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Detroit, MI, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $108: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Detroit 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.

$108 - PlaneBest price
3880 kmDistance
7h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit 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  42m
Estimated price
$108-393
Recommended
route map
Distance: 3880 km
Duration: 7h 42m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
58h  13m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
10h  40m
Estimated price
$140-1080
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
10h  58m
Estimated price
$148-342
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  14m
Estimated price
$160-1614
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
8h  7m
Estimated price
$399-892
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
58h 
Estimated price
$1081-1082
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
36h  59m
Estimated price
$1083-1084

Traveling From Detroit to San Francisco

Traveling from Detroit to San Francisco offers a striking shift from the industrial charm of the Motor City to the vibrant coastal culture and stunning natural beauty of the Bay Area.

Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Chinatown
• One of the oldest Chinatowns in North America.
• Vibrant shops and authentic cuisine abound.
Mission District
• Known for its colorful murals and street art.
• A hub for trendy cafes and taquerias.
North Beach
• Famous for Italian restaurants and cafes.
• Offers stunning views from Coit Tower.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience at San Francisco's landmarks.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early morning or late afternoon offers stunning views and fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Book a morning tour to enjoy a quieter experience and beat the crowds.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit during weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and shorter lines.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco enjoys a Mediterranean climate with cool summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Knowing the best times to visit, typically from September to November, can significantly enhance your travel experience by letting you enjoy clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

San Francisco Dining Recommendation

Savor the fresh flavors of San Francisco with a bowl of clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, a dish that showcases the city’s coastal heritage. This dining experience stands in contrast to Detroit’s heartier fare, offering an inviting atmosphere and a taste of local ingredients that celebrate the vibrant maritime culture.

Detroit - San Francisco operators

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

Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Detroit to San Francisco

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$3992-1086

Plane from Detroit to San Francisco via Minneapolis

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
$3992-1086
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Detroit to San Francisco via Denver

Average Duration
7h 31m
Estimated price
$1089-3930
Website
united.com

Plane from Detroit to San Francisco via Denver

Average Duration
7h 14m
Estimated price
$3997-3930
Website
spirit.com

Plane from Detroit to Oakland via Las Vegas

Average Duration
6h 59m
Estimated price
$8923-8924
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Dearborn to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h 11m
Estimated price
$1607-89280

Train from Chicago Union Station to Richmond

Average Duration
2h 3m
Estimated price
$1085-1084
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Cleveland Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$1602-16144
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
baronsbus.com

Bus from Detroit, MI to Indianapolis, IN

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$1604-1606
Contact phone
+1 800-544-2383
Website
hoosierride.com

