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Getting from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Sacramento

Sacramento, one of California’s most historic cities, is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks, expansive parks, and diverse amenities. From the stately California State Capitol and the picturesque Tower Bridge to the historic charm of Old Sacramento and the recreational paradise at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers, the city is a haven for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.

To travel from San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Sacramento, there are several options available; a taxi, an SFO to Sacramento shuttle, or diverse public transportation combinations with trains and buses. Opting for a taxi or a private shuttle from SFO to Sacramento ensures a more direct journey, typically spanning about 2 hours, though this can vary depending on traffic conditions.

For a more cost-friendly alternative, you can utilise public transit, starting with a 40-minute BART train from San Francisco’s airport station to the city’s transit centre, followed by a direct bus to Sacramento, with the entire trip averaging 4 hours. There’s also the option of a train from SFO to Sacramento: passengers can take the red line from SFO to Richmond and then transfer to the CC Sacramento-bound train – a journey that generally takes around 3 hours. Each method offers various benefits, catering to the needs of different travellers making their way from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to San Francisco at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS
OPTION PRICE DURATION AVAILABILITY
Taxi €283 120min 24/7
Train €60 200min 06:08–19:32
Train & Bus €36 220min 06:30–21:30

How to get from SFO to Sacramento by taxi

Taking a taxi or private shuttle from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento is one of the quickest and most convenient transport options. Taxis are available 24/7 at SFO and take around 2 hours to get you to Sacramento, depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi fare from SFO to Sacramento

The taxi fare from SFO to Sacramento can vary based on several factors including the specific taxi company, the time of day and traffic conditions. As a rough estimation, considering the road distance of approximately 160 km, the cost of a taxi would be around $300 (€283).

Keep in mind that extra costs for things such as time of day, number of passengers and surcharges may also apply. To secure a set-rate fee, why not book a private shuttle in advance with Welcome Pickups?

Cost

$300 (€283)

Trip Duration

2 Hr.

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience
Value for Money
Safety

Taxis and private shuttles are available 24/7 at San Francisco (SFO) Airport.

Where do I get a taxi from?

At San Francisco International Airport, you can easily locate taxis at the designated taxi zones outside the baggage claim areas of Domestic Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and on the Arrivals level outside the customs area for the International Terminal. During peak times, uniformed taxi coordinators are available to assist with the queue and any special requests.

Convenience

Navigating the busy environment of San Francisco International Airport can be daunting. To avoid any complications, a taxi or private transfer from SFO Airport to Sacramento is more advantageous as it guarantees a swift, direct, and seamless trip to your intended location, with a door-to-door service.

Editor’s Note

Sacramento can get very busy roads so it's best to prepare for potential traffic delays, especially during rush hours, by allowing extra travel time for your trip to Sacramento.

Useful Tips

Confirm the estimated fare with the driver beforehand to avoid surprises, as the trip from SFO to Sacramento is long and can be costly.
Taxis usually accept both card and cash payments at SFO. But for your peace of mind, you can check this with your driver before setting off.
Consider booking a taxi in advance to ensure a seamless transfer from SFO to Sacramento.

How to get from SFO to Sacramento by train

Getting the train from SFO to Sacramento involves a few steps, as there’s no direct train service between these two points. First, you’ll need to board the BART train on the red line towards Richmond. After arriving at the Richmond station, you’ll transfer to the Capitol Corridor (CC) Amtrak train headed for Sacramento. The entire trip, including both the BART and Amtrak segments, typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes, though this can vary based on the specific train schedules and any unforeseen delays.

How much does it cost to get from SFO to Sacramento by train?

The first leg of the journey using the Red Line BART costs $5.35 (€5) per person. You could also purchase a paper ticket from the vending machines at SFO but there is a 50 cent surcharge to do so. The second leg of the journey with the CC-Amtrak train from Richmond to Sacramento costs on average $27 (€25); this fare can vary slightly if you book in advance. The total cost will average around $32.35 (€30) for a trip from SFO to Sacramento by train.

Cost

$32.35 (€30)

Trip Duration

3 Hr. 20 Min.

The BART Red Line train runs from SFO every 30 minutes, and CC Amtrak runs every hour.

Convenience
Value for Money
Safety

The BART red line is available Mon-Fri 05:00 to 00:00; Saturday from 06:00 to 00:00; Sunday form 08:00 to 00:00. The CC Train is available Mon-Fri from 06:08 to 20:32, and Sat-Sun from 07:32 to 21:32.

Where do I get the train from?

Upon arriving at San Francisco Airport, head to the International Terminal where the BART station is situated. From Terminals 1 and 2, you can take the AirTrain to the International Terminal. Once there, purchase a ticket or use your Clipper card and board the BART Red Line train heading towards Richmond. At the Richmond BART station, transition to the co-located Amtrak station by following the signs. Wait for the Capital Corridor (CC) train to Sacramento, ensuring you have your Amtrak ticket, either pre-purchased online or bought at the station.

