Flights to San Francisco connect Israel with Northern California, Silicon Valley, and one of the most sought-after regions on the West Coast of the United States. After a long period without a regular direct route, El Al plans to resume direct flights in October 2026, and United has announced a planned return in March 2027.
In this guide, we have compiled flight options, flight duration, connections, SFO airport, entry to the United States, luggage, and transportation to the city. Flight schedules may change, so it is essential to verify operations before payment.
Are there direct flights from Israel to San Francisco?
El Al has announced that it plans to renew the direct route between Tel Aviv and San Francisco starting from 25/10/2026, with a frequency of three weekly flights. This is a future plan as of the guide’s writing, so it is necessary to check that the flight is indeed listed and available on the desired date.
United has announced a planned return to the route starting from 28/03/2027, also with a frequency of three flights per week. You can read all the details in the article United Returns to Fly Directly to San Francisco.
Until the routes return, and on dates when there is no direct flight, it is possible to reach with a stopover in Europe or the United States.
How long is the flight to San Francisco?
A direct flight from Tel Aviv to San Francisco usually takes about 15 hours, depending on the route, winds, and flight conditions. The return flight duration may vary.
A flight with a stopover can last 18 hours or more. It is important to check the waiting time, the location of the intermediate airport, and whether border control and luggage collection are required.
San Francisco Airport – SFO
San Francisco International Airport is designated with the code SFO. It serves the city, Silicon Valley, and the Bay Area and is connected to the center via BART train, taxis, shuttles, and rental cars.
This is a large airport with several terminals. Before the return flight, it is important to check which terminal the airline departs from and to arrive early enough for security screening and document verification.
How to get from the airport to the city center?
The BART train connects the airport with downtown San Francisco and other stations in the Bay Area. This is generally a convenient option for travelers with reasonable luggage and a hotel located near a station.
A taxi or ride service may be more convenient for a family, group, or late arrival. The price and time are influenced by traffic, which can be heavy during peak hours.
If continuing directly to Silicon Valley, check whether a train, shuttle, or rental car is suitable for the exact address.
How to Find Cheap Flights to San Francisco?
- Compare direct and connecting flights: A direct flight saves time, but a route with a stopover might be cheaper.
- Check nearby dates: When the route operates three times a week, changing the day can reveal a better price.
- Compare Oakland and San Jose as well: Only if the connecting route and final location make them convenient.
- Check the final price: Including luggage, seat, ticket change, and transfer from the airport.
- Beware of short connections in the United States: Sometimes you need to go through immigration, collect luggage, and re-check it.
- Check open-jaw routes: You can land in San Francisco and return from Los Angeles if planning a trip along California.
The cheapest way to book flights to San Francisco is on the Flight Hunter website – click here to search for flights. Compare direct flights with routes that have stopovers and check the total travel time.
Before payment, also review the important checks before booking a flight.
Direct Flight or Connection?
For such a long flight, the direct route has a significant advantage. It saves an additional airport transfer, reduces the risk of missing a flight, and eases the journey for families.
A connection might be worthwhile when the price is significantly lower or when the direct flight times are not convenient. It is recommended to prefer one ticket for the entire journey.
For more information, read the guide to flights with a stopover.
Connection in the United States
When landing for the first time in the United States at an intermediate airport, you usually go through border and customs checks there. In many cases, you need to collect your luggage and recheck it for the connecting flight.
Therefore, do not choose a connection time that is too short. Consider queues at immigration, walking between terminals, and additional security checks.
Even if the United States is just a transit point, an appropriate entry permit is required. You cannot remain in the international transit area without meeting entry requirements.
ESTA, Visa, and Entry Requirements
Israelis with a biometric passport who meet the conditions can apply for an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program. Approval is not automatic and does not guarantee entry.
Those who do not meet the conditions, or whose application is denied, may need a visa. Apply only on the official website and ensure the approval is valid before purchasing a non-refundable ticket.
Entry rules may change. Check the official guidelines of the United States and the validity of your passport close to your travel date.
What Should You Know About Luggage?
On long-haul flights, included luggage varies according to the ticket type. Do not assume that a suitcase is included just because it is a flight to the United States.
