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Palo Alto, CA, USA to San Jose, CA, USA from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palo Alto, United States of America
to
San Jose, United States of America

How to Get from Palo Alto to San Jose: 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
27 kmDistance
20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palo Alto to San Jose 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
Caltrain
Train
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$5-7
Recommended
Company
Santa Clara VTA
Bus
Average Duration
1h  13m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 27 km
Duration: 20m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$3-5
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$55-70
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Traveling From Palo Alto to San Jose

Traveling from Palo Alto to San Jose offers a transition from the serene atmosphere of a small tech hub to the vibrant energy of a bustling city, showcasing distinct lifestyles and experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose

San Jose offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown San Jose
• Bustling dining and nightlife scene
• Rich cultural attractions and theaters
Willow Glen
• Tree-lined streets and boutique shops
• Quaint cafes and a small-town feel
Santana Row
• Upscale shopping and dining options
• Vibrant outdoor spaces for socializing

Best Times To Visit San Jose's Attractions

Timing your visit to San Jose's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

The Tech Interactive
Visit early on weekdays for a quieter, more immersive experience.
San Jose Museum of Art
Mornings on Saturdays draw fewer visitors, ideal for art enthusiasts.
Winchester Mystery House
Tour in late afternoon to enjoy less crowded paths and cool weather.

San Jose Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Jose enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a welcoming destination year-round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant, often enhancing outdoor experiences at local attractions.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, try La Victoria Taqueria, known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, which stand in stark contrast to the more health-conscious options found in Palo Alto. The lively atmosphere and bold dishes, especially their famous orange sauce burrito, create an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of San Jose's diverse culinary scene.

Palo Alto - San Jose operators

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

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

Train from California Avenue Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$5-7
Bus
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://vta.org

Bus from El Camino & California to Santa Clara & Montgomery

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010
Website
http://taxisanjose.com

Taxi from Palo Alto to San Jose

Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$55-70
Other Show other routes

Other from Palo Alto to San Jose

Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$3-5

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

Traveling between Palo Alto and San Jose 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 17-mile journey by car from Palo Alto to San Jose, with an average travel time of just 20 minutes. 💸 Enjoy budget-friendly transportation options ranging from $3 to $5 for a convenient ride between these two vibrant California cities.
Average price
$3 - $5
🚆 The journey from Palo Alto to San Jose by train is a quick and convenient option, taking approximately 37 minutes. The direct train service operates hourly, making it easy to plan your travel. 🚆 Covering a distance of 16.8 miles, the train route from Palo Alto to San Jose offers a smooth ride with beautiful scenery along the way. The Caltrain service ensures a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers. 🚆 For more information on train schedules, bookings, and any other inquiries, you can contact Caltrain at 1 660-4287 or visit their website at http://www.caltrain.com/.
Departure Point
California Avenue Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound station
🚌 The bus services between these two cities operate every day, with departures occurring every 10 minutes. With a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes, passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride through the Bay Area. 🚌 Whether you're commuting for work or exploring the neighboring cities, the affordable bus fares ranging from $1 to $5 make this a cost-effective transportation option for travelers between Palo Alto and San Jose.
Departure Point
El Camino & California station
Arrival Point
Santa Clara & Montgomery station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palo Alto to San Jose.

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The cheapest way to travel from Palo Alto to San Jose is by taking the Line 22 bus. The bus fare ranges from $1 to $5, making it an affordable option for budget travelers. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes, allowing you to reach San Jose at a reasonable price and within a reasonable time frame.
The fastest way to travel from Palo Alto to San Jose is by taxi. The taxi ride takes only 20 minutes, making it the quickest option. However, it is important to note that this is also the most expensive option, with taxi fares ranging from $55 to $70. Other transportation options, such as buses and trains, may take longer but are more cost-effective.
The distance between Palo Alto and San Jose is approximately 15 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 17 miles. It typically takes around 20-30 minutes to drive between the two cities depending on traffic conditions. There are also public transportation options available such as bus and train services that can be used to commute between Palo Alto and San Jose.
The best way to travel from Palo Alto to San Jose without a car is to take the Caltrain. The Caltrain is a convenient and affordable option, with a journey time of approximately 33 minutes and fares ranging from $5 to $7. You can catch the Caltrain at the Palo Alto Station and it will take you directly to the San Jose Diridon Station in downtown San Jose. From there, you can easily explore the city or connect to other modes of transportation.
The journey from Palo Alto to San Jose typically takes around 33 minutes by Caltrain with transfers. The trains operate hourly, making it a convenient option for travelers. However, it's important to check the departure times and plan accordingly to avoid any delays. Overall, the Caltrain provides a quick and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
There are plenty of accommodations options available near San Jose. You can choose from over 684 hotels, with prices starting at $49 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Marriott, Hilton, and Holiday Inn. It is recommended to book your stay in advance to ensure availability and to compare prices for the best deals.
Yes, you can drive from Palo Alto to San Jose. The driving distance is approximately 17 miles and it typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. You can take either US-101 or CA-85 to reach San Jose from Palo Alto.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Palo Alto and San Jose. The bus departs from El Camino & California and arrives at Santa Clara & Montgomery. The bus service operates every day and departs approximately every 15 minutes. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes.
To catch the bus from Palo Alto to San Jose you will need to go to the El Camino & California station. This is where the bus services, operated by Santa Clara VTA, depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
The bus from Palo Alto to San Jose arrives at the Santa Clara & Montgomery station. This station is located in San Jose and is a convenient destination for those traveling from Palo Alto. The Santa Clara & Montgomery station is easily accessible and offers connections to various other transit options in San Jose.
Yes, you can ride a bicycle from Palo Alto to San Jose. The distance between the two cities is approximately 34 km, and it takes about 1 hour and 56 minutes to complete the journey. The route from Palo Alto to San Jose offers bike lanes and cycling paths, making it a convenient and enjoyable option for cyclists. Before setting off, make sure to check the weather and plan your route accordingly for a safe and comfortable bike ride.
Trains from Palo Alto to San Jose arrive at the San Jose Diridon Caltrain station. This is the main train station in San Jose and is conveniently located in downtown. From here, you can easily access other parts of the city or transfer to other modes of transportation. The station is well-served by local buses and taxis, making it a convenient hub for further travel in San Jose.
Yes, there is a direct train between Palo Alto and San Jose. The train departs from California Avenue Caltrain and arrives at San Jose Diridon Caltrain. The service operates hourly, every day. The journey takes approximately 33 minutes.
To catch the train from Palo Alto to San Jose you can go to the California Avenue Caltrain station. This station is located in Palo Alto and serves as a convenient departure point for the Caltrain services. Make sure to check the train schedule beforehand to plan your trip accordingly. The Caltrain is a popular mode of transportation between these two cities and offers a comfortable and efficient journey.
The cost of a bus ticket from Palo Alto to San Jose ranges from $1 to $5. The specific price will depend on the bus company and the time of travel. It is best to check with the bus service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost to drive from Palo Alto to San Jose typically ranges from $3 to $5 USD, depending on the current gas prices and the vehicle's fuel efficiency. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the round trip, as well as any potential tolls. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may be higher during peak travel times.

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