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

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from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
San Jose, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to San Jose: 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.

$5 - OtherBest price
50 kmDistance
38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to San Jose 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
Santa Cruz Metro / Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$2-7
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$5-9
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 50 km
Duration: 38m

See more options

Company
Santa Cruz Yellow Cab / Go Green Cab / Deluxe Taxi Cab Co
Taxi
Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$110-130
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Traveling From Santa Cruz to San Jose

This journey takes you from the laid-back coastal vibes of Santa Cruz to the vibrant urban experience of San Jose, revealing two distinctly captivating Californian lifestyles.

Best Neighborhoods in San Jose

San Jose boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown San Jose
• Home to cultural landmarks and museums.
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
Willow Glen
• Charming tree-lined streets and boutique shops.
• Lively community events throughout the year.
Santana Row
• Upscale shopping and dining experiences.
• Picturesque outdoor spaces for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit San Jose's Attractions

Discover the optimal times to explore San Jose's favorite spots, ensuring an enjoyable experience.

The Tech Interactive
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and deeper engagement.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere, perfect for appreciating the exhibits.
San Pedro Square Market
Evenings during the week provide a relaxed vibe with fewer visitors.

San Jose Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Jose enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a comfortable destination throughout the year. Generally, spring and fall are ideal for visiting, as pleasant temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining in San Jose: A Culinary Contrast

For an unforgettable experience, try the vibrant flavors of regional Mexican cuisine at La Mediterranee, known for its fresh ingredients and lively atmosphere that sets it apart from the beachside eateries of Santa Cruz. The rich, diverse menu stands out with dishes like their house-made mole, showcasing bold tastes that reflect the local culinary traditions.

Santa Cruz - San Jose operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and San Jose, 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 Ocean & Water to Barack Obama Blvd & Park Ave

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$2-7
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
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Santa Cruz to San Jose

Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$110-130

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and San Jose 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.

🚗 Starting your journey from the laid-back coastal city of Santa Cruz, you will drive approximately 31 miles northeast to bustling San Jose in just under 40 minutes, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of the California landscape along the way. 💰 The cost of traveling by car from Santa Cruz to San Jose ranges from $5 to $9, offering budget-friendly options for your transportation needs, making it a convenient and affordable option for exploring the region.
Average price
$5 - $9
🚂 Travel from Santa Cruz to San Jose by train is a convenient and scenic journey with two route options available. Route 1 covers a distance of 33.9 miles and takes approximately 55 minutes to reach San Jose from Santa Cruz. The Highway 17 Express bus departs from Santa Cruz Metro Center and arrives at San Jose Diridon Station. 🚌 For a quicker option, Route 2 covers a distance of 31.4 miles and takes about 45 minutes to reach San Jose from Santa Cruz. Similar to Route 1, the Highway 17 Express bus is the mode of transport, departing from Santa Cruz Metro Center. Whether choosing Route 1 or Route 2, the journey offers a comfortable and efficient way to travel between these two California cities.
🚌 The journey from Santa Cruz to San Jose by bus takes approximately 55 minutes. Services depart hourly and operate every day, with the bus departing from Ocean & Water and arriving at Barack Obama Blvd & Park Ave. 🛣️ The distance of the route is 33.9 miles, and passengers can expect a comfortable and convenient ride on the bus towards Highway 17 Express to San Jose via SVTC. The bus is operated by Santa Cruz Metro, ensuring a reliable transportation experience. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between San Jose and Santa Cruz range from $2 to $7, offering an affordable option for travelers looking to make the quick trip between these two California cities. With efficient service and a straightforward route, taking the bus is a great way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Jose.
Departure Point
Ocean & Water station
Arrival Point
Barack Obama Blvd & Park Ave station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Purchase your ticket in advance at the Santa Cruz Metro Center or via the Santa Cruz Metro mobile app to save time and ensure you're ready to board promptly, as buses can fill up quickly during peak hours.
• While on the bus, enjoy scenic views of the coastal mountains and valleys; sit on the left side for a chance to get better views of the ocean as you travel along Highway 17.
• Upon arriving at Barack Obama Blvd & Park Ave in San Jose, familiarize yourself with the nearby public transport options, such as VTA light rail and bus services; you can check schedules and maps at VTA's official website.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to San Jose.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and San Jose is approximately 26 miles by road and 31.1 miles by car. The typical travel time by car is around 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, the travel time by bus is approximately one hour from San Jose to Santa Cruz.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Cruz to San Jose is by driving. It costs around $5-$9 and takes approximately 38 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority and budget is not a concern, taking a taxi would be the quickest option, costing around $110-$130 and also taking 38 minutes. Both options provide a convenient and direct way to reach San Jose from Santa Cruz.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Jose and Santa Cruz can range from $2 to $7. The exact price will depend on the bus company and the time of travel. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online platforms to find the best deals and compare prices before booking a ticket.
To travel from Santa Cruz to San Jose without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 31 miles, and it takes around 38 minutes to drive from Santa Cruz to San Jose. If you choose to drive, be prepared to pay for gas, tolls, and parking fees. The estimated cost for the car journey can range from $5 to $9, depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll rates.
The best way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Jose without a car is by taking a bus. It takes approximately 53 minutes to reach San Jose from Santa Cruz by bus. The ticket prices range from $2 to $7. This is a convenient and cost-effective option for those who do not have access to a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santa Cruz and San Jose via bus. The bus service, operated by Santa Cruz Metro, departs from Ocean & Water station in Santa Cruz and arrives at Barack Obama Blvd & Park Ave station in San Jose. The journey takes approximately 53 minutes and the buses operate hourly, every day. This provides a convenient and direct means of transportation between the two cities.
There are numerous options for accommodations near San Jose. With over 684 hotels available, visitors have a wide range of choices to suit their budget and preferences. Prices start at $49 per night, allowing travelers to find affordable options that meet their needs. Guests can choose from various hotel chains, independent hotels, and bed and breakfasts located throughout the city, providing plenty of options for a comfortable stay.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Santa Cruz to San Jose by bicycle. The distance of the route is approximately 35.4 miles or 57 kilometers. The estimated travel time is around 3 hours and 51 minutes. However, the actual travel time may vary depending on individual fitness levels and road conditions.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to San Jose