1map logoGo to main page

Sacramento, CA, USA to San Jose, CA, USA from $21: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sacramento, United States of America
to
San Jose, United States of America

How to Get from Sacramento 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.

$21 - OtherBest price
187 kmDistance
2h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  6m
Estimated price
$5-90
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  1m
Estimated price
$21-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 187 km
Duration: 2h 1m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
3h  7m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
United Airlines / Caltrain
Plane
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$116-402
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sacramento to San Jose

The journey from Sacramento to San Jose offers a transition from California's capital, rich in history and government landmarks, to a vibrant tech hub filled with modern attractions and diverse cultural experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose

San Jose features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown San Jose
• Home to the San Jose Museum of Art.
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
Willow Glen
• Tree-lined streets with charming boutiques.
• Known for its cozy cafes and local shops.
Santana Row
• Upscale shopping and dining experience.
• Beautiful outdoor spaces for relaxation and events.

Best Times To Visit San Jose's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your San Jose experience.

The Tech Interactive
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and a more immersive learning experience.
Santana Row
Go during weekday afternoons to enjoy shopping and dining without the weekend rush.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Visit on Thursdays for a quieter experience, as local schools usually flock on weekends.

San Jose Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Jose enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting in the spring or fall often provides the best weather and fewer tourists, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Jose

Try the delectable pupusas at La Gourmet Restaurant, where this traditional Salvadoran dish bursts with flavor and showcases a different culinary flair than Sacramento's farm-to-fork ethos. The vibrant atmosphere and use of locally sourced ingredients create a dining experience that feels distinctly local and inviting.

Sacramento - San Jose operators

Explore transport companies operating between Sacramento and San Jose, 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 San Jose

Average Duration
3h 6m
Estimated price
$5-90
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$56-57
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

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
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$180-420

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

Traveling between Sacramento 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 picturesque journey from Sacramento to San Jose, covering a scenic driving distance of 117 miles. Enjoy the smooth ride that takes approximately 2 hours and 1 minute through the beautiful landscapes of California. 💸 Explore the budget-friendly options to travel by car from Sacramento to San Jose, with prices ranging from $21 to $35. Flexibility in pricing allows you to choose a comfortable and cost-effective way to reach your destination while enjoying the road trip experience.
Average price
$21 - $35
🚆 Traveling from Sacramento to San Jose by train is a convenient and enjoyable journey. The direct train operated by Amtrak runs every four hours, providing flexibility for travelers on any day of the week. The trip typically takes around 3 hours and 6 minutes, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the scenic route between the two cities. 🚆 The train service from Sacramento to San Jose is efficient, with departures and arrivals at the respective stations managed by Amtrak. With a distance of 134 miles, passengers can expect a smooth ride onboard the Capitol Corridor train. The prices for this route vary from $5 to $90, offering budget-friendly options for different travelers. 🚆 Whether you choose Route 1, Route 2, or Route 3, the journey from Sacramento to San Jose by train promises a travel time of approximately 3 hours, making it a convenient option for those looking to explore both cities. With reliable services provided by Amtrak and the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority, passengers can rest assured of a comfortable and seamless trip from Sacramento to San Jose.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
San Jose station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Amtrak Capitol Corridor service, you can enjoy onboard catering options, including snacks and beverages available for purchase from the café car. They offer a variety of items like sandwiches, salads, and drinks. Make sure to grab something before reaching your destination, especially if you have dietary preferences.
• The train offers different seating options, including Coach Class and Business Class. Coach Class is economical and includes comfortable seating with ample legroom, while Business Class provides more spacious seating and additional amenities. If you value extra comfort and amenities such as complimentary refreshments, consider upgrading to Business Class.
• For your route, the primary operator is Amtrak. You can check schedules and book tickets through their website: amtrak.com Alternatively, you may also consider Caltrain, which operates a service from nearby stations, and you can find their information at caltrain.com Always verify travel times and availability as these can change.
🛫 Embark on a seamless journey from Sacramento to San Jose by catching a quick flight from Sacramento Airport to San Francisco Airport. With United Airlines as a reliable option for this route, the direct flight takes just 1 hour and 7 minutes.
Departure Point
Sacramento Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 The total travel time for this bus trip, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 7 minutes. This route is operated by Amtrak, with departures from Sacramento station and arrivals at San Jose station. 🚌 While there are alternative routes with transfers to reach San Jose from Sacramento, the typical journey takes around 3 hours and 7 minutes to complete, offering a convenient bus travel option between the two cities.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
San Jose station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• For a smooth journey from Sacramento to San Jose, opt for the Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach via Stockton, as this method involves a single transfer and ensures a relatively quick 3h 7m trip, which is more efficient compared to other options.
• While waiting at Stockton's San Joaquin Street Station for your transfer to San Jose, consider grabbing a coffee or snack from one of the nearby cafes; local favorites like 'Denny's' and 'Starbucks' offer convenient, quick-service options to refresh you before continuing your trip.
• Upon arrival at San Jose's Amtrak station, familiarize yourself with the layout by reviewing the station map available at amtrak.com and check local transport options to your final destination; VTA light rail and buses provide easy connectivity to downtown and beyond.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sacramento to San Jose.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Sacramento and San Jose is 89 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes 3 hours and 6 minutes by train, 3 hours and 59 minutes by flying and taking Caltrain, 2 hours and 1 minute by car, and 3 hours and 7 minutes by bus. These times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Sacramento to San Jose is by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 1 minute to cover the distance of 116.5 miles. The cost of this option ranges from $21 to $35, making it a budget-friendly choice. Additionally, driving gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore any destinations of interest.
The prices for a train journey between Sacramento and San Jose can range from $5 to $90. The exact cost will depend on factors such as the type of train service, the class of seating, and the time of travel. It is recommended to check with the specific train company or website to get accurate and updated fare information.
To travel from Sacramento to San Jose without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 117 miles, which takes about 2 hours and 1 minute. The driving route allows you to have flexibility and control over your schedule. The estimated cost for a car journey ranges from $21 to $35, depending on factors like gas prices and tolls.
The most convenient way to travel from Sacramento to San Jose without a car is by taking a train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes, and ticket prices range from $5 to $90. This option allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenery, and it is a popular choice for travelers due to its affordability and convenience.
Yes, there is a direct link between Sacramento and San Jose. Amtrak operates train services that depart from Sacramento every four hours and arrive in San Jose, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes. However, there is no direct bus route between the two cities. Passengers would need to take a bus from Sacramento to Stockton, and then transfer to another bus that goes to San Jose, with a total travel time of around 3 hours and 7 minutes.
The flight duration between Sacramento and San Jose is approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes on the quickest direct flight. However, please note that this flight is from Sacramento Airport to San Francisco Airport, which may require additional travel from San Francisco to San Jose. As for the cost, it can vary depending on factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and any special promotions. To get an accurate estimate, it is best to check with specific airlines or travel websites.
There are a variety of options for accommodation near San Jose. With over 684 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels start at $49 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or a budget-friendly stay, there are plenty of choices available in and around San Jose.

Trips from Sacramento

Trips to San Jose