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San Jose, CA, USA to Monterey, CA, USA from $13: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Jose 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.

$13 - DriveBest price
116 kmDistance
1h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose 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
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  36m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$5-74
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 116 km
Duration: 1h 17m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  17m
Estimated price
$13-19
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  35m
Estimated price
$40-50
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Traveling From San Jose to Monterey

The journey from San Jose, a bustling tech hub, to Monterey, known for its stunning coastal views and marine life, provides travelers with a refreshing contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Monterey

Monterey boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and charm.

Cannery Row
• Lively area filled with shops and restaurants.
• Historic significance linked to John Steinbeck.
Pacific Grove
• Charming streets lined with Victorian homes.
• Fantastic views of the coastline and sunsets.
Downtown Monterey
• Vibrant arts scene and cultural events.
• Close proximity to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Best Times To Visit Monterey's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment of Monterey's highlights with these timing tips.

Monterey Bay Aquarium
Visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning, for fewer crowds.
Cannery Row
Explore in the late afternoon for a lively atmosphere and sunset views.
17-Mile Drive
Drive early in the morning or just before sunset for stunning scenery.

Monterey Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Monterey enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. However, the marine layer can bring cooler temperatures and fog, so planning visits during late spring or early fall often enhances your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

For a true taste of the coast, try the clam chowder bread bowl at Cannery Row’s Aquarium Restaurant, where fresh local seafood creates a rich, comforting experience unlike the bustling tech-inspired eateries of San Jose. The cozy atmosphere and ocean views elevate your meal, allowing you to savor the vibrant flavors of Monterey's bounty.

San Jose - Monterey operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Jose 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 San Jose to Salinas

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$2-70
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
Contact phone
1-888-678-2871
Website
https://mst.org

Bus from Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7 to Tyler / Franklin

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$2-57
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
https://groometransportation.com

Shuttle from San Jose International Airport to Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$40-50

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

Traveling between San Jose 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 picturesque journey from San Jose to Monterey, spanning a seamless distance of 72 miles. Enjoy the scenic drive along the stunning California coast with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options for this road trip, with fares ranging between $13 to $19 for the car journey from San Jose to Monterey. Plan ahead to find the best deals and allocate some savings for delightful pit stops along the way.
Average price
$13 - $19
🚆 Embark on a picturesque train journey from San Jose to Monterey! The route spans 81.0 miles and takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes, with a convenient transfer along the way. 🚌 Begin your adventure with a bus ride towards Los Angeles under Greyhound's service, departing from San Jose. This leg of the trip lasts about 1 hour and 5 minutes, transporting you to Salinas for the next part of your scenic voyage. 🏖️ From Salinas, hop on another bus operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit heading towards Monterey. This final stretch takes around 54 minutes, culminating in a relaxing arrival at Tyler/Franklin in Monterey.
🚌 While there is no direct bus from San Jose to Monterey, travelers can take a journey with transfers that lasts approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes. The trip involves services operated by Amtrak and Monterey-Salinas Transit. 🚌 Route options vary in duration from 2 hours 13 minutes to 3 hours 55 minutes, covering distances ranging from 62.4 to 81.0 miles. Passengers will need to make transfers during the journey, with stops in locations like Salinas before reaching Monterey.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
Tyler / Franklin station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan your journey in advance by checking multiple operators such as Greyhound (greyhound.com) and Monterey-Salinas Transit (mst.org) to choose the most convenient route that fits your schedule, as there are no direct buses between San Jose and Monterey.
• When transferring at the Salinas Transit Center, ensure you arrive at Gate 7 for your Monterey-Salinas Transit bus; keeping an eye on the bus schedule at the center will help you stay on track and minimize waiting times.
• Upon arriving at Tyler / Franklin station in Monterey, be prepared for a short walk to the downtown area; nearby dining options like The Fish Hopper and LouLou's Griddle in the Middle are excellent for a quick meal before you explore.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Jose to Monterey is by driving. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes, and the cost of gas is estimated to be around $13 to $19, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and gas prices. This option provides flexibility and allows you to explore the scenic coastal route along Highway 1.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose to Monterey is by driving. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost for this drive ranges from $13 to $19, considering fuel and toll expenses. Alternative modes of transportation such as public buses or trains may take longer and require transfers, making driving the most time-efficient option.
The distance from San Jose to Monterey is approximately 51 miles. If you travel by car, the road distance is about 72.3 miles. The journey usually takes around 1 hour and 17 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. It is a relatively short and convenient drive between the two cities.
The best way to travel from San Jose to Monterey without a car is by taking the bus. Firstly, you can catch the bus from San Jose Diridon Station to the Monterey Transit Plaza, which takes approximately 1h 55m. From there, you can transfer to the line 20 bus, which will take you to various locations within Monterey. The total journey time is around 2h 26m. It is recommended to check the bus schedules and plan your trip accordingly.
The travel time from San Jose to Monterey is approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes, including transfers. The travel time may vary depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. It is recommended to plan your journey accordingly and allow for potential delays.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Monterey. Choose from over 251 hotels ranging in price, with options starting at $65 per night. Some popular hotels in the area include Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay, and InterContinental The Clement Monterey. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from San Jose to Monterey. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 72 miles. It typically takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete the drive, depending on traffic conditions. It is the most convenient and flexible mode of transportation for traveling between these two cities.
Yes, there is no direct bus between San Jose and Monterey. You will need to take a bus from San Jose to Salinas Transit Center and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Monterey. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes. It is advisable to check the bus schedules and plan your trip accordingly.
To catch the bus from San Jose to Monterey you need to head to the San Jose station. The bus services for this route are operated by Amtrak. You can check the Amtrak website or contact their customer service for more specific details on the bus schedule and location within the station.
The San Jose to Monterey bus services, operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit, arrive at Tyler/Franklin station. This station is located in Monterey is centrally located and provides convenient access to various attractions and amenities in the city. From there, you can easily explore the beautiful coastal town of Monterey.
The cost of a ferry from San Jose to Monterey ranges from $40 to $50. The prices may vary depending on the ferry service and any promotional offers available. It's advisable to check with the ferry companies directly or their websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost to drive from San Jose to Monterey is typically between $13 and $19. This estimate takes into account factors such as fuel prices and tolls. The total cost may vary depending on the type of vehicle used and current road conditions. It is recommended to check for any road closures or construction updates before making the journey.

Trips from San Jose

Trips to Monterey