A flight from San Francisco (SFO) to Taiwan operated by Vietnam Airlines with connections starts at just USD 1,424 (approximately TWD 43,012) (**) for one-way. Although there are no direct routes yet, the journey is efficiently arranged with a stopover in Vietnam, with an average total travel time of about 25 hours. To help you easily plan your trip, the article below provides detailed information about flight routes and how to book affordable tickets!
1. Detailed Information on The Flight From San Francisco to Taiwan
Currently, Vietnam Airlines operates flights from San Francisco to Taiwan with two main destinations: Taipei and Kaohsiung, with a layover in Ho Chi Minh City.
Basic Flight Information:
- Distance: Approximately 10,351 - 10,631km (depending on route).
- Flight Duration (*): 25 hours 30 minutes - 32 hours 10 minutes (including layover time).
- Flight Frequency (**): 1 - 3 flights/day; 2 - 4 days/week.
Departure Information
|
Departure |
San Francisco |
|
Airport Name |
San Francisco International Airport |
|
Airport Code |
SFO |
|
Terminal |
Terminal I |
|
Location |
San Francisco, CA 94128, USA |
Transit Information
|
Route |
Distance |
Flight Time (*) |
Flight Frequency (*) |
|
San Francisco → Ho Chi Minh City → Taipei (SFO → SGN → TPE) |
About 10,351km |
About 25 hours 30 minutes - 32 hours 10 minutes |
3 flights/day |
|
San Francisco → Ho Chi Minh City → Kaohsiung (SFO → SGN → KHH) |
About 10,631km |
About 32 hours |
1 flight/day |
Arrival Information
|
Airport |
Airport Code |
Terminal |
Location |
|
Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei) |
TPE |
Terminal 1 or 2 |
Dayuan, Taoyuan, Taiwan |
|
Kaohsiung International Airport |
KHH |
Terminal 1 |
Kaohsiung, Taiwan |
Notes:
(*) SFO to Taiwan flight times and frequency are for reference only and may change depending on connection schedules and actual operating conditions at transit airports.
(**) Ticket prices depend on booking time, load factors, and seasonal variations. Passengers should plan their journey early to ensure suitable options and better prices.
2. How to Get to the San Francisco Airport and Taiwan?
To ensure a smooth journey from SFO to Taiwan, passengers should choose appropriate transportation to San Francisco International Airport.
2.1. How to Get to San Francisco Airport?
|
Transportation |
Travel Instructions |
Estimated Cost (*) |
|
Bus |
SamTrans routes such as 292 and KX. |
~USD 2 - USD 5 (~TWD 60 - TWD 151) |
|
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) |
The BART system provides direct connections from downtown San Francisco and the East Bay area to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) via the Yellow Line. |
~USD 6 - USD 10 (~TWD 181 - TWD 301) |
|
Taxi |
Taxis operate regularly in the downtown area, with travel time to the airport ranging from 20 to 40 minutes. |
~USD 40 (~TWD 1,207) |
2.2. How to Get From Arrival Airports to City Centers in Taiwan?
|
Airport |
Transportation - Estimated Time - Estimated Cost (*) |
|
Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) |
|
|
Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) |
|
(*) Costs vary depending on the departure point.
3. 5 Tips When Taking A Flight From San Francisco to Taipei
The journey from San Francisco to Taipei has a fairly long travel time and requires proper scheduling. Here are 5 tips to help you optimize your journey in terms of time, cost, and health:
3.1. Find the Best Flight Deals
To save costs on your flight from San Francisco to Taipei, passengers should plan to hunt for tickets early and take advantage of promotions that fit their travel needs:
- Book at least 45 days in advance: If you have determined your departure time, you should prioritize booking early at least 45 days in advance to enjoy discounts of 5 - 10% (applicable to Economy class).
- Temporary seat holding when your schedule isn't finalized: Vietnam Airlines allows passengers to hold ticket prices for 2 - 3 days without immediate payment, for a fee of about USD 10 per person (~TWD 301), applicable when booking 7 - 14 days in advance.
