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

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from
Santa Clara, United States of America
to
Palo Alto, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Clara 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
23 kmDistance
19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara VTA
Bus
Average Duration
1h  1m
Estimated price
$1-5
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 23 km
Duration: 19m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$2-4
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$50-60
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Clara to Palo Alto

This short journey from Santa Clara to Palo Alto offers a blend of Santa Clara's tech-driven vibrancy and Palo Alto's serene charm, showcasing two distinct yet complementary experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palo Alto

Palo Alto boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere.

Downtown Palo Alto
• Vibrant dining and shopping scene.
• Close to cultural landmarks like the Stanford Theatre.
University South
• Picturesque tree-lined streets and historic homes.
• Proximity to Stanford University and its attractions.
Professorville
• Charming Victorian houses and quiet streets.
• Rich in history with a local community feel.

Best Times To Visit Palo Alto's Attractions

Planning your visit can elevate your experience in Palo Alto's attractions.

Stanford University
Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Visit during weekdays for fewer visitors and stunning sunrise views.
Elizabeth Gamble Garden
Spring brings blooming flowers; weekdays are less crowded and peaceful.

Palo Alto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palo Alto enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it pleasant year-round. For the best travel experience, consider visiting in the spring or fall when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are lighter.

Dining in Palo Alto: A Culinary Contrast

At Zaffron, indulge in their exquisite saffron-infused paella, which highlights local, seasonal ingredients and showcases a vibrant Mediterranean flair. The inviting atmosphere and focus on fresh flavors set it apart from Santa Clara’s more casual dining scene, making for a memorable culinary experience.

Santa Clara - Palo Alto operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara Caltrain Northbound to California Avenue Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$4-6
Bus
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://www.vta.org

Bus from El Camino & Scott to El Camino & California

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

Taxi from Santa Clara to Palo Alto

Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$50-60
Other Show other routes

Other from Santa Clara to Palo Alto

Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$2-4

Santa Clara to Palo Alto: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Clara 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.

🚗 Setting off on a scenic drive from Santa Clara to Palo Alto, a quick 14-mile journey awaits, taking just around 19 minutes to reach your destination. 💸 Enjoying the flexibility of car travel, the cost to venture from Santa Clara to Palo Alto ranges from $2 to $4, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option.
Average price
$2 - $4
🚆 The journey from Santa Clara to Palo Alto by train is a quick and convenient option. The direct train operated by Caltrain takes approximately 27 minutes to reach its destination. 🚆 Covering a distance of 14.3 miles, the route offers a smooth ride with services departing hourly and operating every day. Travelers can enjoy a hassle-free trip on the train towards San Francisco, with a Local departure from Santa Clara and arrival at California Avenue Caltrain Northbound station in Palo Alto. 🚆 For timetable information and ticket reservations, passengers can contact Caltrain at 1 660-4287 or visit their website at http://www.caltrain.com/. With efficient service and a short travel time, the train journey between Santa Clara and Palo Alto is a convenient choice for commuters and visitors alike.
Departure Point
Santa Clara Caltrain Northbound station
Arrival Point
California Avenue Caltrain Northbound station
🚌 Hop on a direct bus at El Camino & Scott in Santa Clara for a convenient journey to Palo Alto at El Camino & California. Services run every day, departing every 10 minutes, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 1 minute. 🛣️ The bus trip from Santa Clara to Palo Alto covers a distance of 14.3 miles and offers a budget-friendly fare ranging from $1 to $5. Travelers can rely on Santa Clara VTA for reliable bus services, ensuring a smooth and efficient commute between these two Silicon Valley cities. 🚉 For an alternative transportation option, consider taking the train towards San Francisco with Caltrain. This route offers a scenic 29-minute journey from Santa Clara to Palo Alto, providing another convenient way to travel between these bustling tech hubs.
Departure Point
El Camino & Scott station
Arrival Point
El Camino & California station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Clara to Palo Alto.

