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San Mateo, CA, USA to Palo Alto, CA, USA from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Mateo, United States of America
to
Palo Alto, United States of America

How to Get from San Mateo to Palo Alto: 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.

$1 by busBest price
24 kmDistance
18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Mateo to Palo Alto 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
27m
Estimated price
$4-6
Recommended
Company
SamTrans
Bus
Average Duration
1h  2m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 24 km
Duration: 18m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
18m
Estimated price
$2-4
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
18m
Estimated price
$85-110
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Traveling From San Mateo to Palo Alto

Your journey from San Mateo to Palo Alto showcases a transition from comfortable suburban living to a vibrant, tech-driven hub rich in cultural and culinary experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palo Alto

Palo Alto boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown Palo Alto
• Bustling dining scene with diverse cuisines.
• Home to local shops and art galleries.
Professorville
• Charming historic architecture and tree-lined streets.
• Close to Stanford University and gardens.
College Terrace
• Vibrant community atmosphere with parks.
• Popular for its unique cafes and shops.

Best Times To Visit Palo Alto's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Palo Alto.

Stanford University
Weekday mornings are ideal for quieter campus exploration.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Early mornings offer serene views and fewer walkers on the trails.
Downtown Palo Alto
Late afternoons on weekdays provide a more relaxed vibe for shopping.

Palo Alto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palo Alto enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making spring and fall particularly pleasant for outdoor activities. Understanding the weather patterns can enhance your travel experience, as you’ll be better equipped to plan excursions around the most enjoyable conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Palo Alto

Visit Zola for an exquisite dining experience that contrasts sharply with San Mateo’s offerings, featuring a unique blend of French and Californian flavors. The lively atmosphere and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients create a culinary adventure that highlights the innovation and creativity found in Palo Alto’s dining scene.

San Mateo - Palo Alto operators

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

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

Train from San Mateo Caltrain Southbound to Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$4-6
Bus
Website
http://samtrans.com

Bus from El Camino Real & 4th Ave to Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 415.333.3333
Website
http://yellowcabsf.com

Taxi from San Mateo to Palo Alto

Average Duration
18m
Estimated price
$85-110
Contact phone
+1 408-541-1515
Website
http://taxibayarea.com

Taxi from San Mateo to Palo Alto

Average Duration
18m
Estimated price
$85-110
Contact phone
+1 415-626-4733

Taxi from San Mateo to Palo Alto

Average Duration
18m
Estimated price
$85-110

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

Traveling between San Mateo and Palo Alto 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 15-mile journey from San Mateo to Palo Alto, taking approximately 18 minutes by car. Enjoy the easy drive through the bustling Silicon Valley region. 💰 The cost of traveling from San Mateo to Palo Alto by car ranges from $2 to $4, making it an affordable and convenient option. Plan your budget accordingly for this short but delightful trip.
Average price
$2 - $4
🚆 The journey from San Mateo to Palo Alto by train is a convenient and quick option. The direct train service operated by Caltrain departs hourly and takes approximately 27 minutes to reach the destination. 🚆 With a short travel time of 27 minutes covering a distance of 12.4 miles, passengers can enjoy a smooth ride onboard the Caltrain from San Mateo Caltrain Southbound station to Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound station. 🚆 For those looking to explore alternative transportation options, there are bus routes available that take about 1 hour and 5 minutes to reach Palo Alto Transit Center from San Mateo. However, the train remains a popular choice for a swift and efficient journey between these two neighboring cities.
Departure Point
San Mateo Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
Palo Alto Caltrain Southbound station
🚌 Traveling from San Mateo to Palo Alto by bus is a convenient option with services departing from El Camino Real & 4th Ave and arriving at Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1. The journey typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes, operating daily with departures every 20 minutes. 🚌 The bus route covers a distance of approximately 14.8 miles, with varying travel times depending on traffic conditions. SamTrans operates the bus services between San Mateo and Palo Alto, offering an affordable and reliable transportation option for travelers in the area.
Departure Point
El Camino Real & 4th Ave station
Arrival Point
Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1 station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Mateo to Palo Alto.

