Chicago, IL, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $60: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Chicago to San Francisco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$60 - PlaneBest price
3000 kmDistance
6h 36m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago 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 Chicago to San Francisco
Your journey from Chicago to San Francisco reveals the vibrant energy of the Windy City transitioning into the laid-back charm of the Bay Area.
Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco
San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own vibrant atmosphere.
Mission District
• Renowned for its vibrant street art scene.
• Famous for delicious taquerias and trendy cafes.
Chinatown
• One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America.
• Offers authentic dining experiences and unique shops.
Nob Hill
• Features stunning views of the San Francisco skyline.
• Home to luxury hotels and historic landmarks.
Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions
Timing your visit can enhance your experience of San Francisco's iconic spots.
Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or late afternoons offer stunning light and fewer crowds.
Alcatraz Island
Booking a tour for weekdays often leads to a less busy experience.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Visiting on weekdays allows you to explore without the weekend rush.
San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
San Francisco enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with cool summers and foggy winters, making it a year-round destination. Planning your visit during September and October typically offers the driest weather and brightest skies, enhancing your travel experience.
Dining Recommendation
Try the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Fisherman’s Wharf, which showcases San Francisco's fresh seafood and unique local ingredients. This experience contrasts with Chicago's hearty deep-dish pizza, offering a lighter, briny flavor and an outdoor dining atmosphere that's quintessentially Californian.
Chicago - San Francisco operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and San Francisco, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to San Francisco (SFO)
Average Duration
6h 36mEstimated price
$60-226Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to San Francisco (SFO)
Average Duration
7hEstimated price
$220-566Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Oakland (OAK)
Average Duration
6h 55mEstimated price
$282-717Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to San Jose (SJC)
Average Duration
8h 34mEstimated price
$80-348Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Chicago Union Station to Richmond
Average Duration
48h 4mEstimated price
$104-629Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station
Average Duration
6h 20mEstimated price
$35-85Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal
Average Duration
34h 30mEstimated price
$170-320Bus from Las Vegas Amtrak Bus Stop to Bakersfield Train Station
Average Duration
5h 47mEstimated price
$30-80Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to San Francisco Bus Station
Average Duration
7h 30mEstimated price
$30-80Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000Website
bart.gov
Other from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$6-10Chicago to San Francisco: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago 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 an epic road trip from the vibrant city of Chicago to the picturesque landscapes of San Francisco, covering a distance of 2143 miles. Enjoy the diverse scenery along the way, from the towering skyscrapers of the Windy City to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
💸 Experience budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $380 to $600 for the journey by car from Chicago to San Francisco. Plan your trip wisely to take advantage of deals and discounts, making it a cost-effective adventure without compromising on the experience.
🏞️ Immerse yourself in the beauty of the American road trip as you spend approximately 32 hours and 38 minutes driving through charming towns, vast plains, and stunning natural wonders en route to San Francisco. Create lasting memories and discover hidden gems along this unforgettable cross-country journey.
Average price
$380 - $600
🚂 Traveling from Chicago to San Francisco by train is a scenic journey that requires multiple transfers. The trip, operated by Amtrak, takes approximately 2 days and 4 hours, with fares ranging from $104 to $629.
🛤️ Route 1: The 2,432-mile journey includes 3 transfers, with stops at Naperville, Richmond, and MacArthur Station before reaching San Francisco. Each leg of the trip offers a unique perspective of the landscapes along the way.
🚇 Route 2: This alternative route also covers the same distance with 2 transfers, passing through Naperville and Richmond before heading to Montgomery St. station in San Francisco. Both routes offer a memorable train adventure through multiple states to the West Coast.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Richmond station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Amtrak offers a range of catering services on its long-distance train routes, including the California Zephyr, which connects Chicago to San Francisco. Meals are available in the dining car and can be pre-ordered for all classes. Economy passengers can purchase meals from a cafe car, featuring snacks, beverages, and light meals.
• Seating Options: For your trip, Amtrak provides several seating options. In the Superliner coaches, you can choose between Coach Class, with reclining seats and ample legroom, and First Class (available on some trains), which offers more spacious seating and complimentary meals. Additionally, there are roomettes and bedrooms in sleeper cars for a more private experience. Check the Amtrak website for availability.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at San Francisco's Emeryville station, which is about 20 minutes from downtown San Francisco, you can leave your luggage at the station for a fee. However, note that there are no shower facilities. The station also has restrooms. To travel to the city center, take the AC Transit bus line 17 or the Amtrak Thruway bus service.
🛫 Traveling from Chicago to San Francisco by plane is quick and convenient, with a direct flight taking approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes.
💸 The cost of a flight between Chicago and San Francisco can range from $60 to $226, making it a relatively affordable way to experience the diverse attractions and vibrant culture of the West Coast.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight, consider Southwest Airlines for its two free checked bags policy, which could save you money if you plan to bring more luggage.
• Upon arrival at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), follow the clear signage to 'Ground Transportation' to access ride-sharing services and taxis, as well as the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system that connects to the city.
• Be prepared to pay between $50 to $60 for a taxi from SFO to downtown San Francisco, but consider BART as a faster and cheaper alternative for around $10; check schedules at SFO Ground Transportation for your convenience.
🚌 Embark on a 2-day 9-hour adventure from Chicago to San Francisco by bus. With transfers in St. Louis, Las Vegas, and Bakersfield, this journey promises scenic views along the way.
🛣️ The first route covers a distance of 2,605 miles with 2 transfers. From Chicago to St. Louis, then to Los Angeles, culminating in San Francisco - all operated by Greyhound.
