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Portland, OR, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $33: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Portland 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.

$33 by trainBest price
867.66 kmDistance
3h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Portland 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  46m
Estimated price
$86-364
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
19h  7m
Estimated price
$33-233
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 867.66 km
Duration: 3h 46m

See more options

Company
FlixBus USA
Bus
Average Duration
16h  10m
Estimated price
$59-192
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
3h  53m
Estimated price
$108-354
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
5h  14m
Estimated price
$110-336
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
10h  50m
Estimated price
$110-170
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Traveling From Portland to San Francisco

The journey from Portland to San Francisco contrasts the lush, laid-back vibe of the Pacific Northwest with the vibrant, bustling energy of California’s iconic city.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and personality.

Mission District
• Vibrant street art decorates many walls.
• Renowned for delicious Mexican cuisine.
North Beach
• A historic Italian neighborhood full of cafes.
• Features beautiful views of the Bay.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• A mix of vintage shops and colorful murals.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Planning your visit can greatly enhance your experience in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early morning or late afternoon offers fewer crowds and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Mid-week visits are ideal for a quieter tour experience.
Fisherman's Wharf
Arriving before 10 AM helps you avoid peak tourist hours.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers, making late spring and early fall the best times to visit. The city's famous fog can impact visibility and temperature, so layering is essential for an enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Savor the rich flavors of sourdough bread at Boudin Bakery, a San Francisco staple that showcases the city's culinary heritage with its tangy taste and crusty exterior. This contrasts with Portland's farm-to-table scene, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a unique experience rooted in local history.

Portland - San Francisco operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 52m
Estimated price
$90-420

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$110-420

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$140-380
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$65-550
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$110-380

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
$100-360
Website
united.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$110-480
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Portland to Oakland

Average Duration
18h 32m
Estimated price
$30-230
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 Portland Curbside Bus Stop to Sacramento