Bus from Detroit, MI to Indianapolis, IN

Average Duration
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Detroit 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 Detroit to San Francisco spanning 2411 miles of diverse landscapes, from the Midwest plains to the sun-kissed shores of California. The journey offers a chance to experience the heartland of America at your own pace. 💰 Plan your budget wisely as the cost of driving from Detroit to San Francisco can range from $430 to $650, depending on factors like fuel prices and stops along the way. Remember to factor in accommodation and dining expenses to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. ⏰ Set aside approximately 36 hours and 59 minutes for this unforgettable cross-country adventure, allowing time for rest stops, sightseeing, and soaking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the diverse regions you'll pass through. The journey promises stunning vistas and memorable moments that will remain etched in your travel memories.
Average price
$430 - $650
🚆 Traveling from Detroit 🇺🇸 to San Francisco 🇺🇸 by train can take around 2 days. The prices for train tickets on this route range from $116 to $778. 🚆 Route 1 covers a distance of 2,700 mi with 2 transfers. The journey includes stops in Chicago and Emeryville before reaching San Francisco via a subway ride to Millbrae. 🚆 Routes 2, 3, and 4 also take about 2 days with multiple transfers through cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and Seattle before finally arriving in San Francisco. Each route offers a unique experience for travelers exploring the scenic beauty of the United States by train.
🛫 Traveling from Detroit to San Francisco by plane is convenient and efficient, with a direct flight taking approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes. 💸 The cost of a flight from San Francisco to Detroit can range from $108 to $393, making it a relatively affordable option for those looking to explore the scenic city by the bay.
Departure Point
Detroit Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🌉 The trip entails transfers at various stations including Indianapolis, St Louis, Las Vegas, and Bakersfield. The total travel time averages approximately 2 days and 13 hours.
Departure Point
Detroit, MI station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Detroit to San Francisco is by flying. There are several airlines that offer affordable flights, with prices ranging from $95 to $350. The flight duration is around 7 hours and 33 minutes. It is recommended to book your flight in advance and be flexible with your travel dates to find the best deals.
The fastest way to travel from Detroit to San Francisco is by taking a flight. The flight duration is approximately 7 hours and 33 minutes. There are many airlines that offer direct flights from Detroit to San Francisco, ensuring a quick and efficient journey. The cost of the flight can range from $95 to $350, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
The distance between Detroit and San Francisco is approximately 2099 miles. If you plan to travel by road, the distance is around 2410.7 miles. It's important to consider the mode of transportation you choose and the time it will take to complete the journey.
The best way to travel from Detroit to San Francisco without a car is by taking a train. Amtrak offers a direct route from Detroit to San Francisco, which takes approximately 2 days and 12 hours. The ticket prices for this journey range from $110 to $800, depending on the class of service and the time of booking. Another option is to fly, which is faster and can cost between $95 and $350, but it may not be the cheapest option overall.
The travel time from Detroit to San Francisco is approximately 7 hours and 33 minutes, which includes any necessary transfers. This travel time can vary depending on factors such as the airline, flight route, and layover duration. It is advisable to check the specific details of your chosen flight for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding travel time.
The cheapest way to travel from Detroit to San Francisco is to fly, with prices ranging from $95 to $350. The flight takes approximately 7 hours and 33 minutes. However, if you prefer a more scenic route, you can also take a train, which costs between $110 and $800 and takes approximately 2 days and 12 hours, or a bus, which costs between $280 and $700 and takes roughly 2 days and 13 hours.
There are many options for accommodation near San Francisco. There are more than 835 hotels available in the area, ranging in price from $74 and up. You can find a variety of accommodations to suit your needs, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, it is possible to drive from Detroit to San Francisco. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 2,411 miles. The estimated time for the drive is around 36 hours and 59 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions. It is advisable to plan for overnight stops and breaks during the journey to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
No, there is no direct bus between Detroit and San Francisco. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers. The journey from Detroit to San Francisco typically takes approximately 2 days and 13 hours, with transfers at Indianapolis Bus Station, St. Louis Bus Station, and Los Angeles Downtown. It is recommended to check with specific bus companies for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
You can catch the bus from Detroit to San Francisco at the Detroit station. The bus service is provided by Barons Bus. They operate regular buses that travel from Detroit to San Francisco. You can check the schedule and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
The Detroit to San Francisco bus arrives at the San Francisco station. Flixbus USA operates the bus services on this route. It is a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers looking for a land transportation option between the two cities. The San Francisco station is located in a central area, making it easy for passengers to access other parts of the city upon arrival.
To get to San Francisco from the airport, there are a few options available. The most convenient way is to take a taxi or rideshare service, which typically takes around 20-30 minutes and costs approximately $60-$80. Another option is to take public transportation - the BART train system connects the airport to downtown San Francisco, with a one-way fare costing around $9-$10. Additionally, there are several shuttle services that provide transportation from the airport to various locations in San Francisco, with prices ranging from $17-$25 per person.
American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta all offer flights from Detroit to San Francisco. Travelers have a variety of options when choosing an airline for this route. It is recommended to compare prices, flight schedules, and amenities offered by each airline to find the best option for the trip.
The fastest way to travel from Detroit to San Francisco is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight duration is approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes. There are several airlines that offer flights between the two cities, including American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta. The cost of a flight ticket can range from $98 to $343 depending on the airline and availability.
The flight from Detroit to San Francisco typically takes around 5 hours and 7 minutes for a direct flight. However, the total travel time may vary depending on factors such as the airline, weather conditions, and any layovers. It is always recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding flight durations.
The cost of a flight from Detroit to San Francisco can range from $98 to $343. However, it's important to note that prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, airline, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost of a train ticket from Detroit to San Francisco can range from $116 to $778 depending on various factors such as the class of service, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to book your train tickets in advance to secure the best fares. Keep in mind that train travel to San Francisco from Detroit will require multiple transfers and may take significantly longer compared to flying. Make sure to check the schedules and availability before making your travel plans.
The cost of a bus from Detroit to San Francisco can range from $283 to $664. The price will depend on various factors such as the time of year, the type of bus service, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus operators and book in advance to secure the best deal. Additionally, keep in mind that bus travel may take longer compared to flying, but it can be a more affordable option for those on a budget.
The cost to drive from Detroit to San Francisco ranges from $430 to $650, depending on factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and accommodation along the way. This cost estimate includes fuel expenses for the round trip, as well as any additional expenses like food and lodging. Keep in mind that this estimate is subject to change based on personal spending habits and the route chosen.

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