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Chico, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $17: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Chico, United States of America
to
San Luis Obispo, United States of America

How to Get from Chico to San Luis Obispo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$17 by trainBest price
611 kmDistance
6h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chico to San Luis Obispo with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
10h  39m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
11h  12m
Estimated price
$17-160
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 611 km
Duration: 6h 30m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  30m
Estimated price
$65-100
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  37m
Estimated price
$187-730
Company
various
Train
BART
Plane
Average Duration
9h  11m
Estimated price
$188-170
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  48m
Estimated price
$263-869
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Traveling From Chico to San Luis Obispo

Your journey from Chico, with its vibrant college atmosphere and lush natural surroundings, to the charming coastal town of San Luis Obispo offers a delightful contrast between laid-back city life and stunning ocean views.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm.

Downtown
• Home to trendy shops and boutiques.
• Vibrant dining scene with local flavors.
Mission San Luis Obispo
• Rich in history with beautiful architecture.
• Close to the scenic Mission Plaza.
Edna Valley
• Known for picturesque vineyards and wineries.
• Great spot for scenic outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Planning your trip around peak times can enhance your experience in San Luis Obispo's attractions.

Bubblegum Alley
Visit early morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and fully enjoy this quirky spot.
San Luis Obispo Farmers Market
Fridays after 6 PM attract locals, so arrive early for a relaxed experience.
California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) Campus
Weekends offer quieter strolls through the beautiful grounds, especially in spring.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as the comfortable temperatures and lower tourist traffic enhance your overall experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

You can't visit San Luis Obispo without trying the famous tri-tip sandwich at Firestone Grill, where robust local flavors and a casual, lively atmosphere set it apart from Chico's dining scene. This unique dish celebrates California's barbecue heritage and showcases fresh, regional ingredients that make for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Chico - San Luis Obispo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chico and San Luis Obispo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Chico Amtrak to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
10h 39m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Chico Amtrak to Stockton

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from San Jose to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chico Amtrak to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
11h 12m
Estimated price
$17-160

Train from Chico Amtrak to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$652-653

Train from Sacramento to Richmond

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$652-653
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Redding (RDD) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
8h 48m
Estimated price
$263-869

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
5h 56m
Estimated price
$175-176
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Other from Richmond to San Francisco International Airport

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$2630-655

Chico to San Luis Obispo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chico and San Luis Obispo offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Chico to San Luis Obispo, covering a distance of 380 miles. Enjoy approximately 6.5 hours of driving through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💸 The cost of traveling by car from Chico to San Luis Obispo ranges from $65 to $100, offering budget-friendly options for any traveler. Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of a road trip as you explore the beauty of Central California.
Average price
$65 - $100
🚂 Traveling by train from Chico to San Luis Obispo is a convenient option with a direct daily service provided by Amtrak. The journey duration is approximately 11 hours and 12 minutes. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the Chico to San Luis Obispo train route range from $17 to $160, offering travelers different fare options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Chico Amtrak station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
🛫 Flying from Chico to San Luis Obispo involves taking a connecting flight as there are no direct flights available. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 20 minutes with one stopover along the way. United Airlines is one of the carriers that offers flights for this route.
Departure Point
Redding Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. The quickest flight takes 6h 20m and has one stopover
🚌 Starting from Chico you'll first hop on a bus service operated by Amtrak departing from Chico Amtrak. 🌳 The journey to San Luis Obispo involves transfers in Stockton and San Jose, making the total travel time approximately 10 hours and 39 minutes. 🌞 Upon arrival, you'll reach the San Luis Obispo station, ready to explore the beautiful city. 🚏 While there isn't a direct bus route from Chico to San Luis Obispo, the scenic journey allows you to witness different landscapes along the way. 🌆 Enjoy the views as you travel through various towns and cities, immersing yourself in the California scenery. 🏞️ Embrace the adventure of bus travel and take in the sights during your 10-hour trip to San Luis Obispo.
Departure Point
Chico Amtrak station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chico to San Luis Obispo.

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The distance between Chico and San Luis Obispo is approximately 316 miles by road. It takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes to drive from San Luis Obispo to Chico. Alternatively, if you prefer train travel, it takes about 11 hours and 12 minutes to reach San Luis Obispo from Chico. Another option is to take a bus and then change to Amtrak Thruway, which takes about 10 hours and 24 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Chico to San Luis Obispo is by train, with prices ranging from $17 to $160. This option takes approximately 11 hours and 12 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option. It takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes to drive the distance, with costs ranging from $65 to $100.
The prices for traveling from Chico to San Luis Obispo by train range from $17 to $160. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the type of ticket, the class of travel, and availability. It is recommended to check with the respective train service providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Chico to San Luis Obispo without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 380 miles and it takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes to reach your destination. The cost of gas and tolls will vary, but it is estimated to be around $65 - $100 for the round trip.
The best way to travel from Chico to San Luis Obispo without a car is by taking a combination of bus and Amtrak Thruway. This journey takes around 10 hours and 24 minutes. The cost of this trip may vary, so it's recommended to check with the relevant transportation providers for the most up-to-date pricing information. Overall, taking the bus and Amtrak Thruway is a convenient and cost-effective option for traveling between these two cities without a car.
Yes, there is a direct train connection between Chico and San Luis Obispo. The train journey takes approximately 11 hours and 12 minutes and operates daily. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities. To travel by bus, you would need to transfer in Stockton and San Jose Diridon Station, which takes approximately 10 hours and 24 minutes.
The flight between Chico and San Luis Obispo does not have a direct route. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 42 minutes. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is advisable to check with different airlines and comparison websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are many hotel options available near San Luis Obispo with over 213 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $45 per night, providing a range of options to suit different budgets. Whether you prefer luxury or budget accommodations, there are numerous hotels in the area to meet your needs. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips to San Luis Obispo