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San Francisco, CA, USA to San Rafael, CA, USA from $3: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco to San Rafael: 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.

$3 by busBest price
30 kmDistance
25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to San Rafael 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
Golden Gate Ferry
Drive
Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$6-14
Recommended
Company
Golden Gate Transit
Bus
Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$3-9
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 30 km
Duration: 25m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$3-5
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$100-130
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Traveling From San Francisco to San Rafael

The journey from San Francisco to San Rafael reveals a transformation from the bustling city streets and cultural vibrancy of the Bay Area to the serene charm of Marin County, offering diverse experiences along the way.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Rafael

San Rafael features charming neighborhoods that highlight the area's diverse culture.

Downtown San Rafael
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Diverse dining options ranging from casual to fine dining.
San Rafael Hill
• Scenic views of Marin and San Francisco Bay.
• Historic homes and peaceful residential streets.
Terra Linda
• Family-friendly parks and recreational areas.
• Close-knit community with local events and farmers markets.

Best Times To Visit San Rafael's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in San Rafael's popular spots.

China Camp State Park
Visit on weekdays for quieter trails and stunning views.
Marin History Museum
Afternoons during weekdays offer a peaceful, in-depth experience.
Downtown Farmers Market
Arrive early Saturday morning for the freshest produce and fewer crowds.

San Rafael Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Rafael enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Understanding the weather patterns helps you choose the best times to explore outdoor activities and local attractions without the interruptions of rain or extreme heat.

Dining Recommendation

Try the brick oven Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria Ecco, where the artisanal approach and focus on fresh, local ingredients create a distinct flavor profile that stands out from San Francisco's diverse culinary scene. The laid-back atmosphere and casual dining setting in San Rafael allow you to savor each bite while truly enjoying the local vibe.

San Francisco - San Rafael operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 415-921-5858
Website
goldengatetransit.org

Bus from McAllister St & Polk St to San Rafael Transit Center Platform B

Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$3-9
Ferry
Contact phone
+1 415-455-2000
Website
goldengate.org

Ferry from San Francisco Ferry Terminal to Larkspur Ferry Terminal

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$6-14
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
yellowcabsf.com

Taxi from San Francisco to San Rafael

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$100-130
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 408-541-1515
Website
taxibayarea.com

Other from San Francisco to San Rafael

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$100-130
Contact phone
+1 415-626-4733
Website
greencabsf.com

Other from San Francisco to San Rafael

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$100-130

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

Traveling between San Francisco and San Rafael 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 drive from San Francisco to San Rafael, spanning a mere 18 miles and offering a quick escape from the bustling city life. In just 25 minutes, you'll find yourself in the charming city of San Rafael. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel with car rental prices ranging from $3 to $5 for the journey from San Francisco to San Rafael. Economical and convenient, a road trip between these two Californian cities is a great way to explore the scenic beauty of the Bay Area.
Average price
$3 - $5
The route covers a distance of 18.5 miles and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach your destination. 🚌 Begin your trip by catching a bus towards Santa Rosa, which lasts about 48 minutes. This bus operated by Golden Gate Transit departs from McAllister St & Polk St in San Francisco and arrives at the San Rafael Transit Center. 🌉 Enjoy a scenic ride as you travel 20.3 miles from San Francisco to San Rafael in 1 hour and 25 minutes. Take a bus towards San Rafael, a 1 hour and 2-minute journey that also departs from McAllister St & Polk St and arrives at the San Rafael Transit Center, operated by Golden Gate Transit.
🚌 Catch the direct bus departing from McAllister St & Polk St to San Rafael Transit Center Platform B. Services run every 30 minutes, with a journey time of approximately 48 minutes. 🛣️ The distance between San Francisco and San Rafael is about 21.2 miles, and the bus ticket prices vary from $3 to $9. Operated by Golden Gate Transit, the buses offer a convenient and affordable mode of transportation. 📍 Enjoy a smooth ride from San Francisco to San Rafael by bus, passing through scenic routes and arriving at the San Rafael Transit Center. For any inquiries, you can contact Golden Gate Transit at 1 455-2000 or visit their website at http://www.goldengate.org/.
Departure Point
McAllister St & Polk St station
Arrival Point
San Rafael Transit Center Platform B station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and San Rafael is 15 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 18.4 miles. Travel times will vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. If you take the ferry, the travel time from San Francisco to San Rafael is not specified. By car, it takes approximately to travel from San Francisco to San Rafael. Finally, by bus, it takes around to reach San Rafael from San Francisco.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient options for traveling from San Francisco to San Rafael are driving and taking a taxi. Driving is the cheapest option, costing approximately $3-$5, and takes about 25 minutes. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the quickest option, taking the same amount of time but costing around $100-$130. Both options offer a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
The prices for traveling between San Francisco and San Rafael can vary depending on the mode of transportation. If you choose to take the bus, prices can range from $3 to $9. On the other hand, if you opt for the ferry, prices can vary from $6 to $14. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may also depend on factors such as peak travel times or special fare promotions.
To get from San Francisco to San Rafael without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 18 miles. The drive takes approximately 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving varies, with estimated prices ranging from $3 to $5 for fuel and tolls.
If you're looking to travel from San Francisco to San Rafael without a car, the best option is to take a ferry. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs between $6 and $14. This is a convenient and scenic way to travel between the two cities, allowing you to enjoy beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and San Rafael. You can take a bus from McAllister St & Polk St in San Francisco to the San Rafael Transit Center Platform B. The bus service, operated by Golden Gate Transit, departs every 30 minutes and takes approximately 48 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from the San Francisco Ferry Terminal to the Larkspur Ferry Terminal. The ferry service operates hourly and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
There are numerous accommodation options available near San Rafael. With over 421 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in San Rafael start at $74 per night, offering various options for different budgets and preferences. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or contact local travel agencies for more specific information and to find the best-suited option for your stay in San Rafael.
Yes, you can travel from San Francisco to San Rafael by bicycle. The distance of the route is 33 km, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 57 minutes to complete the journey. Cycling is a great option for those seeking a more active and environmentally friendly way to travel between the two cities.

Trips from San Francisco