- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and a striking SoMa building.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $233. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $233, and a flight costs an average of $243.
Distance: 1547 miles (2490 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$271 Average price Cheapest | $510 Average price | $375 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
47h 55m Average total duration 47h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 0m Average total duration Fastest 5h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 26h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $271 (€219).
This is compared to other travel options from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA:
A bus is $239 (€193) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $510 (€412).
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 0m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 47h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA by bus or flight
Compare bus 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA and enjoy the approximately 1547 miles (2490 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $233 (€188)
Distance 1547 miles (2490 km) |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $233 (€188)
Complete guide to San Francisco
Things to do in San Francisco
Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.
- Must visit
Exploratorium
Hands-on science and perception museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.
- Must visit
California Academy of Sciences
Large natural history and science museum with aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest dome in Golden Gate Park.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Expansive urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, trails, and some of the city's best walking and cycling space.
- Must visit
Chinatown
One of North America's oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns, packed with temples, gates, markets, and side streets.
- Must visit
Lands End
Dramatic coastal walking area with cliffs, cypress-lined trails, Golden Gate views, and Sutro Baths ruins nearby.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian immigrant fishermen in San Francisco. It typically includes crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish, and is one of the city’s signature dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco is famous for its tangy sourdough, shaped by local wild yeast cultures. It is a historic staple often served as a loaf, toast, or bread bowl.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large foil-wrapped burrito associated with the Mission District, packed with rice, beans, meat or other fillings, salsa, and extras. It is one of the city’s most influential casual foods.
La Taqueria
A Mission District institution celebrated for outstanding Mission-style burritos and tacos. Lively, casual, and widely regarded as one of the city’s essential eats.
Swan Oyster Depot
A legendary seafood counter famous for ultra-fresh oysters, crab, and seafood cocktails. Casual, iconic, and one of the city’s best-known classic stops.
The House
A popular restaurant serving Asian fusion dishes with bold flavors in a cozy setting. Well known for garlic noodles and seafood-focused plates.
United States Dollar
San Francisco is one of the priciest U.S. cities. Hotels, dining, and parking are costly, though casual food options exist.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Not expected at fast food.
FAQs: Trains from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA by train. 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 train, 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.
The distance by train from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA is 1547 miles (2490 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $233 (€188).
The train journey from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA offers a scenic experience as it traverses diverse landscapes, including the rolling prairies of Iowa, the rugged Rocky Mountains, and the striking deserts of Nevada before reaching the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the vibrant cityscape of San Francisco.
In San Francisco, CA, you can ride a cable car through steep streets, explore vibrant murals in the Mission District, and visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum. Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero for views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley. Key sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Chinatown, each offering unique experiences from panoramic views to vibrant culture and cuisine.
Three to four days in San Francisco, CA, allows you to explore major attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, while also enjoying some of the city's renowned dining and cultural experiences.
No, you cannot take the train from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor San Francisco, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from San Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and Des Moines, IA
Most popular train connections to San Francisco, CA
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