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Los Angeles, CA, USA to San Mateo, CA, USA from $25: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Los Angeles, United States of America
to
San Mateo, United States of America

How to Get from Los Angeles to San Mateo: 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.

$25 by trainBest price
597 kmDistance
3h 48m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles to San Mateo 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
Plane
Average Duration
3h  48m
Estimated price
$57-235
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
11h  21m
Estimated price
$25-164
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 597 km
Duration: 3h 48m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$72-291
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$83-294
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$113-570
Company
various
Plane
BART
Tram
Train
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$571-572
Company
various
Plane
BART
Tram
Train
Average Duration
4h  44m
Estimated price
$573-574
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
9h  12m
Estimated price
$575-573
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  11m
Estimated price
$576-577
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  12m
Estimated price
$578-579
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Traveling From Los Angeles to San Mateo

The journey from Los Angeles to San Mateo showcases a fascinating transition from the vibrant urban energy of Southern California to the serene charm of the Bay Area, where diverse landscapes and local culture await.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Mateo

San Mateo features a blend of charming neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Downtown San Mateo
• Lively restaurants and cafes abound.
• Rich history reflected in architecture.
Bridgepointe
• Scenic waterfront views for relaxation.
• Popular shopping and entertainment options available.
Hayward Park
• Tree-lined streets create a serene atmosphere.
• Family-friendly parks and playgrounds nearby.

Best Times To Visit San Mateo's Attractions

Planning your visit to San Mateo’s attractions can enhance your experience and minimize crowds.

Coyote Point Recreation Area
Visit early mornings on weekdays for a quieter experience along the trails.
San Mateo County History Museum
Afternoons during the week tend to be less crowded, allowing for leisurely exploration.
Central Park
Weekday mornings offer a peaceful ambiance, ideal for picnics and strolls.

San Mateo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Mateo enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and dry summers, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and local attractions.

Dining Recommendation in San Mateo

Try the fresh clam chowder at The Fish Market for a delightful seafood experience that reflects San Mateo's coastal heritage, a stark contrast to the diverse fusion cuisine found in Los Angeles. The laid-back atmosphere and focus on locally sourced ingredients offer a more intimate dining experience, allowing you to savor every bite in a cozy setting.

Los Angeles - San Mateo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and San Mateo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$2358-2359
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$2352-256
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$1641-1642
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$1641-250
Website
aa.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$1641-1640
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Jose

Average Duration
9h 55m
Estimated price
$837-838
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to San Mateo Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$834-836
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$2354-2357
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Redwood City Station

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$2350-2351

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$2354-2357
Drive

Drive from Los Angeles to San Mateo

Average Duration
6h 12m
Estimated price
$578-579

Los Angeles to San Mateo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles and San Mateo 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 Los Angeles to San Mateo, covering a distance of 371 miles. The journey offers a mix of coastal views, rolling hills, and urban landscapes. 💰 Depending on gas prices and toll fees, expect to spend between $65 to $100 for the drive from Los Angeles to San Mateo. Plan your budget accordingly and enjoy the flexibility of exploring new places along the way. 🛣️ With an approximate travel time of 6 hours and 12 minutes, the road trip from Los Angeles to San Mateo presents the perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems, try local cuisines, and create unforgettable memories on the go.
Average price
$65 - $100
🚄 Traveling by train from Los Angeles to San Mateo involves a scenic journey with one transfer in San Jose Diridon. The total travel time is approximately 11 hours and 21 minutes.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
San Mateo Caltrain Northbound station
🛫 Flying from Los Angeles Airport to San Francisco Airport on a direct flight takes just 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a quick and convenient journey. Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, American Airlines, and other carriers provide options for this route. 🌉 Once you land in San Francisco, you can expect a total travel time of around 3 hours and 48 minutes to reach San Mateo, located nearby. Several airlines operate flights between these cities, offering a range of prices from $57 to $235 for the trip.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚏 Passengers will depart from Los Angeles Union Station and make transfers at San Jose Diridon Station, Santa Clara & 2nd, and Palo Alto Transit Center before reaching their final destination in San Mateo. 💸 The cost of a bus ticket between San Mateo and Los Angeles ranges from $40 to $99, offering an affordable transportation option for travelers making this route.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Union Station
Arrival Point
San Jose Diridon Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to San Mateo.

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The distance between Los Angeles and San Mateo is approximately 335 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 370.8 miles. If you choose to travel by train and then Caltrain, it will take around 11 hours and 21 minutes. Taking a flight from Los Angeles to San Mateo is the quickest option, with a typical travel time of 3 hours and 38 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 6 hours and 12 minutes, while a bus journey can take around 9 hours and 4 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Los Angeles to San Mateo is by night bus, which typically costs between $30 and $110 and takes approximately 8 hours and 18 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, then flying is the quickest option, taking around 3 hours and 37 minutes and costing between $80 and $300. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
When traveling from Los Angeles to San Mateo the prices for a bus ticket range from $40 to $99. It is worth noting that prices can vary depending on the bus company and the type of service chosen. It is advisable to check with different bus companies to find the best and most affordable option for your trip.
To get from Los Angeles to San Mateo without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 371 miles, and it takes around 6 hours and 12 minutes to drive from Los Angeles to San Mateo. The prices for driving from Los Angeles to San Mateo by car can range from $65 to $100, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll fees.
To travel from Los Angeles to San Mateo without a car, your best options are to take a bus or a flight. The bus journey takes approximately 9 hours and 4 minutes and costs between $35 and $100. Alternatively, you can opt for a flight, which takes about 3 hours and 38 minutes and costs between $55 and $250. There is also the option of taking a combination of train and Caltrain, which would take approximately 11 hours and 21 minutes and costs between $24 and $170.
The flight between Los Angeles and San Mateo typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. However, it's important to note that this is the flight duration from Los Angeles Airport to San Francisco Airport, which is the nearest airport to San Mateo. The cost of a flight between San Mateo and Los Angeles can range from $57 to $245, depending on the airline, time of travel, and availability of tickets. It's recommended to check with different airlines and travel websites for the best deals and prices.
There is a wide range of accommodation options available near San Mateo. With over 510 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a place to stay that suits their budget and preferences. Prices start at $58 per night, providing affordable options for those on a tight budget. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly accommodations, there are plenty of choices available in San Mateo.

Trips from Los Angeles