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Charleston, SC, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $79: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Charleston 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.

$79 - PlaneBest price
3887 kmDistance
9h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Charleston 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
9h  43m
Estimated price
$130-434
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
BART
Average Duration
11h  3m
Estimated price
$79-346
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3887 km
Duration: 9h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
13h  3m
Estimated price
$96-1300
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  47m
Estimated price
$162-765
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
83h  11m
Estimated price
$162-1301
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
11h  22m
Estimated price
$247-478
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
44h  24m
Estimated price
$1302-1303
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Traveling From Charleston to San Francisco

The journey from Charleston, a charming Southern city steeped in history, to San Francisco, a vibrant hub of innovation and diversity, showcases a remarkable contrast between classic Southern hospitality and the dynamic culture of the West Coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

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

Mission District
• Known for vibrant street art and murals.
• A food lover's paradise with diverse cuisine.
Fisherman's Wharf
• Iconic waterfront views and seafood stalls.
• Close to attractions like Pier 39 and sea lions.
Haight-Ashbury
• Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement.
• Boutiques, vintage shops, and eclectic vibe.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can elevate your San Francisco experience.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or weekdays offer stunning views with fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Book your ferry for late afternoon to avoid the lunch crowd.
Chinatown
Visit in the late morning to enjoy less congestion and shop peacefully.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco features a mild climate characterized by cool summers and damp winters, with fog rolling in during the warmer months. Visiting in the fall or spring allows you to enjoy pleasant temperatures and clearer skies, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Try the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery; this dish encapsulates the culinary essence of San Francisco with its rich, hearty flavor and fresh-local seafood. Unlike Charleston’s Southern comfort fare, this dining experience combines a lively atmosphere with the city's iconic, locally-sourced ingredients, giving you a taste of the West Coast's unique culinary scene.

Charleston - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Charleston 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 Charleston (CHS) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
9h 43m
Estimated price
$130-434

Plane from Charleston (CHS) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
11h 3m
Estimated price
$79-346

Plane from Charleston (CHS) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
9h 47m
Estimated price
$162-765

Plane from Charleston (CHS) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
13h 3m
Estimated price
$96-1300

Plane from Hilton Head (HHH) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
11h 22m
Estimated price
$247-478
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Charleston Amtrak Station to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
9h 51m
Estimated price
$799-4342

Train from Rockville Amtrak to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
17h 16m
Estimated price
$7980-4344

Train from Chicago Union Station to Richmond

Average Duration
51h
Estimated price
$7970-791
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Train from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$796-797
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Charleston to San Francisco

Average Duration
44h 24m
Estimated price
$1302-1303

Other from Charleston to Hilton Head

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between Charleston 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 adventure from charming Charleston to vibrant San Francisco spanning a distance of 2786 miles. Journey through diverse landscapes and witness the beauty of the American West unfold before your eyes. 💰 Choose from a range of budget options, with prices to drive from Charleston to San Francisco by car typically falling between $500 to $750. Enjoy the flexibility of a road trip as you explore new cities, towns, and scenic spots along the way. 🌉 Arrive in San Francisco after an exhilarating 44 hours and 24 minutes on the road, ready to soak up the city's iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and bustling Fisherman's Wharf. Your unforgettable journey from the East Coast to the West Coast awaits.
Average price
$500 - $750
💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Charleston and San Francisco can range from an affordable $162 to a more luxurious $1088. Choose the class and amenities that best suit your preferences and budget for a comfortable trip.
🛫 Traveling from Charleston to San Francisco by plane involves a journey with a total duration of approximately 9 hours and 43 minutes, including one stopover.
Departure Point
Charleston Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport. The quickest flight takes 7h 50m and has one stopover
🚌 Departing from Charleston this bus journey to San Francisco spans 3,061 miles with 4 transfers. Each leg of the trip offers a unique experience through various cities, totaling 3 days and 1 hour of travel time.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Charleston and San Francisco is approximately 2415 miles. The quickest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, which typically takes about 9 hours and 18 minutes. Another option is to take a train, which takes roughly 12 hours and 31 minutes by flying to Sacramento first. Driving by car is the longest option, with a travel time of about 44 hours and 24 minutes. Unfortunately, there is no information provided about travel by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Charleston to San Francisco is by flying. It takes approximately 9 hours and 18 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $110 to $380. Another affordable option is to fly and take BART, with a travel time of 10 hours and 41 minutes, and ticket prices ranging from $70 to $330. Both options will allow travelers to reach their destination relatively quickly while keeping their budget in mind.
The prices for a train journey between Charleston and San Francisco can range from $159 to $1082. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey between San Francisco and Charleston can range from $404 to $803. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the date of travel, seat class, and availability. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from Charleston to San Francisco without using public transportation, you have the option of driving. The road distance is approximately 2786 miles, and it takes about 44 hours and 24 minutes to drive from Charleston to San Francisco. It is important to note that the cost of this journey can vary, with prices ranging from $500 to $750 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Charleston to San Francisco without a car, the most convenient option is to fly. It takes approximately 9 hours and 18 minutes and the cost varies from $110 to $380. Another option is to take a train which takes around 3 days and 12 hours, with prices ranging from $150 to $1,100. Lastly, there is a bus option, which takes about 3 days and 17 hours and costs between $400 to $850.
The flight duration from Charleston to San Francisco varies depending on the specific itinerary and layovers. The quickest option typically takes around 7 hours and 25 minutes with one stopover. The prices for flights between San Francisco and Charleston can range from $110 to $374, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It is recommended to check multiple airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your preferred travel dates.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a variety of options to fit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night, providing affordable options for budget travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly options, there is a wide range of choices available in and around San Francisco.

Trips from Charleston

Trips to San Francisco