- Pay online for additional benefits: When booking through the airline's official website or app, you can use e-wallets or bank accounts to get free ticket issuance or apply discount codes directly to your bill.
- Register as a member if you fly internationally frequently: With loyalty programs like Lotusmiles at Vietnam Airlines, you'll accumulate miles faster and can use miles to exchange for tickets or upgrades in the future.
3.2. Select the Arrival Airport That Best Suits Your Travel Needs
Choosing the right airport helps you manage your time and optimize your budget for the trip. For instance, if you are heading to Taipei, Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is a suitable choice, with a travel time to the city center of only about 35 - 50 minutes by MRT, and a ticket price of around TWD 160 (Approximately USD 5.30). Conversely, if your itinerary focuses on the south, you should choose Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) to shorten the distance and save on travel costs.
3.3. Ensure Your Passport is Valid
U.S. citizens and tourists from the U.S. to Taiwan are visa-exempt for entry with a stay not exceeding 90 days if the passport is valid for at least 6 months. When completing entry procedures, you need to present a round-trip ticket or ticket to another country, accommodation information, and financial capability if requested.
3.4. Be Aware of Time Zone and Jet Lag
The journey from San Francisco to Taiwan lasts from 25 to over 32 hours, with a significant time difference of about 15 to 16 hours (depending on the season). To minimize the effects, you should adjust your rest time to Taiwan's time zone a few days in advance, limit the use of electronic devices in the evening, and limit caffeine consumption during the flight.
3.5. Select Comfortable Seats or Business Class
If you need a private rest space or have to work immediately after landing, Business Class is the ideal choice with flat-reclining seats, private meals, and priority rights at the airport. If traveling in Economy class, seats near emergency exits or window seats will provide more spacious accommodation and limit contact throughout the journey.
4. 6+ Must-Visit Attractions in Taiwan
Taiwan attracts tourists thanks to its harmonious combination of nature, architecture, and the distinctive cultural values of each region. Below are typical destinations in the prominent cities of this island nation:
|
Destination |
Highlights |
|
Taipei 101 |
Taiwan's iconic skyscraper, designed with a structure mimicking bamboo segments, with an observation deck for visitors |
|
Liuhe Night Market |
A distinctive nighttime culinary center in Kaohsiung, famous for many characteristic local dishes such as stinky tofu, danzai noodles, and bubble milk tea. |
|
XinShe Castle |
A natural scenic spot located in the suburbs, surrounded by forests and seasonal flower hills, attracting many photography enthusiasts. |
|
Tainan Confucius Temple |
The oldest temple in Taiwan, associated with the traditional education system of the feudal era, still preserves many original architectural elements. |
|
Qixingtan Beach |
A pebble beach stretching along with a clear blue ocean view and distinct horizon, suitable for seaside resort activities. |
5. FAQs about the San Francisco to Taiwan Flight
When planning your journey from San Francisco to Taiwan, understanding basic information about flight duration, layover time, and airport regulations is essential. Below are some answers to help you prepare thoroughly before your trip:
5.1. How Long is A Flight From San Francisco to Taiwan
Flight time from SFO to Taiwan have the shortest duration of about 25 hours 30 minutes to Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and the longest of about 32 hours 10 minutes to Kaohsiung Airport (KHH).
5.2. How Long is The Layover Time?
The layover time between the two flight segments from San Francisco to Taiwan is about 6 hours and 20 minutes.
For international flights, passengers need to be at San Francisco Airport at least 3 hours before departure time to complete baggage procedures, exit immigration, and security checks.
With an optimized schedule, internationally standardized service, and competitive promotional policies, Vietnam Airlines is the ideal choice for the flight from SFO to Taiwan. For detailed advice and ticket booking assistance, please visit our Website or contact our hotline at (+84-24) 3832 0320!