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San Jose, CA, USA to Madera, CA, USA from $20: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Jose to Madera: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$20 by busBest price
169 kmDistance
2h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose to Madera 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
Tufesa
Bus
Average Duration
3h  50m
Estimated price
$54-75
Recommended
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
5h  1m
Estimated price
$20-61
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 169 km
Duration: 2h 17m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  17m
Estimated price
$23-35
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$200-563
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Jose to Madera

The journey from San Jose to Madera offers a transition from the tech-driven hustle of Silicon Valley to the serene charm of California's agricultural heartland.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madera

Madera's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Downtown Madera
• Home to local shops and restaurants.
• Features historic architecture and vibrant street life.
Madera Ranchos
• Scenic views and spacious properties.
• Close proximity to outdoor recreational activities.
University of California, Merced Area
• Nearby campus adds youthful energy and culture.
• Offers access to university events and exhibitions.

Best Times To Visit Madera's Attractions

Planning your visit to Madera? Here are ideal times for major attractions.

Madera Wine Trail
Visit during the mid-week, when tastings are quieter and more personal.
Madera County Historical Society
Early mornings on weekends offer a peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds.
Golden Valley Sports Park
Weekday afternoons provide a relaxed environment for enjoying outdoor activities.

Madera Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madera enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting in spring and fall often offers comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

For an authentic taste of Madera, try the tri-tip steak at a local barbecue joint like The Branding Iron, where the smoky flavors and rustic atmosphere stand in stark contrast to the diverse culinary scene in San Jose. This dining experience highlights local ingredients and traditional preparation methods, offering you a unique slice of California's agricultural bounty.

San Jose - Madera operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose to Fresno, CA

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$35-50
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Hayward Bus Station to Madera Bus Stop

Average Duration
3h 29m
Estimated price
$546-5455
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$542-543
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Fresno Airport (FAT)

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$540-541

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

Traveling between San Jose and Madera 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 road trip from San Jose to Madera, covering a distance of 129 miles. Enjoy roughly 2 hours and 17 minutes of picturesque views as you make your way towards Madera. 💸 With car travel costs ranging between $23 to $35, this journey offers an affordable and flexible way to explore the beautiful landscapes between these two California cities.
Average price
$23 - $35
🛫 The quickest way to travel from San Jose to Madera by plane is to take a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Fresno Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 7 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between Madera and San Jose can range from $200 to $563, making it a relatively affordable and accessible journey for travelers looking to explore these California destinations.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Fresno Airport
🚌 While there is no direct bus from San Jose to Madera, travelers can take a bus service operated by Tufesa departing from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose. The journey includes transfers and takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. 💸 The prices for bus tickets from Madera to San Jose range from $54 to $75, providing budget-friendly transportation for those making the trip. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable ride and scenic views during this journey through central California.
Departure Point
Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose station
Arrival Point
Fresno, CA station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Jose and Madera is approximately 105 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 129 miles. By car, it typically takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, if you prefer to take a bus, the travel time is usually around 3 hours and 50 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Jose to Madera is by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach Madera from San Jose by car, and the cost ranges between $23-$35. Additionally, driving allows for flexibility and convenience as you can leave and arrive at your own preferred times. Other modes of transportation, such as taking a bus, may be cheaper but can take significantly longer, approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes.
The prices of a bus between Madera and San Jose range from $32 to $45. There may be different factors affecting the variation in price such as the day of the week, time of day, or the bus company operating the route. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to find the best available prices for the desired travel dates.
To travel from San Jose to Madera without public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 129 miles and it takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach Madera from San Jose by car. The cost of the trip varies depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but typically ranges from $23 to $35 for a one-way journey.
To travel from San Jose to Madera without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes and the fare ranges between $30 to $45. There are several bus companies that operate this route, providing a convenient and affordable way to reach Madera. Simply check the bus schedules and purchase your ticket to enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus from San Jose to Madera, however, there are services available. The journey typically involves taking a bus from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose to Fresno and then transferring to another bus to reach Madera. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3h 50m. The bus services are operated by Tufesa.
There are several hotels available in Madera with prices starting at $79 per night. Some popular options include the Quality Inn Madera by Wyndham Madera, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott Madera. These hotels offer a range of amenities and services to cater to different needs and budgets. It is advisable to book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation in Madera.

Trips from San Jose