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San Francisco, CA, USA to Mountain View, CA, USA from $5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Francisco, United States of America
to
Mountain View, United States of America

How to Get from San Francisco to Mountain View: 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.

$5 by busBest price
61 kmDistance
42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Mountain View 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
Caltrain
Train
Average Duration
1h  13m
Estimated price
$8-10
Recommended
Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$5-13
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 61 km
Duration: 42m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$6-10
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$210-250
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Traveling From San Francisco to Mountain View

Traveling from San Francisco to Mountain View offers a shift from the vibrant urban hustle of the city to the tech-friendly, laid-back atmosphere of Silicon Valley.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mountain View

Mountain View boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Mountain View
• Thriving dining scene with diverse cuisines.
• Close proximity to parks and community events.
North Whisman
• Home to innovative tech companies and startups.
• Excellent walking and biking trails.
Cuesta Park
• Scenic park with spacious green areas.
• Family-friendly environment with local schools.

Best Times To Visit Mountain View's Attractions

Planning your visit to Mountain View? Timing can elevate your experience at its attractions.

Shoreline Park
Visit early in the morning for peaceful views and fewer crowds.
Computer History Museum
Weekdays are ideal; enjoy quieter tours and less wait time.
Downtown Market
Arrive right when it opens on weekends for the best local products.

Mountain View Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mountain View enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For the best experience, consider visiting during the spring or fall when temperatures are comfortable and popular attractions are less crowded.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of authenticity, try the wood-fired pizzas at Buca di Beppo, where communal dining adds to the fun and festivity, contrasting with San Francisco's more upscale dining scene. Local ingredients shine through in each dish, offering a cozy atmosphere that highlights the flavor profiles of the region while fostering a sense of community.

San Francisco - Mountain View operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to Mountain View Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$8-10
Bus Show bus routes
Website
http://www.samtrans.com

Bus from Daly City BART-Bay 1 to Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi

Taxi from San Francisco to Mountain View

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$210-250

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Mountain View 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.

🚗 Driving from San Francisco to Mountain View is a pleasant journey spanning 38 miles, offering scenic views along the way. The approximately 42-minute drive allows for a quick and convenient trip between the two cities. 💸 The cost of driving from San Francisco to Mountain View typically ranges from $6 to $10, making it an affordable option for transportation. With various routes available, travelers can choose the most cost-effective and efficient way to reach their destination.
Average price
$6 - $10
🚂 Experience a scenic train journey from San Francisco to Mountain View with a direct service departing every 30 minutes and taking approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. 🛤️ Enjoy the 36-mile route as you travel by Caltrain from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station to Mountain View Caltrain Southbound station, passing through charming landscapes along the way.
Departure Point
San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
Mountain View Caltrain Southbound station
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from San Francisco to Mountain View, you can travel between the two cities by using connecting services. The journey, with transfers, takes about 3 hours and 24 minutes. 🌉 The bus services from San Francisco to Mountain View are operated by SamTrans. Departure is from Daly City BART-Bay 1 station, and the arrival is at Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1 station. The prices for this bus route vary from $5 to $13.
Departure Point
Daly City BART-Bay 1 station
Arrival Point
Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1 station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Mountain View.

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The distance between San Francisco and Mountain View is approximately 33 miles. By car, it typically takes around 50 minutes to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, taking a bus from San Francisco to Mountain View can take around 3 hours and 22 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Mountain View is by taking the bus, which typically costs between $3 and $15. The journey by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes. However, if speed is your priority and cost is not an issue, taking a taxi would be the fastest option, taking only 42 minutes to reach Mountain View at a cost of $210 to $250.
The prices for a bus ticket between Mountain View and San Francisco can range from $3 to $14, depending on factors such as the bus company, the time of the day, and the type of ticket. It is recommended to check the individual bus company's website or ticketing platform for specific pricing and availability. Additionally, it's worth noting that other modes of transportation, such as driving or taking a taxi, may have different pricing options that can vary based on fuel costs and time of travel.
To travel from San Francisco to Mountain View without using public transportation, you can drive the distance which is approximately 38 miles. It usually takes around 42 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Mountain View, depending on traffic conditions. The price of using a car can vary, but it ranges from $6 to $10 for the trip.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Mountain View without a car is to take the Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes and the ticket price is usually around $8 to $10. The Caltrain is a convenient and efficient option for traveling between the two cities, especially for those who want to avoid the traffic and parking difficulties that come with driving.
Yes, there is a direct train link between San Francisco and Mountain View. The train, operated by Caltrain, departs from San Francisco Caltrain station and arrives at Mountain View Caltrain station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes. Alternatively, there is no direct bus route between the two cities, but it is possible to take a combination of buses that would take approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes, including transfers.
There are 898+ hotels available in Mountain View offering a wide range of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels in the area start at $64, making it suitable for a variety of budgets. Some popular hotel options in Mountain View include the Hotel Avante, Hotel Zico, and Hotel Vue. Additionally, there are numerous other hotels, motels, and Airbnb rentals available in and around the city to cater to different preferences and needs.

Trips from San Francisco