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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Gilroy, CA, USA from $3: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Gilroy: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$3 by busBest price
57 kmDistance
46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Gilroy 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
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
2h  38m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
2h  46m
Estimated price
$3-12
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 57 km
Duration: 46m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$6-10
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
2h  47m
Estimated price
$9-16
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$120-150
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Traveling From Santa Cruz to Gilroy

The journey from Santa Cruz to Gilroy offers a fascinating contrast between Santa Cruz's vibrant coastal atmosphere and Gilroy's charming agricultural landscape.

Best Neighbourhoods in Gilroy

Gilroy features diverse neighborhoods that cater to different tastes and experiences.

Downtown Gilroy
• Bustling with local shops and restaurants.
• Hosts vibrant events year-round.
Gilroy Gardens
• Known for stunning botanical gardens.
• Family-friendly amusement park attractions.
Christmas Hill Park
• Beautiful trails for hiking and walking.
• Offers scenic views and picnic spots.

Best Times To Visit Gilroy's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Gilroy by knowing the best times to explore its attractions.

Gilroy Gardens
Visit on weekdays during the spring for smaller crowds and blooming flowers.
Gilroy Premium Outlets
Early mornings on weekdays provide quieter shopping and the best deals.
Christmas Hill Park
Early mornings or late afternoons on weekends offer peaceful nature walks.

Gilroy Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Gilroy enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Ideally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Gilroy

Make sure to try the renowned garlic dishes at The Garlic City Café, where the robust flavors of locally grown garlic create a delightful contrast to the fresh seafood and coastal cuisine of Santa Cruz. The warm, inviting atmosphere and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients provide a unique dining experience that highlights Gilroy's agricultural roots.

Santa Cruz - Gilroy operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
https://www.vta.org

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to Monterey & 5th

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$31-32
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$7-33

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$7-33
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Gilroy Caltrain

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$7-9
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-423-1234

Other from Santa Cruz to Gilroy

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$120-150

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Gilroy 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 drive from Santa Cruz to Gilroy, covering a charming distance of 35 miles in just under 46 minutes. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the California countryside as you cruise along the highway towards your destination. 💵 With car rental costs ranging from $6 to $10 for the trip, it offers an affordable and convenient way to explore the region between Santa Cruz and Gilroy. Experience the freedom of the open road and make pit stops at local attractions along the route.
Average price
$6 - $10
🚂 Traveling from Santa Cruz to Gilroy by train offers various routes for your convenience. Route 1 involves a bus transfer from Santa Cruz to San Jose and then another bus to Gilroy, taking about 2 hours and 34 minutes for the journey covering a distance of 65.2 miles. 🚌 Another option is Route 2, which includes two bus transfers along the way, taking about 2 hours and 13 minutes to reach Gilroy from Santa Cruz. This route covers a distance of 49.3 miles and involves stops in Watsonville and Salinas before arriving in Gilroy. 🌉 Lastly, Route 5 provides a quicker journey of 3 hours and 12 minutes with just one bus transfer. This route covers a distance of 63.2 miles and takes you through San Jose before reaching Gilroy. Choose the route that best suits your preferences for a smooth train trip experience.
🚌 While there is no direct bus from Santa Cruz to Gilroy, travelers can take a route that involves transfers at San Jose Diridon Station. The journey lasts approximately 2 hours and 38 minutes. 🛤️ Starting at the Santa Cruz station, passengers board an Amtrak bus that eventually arrives at Monterey & 5th station in Gilroy. This route is operated by Santa Clara VTA. 🕑 Overall, the bus trip from Santa Cruz to Gilroy takes just under 3 hours, offering a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between the two California cities.
Departure Point
Santa Cruz, CA station
Arrival Point
Monterey & 5th station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Gilroy is approximately 26 miles or 35.4 miles by road. Travel times vary by mode of transportation. By taking a combination of bus and Caltrain, it typically takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach Gilroy from Santa Cruz. Driving by car usually takes around 30 minutes to cover the distance, while a direct bus journey can take approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Gilroy is to drive, as it costs approximately $6-$10 and takes around 46 minutes. However, if you prefer a quicker option, taking a taxi is the best choice, as it only takes 46 minutes as well, but costs around $120-$150. Both options provide a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
The prices for traveling from Santa Cruz to Gilroy by bus can range from $3 to $42. The actual price will depend on factors such as the specific bus company, the time of day, and the level of service offered. It is recommended to check with the bus company for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information before planning your trip.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Gilroy without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 35 miles, which takes approximately 46 minutes. The drive is straight forward and there are no tolls on this route. The estimated cost for the trip by car ranges from $6 to $10, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Gilroy without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $3 to $45. There is a direct bus route available for this journey.
There is no direct link between Santa Cruz and Gilroy by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers in San Jose Diridon. The journey takes approximately 2h 41m. The buses are operated by Santa Cruz Metro and Santa Clara VTA.
There are numerous hotel options available near Gilroy. With over 53 hotels to choose from, travelers have a variety of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for accommodations in Gilroy start at $58 per night. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices available for your stay near Gilroy.
Yes, you can travel from Santa Cruz to Gilroy by bicycle. The route between Santa Cruz and Gilroy is suitable for biking and offers scenic views along the way.

Trips from Santa Cruz