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Charlotte, NC, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $105: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Charlotte 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.

$105 - PlaneBest price
3718 kmDistance
7h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Charlotte 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  43m
Estimated price
$105-433
Recommended
route map
Distance: 3718 km
Duration: 7h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
10h  47m
Estimated price
$131-497
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
11h  9m
Estimated price
$199-395
Company
Flixbus USA, Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
63h  15m
Estimated price
$232-1050
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  17m
Estimated price
$262-414
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
75h  3m
Estimated price
$1051-1052
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
75h  3m
Estimated price
$1053-1054
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
43h  18m
Estimated price
$1055-1056
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Traveling From Charlotte to San Francisco

Traveling from Charlotte to San Francisco takes you from the charming Southern hospitality of the Carolinas to the vibrant, tech-savvy streets of California, presenting starkly different cultures and landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco's neighborhoods each offer a distinct vibe and attractions.

Mission District
• Known for its vibrant murals and street art.
• A hub for delicious taquerias and trendy eateries.
Fisherman's Wharf
• Famous for fresh seafood and picturesque waterfront views.
• Home to the playful sea lions at Pier 39.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• Filled with vintage shops and eclectic cafes.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing can greatly enhance your experience at San Francisco's top sights.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early mornings or late afternoons for stunning views and fewer crowds.
Alcatraz Island
Book tours for weekdays to enjoy a quieter, more intimate experience.
Chinatown
Explore in the late morning or early afternoon to avoid peak foot traffic.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco boasts a mild climate characterized by cool summers and foggy mornings, making layers essential for your visit. The best times to enjoy the city are typically late summer and early fall when the weather is at its warmest, enhancing your outdoor experiences.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Make sure to try the iconic sourdough bread and clam chowder served in a bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf; this dish showcases the city’s fresh seafood and local ingredients. The lively waterfront atmosphere and the distinct flavor profile of San Francisco’s coastal cuisine offer a refreshing contrast to Charlotte’s Southern comfort food.

Charlotte - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
7h 43m
Estimated price
$105-433

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
11h 2m
Estimated price
$4331-4332

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
5h 37m
Estimated price
$4333-4334
Website
united.com

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
8h 31m
Estimated price
$4335-4336

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
8h 4m
Estimated price
$4337-4338

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
7h 54m
Estimated price
$4337-4339
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
7h 11m
Estimated price
$2620-2621

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$1059-1056
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Sacramento to Richmond

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$4141-4142

Train from Chicago Union Station to Richmond

Average Duration
2h 3m
Estimated price
$1057-2620

Train from Ashland Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
12h 46m
Estimated price
$1999-3950
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Charlotte to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 50m
Estimated price
$4143-3952

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Dallas Bus Station

Average Duration
18h 5m
Estimated price
$1991-41480

Bus from Dallas Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
29h
Estimated price
$3954-4337
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Charlotte to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$3957-26290
Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342
Website
us.megabus.com

Bus from Charlotte, NC to Atlanta GA

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$3957-26290
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Other from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$2629-4140