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The cheapest way to get from San Mateo to Palo Alto is by taking the bus. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $1 to $5, making it an affordable option for travelers. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from San Mateo to Palo Alto is by taking a taxi. This option typically takes around 18 minutes, providing a quick and efficient means of transportation between the two cities. However, it's important to note that the cost of a taxi can range from $85 to $110, so it may not be the most budget-friendly choice for all travelers.
The distance between San Mateo and Palo Alto is approximately 13 miles. If you prefer to travel by road, the road distance is 15.2 miles. Depending on traffic conditions, it usually takes around 20-30 minutes to drive between the two cities. However, travel times can vary, so it's always a good idea to check for any potential delays before heading out.
The most convenient and affordable way to travel from San Mateo to Palo Alto without a car is by taking the Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 29 minutes and the ticket prices range from $4 to $6. The Caltrain offers frequent departures throughout the day, making it a reliable option for commuting between the two cities. Additionally, the train ride provides a scenic route along the Peninsula, allowing passengers to enjoy the views during their trip.
The journey from San Mateo to Palo Alto by Caltrain takes approximately 29 minutes, including transfers. The Caltrain departs hourly, providing convenient and frequent options for travelers. This train service offers a comfortable and efficient way to reach Palo Alto from San Mateo in a relatively short amount of time.
There are numerous accommodations available near Palo Alto. With 856+ hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Palo Alto start at $64 per night. From luxury to budget options, there are various choices available to cater to different needs and preferences.
Yes, you can drive from San Mateo to Palo Alto. The distance between the two cities is approximately 15 miles, and the drive usually takes around 18 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Simply follow US-101 S and US-101 Business S to reach Palo Alto. It's a convenient and efficient option for traveling between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Mateo and Palo Alto. The bus departs from El Camino Real & 4th Ave and arrives at Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1. The buses run every 20 minutes and operate every day. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes.
To catch the bus from San Mateo to Palo Alto, head to the El Camino Real & 4th Ave station. This is where the bus services, operated by SamTrans, depart from. Look for the bus stop sign and wait there for your bus. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the exact departure times.
The San Mateo to Palo Alto bus, operated by SamTrans, arrives at the Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1 station. This station is located on University Avenue in downtown Palo Alto. It is a central transportation hub in the city, making it convenient for travelers to access other areas of Palo Alto or transfer to other modes of transportation. The station is also close to popular attractions and amenities in the area.
Trains from San Mateo to Palo Alto arrive at the Palo Alto Caltrain station. The Caltrain is a convenient and popular mode of transportation on this route, with regular service throughout the day. The Palo Alto Caltrain station is centrally located in downtown Palo Alto, making it easy to access various nearby destinations. It is advisable to check the Caltrain schedule for the most up-to-date information on arrival times and any potential service disruptions.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Mateo and Palo Alto. The train departs from San Mateo Caltrain and arrives at Palo Alto Caltrain. The train service operates hourly and runs every day. The journey on the train takes approximately 29 minutes.
To catch the train from San Mateo to Palo Alto you need to go to the San Mateo Caltrain station. This is where the Caltrain services operate from. The station is conveniently located in downtown San Mateo, making it easily accessible for travelers. From there, you can board the train that will take you directly to Palo Alto.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Mateo to Palo Alto can range from $1 to $5. The exact price will depend on the specific bus service you choose. However, generally, buses in this area are affordable and offer a cost-effective transportation option. It is recommended to check with different bus providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost to drive from San Mateo to Palo Alto ranges between $2 and $4 in total for fuel expenses. This calculation is made based on the average gas prices and the distance between the two cities. However, it's important to note that this estimate does not include any additional costs such as tolls or parking fees that may be incurred along the way. It's recommended to plan accordingly and factor in any additional expenses when budgeting for the trip.
Yes, you can ride a bicycle from San Mateo to Palo Alto. It takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the journey, covering a distance of 23 km. The route between the two cities offers bike-friendly paths and lanes, making it a convenient and enjoyable option for cyclists. Just ensure that you follow traffic rules and take necessary safety precautions while riding.