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Reno, NV, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $14: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Reno 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.

$14 by trainBest price
299.3 kmDistance
3h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reno 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
3h  6m
Estimated price
$97-346
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
8h  21m
Estimated price
$14-114
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 299.3 km
Duration: 3h 4m

See more options

Company
FlixBus, Capitol Corridor
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
$20-134
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
6h  35m
Estimated price
$20-75
Company
Amtrak Thruway, Capitol Corridor
Bus
Train
Average Duration
6h  42m
Estimated price
$20-140
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
4h  35m
Estimated price
$86-398
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
3h  4m
Estimated price
$134-817

Traveling From Reno to San Francisco

Journeying from Reno to San Francisco offers a striking transition from the serene high desert landscape to the bustling urban energy and coastal charm of the Bay Area.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to a variety of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Mission District
• Renowned for its colorful murals and street art.
• Offers some of the city’s best Mexican cuisine.
Fisherman’s Wharf
• Bustling area known for fresh seafood and sourdough bread.
• Close to waterfront attractions like Pier 39 and sea lions.
North Beach
• Famous for its rich Italian heritage and eateries.
• Hosts lively cafes and iconic landmarks like Coit Tower.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Maximize your experience in San Francisco by planning visits to major attractions at optimal times.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early morning or late afternoon offers stunning views and fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Book the first ferry of the day to enjoy a peaceful visit.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy leisurely exploration.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a mild, Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool summers and rainy winters, making it important to layer your clothing. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable, enhancing your travel experience as you explore the city’s attractions.

Dining Recommendation

A visit to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without savoring the city's renowned sourdough bread, best enjoyed at Boudin Bakery where the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air. This contrasts with Reno's dining scene, as San Francisco’s emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and innovative gastronomy elevates the culinary experience to a vibrant celebration of flavors.

Reno - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Reno (RNO) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$150-600
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Reno (RNO) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$95-330

Plane from Reno (RNO) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$90-320
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Reno to Richmond

Average Duration
7h 23m
Estimated price
$9-110

Train from Sacramento to Richmond

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$3-75
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Train from Coliseum to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$3-5

Train from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$6-10
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Reno Downtown to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$13-55

Bus from Reno Downtown to San Francisco

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$20-75
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Reno Amtrak to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$24-70

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

Traveling between Reno 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 Reno to San Francisco, covering a distance of 219 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of Northern California as you cruise along the highway for approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes. 💰 Discover budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $40 to $60 for the road trip from Reno to San Francisco by car. Flexibility in timing and route choices allows for a personalized and cost-effective travel experience.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚆 The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 21 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. 🚆 Amtrak operates the train services between Reno and San Francisco, with ticket prices ranging from $14 to $114.
Departure Point
Reno station
Arrival Point
Richmond station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your journey from Reno to San Francisco include dining options provided by Amtrak. They offer a café car where you can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and hot meals. Amtrak also provides complimentary coffee and tea in their Acela business class service, which could be an option depending on your selected train service.
• The primary train operator for this route is Amtrak, which offers several seating options including Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. In Coach Class, you can expect comfortable reclining seats and access to power outlets. Business Class provides larger seats with more legroom and complimentary snacks and beverages. Check Amtrak's website for booking and more details: Amtrak.
• Upon arriving at the Embarcadero station in San Francisco, expect to find ample facilities. However, note that there are no luggage storage options on-site. You can use restrooms located in the station but not showers. To navigate the city easily upon arrival, the fastest way to reach the city center is by taking the Muni Metro. The F-Line streetcar services runs directly from the Embarcadero station to various stops in the downtown area, which is incredibly convenient. For further local transport schedules, refer to the SFMTA website.
🛫 Flying from Reno to San Francisco is a convenient and quick journey, with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 16 minutes offered by United Airlines. 🏞️ Enjoy a scenic aerial view as you make your way from the high desert landscapes of Reno to the bustling cityscape of San Francisco in just over 3 hours by plane. 💸 With flight prices ranging from $97 to $346, there are budget-friendly options available to suit any traveler looking to explore the vibrant city of San Francisco from the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains in Reno.
Departure Point
Reno Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 The trip typically lasts around 6 hours and 35 minutes, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the beautiful views along the way. Greyhound USA operates the Reno to San Francisco bus services, ensuring a comfortable and reliable transportation experience for passengers. 🚌 Ticket prices for the bus between San Francisco and Reno range from $20 to $75, providing an affordable travel option for those looking to explore these two vibrant cities on the West Coast. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you make your way from Reno to San Francisco by bus.
Departure Point
Reno Amtrak station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Upon arrival at the San Francisco Bus Station, take advantage of the nearby public transportation options, including Muni and BART; check out the Muni schedules and maps at https://www.sfmta.com/ for easy navigation around the city.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Reno and San Francisco is approximately 187 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the chosen mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 8 hours and 20 minutes to reach San Francisco from Reno. Taking a bus and then a train can take around 6 hours and 41 minutes. By plane, the travel time is approximately 5 hours and 19 minutes. Driving by car, it takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes to reach Reno from San Francisco.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Reno to San Francisco is by train, with prices ranging from $13 to $120. However, this option is not the most time-efficient, as it takes 8 hours and 20 minutes. If time is a priority, driving is the fastest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes, and costing around $40 to $60.
When traveling from Reno to San Francisco the prices for a train ticket range from $14 to $114. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between San Francisco and Reno vary from $20 to $110. It is important to note that these prices can vary depending on factors such as travel dates, time of day, and availability.
To get from Reno to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can opt to drive by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 219 miles, and the drive takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes. The cost of driving from Reno to San Francisco can vary, with prices typically ranging from $40 to $60 in fuel expenses.
The best way to travel from Reno to San Francisco without a car is by taking the Burner Express Bus. This bus ride takes approximately 4 hours and costs between $20 and $110, depending on the time of travel and type of ticket. This option allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive while someone else takes care of the transportation.
There is no direct train from Reno to San Francisco, but there are routes that involve a transfer in Richmond. The journey, including transfers, takes around 8 hours and 20 minutes by train. On the other hand, there is a direct bus service that departs from Reno Airport and arrives in San Francisco, with a journey time of approximately 4 hours.
The flight duration between Reno and San Francisco is typically 1 hour and 17 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary and ranges from $86 to $383, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It is important to note that prices may fluctuate, so it is advisable to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are many accommodations available near San Francisco with a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. There are over 835 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $74 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options, there will be plenty of choices to consider. It's recommended to search for accommodations based on your specific needs and preferences, such as location, amenities, and reviews, to find the perfect stay near San Francisco.

Trips to San Francisco