- Must visit
California Academy of Sciences
Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $86. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $86, and a bus costs an average of $255.
Distance: 354 miles (571 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$86 Average price Cheapest | $255 Average price | $190 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 23m Average total duration 8h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 50m Average total duration 8h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 37m Average total duration Fastest 1h 37m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA is a train with an average price of $86 (€70).
This is compared to other travel options from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA:
A train is $104 (€86) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $190 (€156).
A train is $170 (€139) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $255 (€210).
The fastest way to travel from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 37m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 20m.
Train takes on average 8h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between El Monte, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $86 (€70) compared to roughly $79 (€65) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-6.12 (€-5.03). The journey takes 8h 53m versus 6h 10m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets El Monte, CA 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Trains from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 20 times per day, taking around 8h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 (€70) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:46, the last at 17:46. The fastest train covers the 354 miles (571 km) distance in 8h 53m.
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 354 miles (571 km) |
Average train duration 8h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 (€70) |
Trains per day 20 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 8h 53m |
First train 7:46 AM |
Last train 5:46 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
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
de Young Museum
Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.
- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Large urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and trails. It is a must for relaxing, walking, and seeing several major attractions.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Steeply curving block lined with flowers and grand homes. This famous street offers classic photos and a quintessential San Francisco scene.
- Must visit
The Embarcadero
Popular waterfront promenade with bay views, piers, and ferries. Great for walking, people-watching, and connecting to nearby sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
San Francisco Sourdough
A crusty loaf with a tangy flavor shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture. It is one of San Francisco’s most iconic foods.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Fresh local Dungeness crab, often cracked and served simply or in cioppino. It is a Bay Area seasonal specialty tied to the fishing waterfront.
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in North Beach. It is a classic San Francisco dish built from the day’s catch.
Benu
Celebrated fine dining destination known for inventive tasting menus and polished service in an elegant, intimate setting.
Sotto Mare
Historic North Beach seafood house famous for cioppino, crab, and old-school San Francisco waterfront charm.
La Taqueria
Legendary Mission taqueria known for large Mission-style burritos and a lively, no-frills local atmosphere.
US Dollar ($)
Very high hotel, dining, and transport costs make San Francisco pricier than most US cities and many major tourist destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $90+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and round up or tip $1 at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Trains from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from El Monte, CA 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.
Train ticket prices from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86 (€70), while the average price is around $86 (€70).
The train from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA takes 8h 53m and runs 20 per day.
The distance by train from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA is 354 miles (571 km).
The first train from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 7:46 AM.
The last train from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 5:46 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA.
The train station in El Monte, CA that goes to San Francisco, CA is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, which connects to Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA.
The cheapest way to get from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA is by train, with a cost of around $86 (€70).
The train journey from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA offers scenic views, including rolling hills, coastal landscapes, and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, particularly as you travel closer to the Bay Area.
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 El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither El Monte, CA 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 El Monte, CA 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.
Most popular train connections from El Monte, CA
More options for your journey from El Monte, CA to San Francisco, CA
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Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and El Monte, CA
Most popular train connections to San Francisco, CA
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