

Woodward Park
• Home to a beautiful and expansive park.
• Great dining options and shopping nearby.
Clovis
• Charming small-town feel and local boutiques.
• Hosts numerous popular festivals throughout the year.
Downtown Fresno
• Vibrant nightlife with bars and theaters.
• Rich in history and diverse dining experiences.

Best Times To Visit Fresno's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Fresno's top spots.

Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Visit on weekdays in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Woodward Park
Early mornings or late afternoons provide a serene atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
Fresno Art Museum
Thursdays and Fridays tend to be quieter, perfect for exploring exhibits.

Fresno Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Fresno experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Be prepared for the heat in summer and occasional rain in winter, as weather conditions can impact your outdoor plans and overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Fresno

A must-try dish in Fresno is the carne asada burrito from the local favorite, Taqueria El Buen Gusto, where the vibrant flavors of fresh, locally sourced ingredients stand out. This dining experience contrasts with San Francisco's upscale dining scene, offering a more casual atmosphere that celebrates authentic, hearty Mexican cuisine with a focus on bold, savory flavors.

San Francisco - Fresno operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Fresno, 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 Fresno (FAT)

Average Duration
2h 43m
Estimated price
$142-438
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Fresno Bus Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$20-60
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Fresno

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$12-105
all-pages.transport_caltrain
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

all-pages.transport_caltrain from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to Santa Clara Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$12-12

all-pages.transport_caltrain from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose to Fresno, CA

Average Duration
5h 34m
Estimated price
$46-65
Drive

Drive from San Francisco to Fresno

Average Duration
3h 13m
Estimated price
$30-1420

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Fresno 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 Fresno spanning 187 miles, a journey that typically takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes by car. The route offers diverse landscapes, from the coastal allure of San Francisco to the agricultural heartland of central California. 💰 Prices to travel from San Francisco to Fresno by car can range from $30 to $50, providing flexibility for different budget considerations. Consider factors such as fuel costs, tolls, and any potential stops along the way when planning your travel budget for this enjoyable drive.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚂 Traveling from San Francisco to Fresno by train involves a transfer at Richmond. The journey, operated by Amtrak, takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. 🎫 Prices for the train ticket between San Francisco and Fresno can range from $12 to $105, offering a cost-effective way to travel between the two cities. 🗺️ The route covers a distance of 212 miles and includes a subway ride to Richmond followed by a train journey to Fresno. The entire trip takes around 5 hours and 11 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Departure Point
Richmond station
Arrival Point
Fresno station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: When traveling from San Francisco to Fresno on Amtrak's San Joaquins service, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages. You can look forward to light refreshments such as coffee, tea, and various packaged snacks. For meals, the Café Car provides a selection of sandwiches, salads, and microwaveable meals available for purchase.
• Seating Options: Amtrak offers two seating classes on the San Joaquins line: Coach Class and Business Class. Coach Class provides comfortable reclining seats and overhead racks for luggage, while Business Class features larger, more spacious seating with a quieter atmosphere and extra legroom. Reservations for Business Class might be advisable during peak travel times for a more relaxed experience.
• Operators: The main operator for this route is Amtrak. You can check schedules, book tickets, and find more details about your journey on their official website: Amtrak. For local transport schedules in Fresno, visit the Fresno Area Express (FAX) website at FAX.
🛫 When traveling from San Francisco to Fresno by plane, the quickest option is a direct flight that only takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes. 💰 The cost of a flight from Fresno to San Francisco can range from $142 to $438, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Fresno Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to Fresno by bus is a convenient option, with services operated by Greyhound USA. The journey typically takes around 5 hours, departing once daily from San Francisco Bus Station to arrive at Fresno Bus Station. 🛣️ The direct route from San Francisco to Fresno spans approximately 188 miles, offering a straightforward trip with a single bus transfer. Greyhound's reliable services ensure a smooth travel experience, with prices varying between $20 to $60 for this route. 🚏 For those looking for alternative routes, options with transfers through cities like Reno or Vancouver are available, extending the travel time to up to 10.5 hours. While longer, these routes offer a chance to see different cities along the way and provide flexibility for travelers.
Departure Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Arrival Point
Fresno Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to arrive at the San Francisco Bus Station early, as the boarding process for Greyhound buses can get busy, especially during peak travel hours; find more details on schedules at greyhound.com
• Bring snacks and a refillable water bottle for the 5-hour trip; while the bus may make a stop, options at those stops can be limited, and staying hydrated will make your journey more comfortable.
• Upon arrival at Fresno Bus Station, be prepared for potential wait times for local transit options; consider checking the Fresno Area Express (FAX) bus routes in advance at fresno.gov to plan your onward journey.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Fresno is approximately 163 miles by road. It takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes to drive between the two cities. By train, the travel time is 5 hours and 30 minutes. Flying is the quickest option, with a flight time of 3 hours and 37 minutes. If you prefer taking the bus, the travel time is approximately 5 hours.
The most cost-effective way to travel from San Francisco to Fresno is by bus, which typically costs between $20 and $60 and takes around 5 hours. If time is a priority, driving is the quickest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 13 minutes. However, it is important to consider factors such as traffic and tolls when choosing this mode of transportation.
The prices of a train ticket between San Francisco and Fresno can range from $12 to $105, depending on factors such as class, travel date, and availability. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket between Fresno and San Francisco can range from $20 to $60, again depending on similar variables. It is recommended to check with the specific train and bus operators for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from San Francisco to Fresno without using public transportation, you can drive your own car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 187 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes to cover this distance by car. The cost of driving from San Francisco to Fresno can vary between $30 to $50 for fuel, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Fresno without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and costs between $20 and $60. Another option is to take a train, which takes 5 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $12 and $110. If you prefer a quicker option, you can fly from San Francisco to Fresno, which takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $110 and $430.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Fresno by bus. Greyhound USA operates a daily bus service that departs from San Francisco Bus Station and arrives at Fresno Bus Station, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours. However, there is no direct train service between the two cities. Passengers can take an Amtrak train from San Francisco to Richmond, and then transfer to another Amtrak train from Richmond to Fresno, with a total travel time of 5 hours and 30 minutes.
The flight between San Francisco and Fresno typically takes 1 hour and 2 minutes on a direct flight. The prices for a flight between the two cities can vary, ranging from $119 to $421. It is advisable to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Fresno. With over 105 hotels available, you can find a range of options to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Fresno start at $56 per night, making it affordable for most travelers. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices available that will meet your needs.

Trips from San Francisco