Los Angeles, CA, USA to Tahoe City, CA, USA from $27: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Los Angeles to Tahoe City: 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.

$27 by trainBest price

597 kmDistance

7h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles to Tahoe City 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.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Los Angeles to Tahoe City

Traveling from the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the serene landscapes of Tahoe City opens up a world of contrasting experiences, where urban energy meets tranquil mountain beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tahoe City

Tahoe City offers distinct neighborhoods that cater to diverse traveler preferences.

Downtown Tahoe City

• Vibrant shops and restaurants line the streets.

• Close access to Lake Tahoe's scenic waterfront.

North Lake Tahoe

• Stunning mountain views and outdoor activities abound.

• Offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

Homewood

• Charming small community feel with local dining.

• Access to ski slopes and beautiful hiking trails.

Best Times To Visit Tahoe City's Attractions

Strategic timing can elevate your experience at Tahoe City’s attractions.

Lake Tahoe

Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning views and fewer crowds.

Tahoe City Commons Beach

Enjoy weekdays in spring or fall for a peaceful beach experience.

Granlibakken Tahoe

Ski early in the morning during weekdays to enjoy pristine slopes.

Tahoe City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tahoe City experiences a diverse climate, characterized by warm summers and snowy winters, making it a year-round destination. Planning your visit around the weather can enhance your travel experience, whether you’re hitting the beach in summer or skiing in winter.

Dining in Tahoe City: A Unique Culinary Experience

A must-try dish in Tahoe City is the locally sourced Alaskan halibut at Christy Hill, where the focus on fresh, regional ingredients highlights the flavors of the mountains. This dining experience contrasts with Los Angeles by offering a cozy, intimate atmosphere with breathtaking lake views, creating a genuine connection to the natural beauty surrounding you.

Los Angeles - Tahoe City operators

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

Bus

Contact phone

+1 714-839-3500

Website

https://xedohoang.com/en

Bus from Chinatown Station to Sacramento

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

0-0

Bus from Sacramento to Truckee Amtrak Station

Average Duration

2h 30m

Estimated price

0-0

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Sacramento Bus Station

Average Duration

8h 45m

Estimated price

$459-2641

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Truckee

Average Duration

2h 40m

Estimated price

$1536-45

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$14032-45

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Los Angeles to Sacramento

Average Duration

13h 58m

Estimated price

$1537-451

Train from Bakersfield to Sacramento

Average Duration

5h 23m

Estimated price

$1536-2647

Train from Sacramento to Truckee Amtrak Station

Average Duration

3h 29m

Estimated price

$904-905

Train from Reno to Truckee Amtrak Station

Average Duration

1h 1m

Estimated price

$1403-1534

Plane

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration

1h 20m

Estimated price

$2641-279

Plane from Burbank (BUR) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$2642-2643

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration

1h 27m

Estimated price

$2647-270

Plane from Burbank (BUR) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration

1h 24m

Estimated price

$279-2648

Tram

Contact phone

+1-323-466-3876

Website

https://www.metro.net/

Tram from Historic Broadway Station to Del Amo Station

Average Duration

41m

Estimated price

$1403-1408

Los Angeles to Tahoe City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles and Tahoe City 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 journey from bustling Los Angeles to the serene waters of Lake Tahoe in Tahoe City, covering a driving distance of 500 miles. 💰 Budget-friendly options exist for this road trip, with prices ranging between $90 to $140 for a one-way trip from Los Angeles to Tahoe City by car.

Average price

$90 - $140

🚂 Experience the scenic journey from Los Angeles to Tahoe City by train, taking approximately 20 hours and 9 minutes. Relax and enjoy the beautiful views along the way as you make your way to this serene destination. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Los Angeles and Tahoe City range from $27 to $272, offering options to suit different budgets.

🛫 Flying from Los Angeles to Tahoe City is convenient and quick with the direct flight option to Reno Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. Several major airlines like JetBlue Airways, Delta, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines offer flights for this route. 🏔 Upon landing at Reno Airport, located close to Lake Tahoe, travelers can easily rent a car or take a shuttle to reach stunning Tahoe City. The scenic drive from the airport to the city takes around 1 hour, offering picturesque views along the way.

Departure Point

Los Angeles Airport

Arrival Point

Reno Airport

🚌 While there is no direct bus from Los Angeles to Tahoe City, you can take a route via Sacramento with a total journey time of approximately 12 hours and 57 minutes. 🛣️ The bus service, operated by Hoang Express, departs from Chinatown Station in Los Angeles and arrives at the Tahoe City Transit Center via Stockton Blvd & 65th St in Sacramento.

Departure Point

Chinatown Station

Arrival Point

Truckee Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to Tahoe City.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Los Angeles and Tahoe City is approximately 371 miles, or about 499.9 miles if driving. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes around 20 hours and 12 minutes to reach Tahoe City from Los Angeles by train, about 6 hours and 37 minutes by flying from Los Angeles to Reno and then taking a bus, 8 hours and 17 minutes to reach Los Angeles from Tahoe City by car, and 13 hours and 25 minutes by bus from Los Angeles to Tahoe City.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Los Angeles to Tahoe City is by bus and train, with ticket prices ranging from $27-$260. This option takes approximately 14 hours and 47 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly and then take a bus, which takes about 6 hours and 36 minutes with ticket prices ranging from $200-$370.

The prices for a train between Los Angeles and Tahoe City can range from $27 to $272, depending on factors such as the type of train, class of service, and time of travel. It is best to check with the train service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, prices for other modes of transportation may vary, so it is recommended to compare prices for options like flying or taking a bus as well.

To get from Los Angeles to Tahoe City without using public transportation, you can drive the 500-mile distance which takes around 8 hours and 17 minutes. This option allows for flexibility and the chance to explore different sights along the way. The cost of driving can vary between $90 to $140 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.

The best way to travel from Los Angeles to Tahoe City without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and 25 minutes and costs an estimated fare. There are no direct flights or train services between the two locations, so taking a bus is the most convenient option.

No, there is no direct link between Los Angeles and Tahoe City. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers. The journey starts at Chinatown Metro Station in Los Angeles and transfers at Stockton Blvd & 65th St in Sacramento and Truckee Depot before arriving at Tahoe City Transit Center. The total travel time for this journey, including transfers, is approximately 13 hours and 25 minutes.

The flight between Los Angeles and Tahoe City typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to Reno Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It's best to check with different airlines for current prices.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Tahoe City. With over 1014 hotels available, you'll have a wide range of choices. Prices start at $32 per night, making it possible to find something to fit your budget. Whether you're looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxurious resort, or a budget-friendly hotel, you'll find a variety of options to choose from in Tahoe City.