Davis
Davis
San Francisco
San Francisco
Train Driving

Davis to San Francisco

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Davis to San Francisco covers about 140 kilometers. You can drive via I-80 W, which takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on Bay Bridge traffic. Alternatively, take the Amtrak Capitol Corridor to Richmond and transfer to BART for a seamless trip into the city. San Francisco is a world-class destination known for its iconic landmarks. This route connects the Central Valley to the coast.

Total Distance: Driving distance 140 km, straight-line air distance 115 km.
Fastest Way
Driving is faster outside of peak traffic hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is cheaper for groups, but train is better for solo travelers.
Compare Davis to San Francisco Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 2 hours 2 hours
Avg Price $25 - $40 $20 - $35 in fuel
Operator Amtrak & BART Personal Vehicle
Route Capitol Corridor to BART at Richmond. I-80 W.
Tip This is the most stress-free way to reach downtown SF. Expect heavy traffic on the Bay Bridge during rush hour.
Travel Tips
  • Traffic
    Avoid the Bay Bridge during morning and evening rush hours.
  • Parking
    Parking in SF is very expensive; use public transit.
  • Weather
    Bring layers; SF weather changes quickly.
  • Tickets
    Get a Clipper card for easy transit use.
  • Walking
    SF is hilly; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Safety Tips
  • Vehicle Security
    Never leave anything in your car in SF.
  • Night Safety
    Avoid certain areas like the Tenderloin at night.
  • Road Safety
    Be careful of steep hills and cable cars.
  • Emergency Prep
    Keep your phone charged.
People Also Ask
  • Is the train better than driving?
    Yes, it avoids bridge traffic.
  • How long is the drive?
    1.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic.
  • Can I take a bus?
    Yes, there are bus options available.
  • Is SF safe?
    Yes, but be aware of your surroundings.
  • What is the best way to travel?
    Train is recommended for visitors.
Quick Info
  • From Davis, California, United States
  • To San Francisco, California, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Spring and Fall offer the best weather for visiting the city.

Things to Do in San Francisco
1
Golden Gate Bridge
An iconic suspension bridge. It offers stunning views of the bay and city.
2
Alcatraz Island
A historic former prison. It is a must-visit for history buffs.
3
Fisherman's Wharf
A popular tourist area with shops, restaurants, and sea lions. It is very lively.
4
Chinatown
One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the US. It is great for food and culture.
Tags
Davis to San Francisco Amtrak to SF driving Davis to SF San Francisco travel Bay Area commute California travel train to San Francisco Davis to SF transport