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The cheapest way to get from Santa Clara to Palo Alto is by taking the line 22 bus. The bus fare typically ranges from $1 to $5, making it a budget-friendly option. The journey takes approximately 53 minutes, allowing you to save both time and money during your travel.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Clara to Palo Alto is by taxi. It takes approximately 19 minutes to reach your destination. However, please note that taking a taxi can be a more expensive option, with costs ranging from $50 to $60. It's important to consider your budget and time constraints when deciding which mode of transportation to choose.
The distance between Santa Clara and Palo Alto is approximately 12 miles. If you are driving, the road distance is slightly longer at 14.3 miles. The travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but typically it takes around 20-30 minutes to drive between the two cities. Keep in mind that these times are estimates and actual travel times may differ.
The best way to travel from Santa Clara to Palo Alto without a car is by taking the Caltrain. The Caltrain journey takes approximately 27 minutes and costs between $4 and $6 per ticket. You can catch the Caltrain at the Santa Clara station and get off at the Palo Alto station, which is located in downtown Palo Alto. This is a convenient and cost-effective option for those looking to travel between the two cities without a car.
The journey from Santa Clara to Palo Alto takes approximately 27 minutes by Caltrain. The Caltrain route includes transfers and departs hourly. It is a convenient and efficient option for travelers looking to commute between these two cities. The frequency of departures allows for flexibility in planning your trip.
There are numerous accommodation options near Palo Alto. You have a choice of over 856 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $64 per night. Some popular options include the Palo Alto Inn, the Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel, and the Hotel Keen. Be sure to check for availability and compare prices based on your preferences and budget.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Clara to Palo Alto. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 14 miles, and it takes about 19 minutes to drive from Santa Clara to Palo Alto. The route typically involves taking US-101 N and CA-82 N. However, please keep in mind that traffic conditions may affect the driving time.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Santa Clara and Palo Alto. The bus departs from El Camino & Scott and arrives at El Camino & California. The bus service operates every day and buses depart every 15 minutes. The journey on the bus takes approximately 53 minutes.
To catch the bus from Santa Clara to Palo Alto you should go to the El Camino & Scott station. This is where the bus services, operated by Santa Clara VTA, depart from. The station is conveniently located and easily accessible for travelers. Just make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station on time for your desired departure.
The Santa Clara to Palo Alto bus operated by Santa Clara VTA arrives at the El Camino & California station. This station is located in Palo Alto making it a convenient stop for travelers heading to the city. From there, you can easily access various attractions and destinations in Palo Alto.
Trains from Santa Clara to Palo Alto arrive at the California Avenue Caltrain station. This is a convenient station located in downtown Palo Alto. From there, you can easily access the rest of the city or transfer to other transportation options. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance to plan your journey accordingly.
Yes, there is a direct train between Santa Clara and Palo Alto. The train departs from Santa Clara Caltrain and arrives at California Avenue Caltrain. The train service operates hourly, every day. The journey on the train takes approximately 27 minutes.
To catch the train from Santa Clara to Palo Alto, head to the Santa Clara Caltrain station. This is where the train services operated by Caltrain depart from. Be sure to check the train schedule beforehand to ensure you arrive at the station on time. The train ride from Santa Clara to Palo Alto is a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Clara to Palo Alto can range from $1 to $5. Prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of day and the specific bus service. It is recommended to check with the local transit authority or online booking platforms for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
The cost to drive from Santa Clara to Palo Alto by car can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. On average, it can cost around $2 to $4 for one-way travel. Keep in mind that this estimate does not include any additional expenses such as parking fees. It's always a good idea to calculate the cost based on your specific vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
Yes, you can ride a bicycle from Santa Clara to Palo Alto. The distance between the two cities is approximately 23 km and it takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete the journey, depending on your speed and route. There are bike-friendly roads and paths that connect the two cities, making it a convenient and eco-friendly option for travel. Just make sure to follow traffic rules and stay safe while cycling.

Trips from Santa Clara