1map logoGo to main page

Santa Rosa, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Rosa 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.

$5 by busBest price
89 kmDistance
1h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Rosa 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
Bus
Average Duration
1h  58m
Estimated price
$4-16
Recommended
Company
Golden Gate Transit
Bus
Average Duration
2h  11m
Estimated price
$5-14
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 89 km
Duration: 1h 3m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Drive
Average Duration
2h  39m
Estimated price
$7-21
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  3m
Estimated price
$10-15
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Rosa to San Francisco

The journey from Santa Rosa to San Francisco offers a striking contrast between the serene, rolling vineyards of wine country and the bustling, iconic streets of the Bay Area.

Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each brimming with character and charm.

Mission District
• Vibrant street art and murals throughout the area.
• Known for its trendy eateries and cafes.
Fisherman’s Wharf
• Famous for its seafood restaurants and bustling piers.
• Offers stunning views of Alcatraz Island.
Chinatown
• One of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in North America.
• Features unique shops and authentic Asian cuisine.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Optimizing your visits to San Francisco's attractions can transform your experience.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or weekdays offer stunning views with fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Reserve early morning tours for a quieter and more exclusive experience.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit during weekdays to dodge the weekend crowds and savor the sights.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool summers and chilly, foggy winters. Planning your visit during the late spring or early fall can enhance your experience, with pleasant temperatures and sunny days that make exploring the city enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation

For a contrasting culinary experience, try the sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder at Boudin Bakery, a San Francisco staple. This iconic dish showcases the city's emphasis on fresh, local seafood and artisanal bread-making, offering a vibrant atmosphere that differs significantly from the laid-back dining scene in Santa Rosa.

Santa Rosa - San Francisco operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+1 707-794-3330
Website
sonomamarintrain.org

Train from Santa Rosa Downtown SMART to San Rafael SMART

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$4-16

Train from Santa Rosa Downtown SMART to Larkspur SMART

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$7-40
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 415-921-5858
Website
goldengatetransit.org

Bus from Santa Rosa Transit Mall to Golden Gate Ave & Polk St

Average Duration
2h 11m
Estimated price
$5-14

Bus from San Rafael Transit Center Platform A to Golden Gate Ave & Polk St

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$41-42
Ferry
Contact phone
+1 415-455-2000
Website
goldengate.org

Ferry from Larkspur Ferry Terminal to San Francisco Ferry Terminal

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$7-14

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

Traveling between Santa Rosa 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.

🚗 Setting off from the picturesque city of Santa Rosa, the journey to vibrant San Francisco covers a distance of 55 miles. With an average driving time of just over an hour, it's a convenient and scenic route to experience. 💰 The cost of traveling from Santa Rosa to San Francisco by car ranges from $10 to $15, making it an affordable and enjoyable option for those looking to explore the Bay Area. Save on transportation expenses and use the extra money to savor local culinary delights or visit iconic attractions.
Average price
$10 - $15
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services may vary depending on the train operator. For example, the SMART train (Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit) offers light refreshments available for purchase. Consider bringing your own snacks, as well as drinks, as options may be limited on some trips.
• Santa Rosa's train options typically include Economy seating on the SMART train. While there are no First Class or Business Class options on this route, the Economy seats are comfortable for a short trip. Plan to arrive early to secure a good seat if you're traveling on a busy day.
• The primary operators on this route are SMART (Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit) and Golden Gate Transit buses. You can learn more about their schedules and book tickets on their websites: SMART and Golden Gate Transit.
🚌 The direct bus from Santa Rosa Transit Mall to Golden Gate Ave & Polk St in San Francisco operates hourly and takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes. 🛣️ Covering a distance of 61.9 miles, the bus journey from Santa Rosa to San Francisco offers a convenient and affordable transportation option with ticket prices ranging from $5 to $14. 🕒 With a total travel time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, passengers can enjoy a smooth ride on the Golden Gate Transit bus from Santa Rosa to San Francisco, making it a hassle-free way to explore the two California cities.
Departure Point
Santa Rosa Transit Mall station
Arrival Point
Golden Gate Ave & Polk St station
Useful tips for bus travellers
Pack snacks and water for the bus ride, as your journey from Santa Rosa to San Francisco takes about 2 hours and 11 minutes, and it's a good idea to have refreshments on hand to stay comfortable.
Arrive at the Santa Rosa Transit Mall a little early to familiarize yourself with the boarding area and check the schedule, as buses operated by Golden Gate Transit depart hourly; for real-time updates, visit their website at goldengate.org
Upon arrival at Golden Gate Ave & Polk St in San Francisco, take a moment to review the nearby public transit options including Muni buses and the Metro, so you can easily plan your next steps; a handy resource for navigating local transport can be found at sfmta.com

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Santa Rosa and San Francisco is 49 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 55.1 miles. For those traveling by public transportation, it takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes to reach San Francisco from Santa Rosa by taking the train and then the line 101 bus. If traveling by car, the typical travel time is 1 hour and 3 minutes to reach Santa Rosa from San Francisco. Alternatively, taking the bus from Santa Rosa to San Francisco usually takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Rosa to San Francisco is by bus, which costs $5-$14 and takes 2h 11m. This is a convenient option for those looking to save money and don't mind spending a little more time in transit. Alternatively, the quickest option is to drive, which costs $10-$15 and takes 1h 3m. This is a great option for those looking to minimize travel time and have the flexibility to explore San Francisco at their own pace.
There are various prices for traveling from Santa Rosa to San Francisco by bus. The ticket prices typically range from $5 to $14, depending on the bus company and any promotional offers available. It is recommended to check the different bus companies and their fares to find the best and most affordable option for your travel.
To travel from Santa Rosa to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is 55 miles, and it typically takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to reach San Francisco by car. The cost of driving varies, but it is usually around $10 to $15 for gasoline and tolls.
The best way to travel from Santa Rosa to San Francisco without a car is by taking a train and then transferring to the line 101 bus. This journey typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes. The cost of the journey ranges from $4 to $16. Public transportation is a convenient and eco-friendly option for getting from Santa Rosa to San Francisco.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Santa Rosa and San Francisco. The bus service is operated by Golden Gate Transit and departs from Santa Rosa Transit Mall. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes and the buses operate hourly, every day. The bus arrives at Golden Gate Ave & Polk St in San Francisco.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available in the area, visitors have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night, providing affordable options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or unique boutique stays, there is something for everyone in the city.

Trips from Santa Rosa

Trips to San Francisco