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San Francisco, CA, USA to Tahoe City, CA, USA from $12: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Francisco, United States of America
to
Tahoe City, United States of America

How to Get from San Francisco to Tahoe City: 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.

$12 by trainBest price
253 kmDistance
3h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Tahoe City 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
Tahoe Ski Trips
Bus
Average Duration
6h  50m
Estimated price
$95-95
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
8h  38m
Estimated price
$12-105
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 253 km
Duration: 3h 30m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
7h  27m
Estimated price
$22-61
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  17m
Estimated price
$96-950
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  34m
Estimated price
$223-381
Company
various
BART
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  9m
Estimated price
$951-952
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Tahoe City

Embarking on the journey from San Francisco to Tahoe City offers a dramatic shift from the bustling urban landscape to serene mountain vistas, where you can enjoy outdoor adventures and tranquil lakes.

Best Neighborhoods in Tahoe City

Tahoe City boasts vibrant neighborhoods that offer distinct attractions and experiences.

Downtown Tahoe City
• Close to shops and restaurants.
• Stunning views of Lake Tahoe.
Tahoe Park
• Family-friendly with a lovely beach.
• Great access to hiking trails.
Granlibakken
• Skiing and snowboarding access just steps away.
• Scenic views and cozy lodges.

Best Times To Visit Tahoe City's Attractions

Timing your visit to Tahoe City's attractions can elevate your experience and minimize crowds.

Lake Tahoe
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning light and fewer visitors.
Tahoe City Commons Beach
Weekdays in late spring offer serene surroundings and beautiful weather.
Squaw Valley Resort
Midweek during winter ensures shorter lift lines and more enjoyment.

Tahoe City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tahoe City experiences a mix of warm summers and snowy winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. For a more enjoyable experience, aim for late spring or early fall, when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are thinner.

Dining Recommendation in Tahoe City

Try the wild trout at Jake’s On The Lake, which showcases fresh, local ingredients and a relaxed lakeside atmosphere, a stark contrast to the fast-paced dining scene in San Francisco. Enjoying a meal here, surrounded by majestic mountains and serene waters, provides a flavorful experience deeply rooted in the beauty of the Sierra Nevada.

San Francisco - Tahoe City operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 925-382-8320
Website
tahoeskitrips.net

Bus from San Francisco - 16th St to Tahoe Mountain Resort - Northstar

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$95-95
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Truckee

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$124-125
Contact phone
+1 530 550-1212
Website
tahoetruckeetransit.com

Bus from Donner Pass Rd and Truckee Way to Tahoe City Transit Center - Arrive

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Truckee Amtrak Station

Average Duration
5h 16m
Estimated price
$954-955
Plane Show flights
Website
iflysouthern.com

Plane from San Carlos (SQL) to Truckee (TKF)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$959-120
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$956-957

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Tahoe City 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 journey from San Francisco to Tahoe City, spanning 200 miles of breathtaking California landscapes. The drive typically lasts around 3 hours and 30 minutes, promising a leisurely road trip experience. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with car prices ranging from $35 to $55 for the excursion from San Francisco to Tahoe City. Explore the flexibility of driving as you venture towards the serene beauty of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding areas.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚂 Travelers can embark on a scenic journey from San Francisco to Tahoe City by train, experiencing the beauty of the California landscape along the way. The trip typically takes 8 hours and 38 minutes, offering a relaxing alternative to driving. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between San Francisco and Tahoe City range from $12 to $105, providing budget-friendly options for travelers. Whether looking for a cost-effective mode of transportation or a more luxurious experience, there are various ticket types available to suit different preferences and budgets.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from San Francisco to Tahoe City is by taking a direct flight from San Carlos Airport to Truckee Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 5 minutes with Southern Airways Express.
Departure Point
San Carlos Airport
Arrival Point
Truckee Airport
🚌 The journey from San Francisco to Tahoe City by bus is a scenic route that involves transfers at Northstar Village Gate #8 and Stateline Rd. It takes approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes to reach your destination. 🗻 Enjoy the picturesque views along the way as you travel with Tahoe Ski Trips from San Francisco - 16th St station to Tahoe Mountain Resort - Northstar station. The bus ride offers a comfortable and convenient option for exploring the beautiful region. 💸 Ticket prices for the bus service between San Francisco and Tahoe City are around $95, providing an affordable transportation option for travelers looking to experience the wonders of Tahoe City.
Departure Point
San Francisco - 16th St station
Arrival Point
Tahoe Mountain Resort - Northstar station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Tahoe City.

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The distance between San Francisco and Tahoe City is 157 miles, or 199.9 miles by road. If flying and then taking a bus, it typically takes about 6 hours and 15 minutes to travel from San Francisco to Tahoe City. However, if driving by car, the travel time is around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Taking a bus from San Francisco to Tahoe City usually takes about 4 hours and 27 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Tahoe City is by taking a bus via Truckee Depot - Depart. This option costs between $21 to $65 and takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest way to reach Tahoe City, with a travel time of 3 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of driving is estimated to be between $35 to $55.
The prices for a bus ticket between Tahoe City and San Francisco can range from $164 to $184, depending on various factors such as time of travel, type of bus service, and availability. It is recommended to check with different bus operators or online travel websites to find the best deals and compare prices. Additionally, prices may vary during peak seasons or holidays, so it is advisable to book in advance to secure the lowest fare.
To travel from San Francisco to Tahoe City without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 200 miles, which takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. Rental car prices vary but can range from $35 to $55, depending on the type of vehicle and rental agency chosen.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Tahoe City without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes and typically costs between $160 and $190. This option is convenient and affordable for those who do not have access to a vehicle.
No, there is no direct link between San Francisco and Tahoe City. However, there are bus services operated by Greyhound USA that can take you from San Francisco to Tahoe City with a transfer in Truckee. These bus journeys take approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including the transfers. Departures from San Francisco Bus Station and arrivals at Tahoe City Transit Center are available.
The flight between San Francisco and Tahoe City is relatively short, taking just 1 hour and 3 minutes. The quickest option is to fly from San Francisco Airport to Reno Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and availability, but it typically ranges from around $100 to $300. It's best to check with airlines and travel websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Tahoe City. With over 1014 hotels to choose from, you can easily find something that suits your needs. Prices for hotels in the area start at $32 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly options. Whether you prefer a luxury resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly motel, there are plenty of choices available for your stay near Tahoe City.

Trips from San Francisco