How to Get to Davis From San Francisco [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

🚉 How to Get to Davis From San Francisco [2025–2026 Guide]

Davis is ~70 miles from San Francisco. Driving takes 1.5–2 hours ($15–$25 fuel). Amtrak Capitol Corridor trains run daily (1 hr 40 min, $25–$35). Buses and rideshares also connect the Bay Area to Davis.

Davis, California, is best known as the home of the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), its vibrant bike culture, and its proximity to wine country. Located west of Sacramento, Davis is easily accessible from San Francisco for students, business travelers, or weekend visitors. This 2025–2026 guide explains all the main ways to get there.

🚗 Driving From San Francisco to Davis

Driving is the most flexible way to reach Davis, especially if you plan to explore beyond the campus.

  • Distance: ~70 miles (via Bay Bridge → I-80 East).

  • Time: 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic.

  • Route:

    • Take I-80 East directly toward Sacramento.

    • Exit at Richards Blvd or UC Davis campus exits.

  • Fuel Cost: ~$15–$25 one way (depending on gas prices & car type).

  • Parking: UC Davis has visitor parking permits (~$15/day), plus garages and downtown street parking.

✅ Best for travelers with luggage, flexible schedules, or side trips in Yolo County and Sacramento.

🚆 Taking the Train From San Francisco to Davis

The Amtrak Capitol Corridor is one of the easiest and most popular ways to travel.

  • Route:

    • Take BART from SF to Richmond Station.

    • Transfer to the Amtrak Capitol Corridor to Davis.

  • Duration: ~1 hr 40 min on the train (plus BART time).

  • Cost: $25–$35 one way.

  • Comforts: Wi-Fi, power outlets, spacious seating, snack bar.

  • Frequency: Trains run almost hourly during the day.

✅ Ideal for UC Davis students, commuters, and travelers who prefer car-free, stress-free transport.

🚌 Bus Options From San Francisco to Davis

Several bus services connect SF with Davis, often cheaper than trains.

  • FlixBus & Greyhound: Direct routes SF → Davis.

  • Duration: 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic.

  • Cost: $10–$25 one way.

  • Drop-Off: Near UC Davis campus or downtown.

✅ Cheapest choice for students and budget travelers.

✈️ Flying From San Francisco to Davis?

There are no direct flights between SF and Davis, since the distance is short. But:

  • The nearest airport is Sacramento International Airport (SMF), 20 miles from Davis.

  • If flying into SF from another city, you can connect via rental car, train, or bus.

  • Drive from SMF to Davis: ~25 min, ~$30 rideshare.

🚴 Biking + Local Transit

Davis is famously the “Bicycle Capital of the U.S.”

  • Once in town, it’s easy to get around by bike.

  • Yolobus connects Davis with Sacramento and Woodland ($2–$3).

📝 Travel Summary Table

Travel Mode Duration Cost (per person) Notes
🚗 Drive 1.5–2 hrs $15–$25 fuel Most flexible, direct.
🚆 Amtrak + BART ~2–2.5 hrs $25–$35 Comfortable, car-free.
🚌 Bus 2–2.5 hrs $10–$25 Cheapest option.
✈️ Flight + Drive (SMF) 25 min from SMF Varies Only relevant if arriving by air from outside SF.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How far is Davis from San Francisco?
About 70 miles northeast; 1.5–2 hours by car.

Q2: What’s the fastest way to get to Davis?
Driving via I-80 East is typically fastest if traffic is light.

Q3: Is there a direct train to Davis?
Yes, the Amtrak Capitol Corridor runs directly from the Bay Area to Davis.

Q4: What’s the cheapest way?
Taking a FlixBus or Greyhound ($10–$25) is usually the lowest-cost option.

Q5: Can I get to Davis from Sacramento Airport?
Yes, it’s a quick 20-mile drive (25 minutes), with shuttles, buses, and rideshares available.

The easiest way to get to Davis from San Francisco in 2025–2026 is to drive via I-80 or take the Amtrak Capitol Corridor train for a convenient, car-free journey. Buses are the cheapest, while Sacramento Airport provides quick access if you’re flying in from elsewhere.

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