- Must visit
Kern County Museum
Open-air history museum with dozens of restored buildings, regional exhibits, and Pioneer Village showcasing Kern County heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$38
Average price
$40
Fastest journey
3 h 45 m
Average duration
3 h 45 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
251 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Merced, CA for Bakersfield, CA on Sat, Jun 20, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 251 km distance in an average of 3 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 45 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 3 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:00 AM3h45Merced, CA11:45 AMBakersfield, CA$381One-way0 transfers- 9:00 AM3h45Merced, CA12:45 PMBakersfield, CA$421One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM3h45Merced, CA12:45 PMBakersfield, CA$421One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM3h45Merced, CA11:45 AMBakersfield, CA$381One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $36, and a bus costs an average of $27.
Distance: 155 miles (251 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$39 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 15m Average total duration 3h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 43m Average total duration Fastest 3h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA is a train with an average price of $37 (€30).
This is compared to other travel options from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
A train is $2 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA costing on average $39 (€32).
The fastest way to travel from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA is by train with an average journey time of 3h 13m.
Other travel options to Bakersfield, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Merced, CA and Bakersfield, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -2h -21m sooner (3h 45m by bus vs 2h 24m by car) and save roughly $-5.60 (€-4.59) compared to fuel and tolls ($39 (€32) vs $33 (€27)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Greyhound, Tufesa Mexico.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $47 |
Live departures
Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM Merced, CA | 3h45 | 11:45 AM Bakersfield, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Merced, CA | 3h45 | 12:45 PM Bakersfield, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
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Jun 21
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Why should you book Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as Tufesa Mexico offer buses services from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of Tufesa Mexico to find the best option for your trip from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 20:45. The fastest bus covers the 155 miles (251 km) distance in 3h 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 155 miles (251 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 3h 35m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 8:45 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Greyhound, Tufesa Mexico from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CAYou can travel by bus between Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA with Greyhound, Tufesa Mexico for as low as $27 (€22). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Tufesa Mexico
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Tufesa Mexico frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Bakersfield
Things to do in Bakersfield
Discover the best of Bakersfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield trip today.
- Recommended
Bakersfield Museum of Art
Leading local art museum featuring rotating contemporary and regional exhibitions, sculpture garden, and community programs in Mill Creek Park.
- Recommended
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
Family-friendly museum focused on geology, paleontology, fossils, and natural sciences with hands-on displays in downtown Bakersfield.
- Must visit
Downtown Bakersfield
The city's main historic and cultural core with theaters, murals, civic landmarks, and a growing arts and nightlife scene.
- Must visit
The Park at River Walk
Popular lakeside park with walking paths, bridges, and sunset views, frequently featured in local social media content.
- Recommended
Panorama Bluffs
Scenic bluff-top walking area with sweeping city and Kern River views, especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
Basque Family-Style Dinner
A Bakersfield classic rooted in the city’s Basque community, usually served in boardinghouse restaurants with soup, salad, beans, pickled tongue, fries, pasta, and a grilled meat main.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Central California barbecue favorite featuring seasoned beef tri-tip grilled over red oak or similar wood. It is widely loved in Bakersfield and across the San Joaquin Valley.
- Gluten-free
Taco Truck Tacos
Bakersfield is known for strong Mexican food culture, and simple street-style tacos with carne asada, carnitas, onion, cilantro, and salsa are a local staple.
Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen
A Bakersfield institution blending Italian American comfort food with local tradition. Known for ravioli, sandwiches, and a bustling, historic atmosphere.
Wool Growers Restaurant
Iconic Basque restaurant known for classic family-style meals, cocktails, and a historic boardinghouse atmosphere. One of Bakersfield’s signature dining experiences.
Pyrenees Cafe
Long-running downtown Basque spot serving hearty family-style dinners and traditional specialties in a casual, old-Bakersfield setting.
United States Dollar
Generally cheaper than major California cities. Hotels and dining are moderate, while car travel and some attractions add costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; 20% for strong service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 where helpful.
FAQs: Bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA can start from as little as $27 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA is $39 (€32) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA is 3h 35m to travel the 155 miles (251 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 8:45 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA with Greyhound, Tufesa Mexico. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA, you can count on Greyhound, Tufesa Mexico for the best way to get you to Bakersfield, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Merced, CA and Bakersfield, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bakersfield, CA from Merced, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Merced, CA and Bakersfield, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bakersfield, CA are:
- Kern County Museum, a historical museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the region's past
- Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, a music venue and restaurant dedicated to the legacy of country music star Buck Owens
- California Living Museum (CALM), a zoo and botanical garden focusing on native California wildlife and plants
- Bakersfield Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional artworks
- Hart Memorial Park, a large public park offering picnic areas, fishing spots, and scenic views along the Kern River.
The best things to do in Bakersfield, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant downtown Bakersfield area, with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues
- Attend a live performance at the historic Fox Theater, known for its stunning architecture and diverse lineup of shows
- Enjoy a day of hiking or biking at the Panorama Vista Preserve, offering beautiful trails and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Visit the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science, featuring fascinating exhibits on paleontology, geology, and anthropology
- Experience local flavors at the Bakersfield Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Merced, CA nor Bakersfield, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Bakersfield, CA, travelers should remain cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving fake ticket sales or unauthorized transportation services can occur, so purchasing tickets only through official vendors is advised. It’s also important to stay aware of surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas for safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Most Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses use the Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) to Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal station pair, with some services arriving at Lamont. Use this guide to compare Merced, CA and Bakersfield, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Merced
Arrival bus stations in Bakersfield
Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) from Merced city centre
BusM5, Uc · 3m · $4 · every ~4 min
Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal
Bakersfield
City-centre transport
Getting to Bakersfield from Bakersfield city centre
Bus100, 120, 130 · 3m · $2 · every ~2 min
Most popular bus connections from Merced, CA
More options for your journey from Merced, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bakersfield, CA and Merced, CA
Most popular bus connections to Bakersfield, CA
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