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

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

How to Get from Palo Alto to Oakland: 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 - Bus, BARTBest price
55 kmDistance
39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palo Alto to Oakland 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
BART
Average Duration
1h  38m
Estimated price
$14-19
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
BART
Average Duration
2h  14m
Estimated price
$5-10
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 55 km
Duration: 39m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  20m
Estimated price
$6-40
Company
Self
Drive
Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$6-9
Company
Taxi San Jose
Taxi
Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$190-230
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Traveling From Palo Alto to Oakland

The route from Palo Alto to Oakland offers a fascinating transition from Silicon Valley's tech-driven innovation to Oakland's vibrant arts scene and multicultural charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oakland

Oakland boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe and experiences.

Jack London Square
• Waterfront views and bustling dining options.
• Great spot for ferry rides and events.
Temescal
• Known for its eclectic shops and art galleries.
• A foodie paradise with trendy restaurants.
Rockridge
• Charming village atmosphere with local boutiques.
• Access to beautiful parks and quiet streets.

Best Times To Visit Oakland's Attractions

Timing can greatly enhance your experience at Oakland's attractions.

Oakland Museum of California
Weekdays, especially Wednesday mornings, provide a quieter experience.
Lake Merritt
Visit early morning or late afternoon for serene views and fewer crowds.
Jack London Square
Go on weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed ambiance and easier dining.

Oakland Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oakland enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. Optimal visiting periods are spring and fall, when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities flourish, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Oakland

Try the carne asada fries at Loco’s, where you can savor the bold flavors and laid-back vibe that truly contrasts with Palo Alto's fine dining scene. The casual atmosphere and use of local ingredients create a communal experience that celebrates Oakland's diverse culinary heritage.

Palo Alto - Oakland operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$5-140
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from Millbrae to 12th Street / Oakland City Center

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$9-143

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

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$1-6
Bus Show bus routes
Website
http://samtrans.com

Bus from Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 to San Bruno BART-Bay 5

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$1-5

Bus from Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 to Redwood City Caltrain-Lane B

Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$1-5
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
http://flixbus.com

Bus from Redwood City Station to Oakland

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$5-425
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010
Website
http://taxisanjose.com

