San Francisco, CA, USA to Riverside, CA, USA from $33: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$33 by trainBest price

624 kmDistance

6h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Riverside 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.

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Traveling From San Francisco to Riverside

Traveling from the vibrant cityscape of San Francisco to the sun-soaked amenities of Riverside offers a contrast between bustling urban life and serene suburban charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Riverside

Riverside boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct atmosphere.

Downtown Riverside

• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.

• Unique dining experiences in historic buildings.

Orangecrest

• Family-friendly with parks and schools nearby.

• Scenic mountain views enhance the suburban feel.

Arlington

• Historic homes reflect local architectural styles.

• Enjoy outdoor activities at parks and trails.

Best Times To Visit Riverside's Attractions

Discovering Riverside's attractions is best enjoyed with timing and planning.

California Citrus State Historic Park

Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for a peaceful experience.

Riverside Art Museum

Late afternoons on Wednesdays provide a quieter atmosphere to explore.

Mount Rubidio Park

Weekday visits during spring offer beautiful blooms and fewer visitors.

Riverside Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Riverside enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. Considering the weather can significantly enhance your travel experience, spring and fall are often the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Riverside

Try the authentic California burrito at La Picosita, where the flavors of fresh local ingredients come together in a hearty wrap that stands in contrast to San Francisco's seafood-centric dishes. The vibrant atmosphere and focus on bold, spicy flavors provide a distinctive culinary experience that reflects Riverside's laid-back vibe and rich cultural influences.

San Francisco - Riverside operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Santa Ana (SNA)

Average Duration

3h 45m

Estimated price

$2487-330

Website

united.com

Plane from San Francisco to Santa Ana

Average Duration

1h 36m

Estimated price

$2483-337

Plane from San Francisco to Ontario/San Bernardino

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$339-2131

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from San Francisco to Santa Ana

Average Duration

1h 31m

Estimated price

$332-24840

Website

flyfrontier.com

Plane from San Francisco to Ontario/San Bernardino

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$2134-2135

Plane from San Francisco to Ontario/San Bernardino via Las Vegas

Average Duration

3h 46m

Estimated price

$2134-2135

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Oakland to Los Angeles

Average Duration

12h 2m

Estimated price

$6209-339

Train from L. A. Union Station to Riverside-Downtown station

Average Duration

1h 27m

Estimated price

$705-2484

Contact phone

(800) 371-LINK (5465)

Website

metrolinktrains.com

Train from Tustin station to Riverside-Downtown station

Average Duration

1h 4m

Estimated price

$2136-2137

Train from Rancho Cucamonga station to San Bernardino - Downtown station

Average Duration

27m

Estimated price

$702-703

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Coliseum

Average Duration

25m

Estimated price

$704-706

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

$702-703

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

Average Duration

1h 10m

Estimated price

$701-703

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2488-2487

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center

Average Duration

1h 10m

Estimated price

$701-2484

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

$2484-332

Contact phone

+1 (951) 565-5002

Website

riversidetransit.com

Bus from San Bernardino Transit Center to Vine St Layover

Average Duration

25m

Estimated price

$620-709

Website

ridelbt.com

Bus from Del Amo & Lakewood Nw to Del Amo Station Bay 3

Average Duration

17m

Estimated price

$709-0

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Riverside 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 picturesque journey from San Francisco to Riverside, spanning 435 miles of diverse Californian landscape. Enjoy roughly 7 hours and 13 minutes of scenic driving through vibrant cities and expansive countryside. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel options with car prices ranging from $75 to $120, offering flexibility for different preferences and budgets. Navigate the route with ease, passing through iconic California landmarks and charming towns along the way.

Average price

$75 - $120

🚆 The journey from San Francisco to Riverside by train is a scenic route with transfers in Oakland and Los Angeles Union Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 16 hours and 2 minutes. 🚆 Prices for train tickets between San Francisco and Riverside typically range from $33 to $213, offering passengers a convenient and affordable option for traveling between these two California cities.

Departure Point

Oakland station

Arrival Point

Riverside-Downtown station

🛫 Flying from San Francisco to Riverside is a quick and convenient option with direct flights lasting about 1 hour and 28 minutes. Airlines like Southwest, United, and Alaska Airlines operate flights from San Francisco Airport to Santa Ana Airport near Riverside.

Departure Point

San Francisco Airport

Arrival Point

Santa Ana Airport

🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to Riverside by bus requires multiple transfers and takes approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes. The journey involves stops in Los Angeles Union Station and San Bernardino Transit Center. 🚌 There are several routes available for the trip, with varying durations and number of transfers. Prices for the bus ticket between San Francisco and Riverside range from $41 to $148.

Departure Point

San Francisco station

Arrival Point

San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Riverside is 388 miles by air and 434.7 miles by road. If you take the train, it will take approximately 16 hours and 2 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly from San Francisco to Santa Ana and then take a train to Riverside, which takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes. Driving by car takes about 7 hours and 13 minutes, while taking a bus from San Francisco to Riverside will take approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Riverside is by taking the bus. It costs around $40-$150 and takes approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to get from San Francisco to Riverside is by taking the BART, flying, and then taking a train and a bus. This option costs between $70-$550 and takes around 6 hours and 23 minutes.

When traveling from San Francisco to Riverside, the prices for a train ticket can range from $33 to $213. On the other hand, taking a bus from Riverside to San Francisco can cost anywhere from $41 to $148. It's important to check different options and prices to find the best and most affordable mode of transportation for your journey.

To travel from San Francisco to Riverside without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is 435 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 13 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices for a car rental or using your own vehicle may range from $75 to $120, depending on factors like gas prices and toll fees.

To travel from San Francisco to Riverside without a car, you can take the BART and then transfer to a bus and a train. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 56 minutes and costs between $50 to $110. This option allows you to avoid the stress of driving and provides a more convenient and affordable way to reach your destination. Make sure to check the schedule and plan your trip accordingly.

There is no direct train link between San Francisco and Riverside. However, there are train services operated by Amtrak and Metrolink Trains that can take you from San Francisco to Riverside with transfers at Oakland and L.A. Union Station. The journey duration, including transfers, is approximately 16 hours and 2 minutes. Similarly, there is no direct bus route between the two cities, but you can take a bus service operated by Flixbus USA with transfers in Los Angeles Union Station and San Bernardino Transit Center, with an approximate travel time of 11 hours and 35 minutes.

The flight from San Francisco to Riverside typically takes about 1 hour and 28 minutes. This is the quickest option available. As for the cost, it would depend on various factors such as the airline, time of travel, and how far in advance you book. It is best to check with different airlines for current prices.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Riverside with over 197 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $69 per night, ensuring there are options available for different budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there is likely to be a suitable place to stay near Riverside that meets your needs and preferences. It's recommended to check online booking platforms or contact a travel agent to find the best option for your stay.

San Francisco, CA, USA to Riverside, CA, USA from $33: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Francisco to Riverside

Best Neighbourhoods in Riverside

Best Times To Visit Riverside's Attractions

Riverside Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Riverside

San Francisco - Riverside operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Riverside

Popular routes