Yes, Amtrak's California Zephyr runs from the Bay Area to Denver, but it takes over 30 hours.

How long is the drive?

Typically 20 hours, but weather and stops can make it a multi-day trip.

Yes, Greyhound and FlixBus offer service, but it is a very long journey.

How far is the airport?

Denver International Airport is about 40 kilometers from downtown.

Daly City

Denver

Flight Driving

Daly City to Denver

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Daly City to Denver covers approximately 2,000 kilometers. Flying from SFO to Denver International Airport (DEN) is the most efficient method, taking about 2.5 hours in the air. Driving via I-80 and I-76 is a long road trip, taking roughly 20 hours of driving time. This route takes you through the Sierra Nevada mountains and across the Great Plains.

Total Distance: 2,000 km driving, 1,500 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, with a total travel time of about 5 hours including airport procedures.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often cheaper than the cost of fuel and multiple overnight stays for a long drive.

Compare Daly City to Denver Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	20 hours
Avg Price	150-350 USD	200-350 USD in fuel
Operator	United, Southwest	Personal Vehicle
Route	SFO to DEN.	I-80 East to I-76 East.
Tip	Book in advance for the best rates on this popular route.	Plan for at least one overnight stop in Nevada or Utah.

Travel Tips

Airport Transit
Use BART to reach SFO easily from Daly City.
Driving Breaks
The drive is very long; take breaks every 3 hours to stay alert.
Altitude
Denver is at a high altitude; stay hydrated and take it easy for the first day.
Flight Booking
Use flight comparison sites to find the best deals on SFO-DEN routes.
Public Transit
Denver has a good light rail system connecting the airport to downtown.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
I-80 can have severe weather in winter; check road conditions before driving.
Airport Security
Arrive at SFO at least 2 hours before your flight.
Urban Safety
Denver is generally safe, but stay aware of your surroundings in downtown areas.
Vehicle Safety
Do not leave valuables in your car while parked in public areas.