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Cheap flights to San Francisco

Compare every airline flying into San Francisco, CA, USA and get phone-only deals you won't see on Google Flights.

San Francisco, CA, USA· Airport: SFO
San Francisco — Flights | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Phone-only fares for San Francisco, 24/7.

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Key facts

  • San Francisco is served by three major airports: San Francisco International (SFO), Oakland International (OAK), and Mineta San Jose International (SJC).
  • Flying into OAK or SJC can sometimes offer lower fares; both are connected to San Francisco by public transport or ride-shares.
  • For domestic flights to San Francisco, consider booking 2-3 months ahead for optimal pricing.
  • International travelers should aim to book 4-6 months before their trip to San Francisco.
  • Mid-week travel (Tuesday-Wednesday) often presents cheaper flight options to the Bay Area.
  • Weather in San Francisco is typically mild year-round, but summer can bring fog, while spring and fall offer clearer skies.

When planning a trip to San Francisco, securing the right flight can significantly impact your budget and travel experience. Direct flights from major hubs across the U.S. are common into San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Oakland International Airport (OAK), and sometimes Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC), offering various options depending on your departure city and preferred airline.

Peak travel times, such as summer and key holiday weekends, generally see higher airfares. For better deals, consider flying during the shoulder seasons—spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). These periods often bring pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed visit without the premium price tag on flights.

Flexibility with your travel dates is one of the most effective ways to find cheaper flights. Mid-week departures and returns, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often have lower demand and thus lower prices. Also, exploring flights into OAK or SJC, which are accessible via public transit or car shares to San Francisco, can sometimes yield substantial savings compared to flying directly into SFO.

Booking in advance also plays a critical role. For domestic flights to San Francisco, aiming to book 2–3 months out often provides the best balance of availability and price. For international travelers, expanding that window to 4–6 months can be beneficial, especially if traveling during peak tourism seasons. Keeping an eye on fare sales from various carriers can also pay off.

While online search engines are a good starting point, some of the best flight inventory, including unpublished fares, isn't always available to the public. If you're struggling to find a deal or have complex itinerary needs, our experienced travel agents might be able to uncover options you wouldn't find on your own.

In this guide

  • Average flight prices to San Francisco
  • Best time to book
  • Direct flights and routing options
  • Tips for cheaper fares

Frequently asked questions

Which airport is best to fly into when visiting San Francisco?
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the most convenient option, located just south of the city with direct BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) service. However, Oakland International Airport (OAK) or Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) can sometimes offer more affordable flights. Both OAK and SJC are connected to San Francisco via public transit or ride-share services, so compare prices and travel times to the city center before booking.
When is the cheapest time of year to fly to San Francisco?
Generally, the cheapest times to fly to San Francisco are during the shoulder seasons: early spring (February-April) and late fall (September-November). Avoid peak summer months (June-August) and major holidays when demand and prices are highest. Mid-week flights, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, also tend to be less expensive than weekend travel.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
How far in advance should I book my flight to San Francisco?
For domestic flights to San Francisco, booking 2 to 3 months in advance typically yields the best fares. If you're traveling internationally, broaden your booking window to 4 to 6 months ahead of your departure date. This longer lead time allows you to take advantage of early bird discounts and fare sales, especially during popular travel periods or special events in the city.
Are non-stop flights to San Francisco more expensive?
Non-stop flights generally cost more than those with layovers due to the convenience and reduced travel time. However, the price difference isn't always significant, and for shorter routes, the time saved can justify the higher cost. For longer journeys or if you're very budget-conscious, considering a flight with one stop might lead to substantial savings when flying to the Bay Area.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares
Can I find cheap flights to San Francisco during major events like pride or conventions?
Finding cheap flights during major events like Pride, conventions, or Fleet Week in San Francisco can be challenging as demand surges. Your best strategy is to book as far in advance as possible, often 6+ months out. Be flexible with your travel dates, perhaps arriving a day or two earlier or departing later than the main event days. Also, check flights into OAK or SJC, as they might have better availability and prices during these peak times.
What's the best way to get from SFO to downtown San Francisco?
The most efficient way to get from SFO to downtown San Francisco is via BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit). The SFO BART station is located in the International Terminal. You can take a train directly to multiple downtown stations like Powell Street or Embarcadero in about 30 minutes. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and airport shuttle vans are also available, but they can be more expensive and subject to traffic delays.
Call 1 (815) 473-8090 for phone-only fares

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