Check the weight, number of suitcases, seat selection, and payment for special equipment. For connections with different airlines, check the conditions for each segment.
It is recommended to keep medications, documents, expensive equipment, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag. On a long flight, it is advisable to take a charger and items that will ease sleep.
San Francisco, Oakland, or San Jose?
SFO is the main and most convenient airport for most visitors to San Francisco. OAK might suit the East Bay, and SJC is more convenient for parts of Silicon Valley.
There are currently no direct flights from Israel to all three airports. If choosing an alternative airport as part of a connection, check the arrival time at the final destination and not just the flight price.
Is It Worth Landing in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is a long drive from San Francisco and is not a convenient substitute for a short city vacation. It is suitable for a road trip along California or when the flight price and itinerary justify it.
If planning a long trip, an open itinerary with landing in one city and returning from another can save a return drive.
Do You Need a Car in San Francisco?
Within the city, you can manage without a car using public transportation, walking, and taxis. Parking is expensive, the streets are steep, and a car can become a burden.
A car is suitable for trips to Yosemite, Highway 1, Napa Valley, and other areas. You can rent it only on the day of departure from the city.
Never leave suitcases or visible equipment in the car. Car break-ins are a risk that should be considered.
What to Do in San Francisco?
Golden Gate Bridge
The city’s famous symbol. You can view it from several points, walk part of it, or combine a visit to the Presidio area.
Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
A tourist area with a promenade, shops, restaurants, and sea lions. It is especially suitable for a first visit and families.
Alcatraz
The island and historic prison are a sought-after attraction. It is recommended to book tickets in advance through an official supplier.
Cable Car and Lombard Street
The historic cable car offers a unique urban experience, and Lombard Street is one of the well-known photo spots.
Silicon Valley
Many business travelers and tourists continue south to the technology companies’ area. Check the exact location, as distances in the area are large.
When Is It Best to Fly to San Francisco?
The weather in San Francisco can be cool and foggy even in summer. September and October are often considered more pleasant, but there is no guarantee of warm days.
It is advisable to bring layers and warm clothing in every season. Prices increase during holidays, conferences, and major events.
How Many Days Should You Dedicate to the City?
For a first visit, it is recommended to dedicate three to four days. If you add Silicon Valley, Napa, Yosemite, or a coastal drive, plan for a week or more.
The city itself is relatively compact, but the hills and transportation mean that you may not cover many attractions in a single day.
San Francisco with Children
The city is suitable for families due to its museums, parks, piers, and cruises. Be prepared for uphill walking and variable weather.
For a long flight, it is advisable to choose seats in advance and prepare with food, clothing, and activities for children. Check car seat availability if renting a vehicle.
Kosher Food and Sabbath Observers
The Bay Area offers kosher options and Jewish communities, but distances are significant. It is recommended to check for kosher certification, opening hours, and exact location before arrival.
For Sabbath observers, it is important to choose a hotel within walking distance of the synagogue or desired community, and inquire about electronic keys, elevators, and automatic doors.
Dealing with Jet Lag
The time difference between Israel and California is significant. In the first few days, it is advisable to expose yourself to daylight, drink water, and avoid a busy schedule immediately after landing.
Also read the guide to dealing with jet lag.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Booking a connection that is too short in the United States.
- Forgetting ESTA or a visa before booking.
- Assuming future direct routes are guaranteed without rechecking.
- Renting a car for the entire stay in the city without checking parking.
- Leaving luggage in the car.
- Arriving in summer without warm clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to San Francisco
When is El Al expected to resume direct flights?
According to the company’s announcement, the route is planned to return on 10/25/2026. Ensure the flight operates on the desired date.
When is United expected to return to the route?
United plans to resume the route on 03/28/2027, subject to operational and other changes.
How long does a direct flight take?
Typically about 15 hours, depending on direction and flight conditions.
How to get from SFO to downtown?
The BART train is a convenient option, alongside taxis and shuttles.
Is ESTA required even for a connection in the United States?
Yes, appropriate entry approval is required even when continuing to another flight. Check eligibility for ESTA or the need for a visa.
The Bottom Line
Flights to San Francisco are becoming more convenient again with the planned return of direct routes. Compare the final price, confirm the start date of operations, and check ESTA, luggage, and transportation before payment.
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