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San Francisco, CA, USA to Sacramento, CA, USA from $15: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Francisco to Sacramento: 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.

$15 - DriveBest price
87.2 milesDistance
1h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Sacramento 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  5m
Estimated price
$9-45
Recommended
Company
various
BART
Train
Average Duration
3h  4m
Estimated price
$7-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 87.2 miles
Duration: 1h 33m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  33m
Estimated price
$15-23
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  55m
Estimated price
$110-394
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Sacramento

The journey from San Francisco to Sacramento offers a transition from the bustling, hilly streets of a vibrant coastal city to the laid-back, historic charm of California's capital, each destination showcasing its own distinct atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sacramento

Sacramento boasts diverse neighborhoods rich in culture and attractions.

Midtown
• Vibrant art scene with galleries and murals.
• Popular dining spots and nightlife options.
Old Sacramento
• Historic district with Gold Rush-era architecture.
• Waterfront views and fun shops await.
East Sacramento
• Tree-lined streets and charming homes create a lovely ambiance.
• Great parks for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Sacramento's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your Sacramento experience significantly.

California State Capitol
Visit early in the morning for a quieter tour. Weekdays are ideal.
Sacramento Zoo
Mid-afternoon during weekdays offers fewer crowds and more animal activity.
Old Sacramento Waterfront
Evenings, especially during weekdays, provide a more relaxed atmosphere to explore.

Sacramento Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sacramento enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, providing a variety of seasonal experiences. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes enhance your travel enjoyment.

Dining Recommendation in Sacramento

For a true taste of Sacramento, indulge in a plate of authentic farm-to-fork fried chicken at The Porch, where local ingredients shine in a warm, inviting setting. This contrasts with San Francisco's emphasis on fine dining and seafood, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and a focus on hearty, home-style flavors that celebrate the region's agricultural bounty.

San Francisco - Sacramento operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$10-45
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Sacramento Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$9-45
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Richmond

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$4-6
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$3-75
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$110-394

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Sacramento 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 Sacramento, covering a distance of 87 miles in just under 1.5 hours. Enjoy the picturesque views as you cruise along the highways. 💰 Explore the cost-effective options ranging from $15 to $23 for a memorable journey by car from San Francisco to Sacramento. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your travel experience.
Average price
$15 - $23
🚉 Traveling from San Francisco to Sacramento by train involves a connecting journey with a transfer at Richmond. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 4 minutes. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 107 miles and typically takes 2 hours and 44 minutes to reach Sacramento from San Francisco. The first step involves taking the subway towards Dublin/Pleasanton from Civic Center / UN Plaza station. 🚇 The second step of the journey is a train ride towards Oakland Coliseum-BART, which takes around 2 hours and 9 minutes. The train operated by Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority arrives at Sacramento Valley Station, providing a convenient way to travel between the two cities.
Departure Point
Civic Center / UN Plaza station
Arrival Point
Sacramento station
Useful tips for train travellers
• For your train trip from San Francisco to Sacramento, consider traveling with Amtrak's Capitol Corridor service. Onboard, you will have access to a Café Car that offers a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. You can enjoy items like sandwiches, salads, and assorted drinks, including coffee, soda, and local wine.
• Amtrak offers primarily two seating options on this route: Business Class and Coach Class. Business Class features wider seats with extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, while Coach Class is more economical and provides comfortable seating suitable for short-duration trips. If you prefer a quieter, more spacious atmosphere, opt for Business Class.
• When you arrive at Sacramento Valley Station, the station has a luggage-check option available via the Amtrak service. After your trip, you can conveniently explore downtown without your bags. The station has restrooms, but there are no shower facilities. For the fastest way to get to the city center, take the light rail from the Sacramento Valley Station to the Convention Center, which is just two stops away (Green Line). This service runs frequently and offers a smooth, quick ride directly into downtown.
🛫 Flying from San Francisco to Sacramento is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 57 minutes. United Airlines is one of the carriers that offer this route. 🌁 The total travel time by plane from San Francisco to Sacramento is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes, allowing for a smooth journey between these two California cities. 💸 Prices for flights between Sacramento and San Francisco can range from $110 to $394, providing options for different budgets when planning your trip.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Sacramento Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to Sacramento by bus is a convenient option with direct services departing every four hours. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes. 🚌 With ticket prices ranging from $9 to $45, the bus ride offers an affordable way to travel between these two vibrant California cities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey as you cover the 91.3-mile distance in just over 2 hours.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Sacramento station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to check the bus schedule on the Flixbus website (flixbus.com) for the latest updates; they operate every four hours and offer a comfortable ride from San Francisco to Sacramento.
• For the best experience, consider arriving at the San Francisco bus station early, as seating can be limited and it allows you to grab refreshments at nearby cafes, especially at the nearby Embarcadero Center.
• Upon arriving at Sacramento station, familiarize yourself with the layout using the station map available here: sacrt.com purchasing a day pass for local transportation can make your journey through Sacramento much more convenient.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Sacramento is approximately 75 miles by road. The typical travel time by car is around 1 hour and 33 minutes. Alternatively, by taking BART and then a train, the journey can take about 3 hours and 4 minutes. If you prefer to fly, the typical travel time by plane is around 2 hours and 49 minutes. Lastly, taking a bus from San Francisco to Sacramento can take approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Sacramento is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 33 minutes to drive the distance of 75 miles between the two cities. The cost of driving is estimated to be between $15 and $23. This option allows for flexibility and direct travel without any additional transfers or waiting times associated with other modes of transportation.
The prices for traveling by bus between Sacramento and San Francisco range from $9 to $45. These prices may vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and the type of ticket purchased. It is always recommended to check with the specific bus company for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, discounts or promotions may be available for certain routes or times of travel, so it's worth exploring different options to find the best price.
The distance between San Francisco and Sacramento is approximately 87 miles by car. It takes approximately 1 hour and 33 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Sacramento. The prices for a car rental or using your own car may vary from $15 to $23, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
If you do not have a car, the best way to travel from San Francisco to Sacramento is by bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes and can cost between $9 to $45 depending on the bus service. Taking a bus allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery while someone else handles the driving.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Sacramento. Although there is no direct train, you can take a combination of BART and train to reach Sacramento, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours and 4 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service that operates five times a day, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight between San Francisco and Sacramento typically takes about 51 minutes. The duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. The cost of the flight can range from $100 to $374, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are numerous options available for accommodation near Sacramento. There are over 255 hotels in the area, offering a wide range of choices in terms of budget and amenities. Prices start at $57 for a night's stay, ensuring that there are options available for different budgets. Travelers can choose from various hotels located in different parts of the city, allowing them to select a location that suits their preferences and needs.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Sacramento