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Oakland, CA, USA to Palo Alto, CA, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Oakland, United States of America
to
Palo Alto, United States of America

How to Get from Oakland to Palo Alto: 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.

$5 by busBest price
55 kmDistance
40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Oakland to Palo Alto 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
BART
Train
Average Duration
1h  44m
Estimated price
$15-19
Recommended
Company
various
BART
Bus
Average Duration
2h  31m
Estimated price
$5-10
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 55 km
Duration: 40m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$6-9
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
1h  31m
Estimated price
$7-39
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$190-230
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Traveling From Oakland to Palo Alto

The journey from Oakland to Palo Alto presents an exciting contrast, with Oakland's vibrant cultural scene and eclectic neighborhoods giving way to Palo Alto's serene tech-driven environment and peaceful residential areas.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palo Alto

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

Downtown Palo Alto
• Vibrant dining and shopping options available.
• Home to cultural events and festivals year-round.
Professorville
• Historic homes with stunning architecture.
• Peaceful tree-lined streets ideal for leisurely walks.
Stanford Campus
• Beautiful gardens and iconic landmarks to explore.
• Rich in history with numerous museums and galleries.

Best Times To Visit Palo Alto's Attractions

Timing your visit to Palo Alto's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Stanford University
Visit early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy a quieter campus vibe.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Weekdays offer peaceful walks, avoiding the weekend crowds and noise.
Downtown Palo Alto
Evenings during weekdays are perfect for exploring shops and dining.

Palo Alto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palo Alto enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall, as the pleasant temperatures and lower rainfall enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Palo Alto

For a distinct dining experience, try the seasonal Tasting Menu at Protégé, where locally sourced ingredients create innovative dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty. This contrasts with Oakland's diverse and vibrant street food scene, offering a refined atmosphere where each plate is a celebration of flavors and creativity.

Oakland - Palo Alto operators

Explore transport companies operating between Oakland and Palo Alto, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to Millbrae

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$9-15

Train from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to San Bruno

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$3-6
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain Southbound to Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
$5-7
Bus
Website
http://samtrans.com

Bus from San Bruno BART-Bay 8 Outer Busway to Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$5-7

Bus from Redwood City Caltrain-Lane A to Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1

Average Duration
28m
Estimated price
$5-7
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
http://flixbus.com

Bus from Oakland to Redwood City Station

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$5-55
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
http://yellowcabsf.com

Taxi from Oakland to Palo Alto

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$190-230
Other Show other routes

Other from Oakland to Palo Alto

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$6-9

Oakland to Palo Alto: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Oakland and Palo Alto 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 drive from Oakland to Palo Alto, covering a distance of 34 miles. Enjoy the journey through the diverse landscapes of the Bay Area. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options as the cost of driving from Oakland to Palo Alto ranges from $6 to $9. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your budget. 🌆 Arrive in Palo Alto after approximately 40 minutes of driving, ready to discover the vibrant culture and attractions of this Silicon Valley city. Enjoy a seamless and enjoyable road trip experience from one Bay Area gem to another.
Average price
$6 - $9
🚆 Although there is no direct train from Oakland to Palo Alto, travelers can take a journey that includes transfers at Millbrae via the BART and Caltrain services. The total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes. 🌉 The train trip begins at the 12th Street / Oakland City Center station in Oakland and ends at the Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound station in Palo Alto. Passengers will enjoy a scenic route through the Bay Area as they make their way to their destination.
Departure Point
12th Street / Oakland City Center station
Arrival Point
Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound station
🚌 The journey from Oakland to Palo Alto by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes, including transfers. There is no direct bus service between the two cities. 🛣️ The total distance of the bus route from Oakland to Palo Alto is approximately 52.7 miles. The trip involves transfers and two steps, with a total travel time of 2 hours and 52 minutes.
Departure Point
Oakland station
Arrival Point
Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1 station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Oakland to Palo Alto.