🌉 For a different experience, consider route 3 with 3 transfers, passing through St. Louis, El Monte, and Berkeley. FlixBus joins the journey for the final leg to your destination in San Francisco.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Upon arrival at the San Francisco Bus Station, familiarize yourself with local transportation options, such as BART and Muni, by checking their schedules and maps at https://www.bart.gov and https://www.sfmta.com, to help you easily navigate to your final destination.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to San Francisco.
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The cheapest way to get from Chicago to San Francisco is by flying. There are a variety of airlines that offer flights with prices ranging from $110 to $450. The flight duration is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to San Francisco is by flying. A non-stop flight from Chicago to San Francisco takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights between these two cities at varying price ranges, typically costing between $110 and $450. It is recommended to check for available flights and compare prices to find the best option for your travel needs.
Chicago is approximately 1866 miles away from San Francisco. This is the straight line distance, and it may vary depending on the specific route chosen. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 2142.7 miles. It is important to consider travel options and plan accordingly, as the distance between the two cities is considerable.
The most convenient way to travel from Chicago to San Francisco without a car is by train. Amtrak offers a direct route called the California Zephyr, which takes approximately 2 days and 4 hours. The cost of the train ticket ranges from $100 to $650, depending on the class and availability. Booking in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help find the best deals.
The travel time from Chicago to San Francisco is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. This includes any necessary transfers that may be required during the journey. It is important to note that travel times can vary depending on factors such as the chosen mode of transportation, weather conditions, and any potential delays.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to San Francisco is by flying, with prices ranging from $110 to $450. This option offers the quickest travel time of 6 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train, which takes 2 days and 4 hours and costs between $100 and $650, or you can choose to take a bus, which takes 2 days and 9 hours and costs between $260 and $600.
There are numerous hotels available in San Francisco to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for accommodation start at $74 per night. Some popular areas to consider staying in include Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Financial District, which offer convenient access to tourist attractions and amenities. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, it is possible to drive from Chicago to San Francisco. The driving distance is approximately 2143 miles, which can take around 32 hours and 38 minutes depending on traffic and breaks. It is important to plan for multiple rest stops, food, and accommodation along the way.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Chicago to San Francisco. However, there are bus services available that depart from the Chicago Bus Station and arrive at San Francisco via St Louis Bus Station and Los Angeles Downtown. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 days and 9 hours. It is important to note that this is a long and time-consuming option compared to other modes of transportation available.
You can catch the bus from Chicago to San Francisco at the Chicago Bus Station. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA. It is recommended to check the Greyhound website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information regarding bus schedules and departures from Chicago to San Francisco.
The bus from Chicago to San Francisco arrives at the San Francisco station. This bus service is operated by Flixbus USA, which provides transportation between the two cities. The San Francisco station is the final destination for this bus route, allowing travelers to disembark and begin exploring the city.
To get to San Francisco from the airport, you have a few options. One way is to take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to your destination in San Francisco. Another option is to take public transportation, such as the BART train, which connects the airport to various parts of San Francisco. There are also airport shuttles and private car services available for transportation from the airport to your destination in San Francisco. Whichever option you choose, make sure to check the schedules and fares in advance to plan your journey accordingly.
Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines are the two airlines that offer flights from Chicago to San Francisco. Both airlines provide convenient options for travelers looking to make this journey. Passengers can choose from the available flights and select the most suitable schedule for their travel needs.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to San Francisco is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight option is offered by Frontier Airlines or Southwest Airlines from Chicago Midway Airport to San Francisco Airport, taking approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. The prices for this flight vary between $110 and $446.
The flight from Chicago to San Francisco typically takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes. This is the duration of a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to San Francisco Airport. However, it's important to note that flight durations may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's always a good idea to check with your airline for the most accurate information regarding your specific flight.
Trains from Chicago to San Francisco arrive at Richmond station in San Francisco. Richmond station is located in the East Bay area of San Francisco, about 20 miles northeast of downtown San Francisco. From Richmond station, passengers can take local transportation options to reach their final destination in San Francisco.
No, there is no direct train between Chicago and San Francisco. However, there are train services available that involve transfers. The journey usually takes around 2 days and 4 hours, with transfers at stations like Richmond. It is recommended to check with the train service provider for the most up-to-date schedule and details.
To catch the train from Chicago to San Francisco you will need to go to Chicago Union Station. Amtrak operates train services from this station. It is recommended to arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth boarding process. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
The cost of a flight from Chicago to San Francisco can range from approximately $110 to $446. The price can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of travel, and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and use price comparison websites to find the best deal. Additionally, booking a flight during less busy travel periods may also help secure a lower fare.
The price of a train ticket from Chicago to San Francisco can vary depending on the class of service and the time of travel. Generally, prices range from $104 to $629. It is advisable to book your train ticket in advance to secure the best fares. Additionally, keep in mind that train travel will take longer compared to flying, with an average travel time of around 1-2 days.
The cost of a bus from Chicago to San Francisco can range from $265 to $572, depending on the bus company and the time of booking. Factors such as the type of bus and the duration of the journey can also affect the price. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal.
The cost of driving from Chicago to San Francisco typically ranges from $380 to $600, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, fuel prices, and tolls. This estimate includes expenses such as gas, accommodations, food, and any unexpected costs that may arise during the journey. It's important to note that these costs may vary and it's advisable to plan accordingly and budget for additional expenses to ensure a smooth and comfortable road trip experience.
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Trips to San Francisco
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