Students! Get 15% off your first app booking and 5% off all future trips.

Chicago, IL CHI to San Francisco, CA SFO flight with American Airlines

Sun, Jan 18
+ Add return
American Airlines
Alaska Airlines
United
Frontier Airlines
Ryanair
1,000+ travel companies
American Airlines
Alaska Airlines
United
Frontier Airlines
Ryanair
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

Journey information

Overview: Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA flight

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of flight

Flights from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA depart on average 44 times per day, taking around 5h 10m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $92 (€74) if you book in advance.

There are 10 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:08, the last at 23:58. The fastest flight covers the 1853 miles (2983 km) distance in 4h 30m. April is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
1853 miles (2983 km)
Average flight duration
5h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$92 (€74)
Flights per day
44
Direct flights
10
Fastest flight
4h 30m
Cheapest month to travel
April
First flight
00:08
Last flight
23:58

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA start from as low as $92 (€74) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $246 (€199) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 44 daily trains from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with 10 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 4h 30m but the average duration is 5h 10m
Train Operators
  • Travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United, and Frontier Airlines
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is American Airlines.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from O'Hare International Airport and arrive in San Francisco International Airport
  • First train typically departs at 12:08 AM and the last at 11:58 PM
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

The cheapest and fastest flights from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Jan 18

Cheapest price

$448

Average price

$990

Fastest journey

4 h 50 m

Average duration

4 h 52 m

Flights per day

84

Distance

2983 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA will cost around $990 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $448.

Fast flights

Of the 84 flights that leave Chicago, IL for San Francisco, CA onSun, Jan 18, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jan 18 the direct flights cover the 2983 km distance in an average of 4 h 52 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 50 m .

On Sun, Jan 18 the longest flights will take 4 h 54 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Frontier AirlinesF91483 · F91093
02:30PM8h17
O'Hare International Airport
08:47PMSan Francisco International Airport
$4481One-way
1 transfer
Frontier AirlinesF91483 · F91229
02:30PM22h30
O'Hare International Airport
11:00AMSan Francisco International Airport
$4551One-way
1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS407 · AS590
03:35PM8h23
O'Hare International Airport
09:58PMSan Francisco International Airport
$5681One-way
1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS407 · AS528
03:35PM9h28
O'Hare International Airport
11:03PMSan Francisco International Airport
$5681One-way
1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS325 · AS1393
02:06PM7h37
O'Hare International Airport
07:43PMSan Francisco International Airport
$5681One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €74. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €74, and a train costs an average of €117.

Distance: 1853 miles (2983 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus

€199

Average price

Cheapest

€259

Average price

€252

Average price

8h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

54h 33m

Average total duration

54h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

52h 36m

Average total duration

52h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8.9 - 17.9kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.0 - 7.5kg

CO2 emissions

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA flights for today, Saturday, January 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 5:08 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA10976:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h50
11:35 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2290 · UA11846:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h46
5:31 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA455 · UA5646:55 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h55
1:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2683 · UA2857:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h46
3:46 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1363 · UA20197:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h47
1:47 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA777 · UA20477:10 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h40
1:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1176 · UA4768:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h20
5:35 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA4516 · UA59078:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h26
4:01 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA15778:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h56
1:36 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA374 · UA2338:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h27
4:07 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA793 · UA11849:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h56
5:31 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS407 · AS1338 · AS24689:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
18h03
3:38 PM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS407 · AS7259:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
21h07
6:42 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS407 · AS5289:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h28
7:03 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS24669:44 PM O'Hare International Airport
26h48
12:32 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS3229:44 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h03
6:47 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS33479:44 PM O'Hare International Airport
21h17
7:01 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS34639:44 PM O'Hare International Airport
18h48
4:32 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS3069 · AS6139:44 PM O'Hare International Airport
19h03
4:47 PM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS33529:44 PM O'Hare International Airport
24h18
10:02 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2095 · UA23889:53 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h06
7:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2095 · UA28559:53 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h06
6:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2649 · UA4769:59 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h36
5:35 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2649 · UA21239:59 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h59
6:58 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1920 · UA596110:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h40
5:40 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1317 · UA587310:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h38
5:43 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1875 · UA126710:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h21
5:28 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA576 · UA174310:10 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h31
5:41 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2850 · UA261510:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h35
5:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA233110:16 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h53
3:09 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2053 · UA238810:50 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h09
7:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
Sunday, January 18
unitedUA217912:29 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h01
5:30 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA12531:12 AM O'Hare International Airport
4h54
6:06 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA22431:58 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h02
7:00 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA537 · UA235811:40 AM O'Hare International Airport
8h40
8:20 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA180712:47 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h53
5:40 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA791 · UA20411:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h58
7:58 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS621 · AS24802:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h59
2:59 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS13852:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h59
1:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS1357 · AS34862:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h00
2:00 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS658 · AS33162:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h44
2:44 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS6552:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h00
10:00 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS773 · AS32482:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h29
3:29 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS658 · AS21502:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h36
3:36 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS1408 · AS21122:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h22
12:22 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS1357 · AS32482:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h29
3:29 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS6882:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h12
4:12 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS5902:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
15h58
5:58 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS1408 · AS2362:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h43
2:43 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS738 · AS6712:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h18
1:18 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS1408 · AS13932:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h43
3:43 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS6802:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h50
11:50 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS3043 · AS13932:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h43
3:43 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS5282:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
17h03
7:03 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2099 · UA14822:50 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h03
10:53 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA23862:55 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h54
7:49 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS2077 · AS13633:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h55
5:55 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS1402 · AS13933:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h43
3:43 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1972 · UA425 · UA18443:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h37
5:37 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS3277 · AS13633:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h55
5:55 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS2018 · AS13633:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h55
5:55 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS33523:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h02
10:02 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS24803:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h59
2:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS2018 · AS6713:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h18
1:18 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS3223:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
15h47
6:47 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1972 · UA425 · UA13403:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h55
3:55 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS24663:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h32
12:32 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA660 · UA17633:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h34
10:39 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1994 · UA7763:10 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h23
11:33 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1061 · UA17493:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h20
11:35 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1741 · UA47633:27 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h10
11:37 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2638 · UA5894:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h15
12:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA215 · UA20664:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h54
11:34 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2389 · UA16885:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h18
1:18 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1640 · UA5645:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h45
1:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA3435:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h02
10:07 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sun
Jan 18
Mon
Jan 19
Tue
Jan 20
Wed
Jan 21
Thu
Jan 22
Fri
Jan 23
Sat
Jan 24

