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Gilroy, CA, USA to Merced, CA, USA from $5: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Gilroy, United States of America
to
Merced, United States of America

How to Get from Gilroy to Merced: 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.

$5 by busBest price
136 kmDistance
1h 39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Gilroy to Merced 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
Various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$24-34
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  10m
Estimated price
$5-36
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 136 km
Duration: 1h 39m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Train
Average Duration
6h  17m
Estimated price
$12-154
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  39m
Estimated price
$15-23
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Traveling From Gilroy to Merced

The journey from Gilroy, known for its vibrant garlic festival and charming small-town feel, to Merced, home to stunning natural attractions and a lively arts scene, offers travelers a fascinating contrast between agricultural heritage and urban energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Merced

Merced offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with distinct attractions.

Downtown Merced
• Vibrant arts and culture scene
• Diverse dining options including local cuisine
North Merced
• Family-friendly parks and recreation areas
• Proximity to shopping and amenities
South Merced
• Community-oriented atmosphere
• Easy access to the Merced River

Best Times To Visit Merced's Attractions

Planning your visit to Merced's attractions can enhance your experience immensely.

Merced National Wildlife Refuge
Visit in early spring or late fall for optimal wildlife viewing and fewer crowds.
Castle Air Museum
Weekdays during the morning are quieter, allowing for a more personal experience.
Applegate Park Zoo
Late afternoons on weekdays provide a relaxed atmosphere with fewer visitors.

Merced Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Merced experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the best times to explore the area. Understanding the weather helps you plan activities more effectively, ensuring comfortable experiences whether you're hiking or enjoying local festivals.

Dining Recommendation in Merced

For a delightful contrast to Gilroy's garlic-infused dishes, try the house-made pasta at The Branding Iron, where the flavors celebrate locally sourced ingredients with an Italian twist. The warm, inviting atmosphere combined with rich flavors and regional produce creates a dining experience that showcases Merced's culinary identity.

Gilroy - Merced operators

Explore transport companies operating between Gilroy and Merced, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
https://tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Gilroy to Los Banos, CA

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$24-34

Bus from Gilroy to Los Banos, CA

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$5-36
Website
https://mercedthebus.com

Bus from San Luis Plaza to Transpo

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$34-44
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Gilroy Caltrain Northbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$242-243
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose Amtrak Station to Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$244-247

Train from Stockton to Merced

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$342-3420

Gilroy to Merced: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Gilroy and Merced 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 picturesque road trip from Gilroy to Merced, spanning 85 miles of scenic California highways. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes around 1 hour and 39 minutes, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the countryside along the way. 💸 Discover affordable travel options with car prices ranging between $15 to $23 for a journey from Gilroy to Merced. Explore the flexibility and convenience of driving as you venture through charming towns and rolling landscapes on this budget-friendly excursion.
Average price
$15 - $23
🚂 Starting from Gilroy travelers can embark on a scenic train journey towards Merced. Although there isn't a direct route, the trip involves transfers at San Jose Amtrak Station and Stockton. The total duration of the train ride, including transfers, is approximately 6 hours and 17 minutes. 🎟️ The train services for this route are operated by Caltrain for the initial leg from Gilroy to San Jose, and then by Amtrak from San Jose to Merced. The ticket prices can range from $12 to $154, depending on factors such as class of service and availability.
Departure Point
Gilroy Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
Merced station
🚌 No direct bus from Gilroy to Merced, but there are services with transfers departing from Gilroy and arriving at Transpo via San Luis Plaza. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute. 🚌 With a travel time of 3 hours and 1 minute, the prices for a bus ticket from Gilroy to Merced range from $24 to $34. Plan your trip accordingly to enjoy a smooth and affordable journey by bus.
Departure Point
Gilroy station
Arrival Point
Transpo station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Gilroy to Merced.

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The distance between Gilroy and Merced is 64 miles, with a road distance of 85 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes 6 hours and 16 minutes to reach Merced from Gilroy by train, 1 hour and 39 minutes to reach Gilroy from Merced by car, and 3 hours and 1 minute to reach Merced from Gilroy by bus. These travel times can vary depending on traffic, weather, and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Gilroy to Merced is by taking the bus via Gilroy, which costs between $5 and $35. It takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes to reach Merced by bus. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the fastest option, taking about 1 hour and 39 minutes to complete the journey. The cost of driving is estimated to be between $15 and $23.
When traveling from Gilroy to Merced, the prices for a train ticket can range from $23 to $97. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Merced to Gilroy can vary between $12 and $19. It's worth noting that these prices are subject to change and may depend on factors such as the time of year, travel dates, and availability. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Gilroy to Merced without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 85 miles, and it usually takes around 1 hour and 39 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of the trip will depend on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but it typically ranges from $15 to $23.
The best way to travel from Gilroy to Merced without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes around 3 hours and 1 minute and usually costs between $12 and $19. The bus provides a convenient and affordable option for transportation between these two cities.
Yes, there is a link between Gilroy and Merced but there is no direct train or bus service. To travel by train, you would need to transfer at San Jose Amtrak Station and Stockton, which takes approximately 6 hours and 16 minutes. To travel by bus, you would also need to transfer, this time at San Luis Plaza, with a total travel time of approximately 3 hours and 1 minute.
There are plenty of options for accommodation in Merced. With over 28 hotels to choose from, you'll have a range of choices to fit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $49 per night, so you can find something affordable without compromising on comfort. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are several hotels available in Merced to meet your needs.