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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Palo Alto, CA, USA from $4: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
Palo Alto, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto: 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.

$4 by busBest price
69 kmDistance
51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto 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
Train
Average Duration
1h  51m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  35m
Estimated price
$4-19
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 69 km
Duration: 51m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
1h  57m
Estimated price
$7-14
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$7-12
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$140-180

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Palo Alto

The journey from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto offers a shift from laid-back beach vibes to dynamic tech innovation, showcasing the diverse experiences of California culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palo Alto

Palo Alto's neighborhoods offer distinctive charm and vibrant experiences for visitors.

Downtown Palo Alto
• Bustling shops and restaurants line University Avenue.
• Regular community events create a lively atmosphere.
Professorville
• Historic homes reflect Victorian architectural charm.
• Quiet, tree-lined streets foster a serene vibe.
California Avenue
• Features diverse dining options and local boutiques.
• A farmer's market adds fresh produce every Sunday.

Best Times To Visit Palo Alto's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment of Palo Alto's highlights with these timely tips.

Stanford University
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and serene campus walks.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Weekdays are best for tranquil birdwatching and hiking without weekend crowds.
Downtown Palo Alto
Explore during weekdays for a laid-back experience and less busy shops.

Palo Alto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palo Alto enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it generally pleasant year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable, enhancing outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Palo Alto

Try the seasonal tasting menu at a restaurant like Evvia, where you can indulge in regional Greek flavors crafted from local ingredients, offering a refreshing contrast to Santa Cruz's casual beach cuisine. This dining experience captures the vibrancy of Silicon Valley's culinary scene, providing a sophisticated atmosphere that invites you to savor each bite.

Santa Cruz - Palo Alto operators

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

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

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$2-7

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$2-7
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://vta.org

Bus from Santa Clara & 2nd to El Camino & California

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$2-5
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to California Avenue Caltrain

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$5-7
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-423-1234

Other from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$140-180

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Palo Alto 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.

🚗 Start your journey from Santa Cruz and head towards the beautiful city of Palo Alto just 43 miles away. Enjoy a scenic drive that takes approximately 51 minutes, offering picturesque views along the way. 💵 The cost to travel by car from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto ranges between $7 to $12, making it an affordable and convenient option for exploring these two vibrant California destinations.
Average price
$7 - $12
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto, travelers can take a journey with transfers that lasts approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. 💰 The prices for this bus route can vary from $4 to $19, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option between these two Californian cities.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
El Camino & California station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto.

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The cheapest way to travel from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto is by driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 37 miles, and the drive usually takes around 51 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost for this journey would be between $7 to $12, which covers fuel expenses.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto is by taking a taxi. The taxi ride takes approximately 51 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, it is worth noting that this option can be quite expensive, with fares ranging from $140 to $180.
It is approximately 33 miles from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto. The road distance is about 42.7 miles. The travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it typically takes around 51 minutes to drive from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto.
The best way to travel from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto without a car is by taking a combination of bus and Caltrain. First, you can take the line 69 bus from Santa Cruz Metro Center to Watsonville Transit Center. From there, you can transfer to line 78 bus which will take you to the Santa Clara Transit Center. Once you arrive at the Santa Clara Transit Center, you can take the Caltrain to Palo Alto. The journey takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes and costs $7-$14.
The travel time from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto is approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, including transfers. The most convenient way to make this journey is by taking a combination of public transportation options such as buses and trains. The exact travel time may vary depending on the specific route and any potential delays. It is always a good idea to check for updated schedules and plan your trip accordingly.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Palo Alto. There are over 856 hotels to choose from, offering various amenities and price ranges. Prices for hotels in Palo Alto start at $64 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, there is a wide selection of hotels to suit different preferences and budgets near Palo Alto.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto. The distance between the two cities is approximately 43 miles. The drive typically takes around 51 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It's a straightforward route that can be easily navigated using highways such as CA-17 and US-101.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Santa Cruz and Palo Alto. However, you can take a bus from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto with transfers. The journey starts at Ocean & Water in Santa Cruz and continues with transfers at San Jose Diridon and Santa Clara & 1st. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes.
To catch the Santa Cruz to Palo Alto bus, you will need to go to the Ocean & Water station in Santa Cruz. From there, Santa Cruz Metro operates bus services that will take you to Palo Alto. The buses typically depart from the Ocean & Water station, so make sure to check the schedules and plan your trip accordingly.
The Santa Cruz to Palo Alto bus services, operated by Santa Clara VTA, arrive at the El Camino & California station in Palo Alto. This bus station is conveniently located near various attractions and amenities in the area. From here, travelers can easily access the nearby Stanford University and explore the vibrant downtown Palo Alto.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto can range from $4 to $19, depending on the specific bus company and the time of travel. Options such as local public buses or regional shuttle services may offer more affordable rates, while luxury coach services may be on the higher end of the price range. It's recommended to check the websites or contact the bus companies directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost to drive from Santa Cruz to Palo Alto by car ranges from $7 to $12, depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and current gas prices. The distance between the two cities is approximately 35 miles, and the average driving time is around 51 minutes. It's recommended to check current gas prices and plan accordingly to ensure an accurate estimation of the cost.

Trips from Santa Cruz