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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $10: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Santa Cruz 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.

$10 - Bus, BARTBest price
96.56 kmDistance
1h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz 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
Bus
Train
Average Duration
2h  52m
Estimated price
$11-19
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
BART
Average Duration
2h  52m
Estimated price
$10-22
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 96.56 km
Duration: 1h 22m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  22m
Estimated price
$13-20
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  14m
Estimated price
$299-599

Traveling From Santa Cruz to San Francisco

As you journey from the laid-back beaches of Santa Cruz to the vibrant urban energy of San Francisco, you'll encounter a dynamic shift in scenery, culture, and experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct character.

Mission District
• Renowned for its vibrant murals and street art.
• Offers an array of trendy restaurants and cafes.
Chinatown
• The oldest Chinatown in North America.
• Bustling markets and authentic dim sum eateries.
Haight-Ashbury
• Famous for its 1960s counterculture history.
• Vintage shops and eclectic boutiques abound.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Maximize your San Francisco experience by timing your visits to popular spots just right.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Book tickets for the first ferry of the day to enjoy a quieter tour.
Fisherman's Wharf
Weekdays are best to avoid heavy tourist traffic and long lines.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco boasts a mild Mediterranean climate with cool summers and wet winters, making light layers a travel staple year-round. Visiting during the fall months offers the sunniest weather, while being aware of the city's famous fog can help you plan outdoor activities more effectively.

Dining Recommendation

At the bustling Ferry Building Marketplace, savor the flavors of the city with a bowl of clam chowder served in a freshly baked bread bowl from the iconic Hog Island Oyster Co. This experience contrasts sharply with Santa Cruz's beachside eateries, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a focus on local, sustainable seafood that reflects the city's rich culinary landscape.

Santa Cruz - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz 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 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$2-7

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$2-7
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to San Francisco Salesforce Plaza

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.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
http://www.bart.gov

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

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$7-10
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 831-423-1234

Taxi from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$150-180
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$190-420

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz 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 Cruz to San Francisco, covering a distance of 74 miles in just about 1 hour and 22 minutes. Enjoy the stunning coastal views along the iconic Highway 1 as you make your way north. 💰 Prices for the journey by car range from $13 to $20, offering a budget-friendly option for those seeking a convenient and flexible travel experience. With numerous gas stations and rest stops along the route, you can plan your trip comfortably without any hassle.
Average price
$13 - $20
Useful tips for train travellers
• When traveling on the Amtrak Coast Starlight, enjoy the onboard dining services that offer a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages. Reservations are recommended for the dining car, especially during peak travel times. There's also a café car available for grab-and-go options if you prefer a quick bite.
• Amtrak provides different seating options for this route, including Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class offers comfortable seating, while Business Class features larger seats with more legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. First Class offers the most luxurious experience with premium services and additional comfort.
• The main operator for the Santa Cruz to San Francisco route is Amtrak. You can check their schedule and book tickets at amtrak.com Another option is the California Zephyr, though its route differs and may not be the most direct choice. For local transport schedules, visit sfmta.com for the latest bus and tram schedules, as well as maps.
🛫 Starting from Santa Cruz travelers can easily catch a quick flight from Monterey Airport to San Francisco Airport, taking just 56 minutes. 🌉
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Santa Cruz to San Francisco, travelers can take a route with transfers that takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes. 🗺️ Route 1 covers a distance of 85.8 miles with 2 transfers, including stops at San Jose and SFO before reaching San Francisco. 🗓️ Route 2 also involves 2 transfers, stopping at Palo Alto and Daly City BART before arriving in San Francisco after a journey of about 5 hours and 21 minutes.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Salesforce Plaza station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Opt for the Highway 17 Express operated by Santa Cruz Metro to travel directly from Santa Cruz Metro Center to San Jose, which typically takes about 53 minutes; it's crucial to check their schedule in advance to ensure you catch your bus on time. More info can be found at scmtd.com
• After arriving at San Jose Diridon Station, transfer to the Monterey Airbus to continue your journey to San Francisco; ensure you check their arrival and departure points as this service connects directly to SFO Airport Terminal A, making it convenient for onward travel. Visit their website at montereyairbus.com for schedules.
• Upon arriving at Salesforce Plaza in San Francisco, expect a bustling area with numerous dining and transportation options; familiarize yourself with the station map available here to easily navigate to Muni, BART stations, or any preferred local eateries.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Cruz and San Francisco is approximately 60 miles by road. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By car, the travel time is around 1 hour and 22 minutes. By bus and then Caltrain, it takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes to reach San Francisco from Santa Cruz.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Santa Cruz to San Francisco is by taking a combination of bus and BART, which costs around $10-$22 and takes approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes. This option is great for budget travelers who are not in a hurry and want to save money. However, if time is a priority, driving is the fastest option, taking only 1 hour and 22 minutes. Although it may cost slightly more, ranging from $13 to $20, it allows for more flexibility and convenience.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Francisco and Santa Cruz can range from $7 to $42, depending on the type of bus service and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to get the best deal. Additionally, prices may also vary depending on the time of travel and availability of seats, so it is advisable to book in advance to secure a lower fare.
To travel from Santa Cruz to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the 74-mile distance between the two cities. The average driving time is around 1 hour and 22 minutes. The cost of gas and tolls can range from $13 to $20, depending on the type of vehicle and current prices.
The most convenient way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Francisco without a car is by taking a combination of bus and Caltrain. This journey usually takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes and can cost between $11 and $19. The bus will take you from Santa Cruz to a Caltrain station, from where you can take the train to reach San Francisco. It's a popular and affordable option for those looking to travel between the two cities.
Yes, there is a connection between Santa Cruz and San Francisco although there is no direct bus route. You can take a bus from Santa Cruz to San Jose Diridon Station and then transfer to another bus that goes to San Francisco Bus Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. This route is operated by Santa Cruz Metro and Greyhound USA.
The flight between Santa Cruz and San Francisco typically takes around 49 minutes on a direct flight from Monterey Airport to San Francisco Airport. However, it's important to note that Santa Cruz does not have its own airport, so travelers would need to fly from nearby Monterey Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, but it can typically range from around $150 to $250 per person.
There are many options for accommodation near San Francisco. There are over 835 hotels available with prices starting at $74 per night. Some popular areas to stay in San Francisco include Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Financial District, where you can find a range of hotels to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or more budget-friendly options, you'll have plenty of choices in San Francisco.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to San Francisco