San Francisco, CA, USA to Merced, CA, USA from $9: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Francisco to Merced: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$9 by trainBest price

211 kmDistance

2h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Merced 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.

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Traveling From San Francisco to Merced

The journey from San Francisco’s bustling urban atmosphere to Merced’s laid-back charm reveals a fascinating contrast between city life and serene countryside.

Best Neighbourhoods in Merced

Merced offers a mix of vibrant neighborhoods catering to diverse interests.

Downtown Merced

• Home to local shops and restaurants.

• Hosts various community events year-round.

North Merced

• Known for its parks and outdoor activities.

• Features family-friendly amenities and schools.

South Merced

• Offers a blend of cultural diversity.

• Close proximity to Merced College.

Best Times To Visit Merced's Attractions

Visiting Merced's attractions is best enjoyed at the right time. Here are some tips for your trip.

Merced National Wildlife Refuge

Visit during early morning or late afternoon for optimal wildlife viewing.

Applegate Park Zoo

Weekdays are less crowded, allowing for a more leisurely experience.

UC Merced Campus

Explore in the spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer visitors.

Merced Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Merced experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it inviting for travelers year-round. Visiting during the spring and fall not only offers pleasant temperatures, but also enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Merced

Try the locally sourced tri-tip sandwich at The Branding Iron, a favorite spot known for its rustic charm and hearty flavors that differ from the trendy cuisine in San Francisco. This dish showcases the region's agricultural roots, offering a relaxed dining atmosphere where you can savor the rich, smoky flavors of grilled meats.

San Francisco - Merced operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Merced Bus Stop

Average Duration

3h 45m

Estimated price

$14-50

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Richmond to Merced

Average Duration

4h 20m

Estimated price

$9-95

San Francisco to Merced: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Francisco and Merced 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 San Francisco to Merced, covering a distance of 131 miles. Enjoy the picturesque drive through California's diverse landscapes. 🛣️ The drive typically takes around 2 hours and 16 minutes, offering a smooth and comfortable ride to Merced. Take this opportunity to soak in the beauty of the countryside along the way. ⛽️ The cost of driving from San Francisco to Merced by car ranges from $23 to $35, making it a budget-friendly option for a convenient and enjoyable road trip. Explore the charming town of Merced at your own pace after a pleasant drive.

Average price

$23 - $35

🚂 Traveling by train from San Francisco to Merced is a convenient option, despite the lack of a direct route. The journey, with transfers, takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes. 🎫 The prices for a train ticket between San Francisco and Merced can vary from $9 to $95. Despite the need for transfers, the journey offers a cost-effective and scenic way to reach Merced. 🌄 The route from San Francisco to Merced covers a distance of 154 miles and involves a transfer in Richmond. With Bay Area Rapid Transit and Amtrak services, travelers can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable trip through California's landscapes.

Departure Point

Richmond station

Arrival Point

Merced station

🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to Merced by bus is a convenient option, with services departing once daily and taking approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to reach your destination. 🚌 Ticket prices for the San Francisco to Merced bus route range from $14 to $50, offering an affordable transportation option for your trip between these two California cities.

Departure Point

San Francisco Bus Station

Arrival Point

Merced Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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The distance between San Francisco and Merced is approximately 112 miles or 131.1 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes to reach Merced from San Francisco. By car, it takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes to travel from Merced to San Francisco. Meanwhile, by bus, the typical travel time is around 3 hours and 45 minutes from San Francisco to Merced.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Merced is by bus, which typically costs $14-$50 and takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes. This option provides a combination of affordability and reasonable travel time. However, if time efficiency is a greater priority, driving is the quickest option, taking around 2 hours and 16 minutes. Though it may be slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from $23-$35, driving allows for more flexibility and a shorter travel time.

The prices for a train ticket between San Francisco and Merced range from $9 to $95. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Merced and San Francisco vary between $14 and $50. These prices can vary depending on factors such as the day of the week and the time of travel. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation companies for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

To get from San Francisco to Merced without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 131 miles, and it takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes to reach Merced by car. The prices for a car rental or fuel costs range from $23 to $35, depending on the type of vehicle and current gas prices.

To travel from San Francisco to Merced without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes and the ticket prices range from $14 to $50. There are several bus companies such as Greyhound and Amtrak that offer regular services between the two cities. It is a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation for those without a car.

Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Merced. You can take a train from San Francisco to Merced, which takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes with transfers. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus that departs once daily and operates every day, with a travel time of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. Both options provide convenient transportation between the two cities.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Merced. There are over 28 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $49 per night. These hotels vary in terms of amenities and location, so you can find one that suits your preferences and budget. It is always recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred choice of accommodation.