1map logoGo to main page

Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Davis, CA, USA from $18: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Barbara, United States of America
to
Davis, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Davis: 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.

$18 by trainBest price
496 kmDistance
3h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Davis 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
Plane
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$213-615
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
10h  44m
Estimated price
$18-160
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 496 km
Duration: 3h 59m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  32m
Estimated price
$126-2130
Company
various
Plane
Train
BART
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$162-434
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  16m
Estimated price
$220-603
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
$2131-2132
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$2133-2134
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
10h  4m
Estimated price
$2135-2136
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  40m
Estimated price
$2135-2136
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Barbara to Davis

Your journey from the sunny beaches of Santa Barbara, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning coastal views, to Davis, a vibrant college town rich in agriculture and culture, offers a fascinating contrast between relaxed seaside living and a dynamic, academic atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Davis

Davis boasts lively neighborhoods each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

Downtown Davis
• Bustling cafés and restaurants line the streets.
• Home to local shops and vibrant farmer’s markets.
West Davis
• Picturesque parks with walking trails and green spaces.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with strong community ties.
North Davis
• Quiet residential area with spacious homes.
• Close proximity to UC Davis and its cultural events.

Best Times To Visit Davis's Attractions

Planning your visit to Davis can enhance your experience at its top attractions.

UC Davis Arboretum
Weekdays in early morning or late afternoon provide quieter strolls among stunning gardens.
Davis Farmers Market
Saturdays at opening time lets you enjoy fresh produce without the crowds.
Davis Art Center
Weekdays for workshops and galleries create a more personal art experience.

Davis Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Davis enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making late spring and early fall the most pleasant times to visit. Understanding the seasonal shifts can significantly enhance your travel experience, whether you're exploring outdoor attractions or enjoying local festivals.

Dining Recommendation

For a delightful twist on your dining experience, try the artisanal pizzas at The Pizza Press in Davis, where you can customize your pie with locally sourced ingredients and inventive toppings, distinctly different from the seafood-centric fare of Santa Barbara. The lively atmosphere and strong community-focused essence in Davis create an inviting environment that allows you to immerse yourself in the local food culture.

Santa Barbara - Davis operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Barbara and Davis, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$6151-6152

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$6151-180
Website
united.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$6159-2138

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$6151-180
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Santa Barbara to Davis

Average Duration
10h 44m
Estimated price
$18-160

Train from Richmond to Davis

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$187-2135
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to San Francisco

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$1879-1850

Bus from San Francisco to Davis

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$1626-1601
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
centralcoastshuttle.com

Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles Airport, CA

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$1624-1625

Santa Barbara to Davis: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Davis 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 Santa Barbara to Davis, covering a distance of 393 miles through the diverse landscapes of California. Enjoy a journey filled with beautiful coastal views, rolling hills, and charming small towns along the way. 💰 Explore affordable travel options with prices ranging from $70 to $110 for the drive from Santa Barbara to Davis. Whether you choose to take the coastal route or opt for a faster inland drive, the cost-effective nature of a road trip offers flexibility and savings for your journey. 🛣️ Experience the freedom of the open road as you drive for approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes from Santa Barbara to Davis. Make memorable stops at local eateries, quaint roadside attractions, and picturesque viewpoints, creating an unforgettable travel experience from Southern to Northern California.
Average price
$70 - $110
🎟️ The train ride from Santa Barbara to Davis takes approximately 10 hours and 44 minutes, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the views along the way. With fares ranging from $18 to $160, there are options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara station
Arrival Point
Davis station
🛫 Travel from Santa Barbara to Davis via plane is convenient with a quick direct flight from Santa Barbara Airport to Sacramento Airport taking only 1 hour and 20 minutes. 🌉 The total travel time from Santa Barbara to Davis by plane is approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes, with flight prices typically ranging from $213 to $615, offering a range of options for travelers.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Airport
Arrival Point
Sacramento Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus route from Santa Barbara to Davis, travelers can take a bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Davis with a transfer in San Francisco. The journey, with transfers, typically lasts around 9 hours and 15 minutes. 🚌 Flixbus USA operates the Santa Barbara to Davis bus services, departing from Santa Barbara Bus Stop station and arriving at the Davis station. The ticket prices for this bus trip can range from $37 to $141, offering budget-friendly options for travelers.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Davis station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Barbara to Davis.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Santa Barbara and Davis is 308 miles, or 393.1 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 10 hours and 44 minutes to reach Davis from Santa Barbara. By flying to Sacramento and then taking a train, the travel time is about 3 hours and 54 minutes. By car, it takes approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes to travel from Davis to Santa Barbara, while by bus, the journey can take around 9 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Davis is by train, with tickets ranging from $18 to $160. Although it takes the longest time at 10 hours and 44 minutes, it offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. However, for those looking for a quicker option, flying and taking the train is the most time-efficient choice. With a travel time of 3 hours and 54 minutes, this option is faster but comes at a higher cost of $220 to $650.
The price range for a train journey from Santa Barbara to Davis is $18 to $160. For bus travel from Davis to Santa Barbara, the prices range from $37 to $141.
To get from Santa Barbara to Davis without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 393 miles, and it takes around 6 hours and 40 minutes to drive from Santa Barbara to Davis. The cost of driving can vary between $70 to $110 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Santa Barbara to Davis without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey typically takes around 9 hours and 15 minutes and prices range from $35 to $150. The bus provides a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery without the need for driving.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santa Barbara and Davis by train. The Amtrak train operates twice daily, taking approximately 10 hours and 44 minutes to complete the journey. There is no direct bus route, but you can take a bus from Santa Barbara to Davis with transfers in San Francisco. This option, operated by Flixbus USA, takes approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight from Santa Barbara to Sacramento which is the closest airport to Davis typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. Generally, prices for this route range from $100 to $300. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel dates.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Davis. With over 171 hotels to choose from, visitors can easily find a place to stay that suits their needs. Prices for hotels in Davis start at $60 per night, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a more affordable option, there are plenty of choices available for a comfortable stay near Davis.

Trips from Santa Barbara