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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Chico, CA, USA from $11: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Chico: 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.

$11 - Bus, TrainBest price
309 kmDistance
4h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Chico 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
7h  29m
Estimated price
$11-117
Recommended
route map
Distance: 309 km
Duration: 4h 3m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  38m
Estimated price
$11-120
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  3m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  55m
Estimated price
$141-505
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  14m
Estimated price
$157-504
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Traveling From Santa Cruz to Chico

Your journey from Santa Cruz to Chico offers a delightful contrast between the coastal vibrancy of surf culture and the laid-back charm of a quaint college town surrounded by natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chico

Chico boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering its own distinct character.

Downtown Chico
• Lively atmosphere with eclectic shops and restaurants.
• Hosts community events and festivals year-round.
Pleasant Valley
• Family-friendly area with spacious parks and schools.
• Close-knit community feel and tree-lined streets.
Bidwell Park
• Home to California's one of the largest municipal parks.
• Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking.

Best Times To Visit Chico's Attractions

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

Bidwell Park
Visit early mornings on weekdays for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
Chico State University
Explore campus on weekends during the school year to enjoy lively student activity.
Downtown Chico
Evenings on Thursdays bring a vibrant atmosphere with local events and happier crowds.

Chico Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chico enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it appealing year-round. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures, often ideal for outdoor activities, while summer heat can influence your plans.

Dining Recommendation in Chico

You should try the smoked tri-tip at The Butt Creek Cafe, which showcases a hearty beef flavor with a smoky twist, quite different from the seafood and fresh produce focus in Santa Cruz. The relaxed, rustic atmosphere here, combined with locally sourced ingredients, creates a unique dining experience that highlights Chico's connection to its agricultural roots.

Santa Cruz - Chico operators

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

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

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$602-409

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$602-409
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
5h 33m
Estimated price
$110-113

Train from Sacramento to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$404-405
Plane
Website
http://united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Redding (RDD)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$110-130

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$111-112
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Other from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$409-600

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Chico 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 picturesque road trip covering 223 miles from Santa Cruz to Chico, offering diverse landscapes and charming small towns along the way. 💸 The cost of this journey by car typically ranges between $40 to $60, making it an affordable and convenient option for travelers seeking a budget-friendly adventure. ⏱️ With an estimated driving time of 4 hours and 3 minutes, this route promises a scenic drive through California's beautiful countryside, perfect for those looking to explore the golden state at their own pace.
Average price
$40 - $60
🛫 Flying from Santa Cruz to Chico involves a quick and convenient trip by plane. The most efficient route is taking a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Redding Airport, with a flying time of just 1 hour and 12 minutes.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Redding Airport
🚌 Starting at Soquel Ave & Front in Santa Cruz, travelers can embark on an 8-hour bus journey to Chico with transfers in San Jose and Stockton.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
Chico Amtrak station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Chico is 192 miles, with a road distance of 222.8 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 7 hours and 29 minutes to travel from Santa Cruz to Chico by first taking a bus and then a train. Alternatively, it takes about 4 hours and 3 minutes to drive from Chico to Santa Cruz by car.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Santa Cruz to Chico is by taking a bus and train combination, with prices ranging from $11 to $120 and a travel time of 7 hours and 29 minutes. However, the fastest option would be to drive, which takes approximately 4 hours and 3 minutes and costs between $40 to $60. Considering both time and cost factors, driving is the most time-efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation for this route.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Chico without using public transportation, you can drive the approximately 223-mile distance, which typically takes around 4 hours and 3 minutes by car. The cost of driving from Santa Cruz to Chico can vary between $40 to $60, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. Driving provides flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic route between the two cities at your own pace.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Chico without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and train which takes approximately 7 hours and 29 minutes. This route offers a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination, with ticket prices ranging from $11 to $120. The journey allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views along the way, making it a stress-free travel option for those without a personal vehicle.
There is no direct bus link between Santa Cruz and Chico. Travelers can reach Chico from Santa Cruz by taking a combination of bus services provided by Santa Cruz Metro, then transferring in San Jose and Stockton. This journey, with transfers, typically takes around 8 hours and 38 minutes. The bus services offered by Amtrak arrive at Chico Amtrak station.
The quickest direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Redding Airport, which is the closest airport to Chico, takes approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes. Typically, the cost of this flight can range from around $150 to $300, depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and season. It is advisable to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals for your travel dates.
Near Chico you have a variety of options for accommodation, with over 60 hotels available at various price points starting at $75. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Best Western, Holiday Inn, and Hampton Inn, offering comfortable stays for visitors. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly motel or a more luxurious hotel, Chico has options to suit every traveler's needs and preferences. It is advisable to book in advance to secure your preferred lodging choice during your visit to Chico.

Trips from Santa Cruz