Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Pasadena, CA, USA from $6: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Pasadena: 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.

$6 by trainBest price

159 kmDistance

1h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Pasadena 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.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Santa Barbara to Pasadena

Embarking on a journey from Santa Barbara to Pasadena reveals a striking contrast between the coastal charm of sandy beaches and palm trees and the vibrant urban culture enriched by art and history.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pasadena

Pasadena features diverse neighborhoods that showcase its rich culture and community.

Old Town Pasadena

• Historic architecture and vibrant shopping.

• Numerous dining options and nightlife spots.

South Pasadena

• Charming tree-lined streets with a small-town feel.

• Home to the iconic South Pasadena Farmers Market.

Pasadena Playhouse District

• Arts district known for theaters and galleries.

• Close to the famous Pasadena Playhouse venue.

Best Times To Visit Pasadena's Attractions

Timing your visit to Pasadena's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

The Norton Simon Museum

Visit on weekdays, especially in the morning, for fewer crowds.

The Rose Bowl

Plan your visit during off-peak hours to explore local markets.

Huntington Library

Weekday visits in spring or fall provide a tranquil experience.

Pasadena Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pasadena enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For the best travel experience, visiting in the spring and fall offers comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer heat can influence outdoor plans.

Dining Recommendation in Pasadena

Experience the bold flavors at Union, a restaurant celebrated for its innovative takes on American classics, which contrasts sharply with Santa Barbara's fresh seafood focus. The lively atmosphere combined with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients offers a distinctive culinary adventure that showcases Pasadena's rich food culture.

Santa Barbara - Pasadena operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$60-80

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$20-66

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Average Duration

2h 56m

Estimated price

$60-80

Plane Show flights

Website

https://www.united.com

Plane from Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) to Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Average Duration

58m

Estimated price

$61-6000

Tram

Contact phone

+1-323-466-3876

Website

https://www.metro.net/

Tram from Union Station - Metro A-Line to Memorial Park Station

Average Duration

24m

Estimated price

$1-1

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

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Pasadena 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.

🚗 Journey from Santa Barbara to Pasadena by car covers a scenic route of approximately 99 miles, offering stunning views along the way. ⏱️ The drive usually takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, making it a convenient and efficient road trip option. 💸 Prices for the trip vary between $17 to $26, providing budget-friendly travel choices for those looking to explore these two vibrant Californian cities.

Average price

$17 - $26

🚆 Traveling from Santa Barbara to Pasadena by train takes approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes with a transfer along the way. The journey involves departing from Santa Barbara station and arriving at Memorial Park Station via Union Station - Metro A-Line. 🎫 The prices for a train ticket between Santa Barbara and Pasadena can range from $6 to $80. This train route covers a distance of 113 miles and requires a combination of Amtrak and LACMTA services for a smooth journey.

Departure Point

Santa Barbara station

Arrival Point

Los Angeles station

🛫 Experience a swift and convenient journey from Santa Barbara to Pasadena by taking a direct flight from Santa Barbara Airport to Los Angeles Airport. With United Airlines offering efficient flights, the trip can be completed in just 58 minutes. 🛬 Upon reaching Los Angeles Airport, travelers can easily continue their journey to Pasadena through various transportation options such as shuttle services, rental cars, or rideshare services. The approximate distance between the two cities is around 25 miles, making the onward journey smooth and seamless.

Departure Point

Santa Barbara Airport

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Airport

🚌 Traveling from Santa Barbara to Pasadena by bus requires multiple transfers and takes approximately 3 hours and 48 minutes with Flixbus USA. 🚍 While there is no direct route, passengers can expect a scenic trip spanning 116 miles with options for transfers at different bus stations along the way.

Departure Point

Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Downtown station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:

The distance between Santa Barbara and Pasadena is 91 miles. By car, it takes approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes to travel between the two cities. Another option is taking the bus, which has a travel time of around 2 hours and 41 minutes. If you prefer train travel, it takes approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes to reach Pasadena from Santa Barbara.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Pasadena is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes to drive from Santa Barbara to Pasadena. The cost of driving is estimated to be around $17 to $26. Taking a bus or train may take longer and could be more expensive.

The prices for traveling between Santa Barbara and Pasadena vary depending on the mode of transportation. The train journey can cost between $6 and $80. On the other hand, taking a bus can cost anywhere from $12 to $48. It's best to check the specific prices and booking options for the mode of transportation you prefer to get the most accurate information.

To get from Santa Barbara to Pasadena without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 99 miles. The drive usually takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes. The cost of this journey by car can range from $17 to $26, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.

The best way to travel from Santa Barbara to Pasadena without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes and the ticket prices range from $12 to $50. There are several bus operators that provide this route, offering convenient and affordable transportation options for travelers.

There is no direct train link between Santa Barbara and Pasadena. However, there are train services available that involve transfers. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes, including the transfers. The train services are operated by Amtrak, with the departure from Santa Barbara station and arrival at Los Angeles station, with a transfer at Union Station - Metro A-Line.

The flight between Santa Barbara and Pasadena typically takes 55 minutes. However, it's important to note that there is no direct flight between Santa Barbara Airport and Pasadena, as there are no airports in Pasadena. Travelers can instead fly to Los Angeles Airport, which is the closest major airport to Pasadena. Flight prices vary, but generally, the cost for a one-way ticket from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the airline and time of booking. It's recommended to compare prices and book in advance for the best deals.

There are numerous options for accommodation near Pasadena. There are over 983 hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices and amenities to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices start at $89, and visitors can choose from luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and budget-friendly options. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability for your stay near Pasadena.