Cheap Flights from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco International (SFO)

Both cities are known for their laid back, socially conscious vibe, but San Francisco gets a bit more sunshine, fog notwithstanding. The trip from Portland to San Francisco takes you about 650 miles south down the beautiful pacific coast, and the flight lasts just under two hours.

United, Virgin America, and Alaska airlines all offer non-stop services between Portland International Airport (PDX) and San Francisco International(SFO.) United is the market leader, with more than 65 direct flight on this route every week.

Making Your Way to Portland International Airport

If you’re driving to the airport, keep in mind that Portland rush hour traffic has a mind of its own. If there’s no congestion, you can probably get to PDX from downtown in about 45 minutes. Portland Airport is easy to access from Interstates 5 and 205. Because the airport only has one terminal and an abundance of parking, the journey from car to gate is usually quick and painless. However, if you opt for Economy parking, you will have to catch the free shuttle, so pencil in some extra time. Between 4:00 am and midnight, it runs every 7 to 9 minutes. Between midnight and 4:00 am, it makes a trip every 15 minutes.

This being Portland, cycling to the airport is well supported. A dedicated bike path, secure bike parking, and a dedicated free work station with available loaner tools, in case you need an emergency repair. There’s also a great public transit option with the MAX Light Rail Red Line, which connects directly to the airport. Fare is $2.50 one way, and the journey is about 40 minutes long. You can also hop on a Blue Star Downtown Airport Express shuttle, which costs $14 one way and $24 return. Once you get there, you may appreciate that the airport has free wifi and local microbrews on tap.

Arriving in San Francisco

Lovely San Francisco is legendary around the world. You could happily spend a visit just wandering the city, but there is so much to do, indoors and out, that the best approach is to pick a few highlights like Alcatraz or Golden Gate Park. If you’ve caught the city on a foggy or chilly day and want spend time inside, the art museums are exceptional. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a favorite, and plenty of niche museums like the Cartoon Art Museum and the Museum of Craft and Folk Art where you’ll always discover something amazing.

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