Yes, Amtrak's Coast Starlight runs from the Bay Area to Seattle, but it takes over 24 hours.

How long is the drive?

Typically 15 hours, but traffic and stops can make it a two-day trip.

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

What is the best time to visit?

Summer offers the most pleasant weather for exploring.

How far is the airport?

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is about 20 kilometers from downtown.

Daly City

Seattle

Flight Driving

Daly City to Seattle

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Daly City to Seattle covers approximately 1,300 kilometers. Flying from SFO to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the most efficient method, taking about 2 hours in the air. Driving via I-5 North is a long but scenic road trip, taking roughly 15 hours of driving time. This route takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Northern California, Oregon, and Washington.

Total Distance: 1,300 km driving, 1,100 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, with a total travel time of about 4 hours including airport procedures.

Cheapest Way

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

Compare Daly City to Seattle Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours	15 hours
Avg Price	120-300 USD	150-250 USD in fuel
Operator	Alaska Airlines, Delta	Personal Vehicle
Route	SFO to SEA.	I-5 North.
Tip	Book in advance for the best rates on this popular route.	Plan for an overnight stop in Southern Oregon or Portland to break up the drive.

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.
Weather
Seattle is known for rain; pack a waterproof jacket regardless of the season.
Flight Booking
Use flight comparison sites to find the best deals on SFO-SEA routes.
Public Transit
Seattle has a good light rail system connecting the airport to downtown.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
I-5 is a major trucking route; stay alert and maintain a safe distance.
Airport Security
Arrive at SFO at least 2 hours before your flight.
Urban Safety
Seattle 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.