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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Merced, CA, USA from $7: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Merced: 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.

$7 - Bus, TrainBest price
143 kmDistance
2h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Merced 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
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
$18-63
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
6h  21m
Estimated price
$7-152
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 143 km
Duration: 2h 22m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  22m
Estimated price
$21-35
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  55m
Estimated price
$30-57
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Traveling From Santa Cruz to Merced

This journey from Santa Cruz to Merced offers a shift from breathtaking coastal views and vibrant beach culture to the serene landscapes and agricultural charm of California's Central Valley.

Best Neighborhoods in Merced

Merced boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its unique flavor and appeal.

Downtown Merced
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and street murals.
• A variety of local restaurants and shops to explore.
North Merced
• Family-friendly with numerous parks and recreational spaces.
• Close to Merced College and educational facilities.
South Merced
• Quiet residential areas ideal for a peaceful stay.
• Convenient access to shopping and dining options.

Best Times To Visit Merced's Attractions

Planning your visit to Merced's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Merced County Courthouse Museum
Weekdays in the morning offer quieter visits and attentive staff.
Applegate Park Zoo
Visit during weekdays during spring or fall for fewer crowds.
Lake Yosemite
Early mornings are ideal for serene views and peaceful walks.

Merced Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Merced experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a destination you can enjoy all year. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures, enhancing your travel experience by allowing for comfortable outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Merced

In Merced, you should try the savory carne asada tacos at The Taco Truck, where hearty flavors showcase local ingredients in a casual setting. This experience contrasts with Santa Cruz's focus on seafood and vibrant coastal cuisine, offering a taste of the rich agricultural heritage found in the Central Valley.

Santa Cruz - Merced operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and Merced, 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 Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$6-7

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$6-7
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Hayward Bus Station to Merced Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 44m
Estimated price
$30-186
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
https://tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose to Los Banos, CA

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$31-633
Website
http://mercedthebus.com

Bus from San Luis Plaza to Transpo

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$37-182
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose Amtrak Station to Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$18-75

Train from Stockton to Merced

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$70-70
Contact phone
1800-411-7245
Website
https://acerail.com

Train from San Jose Amtrak Station to Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$18-18

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Merced 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 journey from Santa Cruz to Merced, covering a distance of 120 miles. The drive typically takes around 2 hours and 22 minutes, offering a pleasant road trip experience. 💸 Depending on your fuel efficiency and route choices, the cost of traveling from Santa Cruz to Merced by car can range from $21 to $35. Budget accordingly for gas and any potential pit stops along the way.
Average price
$21 - $35
🚌 Traveling from Santa Cruz to Merced by bus requires multiple transfers, with services departing from Soquel Ave & Front and arriving at Transpo. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes. 🚏 Starting at Soquel Ave & Front station in Santa Cruz, travelers will pass through key stops such as San Jose Diridon Station and Santa Clara / S 24th St before reaching Merced. Each transfer point adds to the overall travel time. 💰 Depending on the time of booking and availability, the prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Merced can range from $18 to $63. Planning ahead and checking for the best fares can help save on transportation costs for this journey.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
Transpo station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Merced is approximately 89 miles. By car, it typically takes around 2 hours and 22 minutes to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, taking a bus from Santa Cruz to Merced takes roughly 5 hours and 48 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Merced is by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes to drive the 89-mile distance between the two cities, and the cost of driving is estimated to be between $21 and $35 for a one-way trip. Taking a car allows for flexibility and convenience, as there are no specific schedules to adhere to.
The prices for a bus ticket from Merced to Santa Cruz range from $18 to $63. The exact cost can vary depending on factors such as the time of travel and any promotions or discounts available. It is recommended to check with the bus company for the most up-to-date pricing information and to compare rates for the best deal.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Merced without using public transportation, you can drive the 120-mile distance, which takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes. The cost of this journey by car can range from $21 to $35, depending on factors such as gas prices and any tolls along the way. Driving provides the flexibility of choosing your schedule and can be a convenient option for individuals or groups traveling between these cities.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Merced without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes and usually costs between $18 and $65. There are multiple bus lines that operate on this route, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to reach Merced from Santa Cruz without having to drive.
There is no direct link between Santa Cruz and Merced. However, there are bus services available with transfers that take approximately 5 hours and 52 minutes. The journey involves departing from the Ocean & Water station in Santa Cruz and transferring at various locations such as San Jose Diridon and Santa Clara. The bus services are operated by Santa Cruz Metro and The Bus.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Merced. With more than 28 hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget. Prices start at $49 per night, making it an affordable option for travelers. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, you will have no trouble finding a place to stay in Merced.

Trips from Santa Cruz