Other from Palo Alto to Oakland

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$190-230

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

Traveling between Palo Alto and Oakland 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 Palo Alto to Oakland, covering a distance of 34 miles in just under 40 minutes by car. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $6 to $9 for this convenient trip between the two vibrant Californian cities.
Average price
$6 - $9
🚂 Traveling by train from Palo Alto to Oakland involves a transfer at Millbrae. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 1 hour and 38 minutes, offering a convenient and scenic way to reach your destination. 🚉 The trip begins at Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound station, where you will board the Caltrain service towards Millbrae. Upon reaching Millbrae, you will transfer to the BART train that will take you directly to 12th Street / Oakland City Center station. 🌉 Enjoy the comfortable and hassle-free ride as you traverse from Palo Alto to Oakland, admiring the views along the way. Once you arrive at 12th Street / Oakland City Center station, you will be in the heart of Oakland ready to explore all the city has to offer.
Departure Point
Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
12th Street / Oakland City Center station
🛫 Traveling from Palo Alto to Oakland by plane is a quick journey, taking only 1 hour and 38 minutes to reach your destination. 💸 The prices of flights between Oakland and Palo Alto can vary, with fares typically ranging from $14 to $19, making it a budget-friendly travel option.
🚌 Traveling from Palo Alto to Oakland by bus involves a journey with transfers that takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. The services operate from Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 to Oakland, making travel convenient for passengers. 🚌 For an affordable price ranging from $6 to $40, passengers can experience the 51.7-mile trip between Palo Alto and Oakland through a smooth bus ride. The route includes transfers and is operated by SamTrans and Flixbus USA, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience. 🚌 With a detailed route plan involving steps such as taking a bus towards San Francisco and then transferring to another bus towards 800 Richmond Bart, the journey from Palo Alto to Oakland provides a scenic experience while traveling through different locations with ease.
Departure Point
Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 station
Arrival Point
Oakland station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Palo Alto to Oakland is by taking a combination of bus and BART. You can take the Line 22 bus from Palo Alto to Hayward and then transfer to BART to reach Oakland. The cost for this journey is typically between $5 and $11. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Palo Alto to Oakland is by taxi. Taking a taxi would typically cost between $190 and $230 and the journey time would be approximately 39 minutes. This option provides the convenience of a direct transfer without the need to wait for public transportation. However, it is important to note that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions.
It is approximately 26 miles from Palo Alto to Oakland. If you are driving, the road distance is about 34.2 miles. The exact travel time will vary depending on traffic conditions.
The best way to travel from Palo Alto to Oakland without a car is to take the Caltrain and BART. Start by taking the Caltrain from Palo Alto Station to Millbrae Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From there, transfer to the BART and take the Richmond line to Oakland, which takes around 40 minutes. The total journey time is approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes. The cost of the ticket ranges from $14 to $19, depending on the time of travel and any discounts available.
The journey from Palo Alto to Oakland takes approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes, including transfers. There are multiple transportation options available, including driving, taking a bus, or using a combination of Caltrain and BART. Each option has its own estimated travel time, so it's advisable to plan your journey accordingly. Keep in mind that the travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Oakland. There are over 826 hotels to choose from, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Oakland start at $74 per night. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, you will find a variety of choices in the area to suit your needs.
Yes, you can drive from Palo Alto to Oakland. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 34 miles, and it takes about 39 minutes to complete the journey by car. However, please keep in mind that traffic conditions and road closures may affect travel time. It is recommended to check for any updates before starting your journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Palo Alto and Oakland. However, you can take a bus from Palo Alto Transit Center Bay 9 to Redwood City Station, and then transfer to another bus that goes to Oakland. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes. Make sure to check the schedules and plan your trip accordingly.
You can catch the bus from Palo Alto to Oakland at the Palo Alto Transit Center, specifically at Bay 9. This is the designated station for SamTrans, the operator of the bus service. It is recommended to check the bus schedule in advance to ensure you arrive at the station on time.
The Palo Alto to Oakland bus operated by Flixbus USA arrives at the Oakland station. The Oakland station is located in downtown Oakland, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city and access various transportation options. It is recommended to check the specific drop-off location and plan accordingly for your onward journey in Oakland.
The fastest way to get from Palo Alto to Oakland is by plane. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes. Prices for flights between the two cities range from $14 to $19. Taking a flight offers a quick and convenient option for traveling between Palo Alto and Oakland.
Trains from Palo Alto to Oakland arrive at the 12th Street / Oakland City Center station. This station is conveniently located in downtown Oakland, making it a convenient option. To reach other parts of Oakland, you can easily access local buses or ride-sharing services from this station. Additionally, the station is just a short walk away from popular attractions and landmarks in downtown Oakland.
No, there is no direct train between Palo Alto and Oakland. However, you can take a train from Palo Alto Caltrain to Millbrae and then transfer to another train that will take you to 12th Street / Oakland City Center. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes. It is important to check the train schedules and plan your journey accordingly to ensure a smooth trip.
To catch the train from Palo Alto to Oakland you will need to go to the Palo Alto Caltrain station. This is where the train services operated by Caltrain depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance to plan your journey accordingly. The station is easily accessible and has parking facilities available for your convenience.
The cost of a flight from Palo Alto to Oakland can range from $14 to $19, depending on the airline and booking time. It's important to note that the prices may vary and are subject to change. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel.
The cost of a bus ticket from Palo Alto to Oakland ranges between $6 and $40. The price may vary depending on factors such as the bus company, time of day, and availability. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal.
The cost to drive from Palo Alto to Oakland can vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle you are driving and the current gas prices. On average, the cost can range from $6 to $9 for a one-way trip. However, it's important to note that this estimate does not account for any tolls or parking fees that may be incurred during the journey. Additionally, the cost may change over time due to fluctuations in gas prices.
Yes, you can ride a bicycle from Palo Alto to Oakland. The route covers a distance of approximately 57 km and takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes to complete. It is a scenic route that allows you to enjoy the beautiful views along the way. However, it is important to plan your route carefully, take necessary safety precautions, and be aware of traffic regulations.

Trips to Oakland