Is there a train to San Francisco?

Yes, you can take an Amtrak train from DC to San Francisco.

Expect to pay $50-$100 in tolls for a round trip.

Is the flight better?

Yes, it avoids the stress of driving and traffic.

Where does the flight arrive?

Flights arrive at San Francisco International Airport.

How long is the drive?

Usually 44 hours, but traffic can easily double this.

Annapolis

San Francisco

Flight Driving

Annapolis to San Francisco

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trip from Annapolis to San Francisco is approximately 2,900 miles. You can drive via I-80 West, which takes about 42 to 46 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from BWI Airport to San Francisco International Airport. San Francisco is a world-famous city known for its iconic bridge, hills, and vibrant culture.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,600 km, straight-line air distance 4,000 km.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest method, taking about 6 hours in the air.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often the most cost-effective and fastest way to reach San Francisco.

Compare Annapolis to San Francisco Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	44 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $700	$600 - $900 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	BWI to SFO.	I-80 W through the Midwest and the West.
Tip	Flying is significantly faster and often cheaper than driving.	Be prepared for mountain driving and potential weather delays.

Travel Tips

Tolls
Use E-ZPass to handle the many tolls on the route.
Parking
Parking in San Francisco is expensive; use parking apps to find better rates.
Public Transit
Use the BART and Muni systems to get around the city.
Walking
The city is spread out; you will need a car or public transit.
Booking
Book your flights well in advance to get the best prices.

Safety Tips

Traffic
Be extremely cautious when driving in San Francisco traffic; it is aggressive.
Personal Safety
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas.
Emergency
Keep emergency numbers saved and know the location of your hotel.
Public Transit Safety
Stick to well-lit stations at night.