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San Francisco, CA, USA to Denver, CO, USA from $59: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Francisco to Denver: 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.

$59 by trainBest price
1534 kmDistance
4h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Denver 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$51-241
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
19h  11m
Estimated price
$511-512
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1534 km
Duration: 4h 45m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
31h  3m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
33h  56m
Estimated price
$59-510
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$81-343
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$98-382
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  37m
Estimated price
$154-521
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Denver

Traveling from San Francisco to Denver reveals a transition from the vibrant coastal city with its iconic hills and tech innovation to a mile-high city surrounded by breathtaking mountains and a rich Western heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Denver

Denver's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every type of traveler.

LoDo (Lower Downtown)
• Historic buildings with vibrant nightlife options.
• Home to local breweries and dining scenes.
Capitol Hill
• Bohemian vibe with eclectic shops and art galleries.
• Close to the State Capitol and museums.
Union Station
• Beautifully renovated transit hub with shops and restaurants.
• Offers easy access to public transport and the city.

Best Times To Visit Denver's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at Denver's attractions.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds and a more serene experience.
Denver Botanic Gardens
Early morning visits in spring ensure blooming flowers and tranquility.
Denver Art Museum
Explore on Thursdays when admission is free and crowds are lighter.

Denver Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Denver enjoys a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, offering sunny days even in winter; spring and fall are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities. Understanding the weather can help shape your travel plans, whether you seek snowy adventures in the Rockies or vibrant blooms in the city parks.

Dining Recommendation in Denver

For a true taste of Denver, try the green chili smothered burrito at Con Quesos, where the bold flavors and hearty ingredients reflect the city's Southwestern influence. This culinary experience showcases a warmth and rustic charm that contrasts beautifully with the more refined and diverse dining scene of San Francisco.

San Francisco - Denver operators

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

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Denver (DEN)

Average Duration
2h 27m
Estimated price
$515-516

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Denver (DEN)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$518-519
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Denver (DEN)

Average Duration
2h 43m
Estimated price
$2413-2414

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Denver (DEN)

Average Duration
2h 37m
Estimated price
$2415-2416
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Denver (DEN)

Average Duration
2h 36m
Estimated price
$2419-2417
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Denver

Average Duration
32h 16m
Estimated price
$513-985
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Denver Union Station

Average Duration
31h 3m
Estimated price
$3821-987
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Other from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$983-984

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Denver 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.

🚗 Discover the beauty of the American West as you embark on a scenic road trip from San Francisco to Denver. Covering a distance of 1275 miles, this journey promises a blend of urban exploration and natural wonders. 💸 Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the range of prices for this road trip, with car rental fees and fuel costs typically falling between $230 and $340. This flexibility allows you to tailor your expenses to suit your preferences and travel style. ⏰ Set aside approximately 19 hours and 11 minutes for this adventure-filled drive, where you'll witness diverse landscapes, charming towns, and the captivating allure of the open road. Embrace the journey and create lasting memories as you make your way from San Francisco to Denver.
Average price
$230 - $340
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from San Francisco to Denver by train, with routes that may involve transfers along the way. The travel time, including transfers, is approximately 33 hours and 56 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the train from San Francisco to Denver range from $59 to $385, offering budget-friendly options for different preferences and travel needs. Pack your bags, sit back, and soak in the adventure of this unique cross-country rail journey.
Departure Point
Richmond station
Arrival Point
Denver station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from San Francisco to Denver, Amtrak is your primary operator. They offer a dining car where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. Meals range from breakfast options like omelets and pancakes to lunch and dinner items like pasta and steak. If you're in a sleeper car, you'll enjoy complimentary meals served to your suite.
• Amtrak provides different seating options on this route: Coach Class, Business Class, and Sleeper Cars. Coach seating is the most economical, while Business Class offers wider seats and more legroom along with complimentary snacks and beverages. For overnight trips, consider booking a Sleeper Car; it includes a private room, bedding, and meal service, allowing for a more comfortable travel experience.
• Upon arriving in Denver at Union Station, you'll find that it is a well-connected hub. The station has luggage storage services available, which allow you to explore the city unencumbered. You can also find restrooms within the station. To get to downtown Denver quickly, take the RTD A Line train to the city center, which runs every 15 minutes and takes about 37 minutes to make the trip.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from San Francisco to Denver by taking a direct flight that lasts just 2 hours and 20 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between these two vibrant cities typically range from $51 to $241, catering to different budget preferences for a comfortable 4 hours and 45 minutes trip through the skies.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Denver Airport
🚌 Starting from San Francisco Bus Station, the journey to Denver USA by bus involves transfers in Bakersfield and Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal. The total travel time is approximately 31 hours and 3 minutes. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 1,423 miles and includes a transfer in Los Angeles. The first leg of the trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles takes around 9 hours and 15 minutes via Greyhound bus service. 🏙️ The final part of the journey from Los Angeles to Denver lasts about 22 hours and 55 minutes on a Greyhound bus. Upon arrival at Denver Union Station, you will have completed the 1 day, 9-hour adventure from San Francisco station.
Departure Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Arrival Point
Denver Union Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Denver is 953 miles by air. If you choose to fly, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 50 minutes. If you prefer to take the train, it takes approximately 33 hours and 56 minutes. For those who prefer driving, the road distance is 1275 miles and the typical travel time is 19 hours and 11 minutes. Another option is to take the bus, which takes around 32 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option to travel from San Francisco to Denver is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes to reach Denver from San Francisco by plane, making it the quickest option. The cost of a flight can range from $40 to $240, depending on the airline and time of booking. Therefore, flying is not only the fastest but also the most affordable way to travel between these two cities.
The prices of a train ticket between San Francisco and Denver range from $59 to $385, providing travelers with different options based on their budget. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Denver and San Francisco vary from $146 to $335. These prices allow travelers to select the most suitable transportation option for their needs and preferences while considering their financial constraints.
To get from San Francisco to Denver without using public transportation, you can drive the 1275-mile distance. It typically takes around 19 hours and 11 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Denver. The prices for a car journey vary between $230 and $340, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle type.
To travel from San Francisco to Denver without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 32 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $140 and $340. Another option is to fly, which is faster, taking around 4 hours and 50 minutes and costing between $40 and $240. Additionally, there is the possibility of taking a train, which takes approximately 33 hours and 56 minutes and costs between $55 and $390.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Denver. Although there is no direct train from San Francisco to Denver, there are services available with transfers that take approximately 33 hours and 56 minutes. Additionally, there is no direct bus from San Francisco to Denver, but bus services are available with transfers that take approximately 32 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight between San Francisco and Denver typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, ranging from $41 to $231 depending on factors such as the airline and time of booking. It is always recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deal for your travel.
There are several options for accommodation near Denver. With over 944 hotels to choose from, you can find a range of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Denver start at $54, so there are options available for different budgets. It is recommended to use a trusted hotel booking website or consult with a travel agent to find the best accommodation option that suits your needs.

Trips from San Francisco