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

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

How to Get from San Francisco to San Carlos: 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 - Night busBest price
38 kmDistance
26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to San Carlos 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
47m
Estimated price
$6-8
Recommended
Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
1h  24m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 38 km
Duration: 26m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
2h  14m
Estimated price
$4-8
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
26m
Estimated price
$4-7
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
26m
Estimated price
$130-160
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Traveling From San Francisco to San Carlos

This route offers a transition from the vibrant urban atmosphere of San Francisco to the laid-back charm of San Carlos, where you can soak in picturesque parks and a friendly neighborhood vibe.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Carlos

San Carlos features inviting neighborhoods that blend charm with accessibility.

Downtown San Carlos
• Bustling cafes and shops line the streets.
• Hosts vibrant community events year-round.
White Oaks
• Tree-lined streets create a serene atmosphere.
• Family-friendly with excellent schools nearby.
Laurel Street
• Offers diverse dining options for all tastes.
• Features local boutiques and art galleries.

Best Times To Visit San Carlos's Attractions

Plan your visits around these tips for a smoother experience in San Carlos.

Hiller Aviation Museum
Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and fewer visitors.
Carlmont Shopping Center
Afternoon weekdays offer a relaxed shopping experience, avoiding weekend crowds.
San Carlos Parks
Early mornings or late afternoons highlight scenic beauty with fewer people.

San Carlos Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Carlos enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting during spring or early fall often brings the best weather, enhancing your experience as you explore the outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation

For an authentic taste of San Carlos, try the local favorite, 'The Italian Homemade Company,' where the homemade pasta reflects a comforting, family-style dining atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the fast-paced dining scene in San Francisco. This cozy eatery emphasizes local ingredients and rich flavors, offering a warm experience that invites you to savor each bite.

San Francisco - San Carlos operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and San Carlos, 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 San Carlos Caltrain Southbond

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$6-8
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
415.701.2311
Website
sfmta.com

Bus from Mission St & 11th St to Daly City BART Station

Average Duration
34m
Estimated price
$3-3
Website
samtrans.com

Bus from Daly City BART-Bay 1 to El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$1-5

Bus from 11th St & Market St. to El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
yellowcabsf.com

Taxi from San Francisco to San Carlos

Average Duration
26m
Estimated price
$130-160
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 408-541-1515
Website
taxibayarea.com

Other from San Francisco to San Carlos

Average Duration
26m
Estimated price
$130-160
Contact phone
+1 415-626-4733
Website
greencabsf.com

Other from San Francisco to San Carlos

Average Duration
26m
Estimated price
$130-160

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

Traveling between San Francisco and San Carlos 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 drive from vibrant San Francisco to the serene town of San Carlos, spanning 24 miles of picturesque landscapes. Feel the anticipation building as you hit the road for a quick 26-minute journey ahead. 💰 Choose your path wisely as the cost to travel by car from San Francisco to San Carlos ranges from $4 to $7, offering flexibility to fit your budget. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you make your way to your destination with ease and convenience.
Average price
$4 - $7
🚆 Traveling from San Francisco to San Carlos by train is a convenient and efficient journey. The direct train service operated by Caltrain departs hourly and takes approximately 47 minutes to reach San Carlos Caltrain Southbound station from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 23.1 miles, offering a scenic ride through the beautiful California landscape. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable trip on the train towards either Tamien or San Jose Diridon, with multiple options available for departure times throughout the day. 🎫 For any assistance or further information regarding the train services from San Francisco to San Carlos, travelers can contact Caltrain at 1 660-4287 or visit their official website at http://www.caltrain.com/. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stress-free journey on the railway between these two vibrant cities in California.
Departure Point
San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
San Carlos Caltrain Southbond station
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to San Carlos by bus is a convenient and affordable option. The overnight bus departs from 11th St & Market St and arrives at El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave, with a journey time of approximately 1h 24m. 🚌 The bus service, operated by San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency and SamTrans, runs daily between the two cities. Departing from Mission St & 11th St station in San Francisco, travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride to El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave in San Carlos. 🚌 With fares ranging from $1 to $5, passengers can choose from different bus routes to reach San Carlos. Whether taking the 47-minute Caltrain journey or the 1 hour 28-minute bus ride from Mission St & 9th St, travelers can easily make their way from San Francisco to San Carlos by bus.
Departure Point
Mission St & 11th St station
Arrival Point
El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and San Carlos is 21 miles by road. The road distance is slightly longer at 24 miles. By car, it typically takes around 30 minutes to travel between the two cities, depending on traffic conditions. If you prefer public transportation, taking the bus usually takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes to reach San Carlos from San Francisco.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to San Carlos is by bus, which costs between $1 and $5 and takes approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes. This is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. However, the quickest way to reach San Carlos from San Francisco is by taxi, which takes around 26 minutes but costs between $130 and $160. This option is ideal for travelers who prioritize time over cost.
The prices for traveling from San Francisco to San Carlos by bus vary between $1 and $5. The exact price depends on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and any discounts or promotions available. It is advisable to check with different bus operators to compare prices and choose the most suitable option for your journey.
To get from San Francisco to San Carlos without using public transportation, you can drive the distance which is about 24 miles. The drive usually takes around 26 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the journey by car can vary, but it is typically around $4 to $7 for fuel expenses.
To travel from San Francisco to San Carlos without a car, the best option is to take the Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 49 minutes and the ticket price ranges from $6 to $8. The Caltrain is a convenient and affordable mode of transportation, allowing you to avoid traffic and relax during your trip.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and San Carlos. You can take the train operated by Caltrain, which departs hourly from San Francisco Caltrain station and arrives at San Carlos Caltrain station. The journey takes approximately 49 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take the bus operated by SamTrans, which departs from Mission St & 9th St station and arrives at El Camino Real & San Carlos Ave station. The bus service operates three times a day on weekdays, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes.
There are several accommodation options available near San Carlos. You can choose from a variety of hotels in the area, with a total of 657+ hotels to choose from. Prices start at $49 per night, offering options for different budgets. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or contact local travel agencies to find the best deals and availability for your stay near San Carlos.
Yes, you can travel from San Francisco to San Carlos by bicycle. The distance between the two cities is 45 km, and it typically takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete the journey on a bike. The route allows for a scenic ride, and you can enjoy the picturesque surroundings while cycling between the two cities.

Trips from San Francisco