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Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Riverside, CA, USA from $15: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Riverside: 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.

$15 by trainBest price
240 kmDistance
2h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Riverside 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
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  56m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner / Metrolink
Train
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$15-118
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 240 km
Duration: 2h 36m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$19-89
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  36m
Estimated price
$27-40
Company
United Airlines / Metrolink
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$211-491
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Traveling From Santa Barbara to Riverside

The journey from Santa Barbara to Riverside presents a fascinating contrast between the coastal beauty of palm-fringed beaches and the vibrant, urban lifestyle found in the Inland Empire.

Best Neighbourhoods in Riverside

Riverside offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Riverside
• Home to historic buildings and vibrant art galleries.
• Abundant dining options from casual to upscale.
Canyon Crest
• Features beautiful views and tree-lined streets.
• Offers great access to parks and hiking trails.
Arlington
• Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and community parks.
• Close to shopping centers and local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Riverside's Attractions

To enjoy Riverside's attractions without the hustle and bustle, consider these tips for timing your visits.

Riverside Plaza
Visit during weekday mornings to enjoy shopping and dining with fewer crowds.
California Citrus State Historic Park
Early morning visits on weekdays offer a peaceful experience and cooler weather.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Explore in the late afternoon for guided tours and stunning sunset views.

Riverside Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Riverside experiences a semi-arid climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a generally pleasant destination year-round. However, the best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Riverside

Try the mouthwatering carne asada fries at Tacos El Galleon, where bold flavors and a lively atmosphere contrast with Santa Barbara's coastal cuisine. The vibrant Tex-Mex influence and focus on locally sourced ingredients provide a distinctive culinary adventure that you won't find on the Central Coast.

Santa Barbara - Riverside operators

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

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
$15-159

Train from L. A. Union Station to Riverside-Downtown

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$15-40
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station to Riverside-Downtown

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$15-40
Bus Show bus routes
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
$15-151

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Riverside

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$19-89
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
$15-159
Plane Show flights
Website
https://united.com

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

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$1500-4000

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

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Riverside 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 Riverside, covering a distance of 149 miles in approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of Southern California along the way, from coastal views to inland valleys. 💰 The cost of driving from Santa Barbara to Riverside ranges from $27 to $40, making it an affordable and convenient option for those looking to explore different parts of the state by car. Plan your budget accordingly and consider factors like fuel prices and tolls for a smooth journey.
Average price
$27 - $40
🚆 If you're traveling from Santa Barbara to Riverside by train, be prepared for a journey with a transfer. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes with services operated by Amtrak and Metrolink Trains. 🎟️ The prices for train tickets between Santa Barbara and Riverside can vary from $15 to $118. Keep this in mind when planning your budget for the trip.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara station
Arrival Point
Riverside-Downtown station
🛫 Begin your trip from Santa Barbara to Riverside with a quick 58-minute direct flight from Santa Barbara Airport to Los Angeles Airport.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 The journey from Santa Barbara to Riverside by bus takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes with transfers. There is no direct bus service available for this route. 🛤️ Route options vary in duration, distance, and number of transfers, ranging from 7 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 21 minutes. Prices for the bus ticket between Santa Barbara and Riverside can range from $19 to $89.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Riverside station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Barbara and Riverside is approximately 136 miles by road. The travel time by train is 5 hours and 27 minutes, while taking a combination of flying and tram will take around 5 hours and 33 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it will take approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Riverside. Taking the bus is the longest option, with a travel time of around 5 hours and 45 minutes between the two cities.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Riverside is by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes by car, and the cost ranges from $27 to $40. This option allows you to have the flexibility of your own schedule and also provides convenience for exploring the areas around Riverside. Public transportation options, such as train or bus, may take longer and are not as direct, while flying and taking a tram would involve more time and expenses.
The prices for a train ticket between Santa Barbara and Riverside range from $15 to $118. It is advisable to book in advance to get the best fares. On the other hand, bus tickets from Riverside to Santa Barbara vary from $18 to $88. Prices may also vary depending on the time of travel and the operator.
To get from Santa Barbara to Riverside without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent one. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 149 miles, which takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes. The prices to rent a car and drive from Santa Barbara to Riverside can range from $27 to $40, depending on the rental agency and vehicle type.
The best way to travel from Santa Barbara to Riverside without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes, and tickets can cost between $15 and $120. Taking the train allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery while avoiding the hassle of driving.
There is no direct train link between Santa Barbara and Riverside. However, you can take a train from Santa Barbara to Riverside with a transfer at L.A. Union Station, which takes approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes. There is also no direct bus link, but you can take a bus from Santa Barbara to Riverside with transfers at Los Angeles Union Station and San Bernardino Transit Center, which takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. Both options offer convenient connections to reach Riverside from Santa Barbara.
The flight between Santa Barbara and Riverside typically takes around 57 minutes on the quickest direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but it is generally affordable for domestic flights within the United States. It is advisable to check with airlines for specific prices and deals.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Riverside. With 197+ hotels to choose from, you will have a wide range of choices. Prices start at $69 per night, making it possible to find something suitable for various budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, there are options available to cater to your preferences.

Trips from Santa Barbara

Trips to Riverside