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

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

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Sacramento: 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
236 kmDistance
2h 35m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Sacramento 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
Average Duration
4h  54m
Estimated price
$56-67
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  1m
Estimated price
$7-97
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 236 km
Duration: 2h 35m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  35m
Estimated price
$26-40
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$118-410
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Sacramento

The journey from Santa Cruz to Sacramento takes you from coastal serenity and beachside charm to the vibrant energy and rich history of California's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sacramento

Sacramento boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Midtown
• Trendy cafes and boutiques abound.
• Vibrant nightlife with bars and music venues.
Old Sacramento
• Historic buildings transport you back in time.
• Scenic riverfront with stunning views.
Land Park
• Home to sprawling parks and the zoo.
• Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls.

Best Times To Visit Sacramento's Attractions

Timing your visits to Sacramento's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

California State Capitol
Weekdays in the morning provide quieter tours and fewer crowds.
Sacramento Zoo
Visit on weekdays, especially early afternoon, for a more relaxed experience.
Old Sacramento
Early mornings or late afternoons allow you to explore without peak tourist traffic.

Sacramento Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sacramento experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall the best times for comfortable travel. The weather significantly influences outdoor activities, so planning your visit around seasonal changes can enhance your overall experience.

Dining Recommendation in Sacramento

Try the pastrami sandwich at Mulvaney's B&L, where locally sourced ingredients shine in a cozy, historic setting, offering a hearty contrast to the lighter, seafood-focused dishes often found in Santa Cruz. The rich flavors and warm atmosphere create a distinctly American dining experience that captures the essence of Sacramento's agricultural bounty.

Santa Cruz - Sacramento operators

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

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

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$7-7

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$7-7
Contact phone
+1 714-839-3500
Website
https://xedohoang.com/en

Bus from San Jose - Huong Lan Sandwich to Sacramento

Average Duration
Estimated price
$56-67
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Sacramento

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$562-563
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$7-672
Plane Show flights
Website
http://united.com

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

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$560-561

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Sacramento 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 drive from Santa Cruz to Sacramento, covering a distance of 147 miles. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes, offering a perfect blend of coastal and inland landscapes along the way. 💸 Depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, the cost of traveling from Santa Cruz to Sacramento by car can range from $26 to $40. Be sure to budget accordingly and enjoy the flexibility that road travel provides for exploring both urban and rural areas along the route.
Average price
$26 - $40
🛫 Flying from Santa Cruz to Sacramento is a convenient and quick way to travel. The direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport takes just 57 minutes with United Airlines.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Sacramento Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Santa Cruz to Sacramento with a series of transfers along the way. 🌉 The route covers approximately 161 miles and involves 2 changeovers, promising an adventure-filled ride through different landscapes. 🚏 Starting from the Santa Cruz Metro Center, hop on the Highway 17 Express bus towards San Jose, followed by a transfer to a FlixBus heading to Richmond BART Station. 🎟️ Enjoy the diverse sights and sounds as you travel towards your final destination in Sacramento, making memories at each pit stop. 🌆 After about 7 hours and 23 minutes of travel time, you'll reach Sacramento Midtown on the FlixBus line, ready to explore the vibrant capital city. 💼 Sit back, relax, and let the bus take you on a hassle-free journey, connecting you from Santa Cruz to Sacramento with convenience and comfort.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
Sacramento station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Santa Cruz to Sacramento is by driving. The approximate cost of fuel for the round trip would be between $26 and $40, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices. The drive takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes, but please note that travel times may vary based on traffic conditions and the specific route chosen.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz to Sacramento is by driving. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of gas for this trip ranges from $26 to $40, depending on the mileage and current gas prices. This option allows you to have more flexibility and control over your travel schedule.
The distance between Santa Cruz and Sacramento is approximately 116 miles. If you're driving, the road distance is about 146.8 miles. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes. However, the duration may vary based on traffic conditions and the route chosen.
There are several options to travel from Santa Cruz to Sacramento without a car. The most convenient way is to take a bus from Santa Cruz Metro Center to San Jose Diridon Station, and then take a train from San Jose Diridon Station to Sacramento Valley Station. This journey takes approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes and fares can range from $7 to $100 depending on the time and type of ticket. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a combination of bus and light rail or bus and flight options, depending on your budget and preferences.
The travel time from Santa Cruz to Sacramento can vary depending on the mode of transportation and any necessary transfers. If you opt to drive, it typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes to cover the 150-mile distance. However, if you're considering public transportation, the journey can take approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes, accounting for any transfers that may be required. It's worth noting that these times are estimates and may be subject to factors such as traffic or weather conditions.
There are numerous options for accommodation in Sacramento. Some popular hotels in the area include The Citizen Hotel, Hyatt Regency Sacramento, and Kimpton Sawyer Hotel. Prices for these hotels start at $57 per night, but can vary depending on the dates of your stay and the amenities you are looking for. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability, especially during peak travel periods.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Santa Cruz to Sacramento. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 147 miles. It takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete the drive, depending on traffic conditions. Driving is a convenient option as it allows you more flexibility and control over your travel schedule.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Santa Cruz to Sacramento. However, there are alternative bus routes available. You can catch a bus from Santa Cruz to San Jose, then transfer to another bus from San Jose to Stockton. From Stockton, you can take another bus to reach Sacramento. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes.
To catch the bus from Santa Cruz to Sacramento you will need to go to the Ocean & Water station. This is where Santa Cruz Metro operates their bus services. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance as times may vary. Additionally, it is recommended to arrive at the station a few minutes early to ensure you don't miss the bus.
The bus from Santa Cruz to Sacramento arrives at Sacramento station. This bus service is operated by Amtrak. The Sacramento station is a centrally located transportation hub in downtown Sacramento, making it convenient for travelers to access other parts of the city or connect to other modes of transportation. Overall, taking the bus is a convenient and cost-effective option for traveling between Santa Cruz and Sacramento.
United Airlines offers flights between Santa Cruz and Sacramento. However, since there is no airport in Santa Cruz itself, you would need to travel to San Francisco Airport to catch a flight to Sacramento. United Airlines operates regular flights from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers. It is advisable to check the airline's website or a travel booking platform to find specific flight schedules and ticket prices.
The flight from Santa Cruz to Sacramento typically takes approximately 51 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date schedules and availability. Additionally, travel times may vary depending on factors such as weather and air traffic.
The cost of driving from Santa Cruz to Sacramento can vary between $26 and $40. This estimate includes the cost of fuel, tolls, and any parking fees you may encounter. This is generally the cheapest option for travel between the two cities, but it is important to factor in additional costs for meals or accommodations, if necessary, during the journey. The total travel time by car is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to Sacramento