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Oakland, CA, USA to San Mateo, CA, USA from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Oakland, United States of America
to
San Mateo, United States of America

How to Get from Oakland 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.

$1 by busBest price
49 kmDistance
33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Oakland 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
BART
BART
Average Duration
1h  22m
Estimated price
$13-17
Recommended
Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 49 km
Duration: 33m

See more options

Company
various
BART
Bus
Average Duration
1h  28m
Estimated price
$5-10
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$5-8
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$170-210
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Oakland to San Mateo

Traveling from Oakland to San Mateo reveals a striking contrast, where Oakland’s vibrant urban culture meets San Mateo’s serene suburban charm.

Best Neighborhoods in San Mateo

San Mateo offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and activities.

Downtown San Mateo
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Hosts local events and farmers markets year-round.
Hayward Park
• Tree-lined streets with historic homes.
• Close to Central Park and recreational options.
Bayside Park
• Scenic waterfront views and trails.
• Ideal for outdoor activities and picnics.

Best Times To Visit San Mateo's Attractions

Planning your visit to San Mateo's attractions can significantly improve your experience.

Central Park
Visit early mornings on weekdays for a peaceful stroll without crowds.
Coyote Point Recreation Area
Midweek afternoons offer quieter trails and fewer visitors.
San Mateo County History Museum
Arrive during late mornings on Saturdays to enjoy a less crowded tour.

San Mateo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Mateo enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Spring and fall are particularly enjoyable for outdoor activities, while the cooler months can influence your travel plans, encouraging indoor exploration.

Dining Recommendation

When in San Mateo, try the wood-fired pizzas at the cozy restaurant Bella Vista, which offer a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from Oakland’s diverse food scene. The inviting atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients provide a dining experience that feels unique and intimate, perfect for unwinding after your travels.

Oakland - San Mateo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Oakland and San Mateo, 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
$9-12

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

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$4-6
Bus
Website
https://samtrans.com

Bus from Mission St & 1st St to S Delaware St & Cypress Ave

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$1-5

Bus from San Bruno BART-Bay 8 Outer Busway to El Camino Real & 2nd Ave

Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$1-5
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
https://yellowcabsf.com

Other from Oakland to San Mateo

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$170-210

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

Traveling between Oakland 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.

🚗 Venture on a scenic 31-mile journey from Oakland to San Mateo, just a short 33-minute drive away. 💰 Enjoy the budget-friendly trip, with prices ranging from $5 to $8 for the ride between these two Californian cities.
Average price
$5 - $8
🚊 Travelers will first depart from 12th Street / Oakland City Center station and then transfer at Millbrae Caltrain Southbound station to continue their journey towards San Mateo Caltrain Southbound station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes.
Departure Point
12th Street / Oakland City Center station
Arrival Point
Millbrae station
🛫 Flying from Oakland to San Mateo is a quick and convenient way to travel, with a flight time of just 1 hour and 22 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between these two cities can range from $13 to $17, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to make the short journey.
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Oakland to San Mateo, travelers can easily make the journey with a transfer along the way. The trip, including transfers, takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. 🌉 Route 1 involves taking two buses with different agencies to reach San Mateo from Oakland. The total distance of the route is 34.1 miles, with a duration of 1 hour and 48 minutes. The ticket prices vary from $1 to $5. 🚏 The first step of the journey includes a bus towards 800 San Francisco - 24th St Via Downtown Oakland, followed by a transfer to a bus heading to Palo Alto Transit Center. This travel route provides a convenient and affordable option for commuting between the two cities.
Departure Point
Mission St & 1st St station
Arrival Point
S Delaware St & Cypress Ave station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Oakland to San Mateo.