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The cheapest way to travel from Oakland to Palo Alto is to take the BART and bus combination. The cost of this journey typically ranges between $5 and $11. It takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes to reach Palo Alto using this method. This option is not only the most economical, but it also offers a convenient and reliable transportation experience.
The fastest way to travel from Oakland to Palo Alto is by taking a taxi. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, please note that taking a taxi can be quite expensive, with fares ranging from $190 to $230. If you are looking for a quicker option but at a more affordable price, you may consider using rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft.
The distance from Oakland to Palo Alto is approximately 26 miles. If you prefer to travel by road, the road distance is slightly longer at 34.2 miles. The actual travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions and the route chosen.
The best way to travel from Oakland to Palo Alto without a car is to take the BART train from Oakland to Millbrae, and then transfer to the Caltrain to Palo Alto. This journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and the ticket price ranges from $14 to $19. The BART train can be accessed from the Oakland Coliseum or Lake Merritt BART stations, and from Millbrae, the Caltrain station is a short walk away. Be sure to check the schedules for both BART and Caltrain to plan your trip accordingly.
The journey from Oakland to Palo Alto typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation and any necessary transfers. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by car, taking either I-880 S and US-101 S, or CA-13 S and I-580 W. Alternatively, you can also take public transportation, such as BART and a bus, which may take a little longer but can be a more cost-effective option.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Palo Alto. You can choose from over 856 hotels in the area. Prices for hotels in Palo Alto start at $64 per night. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay near Palo Alto.
Yes, you can drive from Oakland to Palo Alto. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 34 miles, and it usually takes about 40 minutes to complete the journey by car. However, keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions, so it's always a good idea to check for any potential congestion before hitting the road.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Oakland and Palo Alto. However, you can take a bus from Oakland to Palo Alto with a transfer in Redwood City Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 33 minutes. The bus route is Oakland to Redwood City Caltrain, and then from Redwood City Caltrain to Palo Alto Transit Center.
To catch the bus from Oakland to Palo Alto you will need to go to the Oakland station. This is where the bus services, operated by Flixbus USA, depart from. Be sure to check the schedule and arrive at the station with enough time before your departure.
The bus from Oakland to Palo Alto arrives at Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1 station. The bus service is operated by SamTrans. This is the designated stop for passengers traveling between the two cities. It is conveniently located in Palo Alto, making it easy for travelers to reach their final destination in the area.
Trains from Oakland to Palo Alto arrive at Palo Alto Caltrain station. This station is conveniently located in downtown Palo Alto, making it easily accessible for travelers. It is an important transportation hub in the area and offers connections to other regions in California. From the station, it is easy to reach various destinations in Palo Alto and the surrounding areas.
Yes, there is no direct train between Oakland and Palo Alto. However, you can take a combination of BART and Caltrain to reach Palo Alto. You can board a BART train from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to Millbrae Caltrain station, and then transfer to a Caltrain train that will take you to Palo Alto. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
To catch the train from Oakland to Palo Alto you will need to go to the 12th Street / Oakland City Center station. This is where the BART train service operates from. Once you arrive at the station, look for the platform or designated area for the train heading to Palo Alto. It is advised to check the train schedule beforehand to ensure you are aware of the departure times from the station.
The cost of a bus ticket from Oakland to Palo Alto can range from $7 to $39, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. Different bus operators offer various fares, and prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and demand. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and book in advance to secure the best fare for your journey.
The cost of driving from Oakland to Palo Alto by car can range from $6 to $9, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. The distance between the two cities is approximately 36 miles, and the average drive time is around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to check for any tolls along the route and factor in the cost of gas to get an accurate estimate of the total cost.
Yes, you can ride a bicycle from Oakland to Palo Alto. The distance is approximately 57 km, and it takes about 3 hours and 11 minutes. There are various bike-friendly routes available, including the Bay Trail. Make sure to plan your route carefully, stay hydrated, and be mindful of traffic and safety.

Trips from Oakland