1map logoGo to main page

San Jose, CA, USA to Salinas, CA, USA from $2: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Jose to Salinas: 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.

$2 by trainBest price
97 kmDistance
1h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose to Salinas 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
Bus
Average Duration
1h  15m
Estimated price
$7-40
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
1h  40m
Estimated price
$2-70
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 97 km
Duration: 1h 4m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  4m
Estimated price
$10-16
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Jose to Salinas

Your journey from San Jose to Salinas offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling tech city and the laid-back charm of the agricultural heartland.

Best Neighbourhoods in Salinas

Salinas features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Downtown Salinas
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Plenty of local dining options to explore.
East Salinas
• Rich cultural diversity reflected in local festivals.
• Access to beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
North Salinas
• Known for family-friendly atmosphere with schools nearby.
• Offers easy access to local shopping centers.

Best Times To Visit Salinas's Attractions

Strategic timing can enhance your experience at Salinas’s attractions.

National Steinbeck Center
Visit on weekdays to explore exhibits with fewer visitors.
Salinas Valley Fairgrounds
Attend during off-peak times for a more relaxed experience.
Pinnacles National Park
Go early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Salinas Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Salinas enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with comfortable temperatures and coastal breezes throughout the year. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and exploration.

Dining Recommendation in Salinas

Check out the Salinas Valley's renowned Mexican cuisine at El Dorado Restaurant, where you can savor authentic dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The vibrant atmosphere and rich flavors offer a delightful contrast to the fusion dining scene in San Jose, providing a true taste of the region's agricultural bounty.

San Jose - Salinas operators

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

Bus
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
$7-40
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Jose Downtown to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$7-40
Train
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

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

Traveling between San Jose and Salinas 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 drive from San Jose to Salinas, traversing 60 miles of beautiful California landscapes. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 4 minutes, offering a smooth and enjoyable ride. 💸 Explore budget-friendly options to reach Salinas from San Jose by car, with prices ranging from $10 to $16 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your transportation budget.
Average price
$10 - $16
🚂 Hop on a direct Amtrak train from San Jose to Salinas, a journey that lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Services operate once daily, providing a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the region. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the train ride between San Jose and Salinas range from $2 to $70, offering an affordable transportation choice. Whether you're commuting for work or heading for a leisurely trip, the train route provides a comfortable and scenic way to travel. 🌄 Covering a distance of 47.0 miles, the train journey from San Jose to Salinas offers a quick and efficient route between the two cities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views during your short trip through the beautiful California landscape.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
Salinas station
🚌 The direct bus from San Jose to Salinas, operated by Amtrak, departs every two hours, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach the Salinas Amtrak Station. 🌉 The journey covers a distance of 47.0 miles, with ticket prices ranging between $7 to $40 for the one-way trip from San Jose to Salinas.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
Salinas Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Jose and Salinas is 48 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 60.3 miles. The typical travel time by train is 1 hour and 40 minutes from San Jose to Salinas. By car, it takes approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes to travel from San Jose to Salinas, and by bus, it takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Jose to Salinas is to drive. It costs around $10-$16 and takes approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes. This allows you to have flexibility in your schedule and gives you the convenience of traveling door-to-door without the need for transfers or waiting time. Plus, driving gives you the opportunity to explore the scenic route between the two cities.
The prices for traveling by train from San Jose to Salinas range from $2 to $70, depending on factors such as the type of ticket, class of service, and availability. On the other hand, the prices for traveling by bus from Salinas to San Jose vary from $7 to $40. These prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the time of travel and other factors.
To travel from San Jose to Salinas without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent one. The driving distance between the two cities is about 60 miles, and it usually takes around 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices to rent a car and drive from San Jose to Salinas range from $10 to $16, depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle.
If you want to travel from San Jose to Salinas without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, and ticket prices range from $7 to $40. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Jose and Salinas. The train services operated by Amtrak offer a direct train journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. The train departs once daily and operates every day. Additionally, there is a direct bus service operated by Amtrak that departs every four hours, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. Both options provide convenient and straightforward transportation between the two cities.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Salinas. With over 163 hotels to choose from, you can find a range of prices to fit your budget. Prices start at $53, ensuring you can find something affordable. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there are plenty of choices available in Salinas.

Trips from San Jose

Trips to Palo Alto