- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Hands-on science and technology museum in Downtown San Jose with family-friendly exhibits, innovation themes, and an IMAX Dome Theater.
Cheapest, Fastest
14 Coast Starlight
Salinas Station
San José Diridon Station
$391•One-way
The cheapest and fastest trainsfrom Salinas, CA to San Jose, CAShowing times and prices for Jul 11
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$39
Fastest journey
1h 33m
Average duration
1h 33m
Trains per day
1
Distance
75 km
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Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA bus with FlixBus
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $23.
Distance: 47 miles (77 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$17 Average price Cheapest | $48 Average price | $12 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration 1h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of $17 (€14).
This is compared to other travel options from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $48 (€39).
The fastest way to travel from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salinas, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -12m sooner (1h 11m by bus vs 59m by car) and save roughly $-4.75 (€-3.91) compared to fuel and tolls ($17 (€14) vs $12 (€10)). 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 FlixBus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Monterey-Salinas Transit | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator Monterey-Salinas Transit | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 10:48AM | Duration 2h33 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator Monterey-Salinas Transit | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 03:51PM | Duration 2h36 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Monterey-Salinas Transit | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 08:21PM | Duration 2h36 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Live departures
Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA buses for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:40 PM Salinas, CA | 1h10 | 4:50 PM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:10 PM Salinas, CA | 1h10 | 6:20 PM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:20 PM Salinas, CA | 1h05 | 8:25 PM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, July 12 | |||||
| 3:25 AM Salinas, CA | 1h05 | 4:30 AM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Why should you book Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Monterey-Salinas Transit offer buses services from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Monterey-Salinas Transit to find the best option for your trip from Salinas, CA to San Jose, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 1h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:25, the last at 18:20. The fastest bus covers the 47 miles (77 km) distance in 1h 5m.
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 47 miles (77 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 1h 5m |
First bus 3:25 AM |
Last bus 6:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 days |
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: FlixBus, Monterey-Salinas Transit from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CAYou can travel by bus between Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA with FlixBus, Monterey-Salinas Transit for as low as $9 (€7). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Monterey-Salinas Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Monterey-Salinas Transit frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to San Jose
Things to do in San Jose
Discover the best of San Jose — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Leading contemporary art museum in the city center, known for California artists and rotating modern exhibitions.
- Recommended
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Distinctive museum with one of the largest collections of Egyptian artifacts on display in western North America.
- Must visit
Santana Row
Stylish mixed-use district popular for strolling, people-watching, and a polished urban atmosphere that is widely shared on social media.
- Must visit
Japantown
One of the few remaining historic Japantowns in the United States, valued for its heritage, walkability, and local character.
- Recommended
Plaza de César Chávez
Central downtown square used for festivals, seasonal events, and easy access to major museums and performance venues.
Orange Sauce Burrito
A San Jose taqueria classic: a burrito or tacos paired with the city’s famous spicy orange sauce, especially associated with local Mexican spots.
Banh Mi
Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette with pickled vegetables, herbs, and savory fillings. San Jose’s large Vietnamese community makes it a local staple.
- Gluten-free
Pho
A fragrant Vietnamese noodle soup with rice noodles, herbs, and slow-simmered broth. Widely loved in San Jose for its strong Vietnamese food culture.
Falafel's Drive-In San Jose
Beloved casual spot serving falafel, gyros, and its famous banana shakes in a classic roadside setting.
Original Joe's San Jose
Historic downtown Italian American restaurant known for hearty classics, steaks, and old-school atmosphere.
The Grandview Restaurant San Jose
Fine-dining venue in the hills known for city views, American cuisine, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but daily costs add up fast.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-18 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5. Little or no tip is fine for counter service.
FAQs: Bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salinas, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA can start from as little as $9 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA is $17 (€14) ; 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 Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA is 1h 5m to travel the 47 miles (77 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 Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 3:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 6:20 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Monterey-Salinas Transit for the best way to get you to San Jose, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Salinas, CA and San Jose, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to San Jose, CA from Salinas, CA is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salinas, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Jose, CA are:
- Winchester Mystery House, an architectural curiosity with a maze-like design and historical significance
- The Tech Interactive, an engaging science and technology center with hands-on exhibits
- San Jose Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum featuring works from the 20th and 21st centuries
- Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, a museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian artifacts and culture
- Municipal Rose Garden, a beautiful and serene garden featuring over 3,500 rose bushes.
The best things to do in San Jose, CA include:
- Explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, a tranquil space inspired by Japanese landscape design
- Visit the Children's Discovery Museum, offering interactive exhibits for families and children
- Enjoy a performance at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, hosting a variety of shows and events
- Discover the history of Silicon Valley at the Computer History Museum
- Take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park, offering trails and natural beauty.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
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 Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Salinas, CA nor San Jose, 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 Salinas, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps ensure 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 Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA
Most Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA buses use the Salinas, Greyhound to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Salinas, CA and San Jose, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Salinas
Arrival bus stations in San Jose
Salinas, Greyhound
City-centre transport
Getting to Salinas, Greyhound from Salinas city centre
Bus29, 59 · 16m · $4 · every ~1 min
29, 59 · 17m · $4 · every ~1 min
29, 59 · 17m · $4 · every ~1 min
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) from San Jose city centre
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 7m · $6 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 17m · $4 · every ~7 min
Most popular bus connections from Salinas, CA
More options for your journey from Salinas, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Jose, CA and Salinas, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Jose, CA
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