1map logoGo to main page

Palo Alto, CA, USA to Sacramento, CA, USA from $10: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Palo Alto to Sacramento: 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.

$10 by trainBest price
186 kmDistance
2h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palo Alto to Sacramento 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
4h  7m
Estimated price
$17-54
Recommended
Company
Capitol Corridor
Train
Average Duration
4h  42m
Estimated price
$10-96
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 186 km
Duration: 2h 4m

See more options

Company
various
BART
Train
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$18-96
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  4m
Estimated price
$21-35
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$54-58
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$114-170
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Palo Alto to Sacramento

Traveling from Palo Alto to Sacramento reveals a shift from the tech-driven ambiance of Silicon Valley to the vibrant political and cultural pulse of California’s capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sacramento

Sacramento's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences and attractions for every visitor.

Midtown
• Trendy cafes and restaurants abound.
• Vibrant street art and nightlife scene.
Old Sacramento
• Historic Gold Rush-era buildings.
• Riverfront access and fun shops.
East Sacramento
• Beautiful tree-lined streets and parks.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with great schools.

Best Times To Visit Sacramento's Attractions

Knowing the best times to visit Sacramento's attractions helps you enjoy a smoother experience.

California State Capitol Museum
Visit during weekdays early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Old Sacramento
Go on weekdays in the late afternoon for a quieter stroll.
William Land Park
Early morning or late afternoon offers pleasant weather and fewer visitors.

Sacramento Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sacramento enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant seasons to visit. Understanding the weather helps you plan activities, ensuring you make the most of your trip, whether you're exploring outdoor attractions or attending local events.

Dining Recommendation in Sacramento

A visit to Sacramento isn't complete without trying the local favorite, the famous farm-to-fork grilled tri-tip at Jack's Urban Eats, where bold flavors and fresh, locally sourced ingredients shine. This dining experience stands in contrast to the tech-inspired cuisine of Palo Alto, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a deeper connection to California's agricultural roots.

Palo Alto - Sacramento operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palo Alto and Sacramento, 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 San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$175-176

Train from Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$172-175
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Sacramento

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$172-173

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$10-540
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Sacramento

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$10-1785
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
vta.org

Bus from El Camino & Oxford to Tully & King

Average Duration
1h 47m
Estimated price
$179-172
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$180-174

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

Traveling between Palo Alto and Sacramento 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.

