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Columbus, OH, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $89: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Columbus 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.

$89 - Plane, BARTBest price
3413 kmDistance
7h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Columbus 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  45m
Estimated price
$130-394
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
10h  50m
Estimated price
$89-406
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3413 km
Duration: 7h 45m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
49h  11m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  49m
Estimated price
$97-425
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
49h  13m
Estimated price
$171-784
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
37h  40m
Estimated price
$440-1300
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Traveling From Columbus to San Francisco

Traveling from Columbus to San Francisco offers you a striking contrast between the Midwestern charm of Ohio and the coastal vibrancy of California, each city showcasing its own distinct culture, landscape, and lifestyle.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco’s neighborhoods each offer their own distinctive charm and experiences.

Mission District
• Vibrant murals and street art abound.
• Famous for its diverse dining options.
North Beach
• Known as San Francisco's Little Italy.
• Offers bustling nightlife and cafés.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• Eclectic shops and vintage boutiques.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

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

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings on weekdays offer stunning views and fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy sunset views and less crowded tours.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Weekday visits in the morning provide a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco features a Mediterranean climate with cool summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round; however, the fog, particularly in summer, can affect visibility and outdoor activities. To enjoy the city to its fullest, late spring and early fall typically offer the most favorable weather conditions.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

When in San Francisco, try the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl from Fisherman’s Wharf, a dish that highlights the city’s coastal flavors and use of fresh, local seafood; this contrasts with the heartier Midwestern fare found in Columbus. The vibrant atmosphere of the Wharf, combined with the unique taste of freshly baked sourdough, provides a memorable dining experience that reflects the city’s diverse culinary scene.

Columbus - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
7h 45m
Estimated price
$130-1301

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$1302-1303

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
7h 45m
Estimated price
$1302-1303

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$1302-1303
Website
delta.com

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
7h 44m
Estimated price
$1302-3941
Website
united.com

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
5h 24m
Estimated price
$1307-1300
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Columbus to Indianapolis

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$896-39475

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$897-898

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

Average Duration
34h 30m
Estimated price
$899-4060

Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$4061-3945
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Richmond

Average Duration
49h 3m
Estimated price
$39480-1300
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Train from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$3947-3948

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

Traveling between Columbus 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 journey from Columbus to the vibrant city of San Francisco covering a distance of 2437 miles through diverse landscapes and charming towns. ⛽️ Plan your budget wisely as the cost of this road trip adventure ranges from $440 to $650, ensuring you have enough resources for fuel, accommodation, and delightful pit stops along the way. 🌉 Enjoy approximately 37 hours and 40 minutes of uninterrupted road tripping, filled with scenic vistas, memorable experiences, and the thrill of exploring the beauty of the open road from the Heart of America to the Golden Gate City.
Average price
$440 - $650
🛫 Flying from Columbus to San Francisco is a breeze with a direct flight lasting just 5 hours and 15 minutes, making it a quick and convenient journey. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between San Francisco and Columbus can range from $130 to $394, providing travelers with flexibility to choose a fare that fits their budget for this approximately 7 hour and 45 minute flight.
Departure Point
Columbus Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Starting in Columbus the journey to San Francisco by bus involves multiple stops and transfers along the way. The trip is a long one, spanning approximately 2 days and 11 hours.
Departure Point
Columbus station
Arrival Point
San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Columbus and San Francisco is approximately 2121 miles by air. The typical travel time by plane is 6 hours and 48 minutes. If driving, it takes approximately 37 hours and 40 minutes. There are options to take a bus as well, although the specific travel time is unknown without further information.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Columbus to San Francisco is by flying. It takes approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes to travel by plane, making it the quickest way to reach San Francisco. The cost of a flight can range from $120 to $410, depending on various factors such as the airline and time of booking.
When traveling from Columbus to San Francisco the prices of a bus ticket range from $273 to $623. This price range may vary depending on the bus company, the date of travel, and any additional services offered. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus companies and book in advance to find the best deals.
To get from Columbus to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the entire distance. The road distance is approximately 2437 miles, and it takes around 37 hours and 40 minutes to drive from Columbus to San Francisco. The cost of driving varies from $440 to $650 depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Columbus to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey typically takes approximately 2 days and 11 hours and fares can range from $270 to $650. There are various bus operators that offer this route, providing a convenient and cost-effective means of transportation for those without a car.
There is no direct bus link between Columbus and San Francisco. However, there are bus services that depart from Columbus and arrive in San Francisco via Indianapolis, St Louis, and Los Angeles. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 days and 11 hours. These bus services are operated by Flixbus USA.
The flight between Columbus and San Francisco typically takes around 5 hours and 11 minutes on a direct flight. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific airline and any layovers. As for the cost, prices for a flight between the two cities can range from $125 to $401, depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and class. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are plenty of hotel options available near San Francisco with over 835 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $74, offering a range of affordable accommodations for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly options, you can easily find a suitable place to stay that meets your needs and budget in San Francisco.

Trips from Columbus

Trips to San Francisco