Convenience

Regrettably, there is no direct public transportation option from SFO Airport to Sacramento; you first need to take the BART Red Line to Richmond and then transfer to the Amtrak train. This journey can be quite tedious, especially if you are travelling with children and/or heavy luggage. Moreover, once you get to downtown Sacramento, you will have to find an alternative solution to get to your hotel or apartment.

Editor’s Note

If you're planning a trip in the Bay Area, consider adding the Clipper card beforehand as you will get discounted prices. This versatile card isn't just for BART; it's also accepted on buses, ferries, and other local transit systems.

Useful Tips

Preload a Clipper card on your phone for a discounted and seamless transit from SFO to Sacramento via BART and Amtrak.
Check the train schedules in advance to minimise wait times between BART and Amtrak connections.
Keep an eye on your belongings, especially during transfers at the Richmond station.

How to get from SFO to Sacramento by train and bus

For a more cost-friendly alternative, you can utilise public transit, starting with a 40-minute BART train from SFO to downtown San Francisco, specifically to the Powell Street or Civic Center/UN Plaza stations. From downtown, companies like Greyhound and Flixbus offer bus services to Sacramento, which usually take up to 3 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll likely be dropped off at the Sacramento Valley Station or downtown Sacramento, from where you can walk, get a cab or use local transportation to reach your exact destination.

How much is the bus from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento?

The BART service from SFO to downtown San Francisco costs $5.35 (€5) per passenger. Following that, a one-way ticket from San Francisco downtown to Sacramento on Greyhound is priced at around $14 (€13.30). The total for the combined train and bus journey from SFO to Sacramento is $19.35 (€18). Tickets can be purchased online for both BART and Greyhound or at their respective stations.

Cost

$19.35 (€18)

Trip Duration

3 Hr. 40 Min.

There is a waiting time of up to 60 minutes for the Greyhound coach and the Flixbus.

Convenience
Value for Money
Safety

The Greyhound/Flixbus services operate from 06:30 to 21:30 daily.

Where do I get the bus from?

You can catch the BART train from SFO at the designated BART station, located in the International Terminal. You can access it by taking the AirTrain or walking from other terminals; you’ll then head towards the Powell Street or Civic Center/UN Plaza stations in downtown San Francisco. Once you’re there, proceed to the Greyhound bus station at 200 Folsom St; simply look for the “Greyhound” or “FlixBus” signs, where you’ll find buses heading to Sacramento.

Convenience

While the bus service from SFO to Sacramento via BART and Greyhound is an economical option, it might not be the most convenient choice for all travellers. Despite the affordable fare, passengers should note that they need to transfer from SFO to the downtown San Francisco Greyhound bus station, which can be challenging, particularly with hefty luggage. Additionally, the bus journey has multiple stops en route, potentially lengthening the travel duration. While it’s cost-effective, it’s crucial to consider the convenience aspect, especially if travelling with family and aiming for a smooth, hassle-free trip.

Editor’s Note

Navigating from SFO to Sacramento using the BART and Greyhound bus is cost-effective, but it requires a transfer from the BART station to the bus terminal, potentially posing challenges if you have heavy luggage or run on a tight schedule.

Useful Tips

Pack light, as navigating between BART and the bus station with heavy luggage can be challenging.
Stay vigilant and watch your belongings, especially during transfers or stops.
Allow extra travel time for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Welcome Pickups

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in San francisco. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

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Welcome Pickups has a Net Safety Score of 99 of 100

We’ve introduced a metric indicating how safe travellers feel when using our services during the COVID-19 pandemic. After every ride, we ask each traveller to leave a review.

  • 20 minute gap between transfers

  • Regular Car Sanitisation

  • Contactless ride

  • Sanitiser in every car

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Frequently asked questions

How can I get from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Sacramento?

From San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Sacramento, travellers have various options: a 2-hour taxi or private transfer, a 4-hour budget-friendly public transit route involving a 40-minute BART train and a Greyhound shuttle bus, or a 3-hour train journey via the BART Red Line to Richmond and a transfer to the CC train which goes the rest of the way to Sacramento.

With a fixed-rate, competitively priced, and reliable on-time pickup service for a stress-free travel experience, why not book with Welcome Pickups?

How far is Sacramento from San Francisco Airport?

Sacramento is approximately 145 km (90 mi) northeast of San Francisco Airport. The driving distance between the two locations is roughly 177 km (110 mi), depending on the specific route taken, and it typically takes about 2 hours, though this may vary based on traffic conditions.

Is there a direct train from SFO to Sacramento?

No, there isn’t a direct train from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento. Travellers usually take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) train from SFO to Richmond station. From Richmond, they can transfer to the Amtrak Capitol Corridor train, which travels directly to Sacramento. The journey requires a transfer, but both the BART and Amtrak stations are co-located in Richmond, making the transition relatively straightforward.

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