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The cheapest way to travel from Oakland to San Mateo is by taking a bus. There are several bus options available, such as AC Transit and SamTrans, which offer fares ranging from $1 to $5. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is an affordable and convenient option for budget-conscious travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Oakland to San Mateo is by taking a taxi. It typically takes around 33 minutes to reach the destination, depending on traffic conditions. However, it is important to note that this option is also the most expensive, with taxi fares ranging from $170 to $210. If you prioritize speed and convenience over cost, taking a taxi is the recommended choice.
The distance between Oakland and San Mateo is approximately 17 miles. If you are driving, the road distance is about 30.6 miles. The actual travel time will depend on the traffic conditions.
The most convenient way to travel from Oakland to San Mateo without a car is by taking the BART train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes and the ticket prices range from $12 to $17. You can catch the BART at any of the Oakland stations and it will take you directly to the San Mateo station. It is a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation, allowing you to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
The journey from Oakland to San Mateo takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes, including transfers. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by driving, as it is a distance of around 18 miles. However, the duration may vary depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, public transportation such as buses and trains are also available options and can offer a convenient way to reach San Mateo from Oakland.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Mateo. You can choose from over 510 hotels in the area. Prices for accommodations start at $58 per night, providing a range of choices to fit different budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or more affordable options, you'll find a variety of places to stay in San Mateo.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Oakland to San Mateo. The distance between the two cities is approximately 31 miles, and the drive takes around 33 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple routes you can take, such as taking I-880 S and CA-92 W or I-580 W and CA-238 S. Having a car provides flexibility and convenience during your journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Oakland and San Mateo. However, there are bus services available that require a transfer. The journey typically starts at the Uptown Transit Center and involves transferring at Mission St & 1st St before reaching the final destination at S Delaware St & Cypress Ave. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Please plan accordingly and check the bus schedule for the most up-to-date information.
The Oakland to San Mateo bus, operated by SamTrans, arrives at the S Delaware St & Cypress Ave station in San Mateo. This station is conveniently located near downtown San Mateo and is easily accessible for travelers. From there, you can easily continue your journey to your destination in San Mateo.
The fastest way to get from Oakland to San Mateo is by plane. It takes approximately 1h 21m to reach San Mateo from Oakland by plane. The prices for flights between the two cities range from $13 to $17. Flying allows you to save a significant amount of travel time compared to other modes of transportation such as driving or taking public transportation.
Trains from Oakland to San Mateo arrive at Millbrae station. Millbrae station is a major transportation hub, serving as a transfer point for trains, buses, and taxis. From Millbrae station, it is easy to reach San Mateo and other nearby destinations using public transportation. Simply follow the signs and directions to your desired mode of transportation.
No, there is no direct train between Oakland and San Mateo. However, you can take a combination of BART and Caltrain. Start by taking a BART train from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to the Millbrae station. From there, transfer to Caltrain and take a train to the San Mateo station. The entire journey, including transfers, takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes. Make sure to check the schedules for BART and Caltrain to plan your trip accordingly.
You can catch the train from Oakland to San Mateo at the 12th Street / Oakland City Center station. BART operates train services on this route. The station is conveniently located in downtown Oakland, making it easily accessible for travelers. Just make sure to check the train schedule and plan your journey accordingly.
The cost of a flight from Oakland to San Mateo typically ranges from $13 to $17. However, it's important to note that prices may vary depending on the airline, time of travel, and availability of seats. It's recommended to check with different airlines or online flight search engines to find the best deals and compare prices. Additionally, booking in advance or being flexible with travel dates and times can often result in lower fares.
The cost of a bus from Oakland to San Mateo ranges from $1 to $5. The price can vary depending on the specific bus company and route. It is advisable to check with different bus operators or online platforms for the most up-to-date ticket prices and deals. Overall, taking the bus is an affordable transportation option for traveling between the two cities.
The cost of driving from Oakland to San Mateo can vary between $5 and $8, depending on factors such as gas prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency. This estimate includes the cost of gas for the round trip, which is approximately 40 miles. It's worth noting that this estimate does not include any additional expenses such as parking fees.
Yes, you can definitely ride a bicycle from Oakland to San Mateo. The distance between the two cities is approximately 41 km, and it takes about 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete the route. Riding a bike allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way and also provides a great opportunity for exercise. Just make sure you have a good map or GPS to guide you on the most bike-friendly routes.

Trips from Oakland