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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Jose to San Francisco: 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
68.3 kmDistance
52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose to San Francisco 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 USA
Bus
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$5-40
Recommended
Company
BART
BART
Average Duration
1h  9m
Estimated price
$7-10
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 68.3 km
Duration: 52m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$8-13
Company
Caltrain
Train
Average Duration
1h  39m
Estimated price
$9-12
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$260-320
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Traveling From San Jose to San Francisco

Traveling from San Jose to San Francisco offers a striking juxtaposition, where the tech hub's modernity gives way to San Francisco's vibrant culture and stunning coastal views.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco's neighborhoods each offer a distinct vibe and charm.

Mission District
• Known for vibrant murals and street art.
• Renowned for its diverse food scene.
Nob Hill
• Offers stunning views of the city skyline.
• Home to historic luxury hotels and elegant architecture.
Chinatown
• The oldest Chinatown outside Asia in the U.S.
• Features bustling markets and authentic cuisine.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can enhance your experience in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Book the first ferry of the day for a quieter experience and clearer views.
Fisherman's Wharf
Weekdays in the early morning mean less congestion and a more enjoyable stroll.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild coastal climate with fog rolling in during the summer, making layers essential for your visit. Optimal times to explore are typically in the fall or spring when temperatures are comfortable and the city is less crowded.

Dining Recommendation

For a truly memorable experience, try the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at the famous Fisherman’s Wharf; this classic dish showcases the rich maritime heritage of San Francisco. Unlike the tech-driven culinary scene in San Jose, San Francisco offers a vibrant atmosphere and an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients that enhances every bite.

San Jose - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Jose and San Francisco, 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 Jose Downtown to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$6-40

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$5-35
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

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

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$9-12
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

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

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$7-10
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010
Website
taxisanjose.com

Taxi from San Jose to San Francisco

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$260-320
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Other from San Jose Diridon Station to San Francisco Salesforce Plaza

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Other from San Jose Diridon Station to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$5-35

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

Traveling between San Jose and San Francisco 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 Jose to San Francisco, covering a picturesque driving distance of 48 miles in just about 52 minutes. 💰 Explore different price ranges for your car trip, ranging from $8 to $13, offering flexibility and affordability for your travel budget.
Average price
$8 - $13
🚆 Hop on a direct train from Berryessa / North San Jose and arrive at Civic Center / UN Plaza in San Francisco. The journey lasts about 1 hour and 9 minutes, with trains departing every 30 minutes daily.
Departure Point
San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Caltrain Northbound station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Caltrain route from San Jose to San Francisco, catering services include snack kiosks available at several major stations, but onboard catering is minimal. If you wish to have snacks or beverages, consider bringing your own or plan to purchase something at the station before boarding.
• Caltrain provides various seating options, including Standard (Economy) and First Class seating. First Class offers larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom, power outlets, and quieter cars. The Standard seating is more economical but can become crowded during peak hours. You can choose First Class for a more relaxed ride, especially during busy traffic times.
• The primary operators on this route are Caltrain (caltrain.com) and Amtrak California's Capitol Corridor (amtrak.com). However, Caltrain is the most common choice for direct travel between San Jose and San Francisco. Useful links for schedules and station maps are available on their sites.
• Upon arriving at the Salesforce Transit Center in San Francisco, which is the main stop, you can find restrooms and food options available on-site. Unfortunately, there are no luggage storage facilities, but the center offers electronic charging stations and transit information. To quickly reach the city center, catch the Muni Metro's T line or the 5, 10, or 12 buses; these options provide excellent service into downtown.
• The fastest way to reach the city center from Salesforce Transit Center is to take the Muni Metro's T line heading towards Sunnydale. It's only a few stops away from key points in downtown San Francisco, such as Powell Street Station, where you can easily transfer to BART or other Muni lines if needed.
🛫 Traveling from San Jose to San Francisco by plane is a quick journey, taking just 1 hour and 9 minutes to reach your destination. 💸 The prices for a flight between San Francisco and San Jose typically range from $7 to $10, making it an affordable option for transportation between these two cities.
🚌 Enjoy a convenient and affordable bus journey from San Jose to San Francisco with Flixbus USA. The direct service operates five times a day, taking approximately 1 hour to reach your destination. Departing from San Jose Downtown, you'll arrive at the San Francisco station hassle-free. 🚍 With a range of ticket prices from $5 to $40, travel between the bustling cities of San Jose and San Francisco with ease. Whether you're commuting for work or exploring for leisure, the bus service offers a budget-friendly option for your trip. Sit back, relax, and soak in the scenic views along the way.
Departure Point
San Jose Downtown station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your FlixBus ticket in advance online at flixbus.com to secure the best prices, as fares can range from $5 to $40.
• After arriving at San Francisco's bus station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Muni Metro system, especially if you plan to explore the city; the station is conveniently located near several Muni lines.
• Be aware that traffic can impact the journey time when departing during peak hours; planning your journey for off-peak times can help ensure a smoother ride to San Francisco.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Jose and San Francisco is approximately 42 miles by air and 48 miles by road. The typical travel time by plane is 1 hour and 9 minutes. By car, it takes around 1 hour to reach San Jose from San Francisco, while by bus, it takes approximately 1 hour to reach San Francisco from San Jose. These travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Jose to San Francisco is to take the BART. It costs between $7 and $10 and takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes. Another quick option is to take a taxi, which costs between $260 and $320 and takes about 52 minutes. These options offer a convenient and hassle-free way to travel between the two cities.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Jose and San Francisco range from $5 to $40, depending on the type of bus service and the time of travel. It is advisable to check with different bus companies or use online booking platforms to compare prices and select the best option. Prices may vary depending on factors such as availability, demand, and additional services provided by the bus company.
To travel from San Jose to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 48 miles. The drive usually takes around 52 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. You can expect to pay between $8 to $13 for the fuel cost, depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and current gas prices.
The best way to travel from San Jose to San Francisco without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and the cost of the ticket ranges from $5-$40. There are several bus companies that operate this route, providing frequent and convenient service between the two cities. Taking the bus allows you to avoid the stress of driving and parking in San Francisco, and it is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for travel.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Jose and San Francisco. You can take a train operated by Caltrain, which departs from San Jose Diridon Caltrain station and arrives at San Francisco Caltrain station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus operated by Flixbus USA, which departs from San Jose Downtown station and arrives at San Francisco station. The bus service operates three times a day and the journey takes approximately 1 hour.
The flight duration between San Jose and San Francisco is typically around 1 hour and 9 minutes. However, the cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $7 to $10. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change based on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of tickets.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco. There are over 835 hotels available, ranging in price from $74 and up. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, there is something for everyone's preference and budget. It is advisable to book in advance to secure your preferred choice and to take advantage of any discounts or special offers.

Trips from San Jose

Trips to San Francisco