The tech hub of Silicon Valley is just south of SFO.

About Silicon Valley (Palo Alto/Mountain View)

Silicon Valley stretches along the San Francisco Peninsula, encompassing cities like Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, and Cupertino. This global technology hub is home to Stanford University, Google, Apple, and countless startups that have shaped the modern world.

Palo Alto offers tree-lined University Avenue with upscale dining and boutique shopping, while Mountain View features the sprawling Googleplex campus and charming Castro Street. The area blends suburban California living with cutting-edge innovation, offering visitors a glimpse into the culture that drives the tech industry.

Nearby Landmarks

Stanford University Googleplex Computer History Museum Apple Park Visitor Center

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $40-55
Time 25-40 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $35-50
Time 25-40 minutes

Ground transportation level

Train (Caltrain)

Cost $6
Time 35 minutes
Frequency Every 30-60 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. AirTrain to BART/Caltrain. 2. Caltrain from Millbrae to Palo Alto or Mountain View.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $40-55 25-40 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $35-50 25-40 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train $6 35 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Late-night options are limited. Caltrain runs until approximately midnight on weekdays and 12:30 AM weekends. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate 24/7 and cost $40-60 from SFO to Palo Alto at night.

Luggage Tips

Caltrain allows luggage but space is limited during commute hours. If driving, US-101 is a straightforward freeway route with no toll plazas. Rideshare vehicles can accommodate standard luggage easily.

Accessibility

Caltrain stations have level boarding platforms and accessible cars. SFO BART station connects to SFO via an accessible AirTrain. Most rideshare vehicles can accommodate folding wheelchairs.