1map logoGo to main page

San Francisco, CA, USA to Austin, TX, USA from $74: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco to Austin: 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.

$74 - Train, FlyBest price
2911 kmDistance
5h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Austin 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
5h  38m
Estimated price
$93-422
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
8h  31m
Estimated price
$74-446
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2911 km
Duration: 5h 38m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$75-433
Company
Various
BART
Plane
Average Duration
6h  38m
Estimated price
$88-514
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
41h  46m
Estimated price
$194-930
Company
Various
BART
Bus
Train
Average Duration
42h  51m
Estimated price
$931-932
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Train
Average Duration
46h  14m
Estimated price
$933-934
Company
Various
Train
Train
Average Duration
47h  49m
Estimated price
$935-936
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
28h  7m
Estimated price
$937-938

Traveling From San Francisco to Austin

Traveling from San Francisco to Austin offers a fascinating contrast between the iconic fog-kissed hills of California and the vibrant music scene and warm hospitality of Texas.

Best Neighbourhoods in Austin

Austin's neighborhoods each offer distinct flavors and experiences for visitors.

South Congress (SoCo)
• Eclectic shops and boutiques line the streets.
• Iconic views of the Texas State Capitol.
Downtown Austin
• Bustling nightlife with diverse bars and restaurants.
• Close proximity to major events and festivals.
East Austin
• Artsy vibe with colorful street murals.
• Trendy food trucks and innovative eateries.

Best Times To Visit Austin's Attractions

Maximize your Austin experience by visiting attractions during off-peak times.

Texas State Capitol
Weekdays in the early morning offer a quieter tour experience.
Zilker Park
Visit on weekdays to enjoy a peaceful stroll and fewer crowds.
Barton Springs Pool
Go in the late afternoon for a refreshing dip without the rush.

Austin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Austin enjoys a warm climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable, enhancing your travel experience for outdoor activities and festivals.

Dining Recommendation in Austin

Try the legendary Texas barbecue at Franklin Barbecue, where brisket is smoked to perfection over oak wood, offering deep, rich flavors that stand in contrast to the seafood and farm-to-table focus of San Francisco cuisine. The laid-back atmosphere and communal dining experience highlight the local culture, inviting you to savor each bite outdoors amidst the vibrant Austin scene.

San Francisco - Austin operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Francisco to Austin

Average Duration
3h 29m
Estimated price
$742-743

Plane from San Francisco to Austin via Phoenix

Average Duration
5h 46m
Estimated price
$744-9390
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Francisco to Austin

Average Duration
3h 39m
Estimated price
$740-750

Plane from Sacramento to Austin via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$742-42240
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Francisco to Austin

Average Duration
5h 28m
Estimated price
$4226-4227

Plane from San Francisco to Austin via Las Vegas

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$4228-4227
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco to Austin

Average Duration
3h 39m
Estimated price
$740-750
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Austin

Average Duration
33h 23m
Estimated price
$7450-4468

Train from Tucson Amtrak Station to Austin

Average Duration
23h 40m
Estimated price
$752-74800
Contact phone
+1-800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to Austin

Average Duration
47h 49m
Estimated price
$757-4460

Train from Santa Clara Caltrain Southbound to Austin

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$757-4460
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
8h 55m
Estimated price
$7485-44600

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Antonio Bus Station

Average Duration
28h 55m
Estimated price
$742-750

Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$757-4462
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
28h 55m
Estimated price
$742-750

