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Santa Rosa, CA, USA to San Rafael, CA, USA from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Rosa to San Rafael: 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.

$1 by trainBest price
61 kmDistance
39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Rosa to San Rafael 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
SMART
Train
Average Duration
1h  1m
Estimated price
$1-7
Recommended
Company
SMART
Train
Average Duration
1h  1m
Estimated price
$1-7
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 61 km
Duration: 39m

See more options

Company
Golden Gate Transit
Bus
Average Duration
1h  22m
Estimated price
$4-35
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$6-10
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$210-250
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Traveling From Santa Rosa to San Rafael

The journey from Santa Rosa to San Rafael showcases a delightful shift from the peaceful charm of wine country to the vibrant buzz of urban life, each offering its own distinct experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Rafael

San Rafael boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct characteristics and charm.

Downtown San Rafael
• Bustling shops and restaurants line the streets.
• Hosts vibrant arts and cultural events year-round.
Lucas Valley
• Scenic views of open space and rolling hills.
• Family-friendly environment with great schools.
Terra Linda
• Suburban feel with easy access to parks.
• Offers a variety of dining options and local shops.

Best Times To Visit San Rafael's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at San Rafael's attractions.

China Camp State Park
Visit early morning on weekdays for peaceful hiking and fewer visitors.
Marin Civic Center
Late afternoon weekdays offer stunning architechtural views and less bustle.
San Rafael Farmer's Market
Saturdays before 10 AM provide a quieter shopping experience and fresh produce.

San Rafael Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Rafael enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Spring and fall are particularly lovely times to visit, when temperatures are moderate and outdoor activities can be enjoyed without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in San Rafael

For a memorable meal, try the wood-fired pizzas at Pizzalina, where locally sourced ingredients and artisanal techniques elevate each bite. Unlike the farm-to-table vibe you’ll find in Santa Rosa, dining in San Rafael offers a lively atmosphere that pairs delicious flavors with a vibrant urban scene.

Santa Rosa - San Rafael operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Rosa and San Rafael, 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
$1-7
Bus
Contact phone
+1 415-921-5858
Website
goldengatetransit.org

Bus from Santa Rosa Transit Mall to San Rafael Transit Center Platform A

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$4-12
Contact phone
707-837-8700
Website
https://groometransportation.com/sonoma-county/?&sd_client_id=96f3523b-d43b-4413-95b5-8039977b529d

Bus from Santa Rosa to San Rafael

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

Bus from Santa Rosa Bus Stop to San Rafael

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$4-35
Taxi
Contact phone
+1-707-579-1212
Website
santarosataxicab.com

