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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Berkeley, CA, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
Berkeley, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Berkeley: 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.

$5 - Bus, TrainBest price
122 kmDistance
1h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Berkeley 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
BART
Average Duration
2h  43m
Estimated price
$9-21
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$5-76
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 122 km
Duration: 1h 26m

See more options

Company
Santa Cruz Metro
Bus
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$13-20
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  26m
Estimated price
$13-20
Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
BART
Average Duration
2h  45m
Estimated price
$300-600

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Berkeley

The journey from Santa Cruz to Berkeley offers a remarkable shift from the laid-back coastal vibes of the beach town to the vibrant energy of the university city.

Best Neighborhoods in Berkeley

Berkeley features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and activities.

North Berkeley
• Known for gourmet food spots and markets.
• Offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
South Berkeley
• Features eclectic shops and vibrant community events.
• Home to the famous Berkeley Bowl grocery store.
Downtown Berkeley
• Bustling area with theaters and restaurants.
• Convenient access to BART and other public transport.

Best Times To Visit Berkeley's Attractions

Strategizing your visit can make all the difference in Berkeley.

UC Berkeley Campus
Visit early weekday mornings for a quieter, picturesque experience.
Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive
Plan your visit during late afternoons on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Tilden Regional Park
Weekdays in spring offer fewer visitors and beautiful blooming scenery.

Berkeley Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Berkeley enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and dry summers, creating comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration. For the best weather experience, consider visiting in the fall or spring, when sunny days are plentiful and temperatures are pleasant for your adventures.

Dining Recommendation

Head to Chez Panisse for a dining experience that contrasts with Santa Cruz's casual eateries, showcasing a menu focused on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The vibrant atmosphere and innovative flavor profiles set this renowned restaurant apart, offering a culinary journey that reflects Berkeley's rich food culture.

Santa Cruz - Berkeley operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$212-211

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$212-211
Train
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from Berryessa / North San Jose to Downtown Berkeley

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$9-91

Train from San Francisco International Airport to Downtown Berkeley

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$9-92
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$93-915
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Monterey Airport (MRY) to San Francisco Airport (SFO)

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$90-190
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$9350-9380

Santa Cruz to Berkeley: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Berkeley 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 Cruz to Berkeley, covering a distance of 76 miles in just about 1 hour and 26 minutes. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $13 to $20 for the journey from Santa Cruz to Berkeley by car.
Average price
$13 - $20
🌉 Enjoy a smooth and quick 56-minute flight as you head towards Berkeley located just a short distance away from San Francisco Airport.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🌉 The journey from Santa Cruz to Berkeley by bus, with transfers included, typically takes around 3 hours and 33 minutes. This route involves a combination of services operated by Santa Cruz Metro and Amtrak.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
Emeryville station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Berkeley.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Berkeley is approximately 64 miles by road. It takes about 2 hours and 43 minutes to travel from Santa Cruz to Berkeley by taking a bus to BART. If you prefer driving, it takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Berkeley by car. However, if you choose to take a bus, the travel time increases to about 3 hours and 24 minutes to reach Berkeley from Santa Cruz.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Santa Cruz to Berkeley is by taking a bus and transferring to BART. This option costs between $9 and $21 and takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes. If you prefer a quicker option, driving from Santa Cruz to Berkeley is the most time-efficient choice. It takes 1 hour and 26 minutes and costs between $13 and $20.
To get from Santa Cruz to Berkeley without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is about 76 miles, and it typically takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes to drive from Santa Cruz to Berkeley. Prices for the drive can vary, ranging from $13 to $20 in total. Driving allows for a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities at your own pace.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Berkeley without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and BART. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes, and ticket prices range from $9 to $21. You can catch a bus from Santa Cruz to a BART station, and then take the BART train to Berkeley. This mode of transportation is convenient and cost-effective for those without a car.
There is no direct link between Santa Cruz and Berkeley by bus. However, there are bus services that require transferring at San Jose and take approximately 3h 24m. The bus services are operated by Santa Cruz Metro and Amtrak.
The flight duration between Santa Cruz and Berkeley is approximately 49 minutes on the quickest direct flight from Monterey Airport to San Francisco Airport. It is a convenient and efficient option for travelers looking to minimize their travel time. As for the cost, it can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and availability, but generally, flights between these two destinations are reasonably priced due to their proximity. It is recommended to check with airlines or online flight booking platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Berkeley. There are 742+ hotels available in the area, so you have a wide range of choices to fit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $74 per night, but you can find accommodations at various price points depending on location, amenities, and star ratings. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, you will find a suitable place to stay near Berkeley.

Trips from Santa Cruz