- Recommended
McHenry Museum
Local history museum in a restored library building with exhibits on Modesto, agriculture, and community life.
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA will cost around CHF 20 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF 20.
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 1 buses from San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 86 km distance in an average of 4 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 8 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 4 h 8 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.

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Take a bus from San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA and enjoy the approximately 53 miles (86 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 05:35, the last at 20:03.
Distance 53 miles (86 km) |
First bus 5:35 AM |
Last bus 8:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price CHF 27 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 10:33AM | Duration 4h08 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price CHF 22 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 04:33PM | Duration 4h08 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price CHF 22 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 05:33PM | Duration 4h08 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 21 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 06:33PM | Duration 4h08 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 20 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 09:44PM | Duration 6h04 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price CHF 27 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 11:33PM | Duration 4h08 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price CHF 21 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 11:54PM | Duration 3h29 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 21 |
The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Modesto, CA buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 2:25 PM San Jose, CA | 4h08 | 6:33 PM Modesto, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:25 PM San Jose, CA | 4h08 | 12:33 AM Modesto, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of Modesto, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Modesto, CA trip today.
Local history museum in a restored library building with exhibits on Modesto, agriculture, and community life.
Children's museum with hands-on science and play exhibits designed for families seeking an interactive indoor visit.
College museum featuring natural history displays, fossils, live animals, and planetarium programming for curious visitors.
Lively downtown district known for historic buildings, events, shopping, and walkable blocks that reflect Modesto's civic core.
Central park with mature trees, sports areas, and the Gallo Center nearby, making it a pleasant stop in downtown Modesto.
Popular regional park with a lake, trails, picnic areas, and water activities, ideal for a longer outdoor visit.
Tri-tip barbecue is a Central California staple: beef sirloin grilled over red oak and sliced smoky and juicy, reflecting the region’s ranching and casual cookout culture.
Al pastor tacos are widely loved locally, with spit-roasted pork, chile, and pineapple in a style rooted in California’s Mexican food culture and common across Modesto taquerias.
Wet burritos are a hearty Central Valley favorite: a large stuffed burrito covered in enchilada sauce and cheese, popular in family-run Mexican restaurants.
Warm, polished spot serving classic Italian dishes, pasta, and steaks with an old-school neighborhood restaurant feel.
Long-running local burger stand famous for charbroiled burgers, fries, and a classic Modesto fast-casual atmosphere.
Casual local favorite for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican comfort foods in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Moderate for California inland cities. Hotels often cost less than coastal hubs, while dining and car-based transport are average for U.S. travelers.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, about 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafes if service is provided.
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Modesto, CA.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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