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Austin 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 an epic road trip from the fog-kissed city of San Francisco to the vibrant heart of Texas in Austin, spanning 1809 miles of diverse landscapes and boundless adventures. ⛽️ With a driving time of around 28 hours and ticket prices ranging from $320 to $480, prepare for a journey filled with scenic drives, cozy roadside diners, and memorable pit stops along the way.
Average price
$320 - $480
🛤️ The route involves transfers in San Jose and Los Angeles, adding to the adventure of the 1,965-mile journey. With a total travel time of approximately 47 hours and 49 minutes, passengers can sit back and enjoy the changing landscapes along the way. 💸 Ticket prices for the train between San Francisco and Austin range from $87 to $592, offering travelers options based on their budget and preferences. Despite the longer travel duration compared to other modes of transportation, the train journey provides a unique and relaxed way to explore the diverse regions between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
Austin station
🛫 Experience a convenient journey from San Francisco to Austin with the quickest direct flight taking only 3 hours and 28 minutes. Airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Inc., United Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines operate flights between these two vibrant cities. 🌆 Enjoy a seamless trip spanning 5 hours and 38 minutes, allowing you to explore the diverse culture and attractions that both San Francisco and Austin have to offer. With a range of airlines offering flights, you can select the option that best suits your preferences and schedule. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Austin can range from $93 to $422, providing flexibility for various budgets. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, this air route offers a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Austin Airport
🚌 Embark on an adventurous journey from San Francisco to Austin by bus, despite the absence of a direct route. The trip involves multiple transfers, winding its way through Los Angeles, San Antonio, and eventually reaching the vibrant city of Austin, spanning over 41 hours and 46 minutes. 🛤️ Covering a distance of 2,083 miles, the bus route from San Francisco to Austin is a scenic expedition with 3 transfers along the way. From boarding in San Francisco to making stops in San Jose, Los Angeles, and Dallas, the journey offers a unique glimpse of the diverse landscapes and cities across the western United States. 💸 While the prices for the San Francisco to Austin bus ticket can fluctuate between $194 to $442, the experience of witnessing the changing scenery and cultures throughout the almost 2-day travel duration is a memorable way to soak in the essence of this cross-country adventure.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Austin Eastside Bus Plaza station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Francisco and Austin is approximately 1509 miles. If you choose to travel by train, it will take you around 47 hours and 48 minutes to reach Austin from San Francisco. Alternatively, you can take a combination of train and flight, which will reduce the travel time to about 8 hours and 36 minutes. The quickest mode of transportation is by plane, with a travel time of 5 hours and 39 minutes. However, if you prefer to drive, it will take you approximately 28 hours and 7 minutes to reach Austin from San Francisco, while a bus journey will take around 41 hours and 45 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Austin is by taking a train to Sacramento and then flying to Austin. This option can cost between $70 and $470 and takes approximately 8 hours and 36 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, flying directly from San Francisco to Austin is the quickest option, taking only 5 hours and 39 minutes and costing between $85 and $380.
The prices of a train ticket from San Francisco to Austin can range from $87 to $592. Traveling by bus between Austin and San Francisco can cost anywhere from $195 to $442. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, availability, and the type of class or seating chosen. It is always recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your travel.
To travel from San Francisco to Austin without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The road distance is 1809 miles and it takes approximately 28 hours and 7 minutes by car. Keep in mind that the prices to rent a car for this journey range from $320 to $480. Driving allows you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore different cities and attractions.
To travel from San Francisco to Austin without a car, the best options are to either take a bus or fly. Taking a bus is the most affordable choice, with a journey time of 41 hours and 45 minutes and ticket prices ranging from $190 to $450. Alternatively, flying is the fastest option, with a travel time of 5 hours and 39 minutes, and ticket prices ranging from $85 to $380. Another option is to take the Caltrain and train combination, which takes 47 hours and 48 minutes and costs between $85 and $600.
There is no direct train or bus link between San Francisco and Austin. For train travel, one option is to take a train from San Francisco to Austin via transfers in San Jose and Los Angeles, which takes about 47 hours and 48 minutes. Alternatively, for bus travel, there is a route from San Francisco to Austin that includes transfers in Los Angeles and San Antonio, with a total travel time of approximately 41 hours and 45 minutes.
The flight from San Francisco to Austin typically takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes. The duration of the flight depends on factors such as the airline and any layovers. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, with prices ranging from $88 to $372, depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and class of travel.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Austin. There are over 1079 hotels available in the area with prices starting at $40 per night. From budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts, there is something for every traveler's preference and budget. Popular areas to stay in Austin include downtown, South Congress, and the University of Texas area.

Trips from San Francisco