1map logoGo to main page

Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Modesto, CA, USA from $6: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Modesto: 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.

$6 - Bus, TrainBest price
118 kmDistance
2h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Modesto 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
4h  39m
Estimated price
$14-58
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
6h  33m
Estimated price
$6-147
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 118 km
Duration: 2h 2m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  12m
Estimated price
$12-77
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  6m
Estimated price
$20-30
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  2m
Estimated price
$20-30
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Modesto

Embarking on a journey from Santa Cruz to Modesto offers a shift from the coastal vibes and surf culture of the seaside town to the agricultural charm and vibrant community of the Valley.

Best Neighbourhoods in Modesto

Modesto boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its unique charm and activities.

Downtown Modesto
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and live music.
• Historic architecture and plenty of dining options.
Gallo Center Area
• Home to the renowned Gallo Center for the Arts.
• Convenient access to cultural performances and events.
Ceres
• A family-friendly vibe with parks and recreational areas.
• Offers a mix of dining and shopping experiences.

Best Times To Visit Modesto's Attractions

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

McHenry Museum and Historic Gerhardt House
Visit during weekdays in late morning for a quieter exploration of history.
Gallo Center for the Arts
Weekday evenings often have fewer crowds for live performances.
Modesto Farmers Market
Early Saturday mornings offer the freshest produce and a lively atmosphere.

Modesto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Modesto enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a favorable destination for outdoor activities year-round. Late spring and early fall present the best times to visit, as pleasant temperatures can enhance your travel experiences and enjoyment of local attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Modesto

For a standout dining experience, try the tri-tip sandwich at The Fat Cat, which offers a hearty, smoky flavor that's a delightful departure from Santa Cruz's seafood focus. The casual atmosphere, combined with locally sourced ingredients, allows you to savor the essence of Central Valley cuisine in a way that truly complements Modesto's rich agricultural heritage.

Santa Cruz - Modesto operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and Modesto, 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
$584-581

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$584-581
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Hayward Bus Station to Modesto Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$581-582

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to Hayward Bus Station

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$140-30
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
https://tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Stockton to Modesto, CA

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$20-147
Train
Contact phone
1800-411-7245
Website
acerail.com

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

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$14-18
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Stockton

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$140-141

Train from Stockton to Modesto

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$580-65

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Modesto 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 Modesto, covering a distance of 112 miles. The journey offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and inland beauty. 💰 Depending on your vehicle and route choices, expect to spend between $20 to $30 for the trip from Santa Cruz to Modesto. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of exploring at your own pace. 🌄 Take in the natural landscapes and small towns along the way during the 2-hour drive from Santa Cruz to Modesto. A perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of central California by car.
Average price
$20 - $30
🛤️ The journey will take approximately 5 hours and 12 minutes, including transfers at San Jose Diridon Station and Hayward Bus Station. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Modesto and Santa Cruz range from $14 to $58.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
Modesto Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Santa Cruz and Modesto is approximately 73 miles. If you choose to travel by car, it typically takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes. However, if you prefer using public transportation, taking a bus will take around 4 hours and 37 minutes, while a combination of bus and train will take approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes. These travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Modesto is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 2 minutes and costs around $20 to $30 for gas. Taking a bus and train combination can also be a viable option, but it takes significantly longer, around 5 hours and 55 minutes, and may not be as cost-effective as driving. Overall, driving is the recommended option for a quick and affordable journey between these two cities.
The prices of a bus ticket between Modesto and Santa Cruz vary from $14 to $58, depending on the specific bus company and ticket type. It is advisable to check with different bus operators to compare prices and choose the most suitable option for your budget. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the time of day or day of the week, so it is recommended to book in advance to secure the best fares. Overall, the cost of traveling by bus between Santa Cruz and Modesto offers a range of options to fit different budgets.
To get from Santa Cruz to Modesto without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 112 miles. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving from Santa Cruz to Modesto by car can vary, but it is usually in the range of $20 to $30 for fuel expenses.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Modesto without a car, the best option is to take a bus via San Jose. The bus journey usually takes around 4 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $14 and $60. It is a convenient and affordable way to reach Modesto, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.
There is no direct link between Santa Cruz and Modesto by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes, including transfers at San Jose Diridon Station and Hayward Bus Station. The bus services are operated by Santa Cruz Metro and Greyhound USA.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Modesto with over 56 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at $63. Some popular hotels in the area include the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Modesto, the Courtyard by Marriott Modesto, and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Modesto. With a range of prices and amenities, there is something to suit every traveler's needs in Modesto.

Trips from Santa Cruz