Airlines: American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United, Frontier Airlines from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CAFind the best flights between Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with Omio's travel partners American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United, Frontier Airlines from $92 (€74). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

United

About
United Airlines is one of the USA’s leading carriers, operating both domestic and international routes. For your next trip, you can choose from Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class fares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 38m
Cheapest Price
$412 (€334)
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.

American Airlines

About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€78)
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.

Alaska Airlines

About
Alaska Airlines, headquartered in SeaTac, Washington, is a major U.S. airline and the fifth-largest in North America by scheduled passengers carried as of 2024. Along with its regional partners, Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines, Alaska Airlines operates a route network primarily connecting cities along the West Coast of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, to over 100 destinations in the contiguous U.S., the Bahamas, Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. The airline is a member of the Oneworld alliance, offering passengers access to a broad global network. Alaska Airlines is known for its customer service and loyalty program, Mileage Plan, and offers First Class, Premium Class, and Main Cabin seating options. The airline's primary hub is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. In 2024, its parent company, Alaska Air Group, acquired Hawaiian Airlines.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 38m
Cheapest Price
$345 (€279)
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9) and 1 personal item included
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees start at $30 for first bag, $40 for second bag
Cancellation Policy
Saver fares are non-refundable. Main and First Class fares are refundable with fee, depending on fare type and elite status
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks pregnant. After 28 weeks, medical certificate required
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children ages 5-17. Service fee is $50 per direction on nonstop flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Alaska Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities, including meet-and-assist services and accessible seating
Pets
Pets allowed in cabin and cargo hold. Service animals welcome. Fees apply for pets in cabin ($100)

Frontier Airlines

About
Frontier Airlines is a major American ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Denver, Colorado, operating flights to over 120 destinations across the United States, Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. Known for its "Low Fares Done Right" philosophy, Frontier focuses on offering affordable travel by allowing passengers to choose and pay only for the services they need, such as seat selection or baggage. The airline is also recognized for its commitment to fuel efficiency, claiming to be "America's greenest airline" due to its modern, lightweight aircraft and operational practices. A distinctive feature of Frontier is the animal featured on the tail of each aircraft, highlighting North American wildlife.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 1m
Cheapest Price
$94 (€76)
Luggage included
Personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included
Additional luggage
Checked bag fees start at $79 per bag
Cancellation Policy
Non-refundable tickets, changes permitted for fee starting at $79 plus fare difference
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 7 days before due date, medical certificate required after 36 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone for $100 fee each way, must be nonstop flight only
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Accessibility
Frontier Airlines offers assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair service and boarding assistance. Passengers are encouraged to request these services in advance to ensure availability and proper arrangements.

FAQs: Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $132 (€106) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is $165 (€134); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is 4 h 38 min   to travel the 1849 mile (2983 km) long journey, with around there are 46 flights per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 12: 03AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11: 58PM.
Yes, there are 13 direct flights a day from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with United, American Airlines or Alaska Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA, you can count on United, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines or Frontier Airlines for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service to San Francisco, CA from Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
The cheapest month to travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by plane is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel to San Francisco, CA from Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train or flight.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Francisco, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of USA and USA. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 2 h between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA all year round.
The best events to attend in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Fleet Week, a maritime celebration featuring the Blue Angels and naval ship tours
  • Outside Lands, a major music festival showcasing top artists and local food
  • Chinese New Year Parade, the largest Lunar New Year celebration outside Asia with colorful floats and performances
  • Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, a free music festival in Golden Gate Park featuring a diverse lineup of bluegrass and folk artists.
The best holidays to experience in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Thanksgiving, mild weather and a festive atmosphere with family gatherings
  • Christmas, beautiful decorations and holiday spirit throughout the city
  • Memorial Day, the start of summer with outdoor activities and parades
  • Labor Day, a long weekend perfect for enjoying the city's parks and beaches.
The best seasons to visit San Francisco, CA are Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Francisco, CA is during April-June or September-November.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e. G. 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs).
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.

popular airports

Popular airports from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA

Chicago
San Francisco
The major airport for departures in Chicago is O'Hare International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at O'Hare International Airport for your trip from Chicago to San Francisco.
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
carConnection
Car connection
I-190, Exit 1
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops are located in all terminals, including duty-free and brands like Hudson and MAC Cosmetics.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available with options including hourly, daily, and economy lots, approximately 2.85€ ($3) per hour.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, toilets
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby.
Shower
Shower
  • Showers are available in some lounges, such as the United Club, but access may require a fee or membership.
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Lost and Found located in terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Car rental services are available at the Multi-Modal Facility, with companies like Hertz and Avis.
Public transit options for O'Hare International Airport
  • CTA Blue Line, O'Hare Station, 45 minutes to city center

Most popular flights to and from San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone