- Recommended
McHenry Museum
Local history museum in a restored library building with exhibits on Modesto, agriculture, and community life.
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA will cost around $39 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
On Sun, Nov 01, we found 3 trains from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA, including 3 direct services.
On Sun, Nov 01 the direct trains cover the 126 km distance in an average of 3 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 53 m .
On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest trains will take 3 h 3 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.

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Trains from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€24) if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:30, the last at 21:57. The fastest train covers the 78 miles (126 km) distance in 2h 8m.
Plan this route
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA.
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA trains for today, Saturday, October 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
6610 Connecting Bus · 710 Gold Runner | 7:30 AM San Francisco, CA | 3h03 | 10:33 AM Modesto Station, Modesto, CA | 1 transfer | |
6612 Connecting Bus · 712 Gold Runner | 9:40 AM San Francisco, CA | 2h53 | 12:33 PM Modesto Station, Modesto, CA | 1 transfer | |
6614 Connecting Bus · 714 Gold Runner | 11:40 AM San Francisco, CA | 2h53 | 2:33 PM Modesto Station, Modesto, CA | 1 transfer | |
6616 Connecting Bus · 716 Gold Runner | 1:40 PM San Francisco, CA | 2h53 | 4:33 PM Modesto Station, Modesto, CA | 1 transfer | |
6668 Connecting Bus · 718 Gold Runner | 5:00 PM San Francisco, CA | 2h59 | 7:59 PM Modesto Station, Modesto, CA | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Trains from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA with Amtrak. Night trains available on this route with Amtrak. High-speed trains available on this route with Amtrak. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Modesto, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Modesto, CA trip today.
Local history museum in a restored library building with exhibits on Modesto, agriculture, and community life.
Children's museum with hands-on science and play exhibits designed for families seeking an interactive indoor visit.
College museum featuring natural history displays, fossils, live animals, and planetarium programming for curious visitors.
Lively downtown district known for historic buildings, events, shopping, and walkable blocks that reflect Modesto's civic core.
Central park with mature trees, sports areas, and the Gallo Center nearby, making it a pleasant stop in downtown Modesto.
Popular regional park with a lake, trails, picnic areas, and water activities, ideal for a longer outdoor visit.
Tri-tip barbecue is a Central California staple: beef sirloin grilled over red oak and sliced smoky and juicy, reflecting the region’s ranching and casual cookout culture.
Al pastor tacos are widely loved locally, with spit-roasted pork, chile, and pineapple in a style rooted in California’s Mexican food culture and common across Modesto taquerias.
Wet burritos are a hearty Central Valley favorite: a large stuffed burrito covered in enchilada sauce and cheese, popular in family-run Mexican restaurants.
Warm, polished spot serving classic Italian dishes, pasta, and steaks with an old-school neighborhood restaurant feel.
Long-running local burger stand famous for charbroiled burgers, fries, and a classic Modesto fast-casual atmosphere.
Casual local favorite for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican comfort foods in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Moderate for California inland cities. Hotels often cost less than coastal hubs, while dining and car-based transport are average for U.S. travelers.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, about 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafes if service is provided.
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Modesto, CA.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Francisco, CA to Modesto, CA trains use the to Modesto Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and Modesto, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Modesto Station is 8 km from Modesto city centre. Public transport options include:
Modesto Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Free.
Ticket office support is available at Modesto Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Modesto Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Modesto Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Modesto Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Modesto Station.