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Merced, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $35: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Merced, United States of America
to
San Luis Obispo, United States of America

How to Get from Merced to San Luis Obispo: 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.

$35 by carBest price
311 kmDistance
3h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Merced to San Luis Obispo 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
5h  1m
Estimated price
$18-155
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  29m
Estimated price
$35-55
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 311 km
Duration: 3h 29m

See more options

Company
Greyhound / Amtrak Thruway
Bus
Average Duration
6h  29m
Estimated price
$27-133
Company
various
Train
BART
Plane
Average Duration
7h  9m
Estimated price
$147-561

Traveling From Merced to San Luis Obispo

Traveling from Merced to San Luis Obispo reveals a journey from the agricultural heart of California to a coastal gem known for its vibrant arts scene and scenic beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo features charming neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Downtown SLO
• Bustling shops and local eateries.
• Close to cultural events and festivals.
Cerro San Luis
• Offers stunning hiking trails and views.
• Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.
California Boulevard
• Home to beautiful parks and scenic routes.
• Great access to local wineries and vineyards.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Maximizing your visit to San Luis Obispo entails timing your attractions just right.

San Luis Obispo Mission
Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience and fewer visitors.
Bubblegum Alley
Best explored early in the day to avoid the afternoon crowds.
Farmers Market
Go on Thursday evenings for lively local vibes and fresh produce.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting during the spring or fall offers the best balance of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

Consider trying the wood-fired pizzas at SLO Brew Rock, where the vibrant atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients create a culinary experience distinctly different from Merced’s traditional fare. The bold flavors and creative toppings showcase the region's commitment to fresh, innovative cuisine, setting the stage for a delightful dining adventure.

Merced - San Luis Obispo operators

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

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

Train from Merced to Hanford

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$183-184

Train from Hanford to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$1557-1558

Train from Merced to Richmond

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
$1553-1551
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Merced Bus Stop to Visalia Transit Station

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$271-188

Bus from Visalia to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$270-1551
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
http://www.amtrak.com

Bus from Hanford to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
2h 46m
Estimated price
$1557-1558

Bus from Visalia to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
$270-1551
Plane Show flights
Website
http://www.united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$181-182

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

Traveling between Merced and San Luis Obispo 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 Merced to San Luis Obispo, covering a distance of 193 miles in approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. 💰 Enjoy cost-effective travel options with car prices ranging from $35 to $55 for the journey between Merced and San Luis Obispo.
Average price
$35 - $55
🛫 Flying from Merced to San Luis Obispo is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with the quickest flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport taking just 1 hour and 13 minutes.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 The trip from Merced to San Luis Obispo by bus requires a transfer in Visalia. The journey, with transfers, takes approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes. 💰 Bus tickets between San Luis Obispo and Merced can cost between $27 to $133. It's a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two cities in California.
Departure Point
Merced Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Merced to San Luis Obispo.

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The distance between Merced and San Luis Obispo is approximately 141 miles by air. However, by road, the distance is slightly longer at 193.2 miles. The travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train and then bus, it takes around 5 hours and 1 minute to reach San Luis Obispo from Merced. By car, it takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes to travel from Merced to San Luis Obispo. Lastly, by bus alone, it takes roughly 6 hours and 30 minutes to reach San Luis Obispo from Merced.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Merced to San Luis Obispo is to drive. It takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes to drive the distance of 193.2 miles, and the cost ranges between $35 and $55. This option allows for flexibility in terms of timing and offers a direct route between the two cities. Additionally, driving provides the opportunity to explore the scenic Central California region at your own pace.
The prices for a bus ticket from San Luis Obispo to Merced can range from $27 to $133, depending on factors such as the type of bus service and the time of travel. It is best to check with different bus companies or online travel platforms to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, prices may vary based on availability and any special promotions or discounts offered at the time of travel.
To get from Merced to San Luis Obispo without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 193 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes to complete the journey. The cost of gas for this trip can vary, but typically ranges from $35 to $55.
The best way to travel from Merced to San Luis Obispo without a car is by taking a train and a bus. This journey typically takes around 5 hours and 1 minute, and the cost ranges from $17 to $160. The train provides a comfortable and scenic ride, and you can then transfer to a bus for the remaining distance to San Luis Obispo.
There is no direct link between Merced and San Luis Obispo by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey from Merced to San Luis Obispo takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes with transfers in Visalia. These bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Amtrak. Please note that the availability and schedules of these services may vary, so it is recommended to check with the respective operators for the most up-to-date information.
The flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but the average price for a one-way ticket is around $150. It's recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deals.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Luis Obispo. There are over 213 hotels available, offering a variety of price ranges to suit different budgets. Prices start at $45 per night, ensuring there are options available for budget-conscious travelers. From luxury resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, there is a wide range of accommodations to choose from, providing visitors with a comfortable stay in the area.

Trips to San Luis Obispo