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Indianapolis, IN, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $87: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Indianapolis, United States of America
to
San Francisco, United States of America

How to Get from Indianapolis 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.

$87 - PlaneBest price
3148 kmDistance
7h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Indianapolis 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
Plane
Average Duration
7h  20m
Estimated price
$110-363
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$87-374
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3148 km
Duration: 7h 20m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
48h  6m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
10h  16m
Estimated price
$109-435
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
2h  9m
Estimated price
$156-721
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
34h  48m
Estimated price
$410-1100
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Traveling From Indianapolis to San Francisco

The journey from Indianapolis to San Francisco offers an exciting contrast between the Midwestern charm of flat landscapes and local sports culture, and the vibrant, hilly streets and tech-driven energy of California's Bay Area.

Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Mission District
• Known for its vibrant street art.
• Home to some of the best taquerias.
Chinatown
• Largest Chinatown outside Asia.
• Explore bustling markets and authentic cuisine.
Fisherman's Wharf
• Famous for sea lions and fresh seafood.
• Offers stunning views of Alcatraz Island.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timely visits to San Francisco's attractions can enhance your experience and minimize crowds.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early morning or late afternoon offers fewer tourists and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Book tours for weekdays early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Fisherman's Wharf
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and shorter lines.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild, Mediterranean climate with cool summers and wet winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit. The city's famous microclimates mean the weather can change quickly, so layering your clothing helps keep your travel experience comfortable.

Dining Recommendation

For a culinary adventure, try the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, which highlights San Francisco's fresh seafood and unique local ingredients. This dining experience offers a refreshing contrast to the meat-and-potatoes flavors of Indianapolis, with the bustling waterfront atmosphere enhancing your meal.

Indianapolis - San Francisco operators

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

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
5h 9m
Estimated price
$1107-3636

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Francisco (SFO) via Denver

Average Duration
6h 54m
Estimated price
$1107-3636

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Jose (SJC) via Denver

Average Duration
8h 41m
Estimated price
$3637-1100
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Francisco (SFO) via Denver

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
$1102-1103

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Francisco (SFO) via Phoenix

Average Duration
7h 42m
Estimated price
$1104-1105
Website
aa.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Francisco (SFO) via Phoenix

Average Duration
7h 42m
Estimated price
$1104-3635

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Jose (SJC) via Los Angeles

Average Duration
7h 13m
Estimated price
$1104-1100
Website
delta.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Francisco (SFO) via Salt Lake City

Average Duration
7h 34m
Estimated price
$1104-3632

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to San Francisco (SFO) via Los Angeles

Average Duration
8h 16m
Estimated price
$1104-3632
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$3742-870

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration
34h 30m
Estimated price
$3631-3743

Bus from Las Vegas Amtrak Bus Stop to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$3744-3745
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Richmond

Average Duration
2h 3m
Estimated price
$8730-1109
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Subway from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$872-873

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

Traveling between Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis to San Francisco, covering a distance of 3640.3 km. 💰 Depending on your route and stops, the cost of the trip can range from $410 to $600, providing flexibility to accommodate different budgets. 🌉 The 34-hour and 48-minute drive is a great opportunity to explore America's heartland and the spectacular natural beauty of the West Coast.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Indianapolis to San Francisco with a direct flight that takes just 4 hours and 51 minutes. Several reputable airlines such as American, Frontier, United, and Southwest provide flight options for this route. 💸 With flight prices ranging from $95 to $283, you can find a suitable option to fit your travel budget for this approximately 7-hour trip from Indianapolis to San Francisco.
Traveling by bus from Indianapolis to San Francisco is a scenic journey, albeit with a few transfers. The trip, including transfers, takes approximately 2 days and 8 hours. There are services departing from the Indianapolis Bus Station, with transfers at St. Louis Bus Station and Los Angeles Union Station, before arriving at San Francisco. Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA are the main operators for this route. The prices for a bus ticket between the two cities can vary from $261 to $569, offering flexibility for different budgets. While the journey may be long, it provides the opportunity to see many different landscapes and experience the diverse cities along the way.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Indianapolis to San Francisco.

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The distance between Indianapolis and San Francisco is approximately 1956 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 2262.2 miles. Typical travel times by various modes of transportation include 7 hours and 2 minutes by plane, 34 hours and 48 minutes by car, and the specific travel time by bus from Indianapolis to San Francisco is not mentioned.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Indianapolis to San Francisco is by flying. It takes approximately 7 hours and 2 minutes to reach San Francisco from Indianapolis by plane. The cost of a flight ticket ranges from $95 to $290, making it an affordable choice. This option allows travelers to save both time and money compared to other modes of transportation such as driving or taking a bus.
The prices of bus tickets between San Francisco and Indianapolis can vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and availability. On average, prices range from $261 to $569 for a one-way ticket. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
To travel from Indianapolis to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 2262 miles. The journey takes approximately 34 hours and 48 minutes. The cost for fuel and tolls for this road trip can range from $410 to $600, depending on factors such as vehicle efficiency and gas prices.
The best way to travel from Indianapolis to San Francisco without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 2 days and 8 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $260 to $600. Alternatively, you can also consider flying, which takes around 7 hours and 2 minutes, or taking a combination of bus and train. However, the bus is generally the most cost-effective option for this particular route.
No, there is no direct link between Indianapolis and San Francisco. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey typically takes approximately 2 days and 8 hours, including transfers at St Louis Bus Station and Los Angeles Union Station. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA.
The flight between Indianapolis and San Francisco typically takes around 4 hours and 51 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, ranging from $95 to $283.
There are numerous lodging options available near San Francisco with over 835 hotels to choose from. Prices for accommodations start at $74 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly to luxury options. Visitors can find hotels in various locations throughout the city, including downtown, Fisherman's Wharf, and Union Square, providing convenient access to popular attractions and amenities. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

Trips from Indianapolis

Trips to San Francisco