Truckee, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $12: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Truckee to San Francisco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$12 by trainBest price
262 kmDistance
2h 58m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Truckee 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.
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Traveling From Truckee to San Francisco
The journey from the peaceful mountain town of Truckee to the vibrant urban landscape of San Francisco offers a striking contrast between serene natural beauty and bustling city life.
Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco
San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.
North Beach
• Historic Italian district with charming cafes.
• Iconic views of the Transamerica Pyramid.
Mission District
• Vibrant street art and murals everywhere.
• Known for its delicious Mexican cuisine.
Chinatown
• Largest Chinatown outside Asia.
• Rich culture with unique shops and eateries.
Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions
Timing your visits can make a big difference in your San Francisco experience.
Golden Gate Bridge
Early morning offers stunning views and fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Afternoon tours let you enjoy guided stories with less crowding.
Fisherman's Wharf
Weekdays are best for a relaxed stroll and fresh seafood.
San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
San Francisco enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with cool summers, foggy mornings, and occasional rain in winter. Visiting in late spring or early fall often brings the best weather, enhancing your outdoor adventures and scenic explorations.
Dining Recommendation
For a truly unique dining experience, try the Dungeness crab at Swan Oyster Depot, where the fresh catch embodies the coastal flavors of San Francisco. This vibrant seafood spot contrasts with Truckee’s hearty mountain cuisine, offering you a taste of the ocean paired with a lively, bustling atmosphere.
Truckee - San Francisco operators
Explore transport companies operating between Truckee and San Francisco, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 925-382-8320Website
tahoeskitrips.net
Bus from Tahoe Mountain Resort - Northstar to San Francisco - 16th St
Average Duration
4hEstimated price
$89-89Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Truckee to San Francisco Bus Station
Average Duration
5h 50mEstimated price
$21-60Bus from Truckee Amtrak Station to Sacramento
Average Duration
2h 45mEstimated price
$21-60Bus from Truckee to Reno Amtrak
Average Duration
50mEstimated price
$12-124Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Truckee Amtrak Station to Richmond
Average Duration
6h 22mEstimated price
$12-106Website
iflysouthern.com
Plane from Truckee (TKF) to San Carlos (SQL)
Average Duration
1h 10mEstimated price
$122-123Truckee to San Francisco: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Truckee 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 Truckee to San Francisco, covering a distance of 188 miles. Enjoy the picturesque drive through Northern California's diverse landscapes.
💰 The prices to travel from Truckee to San Francisco by car range from $30 to $50, offering budget-friendly options for your road trip adventure.
🌁 Arrive in San Francisco after approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes of driving, ready to explore the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine the city has to offer.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚂 Traveling by train from Truckee to San Francisco involves a scenic route with a transfer at Richmond. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful California landscapes.
💸 Ticket prices for the train between Truckee and San Francisco range from $12 to $106, offering affordable transportation options for those looking to explore the Bay Area. With comfortable seating and stunning views along the way, this train journey is a convenient and enjoyable way to travel between these two California cities.
Departure Point
Truckee Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Richmond station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Depending on the train operator, you can expect a variety of catering options. For example, Amtrak offers a café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. If you have chosen a First-Class option, complimentary meals and drinks may be available. Be sure to check the menu and availability before your journey, as offerings can vary.
• Seating Options: On this route, Amtrak provides multiple seating classes: Coach/Economy, Business Class, and First Class. Coach offers standard seating with basic amenities, while Business Class provides larger seats and more legroom. First Class includes the most comfortable seats, additional legroom, and superior onboard service, often with included meals. Make sure to book your preferred class in advance to secure the best experience.
• Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at San Francisco's Amtrak station, be aware that there is no luggage storage facility at the station. However, there are restrooms available for passenger use. Plan accordingly; if you have a lot of luggage, consider taking it with you or storing it at a nearby facility. Also, familiarize yourself with the station layout to navigate quickly upon your arrival.
🛫 Flying from Truckee to San Francisco is convenient with the quickest direct flight taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Southern Airways Express provides flights from Truckee Airport to San Carlos Airport, making travel between the two cities easily accessible.
🌉 Once you land at San Carlos Airport, you can reach San Francisco in approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes by plane. This quick flight allows you to enjoy the beautiful views of the Bay Area before landing in the bustling city.
💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Truckee typically range from $220 to $390, giving travelers options to choose from based on their budget and preferences. Whether for business or pleasure, flying between these destinations offers a convenient and efficient way to travel.
Departure Point
Truckee Airport
Arrival Point
San Carlos Airport
🚌 Traveling from Truckee to San Francisco by bus is a convenient and affordable option. Greyhound USA offers direct services twice daily, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes.
🚌 With a travel time of 4 hours and 54 minutes, passengers can enjoy the scenic views along the way while saving on transportation costs, with bus tickets priced at $89 for the journey between Truckee and San Francisco.
Departure Point
Truckee station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the Truckee station at least 30 minutes early to ensure you have enough time to check your bags and locate your bus, as it can get busy quickly, especially on weekends.
• During your bus journey, take advantage of the scenic views along the way, particularly as you descend into the Bay Area; have your camera ready, especially when you pass Donner Lake and other mountain sites.
• Upon arrival at the San Francisco Bus Station, be prepared for the local transit options; consider purchasing a Clipper Card for seamless travel on Muni buses, BART, and cable cars, and check out nearby dining options at the Ferry Building Marketplace for a taste of local cuisine.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Truckee to San Francisco.
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The distance between Truckee and San Francisco is 163 miles. By car, it takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes to travel from San Francisco to Truckee. On the other hand, the train journey from Truckee to San Francisco takes around 7 hours and 19 minutes. If you opt for the bus, it will take you about 5 hours and 15 minutes to reach San Francisco from Truckee.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Truckee to San Francisco is by train, with prices ranging from $12 to $110. However, this option takes the longest, with a travel time of 7 hours and 19 minutes. On the other hand, the quickest way to reach San Francisco is by taking a bus and then flying, with travel times as short as 3 hours and 14 minutes, but at a higher cost ranging from $310 to $600. So, depending on your priorities and budget, either the train or the bus and fly option can be considered for your journey.
The prices for traveling by train from Truckee to San Francisco range from $12 to $106, depending on the class and seating options chosen. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey from San Francisco to Truckee vary from $21 to $60, again depending on factors such as the type of bus and any additional amenities offered. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for specific pricing details and any possible discounts or promotions that may be available.
To get from Truckee to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 188 miles. The drive takes about 3 hours and 14 minutes. You may expect to spend around $30 to $50 in gas and toll fees, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and the current gas prices.
The best way to travel from Truckee to San Francisco without a car is by bus. This option takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $21 and $60. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic journey to your destination.
Yes, there is a direct bus service between Truckee and San Francisco. The bus departs from Truckee and arrives at San Francisco Bus Station and the journey takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, there is no direct train between the two cities, but there are train services that involve transfers and take approximately 7 hours and 19 minutes. The train journey involves departing from Truckee Amtrak Station, transferring at Richmond, and arriving at Civic Center / UN Plaza in San Francisco.
The flight duration between Truckee and San Francisco is typically 1 hour and 17 minutes on the quickest direct flight from Reno Airport to San Francisco Airport. However, it's important to note that there are no direct flights between Truckee and San Francisco, so travelers would need to consider driving or taking other forms of transportation to reach Reno Airport. As for cost, flight prices can vary depending on several factors such as time of travel, airline, and availability, so it is best to check with different airlines for the most accurate pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable to your budget and preferences. Hotel prices start at $74 per night, offering a range of options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, there are numerous choices available in and around the city.
Trips from Truckee
Trips to San Francisco
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