🚗 As you prepare for your road trip from Palo Alto to Sacramento, get ready for a scenic drive covering 116 miles of California's diverse landscapes. 💰 Depending on gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency, budget between $21 and $35 for the journey to Sacramento from Palo Alto. 🛣️ Expect a smooth 2-hour and 4-minute drive on well-maintained highways, allowing you to enjoy the journey and arrive in Sacramento ready to explore all the capital city has to offer.
Average price
$21 - $35
🚆 Traveling by train from Palo Alto to Sacramento involves multiple transfers, with a total journey time of around 4 hours and 30 minutes. The route includes stops at Millbrae and Richmond before reaching the final destination in Sacramento. 🎫 Train services for this trip are operated by both BART and Amtrak, offering a comfortable and scenic way to travel between the two cities. Prices for the train tickets vary, ranging from $10 to $96 depending on the class and availability.
Departure Point
Millbrae station
Arrival Point
Sacramento station
🛫 Flying from Palo Alto to Sacramento is a convenient and efficient way to travel. The quickest option is a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport, which takes only 57 minutes. 🌟 United Airlines provides flights for this route, offering a reliable choice for travelers. In just over 3 hours, passengers can go from Palo Alto to Sacramento, enjoying a smooth and comfortable journey. 💸 The cost of a flight between Sacramento and Palo Alto ranges from $114 to $400, making it a relatively affordable option for those looking to travel quickly between these two cities.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Sacramento Airport
🚌 Planning a bus trip from Palo Alto to Sacramento? While there's no direct route available, you can easily navigate through transfers to reach your destination in approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. 🛣️ Route options vary in terms of timings and transfers, with distances ranging from 133 to 150 miles between the two cities. Make sure to check the different bus agencies and departure points for each leg of your journey. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Sacramento and Palo Alto can range from $17 to $54, offering budget-friendly transportation options for your travel convenience.
Departure Point
El Camino & Oxford station
Arrival Point
Sacramento station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from Palo Alto to Sacramento is by driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 125 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 4 minutes to reach Sacramento by car. The estimated cost of driving includes fuel expenses, which generally range from $21 to $35 for this trip.
The fastest way to travel from Palo Alto to Sacramento is by driving. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of driving is $21 to $35, considering the distance and fuel prices. This option allows for flexibility and convenience, as you can choose your departure time and make stops along the way if needed.
The distance from Palo Alto to Sacramento is approximately 87 miles. If you were to drive, the road distance would be slightly longer at about 115.8 miles. The driving route typically takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes. Keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose to take.
The most convenient way to travel from Palo Alto to Sacramento without a car is by taking the train. You can catch an Amtrak train from the Palo Alto Caltrain Station to the Sacramento Valley Station. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes, depending on the train and schedule. The ticket prices range from $9 to $95, depending on the type of seat and class you choose.
The journey from Palo Alto to Sacramento typically takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes, including transfers. The exact duration can vary depending on factors such as traffic and the mode of transportation chosen. It is advisable to consider alternative routes or transportation options to minimize travel time and ensure a smooth journey.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Sacramento. There are over 255 hotels available, catering to various budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in the area start at $57 per night, providing affordable options for travelers. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Palo Alto to Sacramento. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 116 miles. It usually takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes to complete the journey by car. However, please note that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose.
No, there is no direct bus between Palo Alto and Sacramento. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey begins at the Palo Alto Transit Center and includes a transfer at Daly City BART Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. It is recommended to check the schedules and plan accordingly for any connections.
You can catch the bus from Palo Alto to Sacramento at the Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 station. This is where the bus services, operated by SamTrans, depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance and arrive at the station on time to ensure a smooth journey.
The bus from Palo Alto to Sacramento arrives at the Sacramento station. The bus service is operated by Flixbus USA. This is a convenient and affordable option for traveling between the two cities. Upon arrival at the Sacramento station, you can easily access various transportation options to continue your journey within the city.
United Airlines is the main airline that offers flights between Palo Alto and Sacramento. The flights are operated from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport. There are multiple daily flights available, providing passengers with flexible options for their travel. It is advisable to check with the airline for the most up-to-date flight schedules and prices.
The fastest way to travel from Palo Alto to Sacramento is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport, which takes approximately 51 minutes. United Airlines offers flights between these two airports, with a travel time of 3 hours and 7 minutes. The prices for flights between Sacramento and Palo Alto range from $104 to $380.
The flight from Palo Alto to Sacramento typically takes around 51 minutes. The quickest route is a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport. However, please keep in mind that the actual flight time may vary due to factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is always recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight schedule.
Trains from Palo Alto to Sacramento arrive at the Sacramento station. Amtrak operates train services on this route. This station is located in downtown Sacramento, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city after their journey. The Sacramento station is well-equipped with facilities such as ticketing counters, waiting areas, restrooms, and food options.
Yes, there is a direct train between Palo Alto and Sacramento. The Capitol Corridor line operated by Amtrak connects the two cities. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, and there are multiple departures throughout the day. The train offers comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and scenic views along the way. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
To catch the train from Palo Alto to Sacramento you will need to go to the Santa Clara Amtrak station. Amtrak operates train services on this route. It is recommended to check the train schedule and purchase your ticket in advance. The train journey offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel between the two cities.
The cost of a flight from Palo Alto to Sacramento can vary between $104 and $380, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and seat availability. It is advisable to search for flights on different airline websites or use online travel agencies to compare prices and find the best deal. Keep in mind that prices may also be affected by factors such as the season and day of the week, so it's recommended to be flexible with your travel dates to potentially find cheaper options.
The cost of a train ticket from Palo Alto to Sacramento can range from $10 to $91, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. It is recommended to book in advance to secure lower fares. Additionally, discounts may be available for seniors, students, and members of certain groups or organizations. It is best to check with Amtrak or other railway providers for specific pricing details and promotions.
The cost of a bus from Palo Alto to Sacramento can range from $11 to $54, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. Some bus services offer discounted fares for students, seniors, and military personnel. It's recommended to check the websites of bus companies such as Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus for the most up-to-date pricing and any current promotions or discounts.
The cost to drive from Palo Alto to Sacramento ranges from $21 to $35. This cost includes fuel expenses and toll fees, if applicable. The total driving distance is approximately 122 miles, and the journey typically takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is advisable to plan accordingly and consider factors such as rush hour traffic and any necessary rest stops along the way.

Trips to Sacramento