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San Jose, CA, USA to San Mateo, CA, USA from $2: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Jose to San Mateo: 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 busBest price
48 kmDistance
33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose to San Mateo 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
Caltrain
Train
Average Duration
1h  4m
Estimated price
$7-9
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  36m
Estimated price
$2-10
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 48 km
Duration: 33m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$5-8
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$160-200
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Jose to San Mateo

This route takes you from the tech-driven vibrancy of San Jose to the charming coastal atmosphere of San Mateo, offering a delightful contrast of urban innovation and serene bay experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Mateo

San Mateo features diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience.

Baywood
• Tree-lined streets with beautiful historic homes
• Close-knit community atmosphere with local events
Downtown San Mateo
• Bustling area with shops and dining options
• Vibrant farmer's market showcasing local produce
South San Mateo
• Family-friendly parks and recreational spaces
• Easy access to major highways for travel convenience

Best Times To Visit San Mateo's Attractions

Planning your visit to San Mateo’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Coyote Point Recreation Area
Visit early morning to enjoy peaceful hiking trails before the afternoon crowds.
San Mateo Central Park
Weekdays offer a quieter experience, allowing for leisurely strolls and picnics.
Hillsdale Shopping Center
Midweek visits are optimal for less traffic and shorter wait times at retailers.

San Mateo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Mateo enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. Visiting during spring or fall can enhance your travel experience, as you'll enjoy comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in San Mateo

For a memorable meal, try the wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeria Delfina, where the focus on fresh, local ingredients creates a distinct flavor that sets it apart from the bustling fusion scene in San Jose. The inviting atmosphere and emphasis on artisanal techniques provide a truly unique dining experience.

San Jose - San Mateo operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to San Mateo Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$7-9
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://vta.org

Bus from Santa Clara & Almaden Boulevard to Palo Alto Transit Center

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$2-5
Website
http://samtrans.com

Bus from Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9 to El Camino Real & E 5th Ave

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$2-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010
Website
http://taxisanjose.com

Taxi from San Jose to San Mateo

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$160-200

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

Traveling between San Jose and San Mateo 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.

🚗 The scenic drive from San Jose to San Mateo covers a distance of 30 miles and takes around 33 minutes, making it a quick and convenient journey for a day trip or weekend getaway. 💰 Prices for the trip by car typically range from $5 to $8, offering an affordable transportation option with the flexibility to explore the vibrant attractions and local charm of San Mateo upon arrival.
Average price
$5 - $8
🚆 Traveling from San Jose to San Mateo by train is a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination. The direct train service operated by Caltrain takes approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete the journey. 🛤️ The train departs from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound station and arrives at San Mateo Caltrain Northbound station, with services running hourly every day. The route covers a distance of 29.1 miles, providing a scenic and comfortable ride between the two cities. 📞 For more information or to make reservations, you can contact Caltrain at 1-800-660-4287 or visit their website at http://www.caltrain.com/. Enjoy a hassle-free and relaxing journey from San Jose to San Mateo aboard the Caltrain service.
Departure Point
San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
San Mateo Caltrain Northbound station
🚌 Starting from Santa Clara & Almaden Boulevard, travelers can embark on a bus journey to San Mateo 🌉 with a transfer at Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9. 🚏 The route operated by Santa Clara VTA and SamTrans spans approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes, making it a convenient option for those commuting between the two cities. 💰 Fares for the bus service range between $2 to $10, offering an affordable and accessible mode of transportation for individuals traveling from San Jose to San Mateo. 🚍
Departure Point
Santa Clara & Almaden Boulevard station
Arrival Point
El Camino Real & E 5th Ave station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Jose and San Mateo is approximately 28 miles, with a road distance of 30.1 miles. Typically, it takes around 30 minutes to drive from San Mateo to San Jose by car, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, it takes approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes to travel by bus from San Jose to San Mateo.
The most cost-effective way to travel from San Jose to San Mateo is by taking the line 22 bus and bus combination, which typically costs between $2 and $10 and takes approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to take a taxi, which would cost around $160 to $200 and take only 33 minutes. As for a balance between cost and time efficiency, the bus option provides a reasonable option that is both affordable and relatively quick compared to other modes of transportation.
The prices of a bus between San Mateo and San Jose vary from $2 to $10. The exact fare will depend on factors such as the bus company, time of day, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check with the specific bus operator for the most accurate pricing information.
To travel from San Jose to San Mateo without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 30 miles, and it takes about 33 minutes to drive from San Jose to San Mateo. The cost of fuel for this journey typically ranges from $5 to $8, depending on factors such as the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
To travel from San Jose to San Mateo without a car, the best option is to take the Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes and costs between $7 and $9. Caltrain provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the two cities, with multiple daily departures. Other public transportation options like buses or taxis are also available, but the Caltrain is the most recommended mode of transport.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Jose and San Mateo. You can take a train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain station to San Mateo Caltrain station, with services departing hourly and operating every day. The journey typically takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes. Alternatively, there is no direct bus route between the two cities, but you can take a bus from Santa Clara & Almaden Blvd to Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 9, then transfer to another bus that goes to El Camino Real & E 5th Ave in San Mateo. This bus journey, including transfers, usually takes approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Mateo. With over 510 hotels available, travelers have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $58, making it possible to find something within different budgets. Whether looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there are many options available to suit various preferences and needs.
Yes, it is possible to travel from San Jose to San Mateo by bicycle. The distance of the route is approximately XX miles. The estimated time to complete the journey by bike would depend on your personal cycling speed, but it could take anywhere from XX to XX hours. It is important to keep in mind local traffic conditions and bicycle-friendly routes when planning your trip.

Trips from San Jose