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Lake Tahoe, CA, USA to Sacramento, CA, USA from $18: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Lake Tahoe, United States of America
to
Sacramento, United States of America

How to Get from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento: 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.

$18 - OtherBest price
167 kmDistance
2h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento 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
4h  12m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h 
Estimated price
$18-28
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 167 km
Duration: 2h

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$0-0

Traveling From Lake Tahoe to Sacramento

The journey from Lake Tahoe, with its stunning alpine scenery and serene waters, to Sacramento, a vibrant city rich in culture and history, offers you a stark yet fascinating contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sacramento

Sacramento offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Midtown
• Lively arts scene with numerous galleries and studios.
• Trendy cafes and restaurants create a vibrant atmosphere.
East Sacramento
• Known for beautiful tree-lined streets and historic homes.
• Home to popular parks like McKinley Park.
Old Sacramento
• Rich in history with preserved Gold Rush-era buildings.
• Bustling waterfront and unique shops enhance the experience.

Best Times To Visit Sacramento's Attractions

Planning your visit to Sacramento? Here are the best times to explore its highlights.

California State Capitol
Early mornings on weekdays provide a quieter tour experience.
Old Sacramento Waterfront
Visit in the early afternoon for fewer tourists and great light for photos.
Sacramento Zoo
Weekdays during the school year offer a peaceful visit with fewer crowds.

Sacramento Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sacramento enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as comfortable temperatures enhance your outdoor experiences, while summer heat can be intense.

Sacramento Dining Recommendation

For a culinary experience that contrasts beautifully with Lake Tahoe's rustic fare, try the farm-to-fork delights at The Waterboy, where seasonal ingredients shine in innovative dishes. The lively atmosphere, combined with bold flavors and local produce, truly reflects Sacramento's vibrant food scene.

Lake Tahoe - Sacramento operators

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

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

Bus from South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop to Sacramento

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
0-0

Lake Tahoe to Sacramento: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Lake Tahoe and Sacramento 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Check out the onboard catering services provided by Amtrak on your route from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento. They typically offer a range of snacks, beverages, and meal options, including vegetarian selections. Be sure to bring some cash or a credit card, as some services may not accept cash.
• When booking your tickets, consider the seating options available on Amtrak. They offer various accommodations, such as Business Class and Economy. The Business Class seats provide extra legroom and complimentary refreshments, while Economy class is more budget-friendly but still comfortable for the journey.
• There are multiple operators for this route, specifically Amtrak (amtrak.com) and possibly regional bus services like Greyhound (greyhound.com). Make sure to check each operator's schedules to decide the best option for your timetable. For useful transport schedules, you can also visit (sacrt.com) to find local transport options.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento.

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The distance between Lake Tahoe and Sacramento is approximately 100 miles. By car, the typical travel time is around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. If you opt for a bus, the journey may take about 2.5 to 3 hours, while train options are less frequent and can vary in time. Flying is not practical for this distance due to the short travel span.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento is typically driving, as it allows for flexibility and direct travel, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours. Ridesharing services can be a viable alternative, often making the journey affordable and quick. Public buses are another option, though they may take longer, averaging about 2.5 to 3 hours, but they can be more economical than other modes. Regardless of the choice, early planning can help find the best fares and schedules.
Traveling from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento can vary in price depending on the mode of transportation. Driving your own vehicle incurs costs primarily for gas, which could range from $15 to $30 total, depending on fuel prices and your vehicle's efficiency. Ridesharing services typically charge between $100 to $150 for the same trip. If you opt for a bus, tickets usually cost around $30 to $50, making it a budget-friendly option.
To travel from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento without using public transportation, you could rent a car, which gives you the flexibility to set your own schedule. Alternatively, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, which can take you directly to your destination but may be more expensive. Carpooling with friends or family is another option, allowing you to share costs while enjoying the journey together. Lastly, you could also look into private shuttle services that offer transportation between these locations.
If you don't have a car, you can travel from Lake Tahoe to Sacramento by utilizing rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft, which provide door-to-door convenience but can be pricey. Another option is to hire a private shuttle service, which typically offers comfortable rides tailored to your schedule. Additionally, you can look for local taxi services that may provide transportation between the two locations. While public transportation options like buses may not be part of your criteria, you could always consider a combination of these methods to create a suitable travel plan.
Yes, there are direct transportation options between Lake Tahoe and Sacramento, primarily through bus services. Several bus companies operate routes that connect the two destinations without any transfers, making it convenient for travelers. However, there may be limited schedules, so it's advisable to check in advance for availability. Additionally, rideshare and shuttle services also provide direct links, offering flexibility based on your travel preferences.
There are no direct commercial flights between Lake Tahoe and Sacramento since they are relatively close, about 100 miles apart. The drive typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, making flying impractical. If you were to consider a flight involving layovers, the total travel time could exceed 3 to 4 hours. Given this short distance, flights are not typically available, so costs would depend on connecting flights from nearby airports, which can range widely based on the airline and booking time.
Sacramento offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. You can choose from well-known hotel chains like Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton in the downtown area, which provide easy access to attractions such as the California State Capitol and Old Sacramento. For a more boutique experience, consider staying at local gems like The Citizen Hotel or Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, both of which offer unique atmospheres. Additionally, if you're looking for something cozier, there are plenty of vacation rentals and bed-and-breakfasts throughout the city and its picturesque surroundings.

Trips from Lake Tahoe

Trips to Sacramento