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Sacramento, CA, USA to Monterey, CA, USA from $10: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Sacramento, United States of America
to
Monterey, United States of America

How to Get from Sacramento to Monterey: 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
224 kmDistance
3h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento to Monterey 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
$10-105
Recommended
route map
Distance: 224 km
Duration: 3h 13m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  43m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  42m
Estimated price
$10-100
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$147-443
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$166-571
Company
various
Train
BART
Plane
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$167-513
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Traveling From Sacramento to Monterey

The journey from Sacramento to Monterey offers a striking contrast, with Sacramento's vibrant city life transitioning into Monterey's picturesque coastal charm and serene ocean views.

Best Neighbourhoods in Monterey

Monterey features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

Cannery Row
• Home to historic canneries turned shops and restaurants.
• Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Pacific Grove
• Known for beautiful coastal trails and parks.
• Charming Victorian architecture and a relaxed atmosphere.
Downtown Monterey
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and art galleries.
• Rich history featuring museums and historic buildings.

Best Times To Visit Monterey's Attractions

Maximize your Monterey experience by choosing the right times to visit key attractions.

Monterey Bay Aquarium
Visit on weekdays in the early morning for fewer crowds and a better viewing experience.
Cannery Row
Explore early in the day or during weekdays to enjoy shops without the rush.
17-Mile Drive
Drive in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views and quieter roads.

Monterey Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Monterey enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool, foggy summers and mild, wet winters. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall, when temperatures are comfortable and activities are more enjoyable without seasonal crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Monterey

Try the clam chowder bread bowl at Cannery Row’s legendary chowder house, which delivers a taste of the ocean that's often missing in Sacramento's more landlocked cuisine. The warm, inviting atmosphere and fresh, local seafood create a dining experience that highlights Monterey's coastal heritage, offering a delightful contrast to the urban dining scene back in Sacramento.

Sacramento - Monterey operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Sacramento to Salinas

Average Duration
5h 18m
Estimated price
$100-103

Train from Sacramento to San Jose

Average Duration
3h 6m
Estimated price
$508-509

Train from San Jose to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from Sacramento to Stockton

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Jose to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Sacramento to Stockton

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Sacramento to Monterey

Average Duration
6h 43m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration
5h 6m
Estimated price
$166-571
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration
4h 48m
Estimated price
$300-10300
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Other from San Francisco Airport Domestic to Monterey - Calle Principal

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$505-5713

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

Traveling between Sacramento and Monterey 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 Sacramento to Monterey, a drive spanning 186 miles through the heart of California. Enjoy a road trip filled with diverse landscapes and captivating views along the way. 💰 Experience affordability and flexibility as the cost of driving from Sacramento to Monterey ranges from $30 to $50. Stop by charming towns and roadside attractions, making the most of your budget while creating lasting memories on this adventure. 🏖️ Arrive in Monterey after approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes of driving, ready to explore its beautiful coastline, renowned aquarium, and quaint shops and eateries. Embrace the laid-back vibe of this coastal town and unwind after your road trip from Sacramento.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from Sacramento to Monterey by train, with a travel time of approximately 6 hours and 39 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views along the way. 💰 Tickets for the train ride between Sacramento and Monterey range from $10 to $105, offering travelers a budget-friendly and convenient transportation option between these two California cities.
🛫 Flying from Sacramento to Monterey involves a journey with one stopover, typically taking around 5 hours and 48 minutes. 🌊 Once you land in Monterey, after about 5 hours and 6 minutes of flight time, you can explore the scenic coastal city known for its beautiful views, attractions, and seafood cuisine. Flight prices can range from $166 to $571 for this route.
Departure Point
Sacramento Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 48m and has one stopover
🚌 While there is no direct bus from Sacramento to Monterey, you can take a route that involves transfers in Stockton, San Jose, and Salinas Transit Center. The journey, including transfers, lasts about 6 hours and 43 minutes.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
Salinas Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sacramento to Monterey.

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The distance between Sacramento and Monterey is 139 miles. By train, it takes 6 hours and 39 minutes to reach Monterey from Sacramento. Alternatively, if you take a train and then a bus, the total travel time is 6 hours and 32 minutes. If you prefer flying, it takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes to reach Monterey from Sacramento. If you are driving by car, it takes 3 hours and 13 minutes to travel from Monterey to Sacramento. Finally, taking a bus from Sacramento to Monterey will take approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Sacramento to Monterey is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $10 to $110. Although it takes 6 hours and 39 minutes, it is a budget-friendly option. However, if you are looking for a time-efficient option, driving is the quickest way, taking only 3 hours and 13 minutes. The cost of driving ranges from $30 to $50.
The prices of a train ticket between Sacramento and Monterey can range from $10 to $105, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of travel. It is recommended to book in advance to secure lower fares. Additionally, prices may vary based on any promotions or discounts available at the time of booking.
To get from Sacramento to Monterey without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 186 miles. The drive takes about 3 hours and 13 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Renting a car or using your own vehicle would be the most convenient option, and the prices for car rentals typically range from $30 to $50.
The best way to travel from Sacramento to Monterey without a car is by taking a train and then a bus, which takes approximately 6 hours and 32 minutes. Another option is to take a direct bus, which has a similar travel time of 6 hours and 33 minutes. If you prefer a faster option, you can take a flight from Sacramento to Monterey, which takes about 6 hours and 10 minutes, but it would be more expensive.
There is no direct bus link between Sacramento and Monterey. However, there are bus services available that require transfers in Stockton, San Jose, and Salinas, which take approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes in total. The bus services are operated by Amtrak and depart from Sacramento station, arriving at Salinas Amtrak Station.
The flight between Sacramento and Monterey typically takes around 5 hours and 36 minutes with one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight available between the two airports. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $174 to $555 depending on factors such as the airline and time of booking. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deal for your specific travel dates.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Monterey. There are over 251 hotels available, offering a range of prices starting at $65 per night. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, you can find a suitable place to stay based on your preferences and budget. It is advisable to check different websites or contact a travel agent to find the best deals and availability for your desired dates.

Trips from Sacramento

Trips to Monterey