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

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from
Palo Alto, United States of America
to
Santa Clara, United States of America

How to Get from Palo Alto to Santa Clara: 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
22 kmDistance
17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palo Alto to Santa Clara 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
28m
Estimated price
$4-6
Recommended
Company
Santa Clara VTA
Bus
Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 22 km
Duration: 17m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$2-4
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$45-60
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Traveling From Palo Alto to Santa Clara

The journey from Palo Alto to Santa Clara offers a striking contrast between Palo Alto's serene tech-driven atmosphere and Santa Clara's vibrant energy infused with cultural diversity.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Clara

Santa Clara features diverse neighborhoods that cater to every traveler's interests.

Eastridge
• Home to the largest shopping mall in the area.
• Offers a variety of dining options and entertainment.
Santa Clara University
• Historic campus with beautiful architecture and gardens.
• Vibrant atmosphere filled with art and culture.
Winchester
• Known for its historic landmarks and attractions.
• Offers quiet residential streets with easy access to parks.

Best Times To Visit Santa Clara's Attractions

Timing your visit to Santa Clara's popular spots can significantly enhance your experience.

California's Great America
Visit on weekdays in early spring or late fall for shorter lines.
Levi's Stadium
Attend games during the off-peak hours for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Santa Clara Convention Center
Check the calendar for events; early mornings often have fewer crowds.

Santa Clara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Clara boasts a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Optimal visiting periods are spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant and ideal for exploring outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation

Try the carne asada fries at La Vicenta, a bustling local eatery in Santa Clara that showcases a rich, bold flavor profile distinct from the more subdued dining scene in Palo Alto. Here, you’ll experience a lively atmosphere and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the region’s diverse culinary heritage.

Palo Alto - Santa Clara operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palo Alto and Santa Clara, 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 California Avenue Caltrain Southbound to Santa Clara Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
28m
Estimated price
$4-6
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://vta.org

Bus from El Camino & California to El Camino & McCormick

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010
Website
http://taxisanjose.com

Taxi from Palo Alto to Santa Clara

Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$45-60

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

Traveling between Palo Alto and Santa Clara 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 short but scenic journey from Palo Alto to Santa Clara, covering a distance of just 14 miles. 💰 Enjoy an affordable ride with prices ranging from $2 to $4, making this trip cost-effective and convenient. 🌟 Experience the quick 17-minute drive between these two vibrant Californian cities, with smooth roads adding to the pleasure of your travel.
Average price
$2 - $4
🚆 Traveling from Palo Alto to Santa Clara by train is a quick and convenient journey. The direct train service operated by Caltrain departs hourly and takes approximately 28 minutes to reach the destination. 🚆 The route covers a distance of 14.3 miles, with the train departing from California Avenue Caltrain Southbound station in Palo Alto and arriving at Santa Clara Caltrain Southbound station. With the train service operating daily, travelers can easily plan their trip between these two cities. 🚆 Whether embarking on Route 1, Route 2, Route 3, or Route 4, passengers can expect a smooth ride towards Santa Clara. The train towards either Tamien or San Jose Diridon provides a hassle-free and efficient way to travel between Palo Alto and Santa Clara. Don't forget to contact Caltrain for any inquiries or visit their website for more information.
Departure Point
California Avenue Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
Santa Clara Caltrain Southbound station
🚌 The journey from Palo Alto to Santa Clara by bus is convenient and efficient. Services operate daily with buses departing every 10 minutes. 🛣️ The direct bus route covers a distance of approximately 14.3 miles and takes around 53 minutes to reach Santa Clara from Palo Alto. The bus departs from El Camino & California and arrives at El Camino & McCormick. 💵 Ticket prices for the bus between Santa Clara and Palo Alto range from $1 to $5. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride with Santa Clara VTA and expect a smooth journey to their destination.
Departure Point
El Camino & California station
Arrival Point
El Camino & McCormick station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palo Alto to Santa Clara.