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

Traveling between Charlotte 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 cross-country road trip from Charlotte to San Francisco covering a distance of 2722 miles. Prepare for a journey filled with diverse landscapes and new adventures at every turn. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options starting from $490 or indulge in a more luxurious drive for around $750. The choice is yours as you navigate through scenic routes and make unforgettable memories on the open road. 🌉 Arrive in picturesque San Francisco after approximately 43 hours and 18 minutes of driving. Take in the iconic sights, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture of this West Coast city, marking the end of a truly memorable road trip.
Average price
$490 - $750
🚆 Embark on an exciting train journey from Charlotte to San Francisco covering a distance of 3,572 miles with 4 transfers along the way. Experience the first leg aboard the Crescent from Charlotte to Washington Union Station in about 8 hours and 16 minutes. 🌉 Next, board the Capitol Limited in Washington for a 17-hour and 40-minute ride to Chicago Union Station. Enjoy the scenic route as you travel towards Emeryville on the California Zephyr, a 2-day, 2-hour journey passing through breathtaking landscapes before reaching Sacramento Valley.
🛫 Flying from Charlotte to San Francisco is a convenient option with a direct flight that takes approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes. Airlines such as Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines operate routes between Charlotte Airport and San Francisco Airport. 🌉 Upon landing in San Francisco, you can expect a flight duration of about 7 hours and 43 minutes from Charlotte. The journey offers a mix of in-flight entertainment and services to ensure a comfortable experience for passengers. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Charlotte can range from $105 to $433, depending on factors such as booking time, airline, and availability. With multiple options for carriers and flight times, travelers can find a convenient and affordable way to reach the beautiful city of San Francisco.
Departure Point
Charlotte Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
💰 Ticket prices for the bus from Charlotte to San Francisco can range from $232 to $726, with the total travel time averaging around 2 days and 15 hours. Consider planning ahead and booking early for the best deals on this unique cross-country adventure.
Departure Point
Charlotte station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Charlotte to San Francisco is by flying. On average, flights from Charlotte to San Francisco range in price from $95 to $410. The flight duration is approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals for your trip.
The fastest way to travel from Charlotte to San Francisco is by taking a flight. The flight duration is approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between these two cities. The cost of a flight ticket can range from $95 to $410 depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors.
The distance from Charlotte to San Francisco is approximately 2310 miles. This is the straight line distance, also known as the crow fly distance. The road distance between the two cities is about 2722.4 miles. Keep in mind that these distances are subject to change based on the route you take and any detours along the way.
The cheapest way to travel from Charlotte to San Francisco without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 2 days and 20 hours, and the ticket prices range from $300 to $700. You can book a bus ticket with various bus companies that offer this route. Make sure to check the schedules and plan for stops along the way to rest and refresh.
The average travel time from Charlotte to San Francisco is around 7 hours and 27 minutes, including any necessary transfers. This duration may vary depending on factors such as the airline, layovers, and flight routes. It is important to consider these factors when planning your trip and allow for ample time to reach your destination.
The most convenient and quickest way to travel from Charlotte to San Francisco is by flying. This option takes approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes and costs between $95 and $410. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you could take a bus, which takes around 2 days and 20 hours, costing between $300 and $700. Another option is to take a train, which takes approximately 3 days and 9 hours, and costs between $140 and $1,100.
There are various accommodation options available in San Francisco ranging from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Some popular areas to consider staying in include Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Financial District. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at around $74 per night, but can vary depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. It is recommended to book your stay in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, it is possible to drive from Charlotte to San Francisco. The distance is approximately 2722 miles, and the estimated driving time is about 43 hours and 18 minutes. However, keep in mind that this is a long and tiring journey, so it is recommended to plan for breaks and accommodations along the way. Additionally, be sure to check for any road closures or construction updates before embarking on the trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Charlotte to San Francisco. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers. The journey starts at Charlotte Bus Station and includes transfers at Asheville, Nashville Bus Station, St Louis Bus Station, and Los Angeles Downtown before arriving in San Francisco. The total travel time for this route is approximately 2 days and 20 hours, considering the transfers.
You can catch the bus from Charlotte to San Francisco at the Charlotte Bus Station. The bus service is operated by Greyhound USA. The Charlotte Bus Station is a convenient and easily accessible location for travelers looking to make the journey. You can check the Greyhound USA website for the specific departure times and ticket availability.
The Charlotte to San Francisco bus operated by Flixbus USA arrives at the San Francisco station. The exact location of the station may vary, so it is recommended to check with Flixbus for the specific address. Upon arrival at the San Francisco station, travelers can easily access various transportation options to reach their final destination within the city or explore other parts of the San Francisco Bay Area.
To get to San Francisco from San Francisco International Airport, you have a few options. The most convenient and fastest way is to take a taxi or use ride-sharing services, which typically takes around 25-30 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can also use public transportation by taking the BART train from the airport to downtown San Francisco, which takes approximately 30-35 minutes. There are also shuttle services available, which may take longer but are often more affordable than a taxi or ride-sharing service.
Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines are the airlines that offer flights from Charlotte to San Francisco. These airlines provide multiple flights throughout the week, giving travelers flexibility in choosing a suitable departure time. It is recommended to check their websites or use a flight aggregator to compare prices and find the best deal for your travel dates.
The fastest way to travel from Charlotte to San Francisco is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight from Charlotte Airport to San Francisco Airport takes approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes. Airlines such as Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines offer flights between these two cities. The flight duration is approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes, and ticket prices range from $95 to $403.
The flight from Charlotte to San Francisco typically takes 5 hours and 32 minutes on a direct flight. However, this can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's always a good idea to check with the airline for the most up-to-date information on flight durations.
Trains from Charlotte to San Francisco operated by Amtrak, arrive at Richmond station. From there, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach your final destination in San Francisco. Richmond station is conveniently located in the East Bay area, offering easy access to various parts of San Francisco. It is important to check the Amtrak schedule and plan your journey accordingly.
No, there is no direct train between Charlotte and San Francisco. However, you can take a train from Charlotte Amtrak Station to San Francisco with transfers. The journey typically includes transfers at Charlottesville, Chicago Union Station, and Richmond, taking approximately 3 days and 9 hours. While it may not be the most convenient option, it can provide a scenic and leisurely way to travel if you have the time.
To catch the train from Charlotte to San Francisco you will need to go to the Charlotte Amtrak Station. This is where the train services operated by Amtrak depart from. It is important to check the train schedule and arrive at the station ahead of time to ensure a smooth journey. Remember to have your tickets ready and any necessary travel documents.
The cost of a flight from Charlotte to San Francisco can range from $95 to $403. The price will depend on various factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and any additional services or amenities. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best possible deal.
The cost of a train from Charlotte to San Francisco can vary between $145 and $1023 depending on the class of service and the time of booking. Prices are subject to change and it is recommended to check with the specific train operator for the most up-to-date fares. Additionally, it is important to note that train travel from Charlotte to San Francisco will take significantly longer than flying, with an estimated travel time of over 2 days.
The cost of a bus ticket from Charlotte to San Francisco varies between $308 and $702. However, it's important to note that the duration of the bus journey can be quite long, taking approximately 2-4 days to reach San Francisco. If you are looking for a more time-efficient option, flying may be a better choice.
The cost of driving from Charlotte to San Francisco varies depending on factors such as fuel prices, vehicle efficiency, and the route taken. On average, the cost of gas for the round trip is around $490 to $750. Additionally, it is essential to consider other expenses such as accommodation, tolls, and meals during the journey. It is recommended to use a fuel cost calculator and plan accordingly to get the most accurate estimate for your specific trip.

Trips from Charlotte

Trips to San Francisco