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San Francisco, CA, USA to Oakland, CA, USA from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco to Oakland: 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.

$1 by carBest price
17 kmDistance
15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Oakland 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
Bus
Average Duration
15m
Estimated price
$1-29
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
15m
Estimated price
$1-3
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 17 km
Duration: 15m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
15m
Estimated price
$1-3
Company
BART
BART
Average Duration
16m
Estimated price
$2-4
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
15m
Estimated price
$60-75
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Oakland

Embarking on a journey from San Francisco to Oakland reveals a captivating contrast: vibrant city life meets the laid-back charm of Oakland, offering diverse experiences at every turn.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oakland

Oakland boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character.

Jack London Square
• Waterfront views with vibrant dining options
• Home to ferries and lively events
Temescal
• Trendy with eclectic shops and eateries
• Known for its art murals and community vibe
Rockridge
• Charming streets lined with boutiques and cafés
• Close to the famous Rockridge BART station

Best Times To Visit Oakland's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment in Oakland by visiting attractions during ideal times.

Lake Merritt
Visit early mornings on weekdays for serene views and fewer visitors.
Oakland Museum of California
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are quieter, providing a more relaxed experience.
Jack London Square
Late afternoons on weekdays offer a peaceful atmosphere with sunset views.

Oakland Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oakland enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. Generally, spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures, enhancing your travel experience with outdoor activities and events.

Dining Recommendation in Oakland

Head to Brown Sugar Kitchen for their mouthwatering chicken and waffles, a dish that showcases the bold flavors and Southern-inspired cuisine of Oakland. Unlike the more seafood-centric options in San Francisco, this restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere and a focus on local, sustainable ingredients that highlight the city’s unique culinary landscape.

San Francisco - Oakland operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Website
actransit.org

Bus from Salesforce Transit Center Bay 30 to Uptown Transit Center

Average Duration
15m
Estimated price
$1-29
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Oakland

Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$3-29
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Oakland

Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$1-27
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to 12th Street / Oakland City Center

Average Duration
16m
Estimated price
$2-4
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
yellowcabsf.com

