1map logoGo to main page

Portland, OR, USA to Palo Alto, CA, USA from $37: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Portland, United States of America
to
Palo Alto, United States of America

How to Get from Portland 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.

$37 by trainBest price
904 kmDistance
4h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Portland 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
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$90-368
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
20h  53m
Estimated price
$37-246
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 904 km
Duration: 4h 20m

See more options

Company
Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
18h  15m
Estimated price
$103-900
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  37m
Estimated price
$108-332
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  16m
Estimated price
$110-420
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
11h  21m
Estimated price
$901-902
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Portland to Palo Alto

The journey from Portland to Palo Alto offers a delightful contrast between Portland's lush, laid-back vibe and Palo Alto's dynamic technology-driven atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palo Alto

Palo Alto boasts several neighborhoods, each offering its distinct charm and attractions.

Downtown Palo Alto
• Vibrant dining scene with diverse cuisine options.
• Trendy shops and galleries line the streets.
Professorville
• Historic homes showcase Victorian architecture.
• Peaceful streets ideal for leisurely strolls.
Stanford Research Park
• Home to innovative tech companies and startups.
• Scenic paths perfect for outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Palo Alto's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Palo Alto's attractions.

Stanford University
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and beautiful light.
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Visit during weekdays for a serene environment and excellent wildlife viewing.
Downtown Palo Alto
Go in the late afternoon for a vibrant atmosphere and fewer tourists.

Palo Alto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palo Alto enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it suitable for outdoor activities year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall when the temperatures are pleasant, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Palo Alto

One standout option is Chez TJ, where you can savor a seasonal tasting menu that emphasizes local ingredients and French-inspired techniques, a contrast to Portland’s more casual farm-to-table scene. The elegant atmosphere and sophisticated flavor profiles make dining here a unique experience that showcases California’s culinary creativity.

Portland - Palo Alto operators

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

Plane
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 52m
Estimated price
$90-420

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$3680-3681

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$110-420
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
$906-3682

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$110-3681
Website
united.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$110-3683
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$3684-3685
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Portland to San Jose

Average Duration
19h 52m
Estimated price
$908-909

Train from Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak to Santa Clara Amtrak

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$374-3684
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain to Palo Alto Caltrain

Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
$3688-3689

Train from Santa Clara Caltrain to California Avenue Caltrain

Average Duration
27m
Estimated price
$372-373
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Portland Curbside Bus Stop to Sacramento

Average Duration
12h 55m
Estimated price
$3725-37450

Bus from Sacramento to San Jose - Huong Lan Sandwich

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 714-839-3500
Website
gotobus.com

Other from Sacramento to San Jose - Huong Lan Sandwich

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between Portland 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Portland to Palo Alto covering a distance of 667 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes along the way, from lush forests to rolling hills. 💰 Plan your budget accordingly, as the cost of driving from Portland to Palo Alto typically ranges from $120 to $180. Make stops at charming towns and eateries to enrich your journey. ⏰ Expect a drive time of approximately 11 hours and 21 minutes, allowing for breaks and potential traffic delays. Prepare a fun playlist or podcast lineup to keep you entertained throughout the drive.
Average price
$120 - $180
🌉 The train services operated by Amtrak will take you from Portland station to San Jose station, passing through California Avenue Caltrain Northbound. Get ready for a comfortable ride that lasts approximately 20 hours and 53 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Portland to Palo Alto train range from $37 to $246, offering flexibility for travelers with different budgets. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you make your way down the West Coast.
Departure Point
Portland station
Arrival Point
San Jose station
🛫 Experience a convenient and swift journey from Portland to Palo Alto by hopping on a short direct flight from Portland Airport to San Francisco Airport with a duration of only 1 hour and 47 minutes.
Departure Point
Portland Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 There is no direct bus from Portland to Palo Alto, but you can embark on a journey with transfers that lasts approximately 18 hours and 15 minutes. The services depart from Portland Curbside Bus Stop and arrive at El Camino & Churchill via several stops including Sacramento and King & Tully. 🛣️ The Portland to Palo Alto bus services are operated by Flixbus USA and Hoang Express, offering a convenient way to travel between the two cities. The prices for the bus ticket can range from $103 to $205, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore California from Oregon by road.
Departure Point
Portland Curbside Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
San Jose - Huong Lan Sandwich station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Portland to Palo Alto.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Portland and Palo Alto is approximately 562 miles by road. However, if you prefer to travel by train, it takes around 20 hours and 53 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly to San Francisco and then take the Caltrain, which will take around 4 hours and 17 minutes. If you choose to drive, it will take approximately 11 hours and 21 minutes, while taking the bus can take around 18 hours and 38 minutes.
To travel from Portland to Palo Alto the most cost-effective option is by train, starting at $35. While it takes a longer time, it is the cheaper alternative for budget-conscious travelers. On the other hand, the quickest way to reach Palo Alto from Portland is to fly to San Francisco and then take the Caltrain. This option can take as little as 4 hours and 17 minutes, though it is generally more expensive, with prices starting at $75.
The prices for traveling from Portland to Palo Alto by train can range from $37 to $246. Additionally, the prices for traveling by bus between Palo Alto and Portland can vary from $81 to $216. Due to the fluctuating prices, it is recommended to check for updated fares before planning your trip.
To get from Portland to Palo Alto without public transportation, you can drive the approximately 667-mile distance. This typically takes about 11 hours and 21 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. As for the expenses, it's estimated that the trip by car can cost anywhere between $120 and $180, considering factors such as fuel prices and toll fees.
The best way to travel from Portland to Palo Alto without a car is by taking a bus and night bus. This option takes approximately 18 hours and 38 minutes and costs between $80 and $220. The bus route provides a convenient and affordable option for travelers looking to make the journey between the two cities.
Yes, there is a link between Portland and Palo Alto but there are no direct train or bus routes. The train journey from Portland to Palo Alto takes approximately 20 hours and 53 minutes, with transfers in San Jose Diridon Caltrain. The bus journey, on the other hand, takes about 18 hours and 38 minutes, with transfers in Sacramento, Oakland, and Redwood City Caltrain-Lane A. Overall, it is faster to travel by train than by bus, but both options require multiple transfers.
The flight from Portland to San Francisco typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. On average, a one-way ticket can range from $100 to $300, but it's always best to compare prices and book in advance to find the best deals.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Palo Alto with over 856 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $64 per night, providing a range of options to suit different budgets. Visitors can find a variety of hotels ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay near Palo Alto. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or consult with a travel agent to find the best hotel that meets your specific preferences and needs.

Trips from Portland