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Santa Ana, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $22: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Ana, United States of America
to
San Francisco, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Ana 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.

$22 by trainBest price
669 kmDistance
4h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Ana 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
Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  37m
Estimated price
$56-364
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
13h  46m
Estimated price
$22-236
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 669 km
Duration: 4h 36m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
4h  36m
Estimated price
$59-338
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Plane
BART
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
$59-338
Company
Various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
6h  2m
Estimated price
$71-560
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  36m
Estimated price
$77-247
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  18m
Estimated price
$561-562
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
9h  29m
Estimated price
$563-564
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
9h  55m
Estimated price
$565-566
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  13m
Estimated price
$567-568
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
6h  52m
Estimated price
$569-566

Traveling From Santa Ana to San Francisco

The journey from Santa Ana to San Francisco offers a fascinating contrast between the sunny, laid-back vibes of Southern California and the vibrant urban culture, iconic landmarks, and diverse culinary scene of Northern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences, each with its charm.

The Mission District
• Famous for its colorful murals and street art.
• Home to some of the best taquerias in the city.
Chinatown
• One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America.
• Offers authentic dining options and unique shops.
Nob Hill
• Known for its luxurious hotels and stunning views.
• Features iconic cable car lines and historic landmarks.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Planning your trip around peak times can elevate your San Francisco experience.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early morning or weekday visits provide breathtaking views with fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Book the first ferry of the day for a quieter, more immersive tour.
Fisherman's Wharf
Visit during weekdays in the off-season to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco's climate features mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers, characterized by fog that often rolls in from the coast. Spring and fall offer the best weather for visitors, as you can enjoy outdoor attractions while avoiding the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

For a true taste of San Francisco, try the sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder at Boudin Bakery; it showcases the region's iconic ingredients and culinary heritage. This experience contrasts with Santa Ana’s vibrant taco scene, offering you a unique blend of rustic atmosphere and rich flavors that celebrate the city's coastal bounty.

Santa Ana - San Francisco operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Santa Ana station to Los Angeles

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$22-236

Train from Los Angeles to Oakland

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$22-236
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from Santa Ana station to San Bernardino Depot

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$2260-2364
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to Oakland

Average Duration
9h 15m
Estimated price
$565-566

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 55m
Estimated price
$565-566
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center to San Francisco

Average Duration
8h 45m
Estimated price
$3640-22620
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$566-222

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$3647-3648
Website
https://www.united.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$566-222
Website
https://www.alaskaair.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$3647-223
Website
https://www.delta.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$225-36400
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Subway from Coliseum to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$2368-2369

Subway from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$2363-2260

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

Traveling between Santa Ana 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 road trip from Santa Ana to San Francisco, covering a distance of 416 miles. Enjoy the journey through diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💵 Prices for the drive from Santa Ana to San Francisco range from $75 to $110, offering budget-friendly options for every traveler. Plan your route wisely to make the most of your travel budget. 🌉 Arrive in San Francisco after approximately 6 hours and 52 minutes of driving, ready to explore the iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious culinary scene of the Bay Area.
Average price
$75 - $110
🚆 Although there is no direct train from Santa Ana to San Francisco, travelers can enjoy a scenic journey with services that involve transfers at Los Angeles and Lake Merritt. The total duration of the trip, including transfers, is approximately 13 hours and 46 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train between Santa Ana and San Francisco range from $22 to $236. With multiple routes and transfer options available, passengers can embark on an exciting train adventure from Southern California to the vibrant city of San Francisco in Northern California.
Departure Point
Santa Ana station
Arrival Point
Oakland station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner include a café car that offers a variety of snacks, meals, and beverages, including local wines and craft beers. It's advisable to check the menu and have your favorite snacks ready for the journey, especially if you're traveling during meal times.
• The Pacific Surfliner offers various seating options: Business Class, which provides extra legroom, complimentary beverages, and access to the Business Class lounge; and Coach Class, which is economical with comfortable seating but limited additional services. If you're interested in a quieter, more spacious environment, consider upgrading to Business Class.
• Operators on this route include Amtrak (amtrak.com) and Metrolink (metrolinktrains.com), which may have different schedules and ticketing options to choose from. For full commuting options, check both sites for availability and pricing.
🛫 Flying from Santa Ana to San Francisco by plane is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with a flight duration of approximately 4 hours and 36 minutes. 🌉 The quickest option is to fly from Los Angeles Airport to Oakland Airport in just 1 hour and 16 minutes, with airlines like Delta, Spirit Airlines, and Southwest Airlines offering direct flights. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Santa Ana can range from $77 to $247, providing travelers with a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Oakland Airport
🚌 Starting from Santa Ana Bus Stop, you can take a direct bus operated by Greyhound USA to reach San Francisco Bus Station. The journey lasts approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes, offering daily service between the two cities. 🛤️ While there are different routes available, one option involves a Megabus service departing from ARTIC - Bus Bay #S3, heading towards various cities including San Francisco. This route takes around 13 hours and 44 minutes, covering a distance of 451 miles. 🎟️ For those interested in a cost-effective way to travel, prices for bus tickets between Santa Ana and San Francisco range from $48 to $105. With a variety of schedules and services to choose from, a bus journey can be a convenient and budget-friendly option for your trip up the California coast.
Departure Point
Santa Ana Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Ana to San Francisco.