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The cheapest way to get from Palo Alto to Santa Clara is by taking the line 22 bus, which is affordable at a cost of $1-$5. The bus ride takes approximately 51 minutes, making it a convenient option for budget travelers. This route allows you to enjoy the scenic views and explore the surroundings while saving money on transportation expenses.
The fastest way to travel from Palo Alto to Santa Clara is by taxi. The journey takes approximately 17 minutes and the cost ranges from $45 to $60. Alternatively, you can also consider using a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft, which may offer a similar travel time and cost. Keep in mind that traffic conditions and the time of day can affect the travel time.
The distance from Palo Alto to Santa Clara is approximately 12 miles. This is the straight line distance between the two cities. However, if you prefer to travel by road, the distance is slightly longer at 13.7 miles. It is important to keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation you choose.
The best way to travel from Palo Alto to Santa Clara without a car is by taking Caltrain. The Caltrain station in Palo Alto is conveniently located downtown, and the journey to Santa Clara takes approximately 25 minutes. Tickets for Caltrain range from $4 to $6, depending on the time of travel and type of ticket. Once you arrive in Santa Clara, you can easily explore the city on foot or use local transportation options such as buses to reach your final destination.
The journey from Palo Alto to Santa Clara typically takes about 25 minutes by Caltrain. This includes any transfers that may be required during the journey. The Caltrain operates hourly, allowing for convenient travel options throughout the day. It's advisable to check the train schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Santa Clara with over 828 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $75 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, there is a wide range of choices to suit your preferences and budget. It is recommended to compare prices and read reviews to find the best accommodation option for your stay in Santa Clara.
Yes, you can drive from Palo Alto to Santa Clara. The driving distance is approximately 14 miles, and it usually takes about 17 minutes to complete the journey by car. Please note that the travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Palo Alto and Santa Clara. The bus departs from El Camino & California and arrives at El Camino & Scott. The bus service operates every day and departs every 15 minutes. The journey usually takes approximately 51 minutes.
To catch the bus from Palo Alto to Santa Clara 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 schedule and arrive at the station early to ensure you don't miss the bus.
The Palo Alto to Santa Clara bus services operated by Santa Clara VTA arrive at the El Camino & Scott station. This station is located in Santa Clara is a convenient location to access the city and explore its attractions. The station is situated on El Camino Real, close to Scott Boulevard.
Trains from Palo Alto to Santa Clara arrive at the Santa Clara Caltrain station. This station is located in downtown Santa Clara and is easily accessible for travelers. From there, travelers can explore the city and its nearby attractions. Additionally, the Santa Clara Caltrain station provides convenient connections to other transportation options in the area.
Yes, there is a direct train between Palo Alto and Santa Clara. The train departs from California Avenue Caltrain and arrives at Santa Clara Caltrain. The train services run hourly and operate every day. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelling between the two cities.
To catch the train from Palo Alto to Santa Clara you will need to go to the California Avenue Caltrain station. This is the designated train station for the Palo Alto area. Caltrain operates services that connect these two cities. Make sure to check the train schedule and plan your journey accordingly.
The cost of a bus ticket from Palo Alto to Santa Clara can range from $1 to $5, depending on the specific bus route and any applicable discounts. It is recommended to check with the local transit authority or bus company for the most up-to-date fares. Additionally, discounted fares may be available for seniors, students, or individuals with disabilities.
The cost to drive from Palo Alto to Santa Clara can vary depending on factors such as the type of car, fuel efficiency, and current gas prices. On average, the cost of gas for this trip would be around $2 to $4. It's important to consider other expenses such as tolls and parking fees. Additionally, traffic conditions and travel time should be taken into account when deciding to drive between these cities.
Yes, you can ride a bicycle from Palo Alto to Santa Clara. The distance of the route is approximately 22 km, and it usually takes around 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete the journey. There are bike lanes and paths available that can be used for a safe and enjoyable ride. Just make sure to follow traffic rules and stay aware of your surroundings while riding.