Taxi from Santa Rosa to San Rafael

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$210-250

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

Traveling between Santa Rosa and San Rafael 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 picturesque road trip from Santa Rosa to San Rafael, spanning 38 miles of scenic California landscapes. In just under 40 minutes, you'll cruise along the highway, enjoying the journey ahead. 💸 With car travel costs ranging from $6 to $10, this affordable trip is both convenient and budget-friendly. Take in the sights as you make your way from Santa Rosa to San Rafael, exploring charming towns and vineyard-dotted valleys along the route.
Average price
$6 - $10
🚆 Enjoy a convenient train journey from Santa Rosa to San Rafael, with direct services departing from Santa Rosa Downtown SMART and arriving at San Rafael SMART. The trip takes around 1 hour and 1 minute, operating hourly every day. 🌉 For a more scenic route, consider taking a bus towards San Francisco Mission And Fremont from Santa Rosa. This option, operated by Golden Gate Transit, will take approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes to reach San Rafael Transit Center, covering a distance of 44.1 miles. 🚌 If you prefer a slightly longer but still convenient journey, opt for a bus transfer route. Start with Golden Gate Transit towards San Francisco Mission And Fremont from Santa Rosa, then change to a Marin Transit bus towards Marin City. This route will take around 2 hours and 8 minutes to reach San Rafael Transit Center, covering a total distance of 43.6 miles.
Departure Point
Santa Rosa Downtown SMART station
Arrival Point
San Rafael SMART station
🚌 Traveling by bus from Santa Rosa to San Rafael is convenient and affordable. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes, with buses departing every three hours. 🚌 Experience the scenic route of 43.9 miles from Santa Rosa to San Rafael, with buses offering a comfortable and efficient way to travel within the beautiful California region.
Departure Point
Santa Rosa Transit Mall station
Arrival Point
San Rafael Transit Center Platform A station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Santa Rosa to San Rafael is by train. The train fare for this route ranges from $1 to $7, depending on the time of travel and any applicable discounts. The train journey typically takes around 1 hour and 1 minute, offering an affordable and convenient option for transportation between these two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Rosa to San Rafael is by taking a taxi. The journey takes approximately 39 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, it is worth noting that taking a taxi can be quite expensive, with fares ranging between $210 and $250. If time is a priority and cost is not a concern, then a taxi is the most efficient option for this journey.
The distance between Santa Rosa and San Rafael is approximately 34 miles. The road distance, however, is slightly longer at 37.8 miles. This distance can usually be covered in about 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. It is a relatively short and convenient journey for travelers.
To travel from Santa Rosa to San Rafael without a car, the most convenient option is to take the train. The SMART train service operates between the two cities, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 1 minute. The ticket prices range from $1 to $7, making it an affordable choice for transportation. It is advisable to check the train schedules in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
The train journey from Santa Rosa to San Rafael takes approximately 1 hour and 1 minute. The train service operates hourly, allowing for convenient and frequent travel. This duration includes any necessary transfers that may be required during the journey. Overall, it is a relatively quick and efficient means of transportation between the two cities.
There are numerous accommodation options available in San Rafael. You can choose from over 421 hotels, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. Prices for hotels in San Rafael start at $74 per night. You can find a variety of hotels that cater to different preferences and budgets, making it easy to find a suitable place to stay during your visit to San Rafael.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Rosa to San Rafael. The distance between the two cities is about 38 miles, and it usually takes around 39 minutes to drive, depending on traffic conditions. The most common route to take is via US-101 S, which is a direct and convenient route between the two cities. However, it is always a good idea to check for any traffic updates before starting your journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus that operates between Santa Rosa and San Rafael. The bus departs from Santa Rosa Transit Mall and arrives at San Rafael Transit Center Platform A. The bus service operates hourly, seven days a week. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes.
To catch the bus from Santa Rosa to San Rafael you will need to go to the Santa Rosa Transit Mall station. This is where the bus services, operated by Golden Gate Transit, depart from. You can check the bus schedule and plan your trip accordingly. Make sure to arrive at the station a few minutes early to ensure you don't miss the bus.
The Santa Rosa to San Rafael bus service operated by Golden Gate Transit arrives at the San Rafael Transit Center Platform A station. The transit center is located in downtown San Rafael, making it convenient for passengers to access other parts of the city. From there, travelers can easily explore San Rafael and its surrounding areas.
Trains from Santa Rosa to San Rafael arrive at the San Rafael SMART station. This station is conveniently located in downtown San Rafael, making it easily accessible for travelers. Upon arrival at the San Rafael SMART station, passengers can easily continue their journey to other parts of San Rafael using local transportation options or by walking to their final destination.
Yes, there is a direct train route between Santa Rosa and San Rafael. The train departs from Santa Rosa Downtown SMART station and arrives at San Rafael SMART station. The train service operates every day and departs hourly. The journey between the two cities takes approximately 1 hour and 1 minute.
To catch the train from Santa Rosa to San Rafael you will need to go to the Santa Rosa Downtown SMART station. This is where the train services operated by SMART depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance to ensure you arrive at the station on time. It's recommended to arrive a few minutes early to secure your ticket and find the correct platform for your train.
The cost of a train ride from Santa Rosa to San Rafael ranges from $1 to $7. This affordable mode of transportation is a convenient option for travelers on a budget. The price may vary depending on factors such as the time of day, the type of train, and any applicable discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check the current fares and schedules before planning your trip.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Rosa to San Rafael ranges from $4 to $35. The actual price may vary depending on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and any discounts available. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the most affordable option for your travel.
The cost of driving from Santa Rosa to San Rafael typically ranges from $6 to $10, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the round trip, as well as any tolls that may be applicable. It's always a good idea to check current gas prices and plan accordingly for any additional expenses such as parking fees.

Trips from Santa Rosa