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Merced, CA, USA to San Jose, CA, USA from $21: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Merced, United States of America
to
San Jose, United States of America

How to Get from Merced to San Jose: 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.

$21 - DriveBest price
194 kmDistance
2h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Merced to San Jose 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
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  7m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$6-144
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 194 km
Duration: 2h 7m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
FlixBus, Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
3h  41m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  7m
Estimated price
$21-35
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
$28-43
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Traveling From Merced to San Jose

The journey from Merced to San Jose offers a shift from the serene charm of a smaller city to the vibrant energy of California's tech hub.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose

San Jose boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Santana Row
• Upscale shopping and dining options abound.
• Enjoy vibrant nightlife with trendy bars and lounges.
Downtown San Jose
• Cultural attractions like museums and theaters nearby.
• Home to food trucks and local eateries worth exploring.
Willow Glen
• Beautiful tree-lined streets and charming boutiques.
• Strong sense of community with local events and markets.

Best Times To Visit San Jose's Attractions

Planning your itinerary around key attractions can elevate your San Jose experience.

The Tech Interactive
Visit on weekdays, especially in the morning, to avoid family crowds.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Early afternoons during the week provide a quieter, more intimate experience.
San Jose Museum of Art
Thursday evenings often feature fewer visitors and special events.

San Jose Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Jose enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it accessible for travelers year-round. Visiting during spring or fall can enhance your experience, as pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds allow for easier exploration of the city’s attractions.

Dining Recommendation in San Jose

In San Jose, don’t miss out on the vibrant flavors of a bowl of pho at Pho 10, where the rich broth and fresh herbs reflect the city's diverse culinary scene. This experience stands in contrast to Merced's more straightforward dining options, offering a lively atmosphere and a celebration of local and international ingredients that adds depth to your meal.

Merced - San Jose operators

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

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

Train from Merced to Stockton

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$2-60

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

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$1440-1441
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Merced to Stockton

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$1445-65
Website
https://mercedthebus.com

Bus from Merced Transpo to Pacheco @ Target

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$1446-1440
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
https://tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Los Banos, CA to Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$26-63

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

Traveling between Merced and San Jose 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 journey from Merced to San Jose, spanning 121 miles and offering a drive time of around 2 hours and 7 minutes. Enjoy the changing landscapes and smooth highways as you make your way towards the bustling city of San Jose. 💰 Travel costs for a road trip from Merced to San Jose range from $21 to $35, providing budget-friendly options for exploring the vibrant attractions awaiting you in San Jose. Fill up your tank, pack some snacks, and hit the road for an affordable and exciting adventure through the heart of California.
Average price
$21 - $35
🚂 Traveling from Merced to San Jose by train involves a journey of approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, with a transfer at Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station. The route is operated by Amtrak and Altamont Corridor Express. 🛤️ Route options can vary in terms of duration, with transfers typically taking around 2 hours to reach San Jose from Merced. Travelers can choose between different train services, such as San Joaquins and Capitol Corridor, for a comfortable and scenic ride. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train between Merced and San Jose can range from $6 to $144, offering passengers affordable and convenient transportation options for their trip within California.
Departure Point
Merced station
Arrival Point
San Jose Amtrak Station
🚌 For travelers heading from Merced to San Jose by bus, be prepared for a journey with transferring in Stockton. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes. 🗺️ Depending on the route taken, the distance between Merced and San Jose ranges from 140 to 144 miles. Travelers can expect a comfortable and scenic bus ride through California, arriving at the San Jose station after a few hours of travel.
Departure Point
Merced station
Arrival Point
San Jose station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Merced to San Jose.

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The cheapest way to travel from Merced to San Jose is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, such as Greyhound and FlixBus, with ticket prices ranging from $8 to $40. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to check the schedules and prices in advance and book your ticket accordingly for a budget-friendly option.
The fastest way to travel from Merced to San Jose is by driving. It usually takes around 2 hours and 7 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The driving route typically costs between $21 and $35 for fuel expenses. However, it is important to consider factors such as traffic congestion and potential toll fees along the route.
It is approximately 78 miles from Merced to San Jose. The road distance is about 120.7 miles. The travel time may vary depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. It typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to drive from Merced to San Jose.
The best way to travel from Merced to San Jose without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus. First, you can take the Amtrak San Joaquin train from Merced to Santa Clara station, which takes approximately 2 hours and 38 minutes. From Santa Clara station, you can then transfer to a VTA bus that takes you to downtown San Jose, with an additional travel time of around 30 minutes. This option is convenient and typically takes around 3 hours and 7 minutes in total.
The travel time from Merced to San Jose usually takes about 3 hours and 7 minutes, including any necessary transfers. However, please note that this time can vary depending on traffic and the specific route taken. It is always a good idea to check for any delays or road closures before embarking on your journey. Overall, it is a relatively short and straightforward trip between the two cities.
There are plenty of options for accommodation in San Jose. You can choose from the 684+ hotels available, ranging from budget options to luxury resorts. Prices for hotels in San Jose start at $49 per night, offering a wide range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a cozy boutique hotel or a well-known chain, you'll be able to find a suitable place to stay near San Jose.
Yes, you can drive from Merced to San Jose. The driving distance between the two cities is 121 miles, and it usually takes around 2 hours and 7 minutes to reach San Jose by car. Please note that the travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Merced and San Jose. However, you can take a bus from Merced to Stockton and then transfer to a bus heading to San Jose. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes. It is recommended to check the schedules and plan your connections ahead of time to ensure a smooth journey.
You can catch the Merced to San Jose bus from the Merced station. The bus services are operated by Tufesa. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance and arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth departure.
The bus from Merced to San Jose arrives at the San Jose station. The San Jose station is a major transportation hub located in downtown San Jose and is served by various bus, light rail, and train services. It is conveniently located near popular attractions, hotels, and other amenities, making it a convenient arrival point for travelers. Upon arrival, passengers can easily access other parts of San Jose using public transportation or other modes of transportation.
Trains from Merced to San Jose arrive at the San Jose Amtrak Station. This station is conveniently located in downtown San Jose, making it easy to access other parts of the city. The San Jose Amtrak Station also offers various amenities and services including parking, ticketing, waiting areas, and restrooms. Passengers can easily transfer to other modes of transportation or explore nearby attractions from this centrally located train station.
Yes, there is no direct train between Merced and San Jose. However, there are train services available with transfers. You can take a train from Merced to Stockton-San Joaquin Street Amtrak Station and then transfer to another train that will take you to San Jose Amtrak Station. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes.
To catch the train from Merced to San Jose you will need to go to the Merced station. The train service is operated by Amtrak. The station is conveniently located in downtown Merced. Be sure to check the train schedule in advance and arrive at the station early to ensure a smooth departure.
The cost of a train ticket from Merced to San Jose can range from $17 to $87. The price may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, seating class, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check with the train company for exact fare details and any potential deals that could help minimize the cost.
The cost of a bus ticket from Merced to San Jose varies depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. On average, prices range from $8 to $38 per person. It is recommended to check with different bus providers such as Greyhound, Amtrak, or local transit agencies for the most up-to-date fares and schedules. Booking in advance or choosing off-peak travel times can sometimes result in lower ticket prices.
The cost to drive from Merced to San Jose can vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current gas prices. On average, the cost of gas for this trip is approximately $21 to $35. However, it's important to consider additional expenses like tolls and parking fees. It's always recommended to check for any road closures or construction updates before your trip to ensure a smooth journey.

Trips to San Jose