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The cheapest way to travel from Santa Ana to San Francisco is by taking a night bus. The bus ride typically takes around 10 hours and 13 minutes and costs between $35 and $130, depending on the bus company and time of travel. This option allows you to save money while still reaching your destination comfortably.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Ana to San Francisco is by flying. There are multiple airlines that operate direct flights between the two cities, with flight durations typically around 4 hours and 32 minutes. Flight prices can range from $75 to $230, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
The distance from Santa Ana to San Francisco is approximately 380 miles. The road distance is about 415.9 miles. This distance can be covered by various modes of transportation including driving, flying, or taking a train or bus. The travel time will vary depending on the chosen mode of transportation and any potential stops along the way.
The best way to travel from Santa Ana to San Francisco without a car is by taking a bus via Oakland. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 29 minutes and can cost between $45 and $110. There are several bus companies that offer routes from Santa Ana to San Francisco, such as Greyhound and Megabus. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance to secure the best fares.
The travel time from Santa Ana to San Francisco is approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes, including transfers. The duration may vary depending on factors like traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to check schedules and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and timely journey.
The most convenient and quickest way to travel from Santa Ana to San Francisco is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes and fares range from $75 to $230. For those looking for a more affordable option, taking a bus via Oakland is an alternative choice, with tickets costing between $45 and $110 and travel time taking around 9 hours and 29 minutes. Another option is to take a train, which is slower but can be more scenic. Train tickets range from $22 to $240 and the journey takes approximately 13 hours and 46 minutes.
There are numerous accommodation options available near San Francisco. You can choose from over 835 hotels in the area. Prices for hotels start as low as $74 per night. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, there is something to suit every traveler's needs and budget. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and ensure availability during your stay.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Ana to San Francisco. The driving distance is approximately 416 miles, which typically takes around 6 hours and 52 minutes without traffic. However, please note that travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and any stops you make along the way.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Santa Ana and San Francisco. The bus departs from the Santa Ana Bus Stop and arrives at the San Francisco Bus Station station. The bus service operates once daily and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Santa Ana to San Francisco at the Santa Ana Bus Stop station. This station is the designated departure point for Greyhound USA bus services to San Francisco. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process. The bus journey usually takes around 10 hours and 13 minutes.
The Santa Ana to San Francisco bus services, operated by Greyhound USA, arrive at the San Francisco Bus Station. This station is located at 200 Folsom Street, San Francisco 94105. It is conveniently situated near the downtown area, making it easy to access other parts of the city.
Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines are the airlines that offer flights between Santa Ana and San Francisco. Both airlines fly from Santa Ana Airport to San Francisco Airport. Passengers can choose between the two airlines to find the best schedule and fare for their travel needs.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Ana to San Francisco is by plane. The quickest flight from Santa Ana Airport to San Francisco Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Both Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines offer flights between these locations. The flight duration is around 4 hours and 32 minutes. Prices for flights range from $77 to $227.
The flight from Santa Ana to San Francisco takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes on a direct flight. However, this time may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date information on flight duration.
Trains from Santa Ana to San Francisco arrive at the Oakland station. This is a convenient option as it allows travelers to access the Bay Area easily. From there, passengers can take connecting transportation, such as the BART, to reach downtown San Francisco or other destinations within the city. The Oakland station also offers amenities such as restrooms, ticketing services, and waiting areas for passenger convenience.
Yes, there is a train route from Santa Ana to San Francisco but it is not a direct train. The journey typically involves transferring at Los Angeles and Lake Merritt. The total travel time can take approximately 13 hours and 46 minutes. So, while a train is an option, it may not be the most convenient or quickest way to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, you could consider other modes of transportation such as flying or taking a bus.
To catch the Santa Ana to San Francisco train, you will need to go to the Santa Ana station. Amtrak operates train services from this station to San Francisco. Make sure to arrive at the station ahead of time and check the train schedule to ensure you catch the desired train.
The cost of a flight from Santa Ana to San Francisco can range from $77 to $227. This price range depends on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices across different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals.
The price for a train ticket from Santa Ana to San Francisco ranges between $22 and $236. The cost depends on factors such as the type of train, the class of service, and availability. It's recommended to check with the train operator for the most up-to-date fares and to book in advance to secure the best prices.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Ana to San Francisco ranges from $48 to $105. The bus fare may vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and whether you choose a one-way or round trip ticket. It is recommended to check different bus providers and compare prices to find the best deal for your trip.
The cost to drive from Santa Ana to San Francisco can range from $75 to $110, depending on factors such as gas prices and the type of vehicle you have. This estimate includes the cost of gas for the round trip, which is approximately 925 miles. Keep in mind that tolls and parking fees may also be additional expenses to consider during your journey.

Trips from Santa Ana

Trips to San Francisco