Other from San Francisco to Oakland

Average Duration
15m
Estimated price
$60-75

Other from San Francisco to Oakland

Average Duration
15m
Estimated price
$1-3

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Oakland 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 quick and scenic journey from San Francisco to Oakland just 11 miles apart. In a mere 15 minutes of driving time, you'll cross the Bay Area and soak in the beautiful views along the way. 💰 Enjoy the affordable travel options with car prices ranging from $1 to $3 for the trip from San Francisco to Oakland. Whether you're commuting for work or exploring the two vibrant cities, the cost-effective transportation makes it a convenient choice.
Average price
$1 - $3
🚆 The trip from San Francisco to Oakland by train is a convenient and quick option. The direct train route takes approximately 16 minutes to complete, with services operating every day. 🗺️ Route 1 offers a 12-minute journey covering a distance of 7.8 miles. Passengers can board the subway towards Antioch at Civic Center / UN Plaza station, arriving at 12th Street / Oakland City Center station. 🗺️ Route 2 is a 13-minute trip spanning 7.8 miles. Travelers can take the subway towards Richmond at Civic Center / UN Plaza station, reaching 12th Street / Oakland City Center station on time.
Departure Point
Civic Center / UN Plaza station
Arrival Point
12th Street / Oakland City Center station
💸 The prices for a flight between these two cities can range from $2 to $4, making it an affordable option for travelers.
🚌 The direct bus from San Francisco to Oakland departs from Salesforce Transit Center Bay 30 and arrives at Uptown Transit Center, with services operating hourly every day. The journey typically takes around 15 minutes. 🚌 Travelers can expect ticket prices for the San Francisco to Oakland bus to range from $1 to $29. There are various routes available, with differing durations and distances, such as a 20-minute journey covering 5.4 miles or a 12-minute trip spanning 7.8 miles. 🚌 For those seeking alternative transportation options, one can consider taking the subway towards Antioch, departing from Montgomery St and arriving at 12th St / Oakland with Bay Area Rapid Transit. Alternatively, a bus towards NL Eastmont Transit Ctr MacArthur Blvd Limited Stops operated by AC Transit is another efficient way to reach Oakland from San Francisco in approximately 20 minutes.
Departure Point
Salesforce Transit Center Bay 30 station
Arrival Point
Uptown Transit Center station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from San Francisco to Oakland is to drive. The distance between the two cities is only about 15 minutes by car, and the cost of gas for this short distance is typically around $1-$3, depending on current fuel prices. There are also tolls that may need to be paid when crossing the Bay Bridge, so it's important to factor that into the total cost as well. Overall, driving is the most cost-effective option for traveling between San Francisco and Oakland.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco to Oakland is by bus. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and efficient option for transportation. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $1 to $29, depending on the specific bus service and any applicable discounts or promotions. Overall, taking the bus is a convenient and time-saving choice for traveling between these two cities.
To travel from San Francisco to Oakland the cheapest way is to drive. The distance between these two cities is approximately 8 miles, and the road distance is around 11 miles. The drive typically takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is a quick and affordable option for getting from San Francisco to Oakland.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Oakland without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus options available, including AC Transit and the Transbay bus. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes and fares can range from $1 to $29 depending on the specific bus and ticket type. It is recommended to check the schedule and plan your trip accordingly to ensure a smooth and efficient journey.
To get from San Francisco to Oakland, the bus from Salesforce Transit Center Bay 30 to Uptown Transit Center is the fastest option, taking approximately 15 minutes including transfers. The buses operate on an hourly basis, providing frequent and convenient transportation between the two cities. The route is well-serviced, ensuring minimal waiting times. Overall, taking the bus is a convenient and efficient way to travel from San Francisco to Oakland.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Oakland. There are over 826 hotels to choose from in the area, offering a range of prices and amenities. Prices for hotels in Oakland start at $74 per night, depending on the location and the type of accommodation you prefer. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best rates and availability for your stay in Oakland.
Yes, you can drive from San Francisco to Oakland. The driving distance between the two cities is about 11 miles, and it usually takes around 15 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Oakland. There are multiple routes you can take, such as crossing the Bay Bridge or using the I-880 highway. Please note that traffic conditions may affect the actual travel time.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Francisco and Oakland. The bus departs from the Salesforce Transit Center Bay 30 and arrives at Uptown Transit Center in Oakland. The bus service operates hourly and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
To catch the bus from San Francisco to Oakland you will need to go to the Salesforce Transit Center Bay 30 station. This is where the bus services, operated by AC Transit, depart. The transit center is conveniently located in downtown San Francisco, making it easily accessible for travelers. Simply check the bus schedule and head to the designated departure bay at the transit center to catch your bus to Oakland.
The San Francisco to Oakland bus services operated by AC Transit arrive at the Uptown Transit Center station. This station is located in downtown Oakland and is a convenient location for exploring the city. From the Uptown Transit Center, you can easily access other parts of Oakland using various transportation options such as buses, trains, and taxis. The station is also close to popular attractions like the Fox Theater and several restaurants and shops.
The fastest way to get from San Francisco to Oakland is by taking a flight. The flight duration between the two cities is approximately minutes. The prices of a flight ticket from San Francisco to Oakland range from $2 - $4. Catching a quick flight is the most efficient option for travelers looking to minimize their travel time.
Trains from San Francisco to Oakland arrive at the 12th Street / Oakland City Center station. This station is located in downtown Oakland, making it convenient for accessing various attractions and destinations in the city. The BART system operates the train services between these two cities, providing a quick and efficient option for travel. Additionally, the 12th Street / Oakland City Center station is well-connected to other BART lines, allowing for easy transfers and onward journeys within the Bay Area.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Francisco and Oakland. The train departs from Civic Center / UN Plaza and arrives at 12th Street / Oakland City Center. Trains on this route operate every day, with a frequency of every 10 minutes. The journey typically takes around 16 minutes.
To catch the train from San Francisco to Oakland you will need to go to the Civic Center / UN Plaza station. This is where the train services operated by BART depart from. Be sure to check the train schedule beforehand to plan your journey accordingly. The train ride from San Francisco to Oakland is a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
The cost of a flight from San Francisco to Oakland typically ranges from $2 to $4. However, it's important to note that the cost can vary depending on factors such as the airline carrier, time of booking, and seasonal fluctuations. It is recommended to check with different airlines and online platforms to compare prices and find the best deals for your desired travel dates.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Francisco to Oakland can range from $1 to $29. The price may depend on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and whether it is a one-way or round-trip ticket. It is recommended to check with different bus providers to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, consider purchasing tickets in advance or during off-peak hours to potentially secure lower fares.
The cost to drive from San Francisco to Oakland varies depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. On average, it can cost around $1-$3 for the trip. This estimate takes into account fuel expenses and any potential toll fees on the bridge that connects the two cities. However, it is always a good idea to check current gas prices and bridge tolls before starting your journey.
Yes, it is possible to ride a bicycle from San Francisco to Oakland. The approximate distance between the two cities is 30 kilometers and it typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete the journey. However, it is important to note that the route may involve hilly terrain and may require navigating through traffic. Cyclists should also ensure they are equipped with the necessary safety gear and follow all local traffic laws.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Oakland