Average Duration
12h 55m
Estimated price
$45-150

Bus from Sacramento to San Francisco

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$10-45

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

Traveling between Portland 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 Portland to San Francisco covering a distance of 638 miles. Enjoy the picturesque views along the way as you drive through the diverse landscapes of the West Coast. 💵 Experience cost-effective travel with prices for the road trip ranging from $110 to $170, offering flexibility based on your preferences and budget. Stop by charming towns and landmarks en route to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and beauty of the Pacific Northwest. ⏱️ Spend approximately 10 hours and 50 minutes on the road, relishing the freedom of a self-paced adventure from Portland to the iconic city of San Francisco. Capture memorable moments, create new memories, and savor the essence of the open road on this unforgettable journey.
Average price
$110 - $170
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Portland to San Francisco with a total travel time of approximately 19 hours and 7 minutes. Although there is no direct route, the adventure includes transfers and a mix of train services operated by Amtrak. 🌉 Travel 747 miles from Portland to San Francisco with two transfers along the way. Begin your trip on the Coast Starlight train departing from Portland Union Station and arriving in Davis, followed by a ride on the Capitol Corridor train from Davis to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak. The final leg involves a subway journey towards SF/Daly City. 💸 Ticket prices for this Portland to San Francisco train adventure can range from $33 to $233, offering travelers a unique and leisurely way to experience the stunning West Coast scenery while making memorable stops along the route.
Departure Point
Portland station
Arrival Point
Oakland station
Useful tips for train travellers
• For your train trip from Portland to San Francisco, Amtrak is the primary operator, specifically the Amtrak Coast Starlight, which offers a scenic journey along the West Coast. Onboard, you'll find a dining car providing meals and beverages. Reservations are recommended for guaranteed dining during peak hours. The onboard menu varies but typically includes fresh, seasonal ingredients and vegetarian options. Snacks and beverages are also available for purchase.
• Seating options on the Amtrak Coast Starlight include Business Class and Coach Class. Business Class provides more spacious seating, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, and access to the Business Class lounge. Coach Class is more economical and has standard seating, but you can still reserve a seat with more legroom. If you're traveling with a group or want extra comfort, consider upgrading to Business Class for a more relaxed experience during the journey.
• Upon arriving at the San Francisco station (Emeryville), it’s important to know that luggage storage is available through local services nearby the station. While there are immediate restroom facilities, showers are not available on-site. The quickest way to get from Emeryville to downtown San Francisco is to catch the AC Transit Bus 33 or 36, which take you directly to the city center. You can also use rideshare apps or taxis for a more convenient option.
🛫 Flying from Portland to San Francisco is a quick and convenient option with a direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 47 minutes. Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, Inc. provide flights between the two cities. 🌁 The total flight time from Portland to San Francisco is approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes, including any layovers or connections. This allows travelers to reach their destination in a relatively short amount of time. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Portland can range from $86 to $364, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and travel preferences. With multiple airlines servicing this route, there are plenty of choices for a comfortable and efficient journey.
Departure Point
Portland Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Traveling from Portland to San Francisco by bus is a convenient option, even though there are transfers involved. The journey takes approximately 16 hours and 10 minutes, with a stop in Sacramento. 🌉 The route covers a distance of 691 miles, with the first step being a bus towards Los Angeles from Portland Curbside Bus Stop. This leg of the trip lasts about 13 hours and 35 minutes and is operated by Greyhound. 🌲 The second step involves catching a bus towards San Jose from the Greyhound station in Sacramento, which takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes. Finally, you will arrive in San Francisco after a long but scenic journey.
Departure Point
Portland Curbside Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan your timing carefully; the journey requires a transfer in Sacramento, so make sure to check the Greyhound bus schedules and leave enough time between connections to avoid missing your bus. Use this link for Sacramento schedule updates: greyhound.com
• Bring snacks and entertainment for the long journey; while some buses may have snack services, options can be limited, and you’ll want to keep yourself entertained for the 16+ hour trip. Consider downloading movies, podcasts, or an engaging book before you depart.
• Upon arrival at the San Francisco bus station, be prepared for potentially large crowds; the station can be busy, so familiarize yourself with the area by checking local transport options such as Muni or BART for your next destination. Here's a helpful map for navigating the area: sfmta.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Portland and San Francisco is approximately 539 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about 19 hours and 7 minutes. Taking the night bus and then a train can take around 16 hours and 44 minutes. If you choose to fly, the travel time is approximately 3 hours and 42 minutes. Driving by car takes around 10 hours and 50 minutes, while taking a bus can take about 16 hours and 35 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Portland to San Francisco is by train. With prices ranging from $30 to $240, it offers a budget-friendly option for those willing to spend around 19 hours and 7 minutes on the journey. However, for a quicker option, flying is the most time-efficient choice, taking only 3 hours and 42 minutes, but with costs ranging from $75 to $370. Consider your budget and time constraints when deciding between these two transportation options.
The train prices for a journey from Portland to San Francisco range from $33 to $233. On the other hand, the bus prices for traveling from San Francisco to Portland vary from $76 to $181. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change based on factors such as availability, time of booking, and class of service chosen. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Portland to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 638 miles, and it takes around 10 hours and 50 minutes to drive. The cost of driving will vary based on factors such as fuel prices and tolls, but it is estimated to range from $110 to $170.
To travel from Portland to San Francisco without a car, your best options are by bus or by plane. Taking the bus is the more cost-effective choice, with a travel time of 16 hours and 35 minutes, and ticket prices ranging from $75 to $190. Alternatively, flying is much faster, taking only 3 hours and 42 minutes, but ticket prices can range from $75 to $370. You could also consider taking a train, which is the slowest option at 19 hours and 7 minutes, but ticket prices are relatively cheaper, ranging from $30 to $240.
Yes, there is a link between Portland and San Francisco but it requires transfers. There is no direct train, but Amtrak operates services from Portland to Oakland, with a transfer at Lake Merritt. The journey takes approximately 19 hours and 7 minutes. Similarly, there is no direct bus, but Greyhound USA provides services from Portland to San Francisco, with a transfer in Sacramento. The bus journey takes around 16 hours and 35 minutes.
The flight from Portland to San Francisco typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes. The duration of the flight may vary depending on the specific airline and any layovers. In terms of cost, the prices for a flight between the two cities range from $76 to $364. The price of the flight can fluctuate based on factors such as the time of booking, the day of travel, and the airline chosen.
There are numerous options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, there is something available for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night, making it accessible for travelers with different budgets. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best rate and ensure availability during your desired travel dates.

Trips from Portland

Trips to San Francisco