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San Francisco, CA, USA to San Jose, CA, USA from $7: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Francisco to San Jose: 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.

$7 - BARTBest price
67.6 kmDistance
52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to San Jose 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
1h 
Estimated price
$5-40
Recommended
Company
BART
BART
Average Duration
1h  10m
Estimated price
$7-10
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 67.6 km
Duration: 52m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$8-13
Company
Caltrain
Train
Average Duration
1h  41m
Estimated price
$9-12
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$260-320
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Traveling From San Francisco to San Jose

This route offers a distinct contrast between the iconic vibe of San Francisco, known for its steep hills and bustling culture, and San Jose, a city celebrated for its tech innovation and suburban charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose

San Jose boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and attractions.

Downtown San Jose
• Home to vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Features the iconic San Jose Museum of Art.
Willow Glen
• Known for its charming tree-lined streets.
• Offers diverse boutiques and local eateries.
Santana Row
• Upscale shopping and dining experiences await.
• Frequent events create a lively atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit San Jose's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in San Jose.

The Tech Interactive
Weekdays, especially mornings, are ideal for fewer crowds and smoother exploration.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Visit during the off-peak hours in mid-afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
San Jose Japanese Friendship Garden
Early mornings or weekdays provide a serene experience with fewer visitors.

San Jose Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Jose enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting during the spring or fall can enhance your travel experience with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer attracts more tourists.

Dining Recommendation in San Jose

For a true taste of San Jose, try the authentic Mexican fare at La Victoria Taqueria, known for its rich flavor and fresh ingredients. While San Francisco offers a diverse culinary scene with an upscale twist, San Jose’s vibrant taqueria culture provides a more casual and flavorful dining experience that showcases local favorites.

San Francisco - San Jose operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and San Jose, 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
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to San Jose Downtown

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$5-40
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$5-35
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

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

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$7-10
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$9-12
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
yellowcabsf.com

Other from San Francisco to San Jose

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$260-320

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

Traveling between San Francisco and San Jose 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 San Jose by car, spanning 48 miles of scenic California landscape. Enjoy a leisurely drive that typically takes around 52 minutes, offering a relaxing escape from the bustling city life. 💰 Explore flexible pricing options ranging from $8 to $13 for a smooth ride to San Jose from San Francisco by car. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly commute or a more luxurious travel experience, there are choices to suit every preference and pocket.
Average price
$8 - $13
🚂 Hop on a direct train departing from Civic Center / UN Plaza in San Francisco and arriving at Berryessa / North San Jose. Services run every 30 minutes, operating daily with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. 🚂 Enjoy a comfortable ride with Caltrain from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound station. Experience a smooth journey covering a distance of 46.8 miles in just over an hour.
Departure Point
San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check out the onboard catering services provided by Caltrain, which offers light snacks, beverages, and coffee on select trains. Ensure to bring cash or a credit card for purchases, as amenities can vary.
• When booking your ticket on Caltrain, you can choose from three seating options: - **Standard**: Economy Class with comfortable seating. - **Business Class**: A quieter environment with extra amenities. - **Caltrain's Premium**: Offers more spacious seating with added benefits like access to the lounge and complimentary beverages. Booking in advance can help secure the best spots!
• When you arrive at the San Jose Diridon Station, you can find luggage storage options available at the station for a small fee, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. The station also has restrooms but does not have shower facilities. Be sure to use the 'Caltrain Real-Time' app to check local transport schedules for an efficient transition to your next destination.
🛩️ Flying from San Francisco to San Jose is a quick and convenient journey, with a flight time of just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, this short flight allows for an easy commute between the two cities. 💸 The prices for flights between San Jose and San Francisco are budget-friendly, typically ranging from $7 to $10. With affordable fares, travelers can enjoy the convenience of flying between these two vibrant California cities without breaking the bank.
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to San Jose by bus is a convenient and efficient option. With services operating four times a day, the journey typically takes approximately 1 hour. 🌉 The route covers a distance of around 43 miles, with buses departing from San Francisco station and arriving at San Jose Downtown station, both operated by Flixbus USA. 💸 Ticket prices for the bus ride between San Francisco and San Jose can range from $5 to $40, offering multiple affordable options for travelers to make this short but enjoyable trip.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
San Jose Downtown station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan your trip around the four daily departures for the San Francisco to San Jose route with FlixBus, ensuring you catch your bus on time; consider booking your ticket in advance for better pricing options, which can range from $5 to $40. FlixBus Schedule.
• Arrive at the San Francisco station at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to avoid any last-minute rush, and check for any service updates on Flixbus's app or website before setting out.
• Upon arrival at San Jose Downtown station, navigate easily to local amenities or transfers by using the VTA info kiosk; if you have luggage, the station offers convenient storage lockers for a small fee, allowing you to explore the nearby attractions like the San Jose Museum of Art without your bags.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and San Jose is approximately 42 miles by air and 48 miles by road. The typical travel time by plane is around 1 hour and 10 minutes, while driving from San Francisco to San Jose can take about an hour. Taking a bus is also a convenient option, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour. It's important to note that travel times may vary depending on traffic and other factors.
The prices of a bus ticket between San Francisco and San Jose can vary depending on the bus company and specific route. On average, the prices range from $5 to $40 one-way. It's advisable to book tickets in advance to secure the best deals and prices. Additionally, prices may fluctuate based on factors such as travel dates and times.
To get from San Francisco to San Jose without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance between the two cities is 48 miles, and it usually takes about 52 minutes to drive from San Francisco to San Jose. The cost of driving may vary, but typically it ranges from $8 to $13 for fuel and tolls.
One of the best options for traveling from San Francisco to San Jose without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus services that operate between the two cities with a travel time of approximately 1 hour. The cost of a bus ticket can range from $5 to $40, depending on the specific bus service and time of travel. This is a convenient and affordable way to reach San Jose from San Francisco for those who do not have access to a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and San Jose. You can travel between the two cities by train, with services departing every 30 minutes from Civic Center / UN Plaza and arriving at Berryessa / North San Jose. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus service that departs from San Francisco and arrives at San Jose Downtown, with services operating four times a day and taking around 1 hour.
The flight between San Francisco and San Jose typically takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. The cost of a flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but on average, prices range from $7 to $10. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and it is always recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date pricing information.
There are numerous options for accommodation near San Jose. There are over 684 hotels available in the area, offering a wide range of prices starting from $49. Some popular hotels near San Jose include The Fairmont San Jose by Marriott San Jose Downtown, and San Jose Marriott. With such a variety of choices, visitors to San Jose can easily find a suitable place to stay according to their preferences and budget.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to San Jose