- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of North America’s premier rail museums, with restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and strong California history context.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$69
Average price
$105
Fastest journey
9 h 50 m
Average duration
10 h 14 m
Buses per day
10
Distance
490 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA will cost around $105 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA without transferring at least once.
4785 AMTRAK · 524 Capitol Corridor10:05 PM11h35Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:40 AMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$691One-way1 transfer- 4785 AMTRAK · 522 Capitol Corridor10:05 PM10h25Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA8:30 AMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$691One-way1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus+
1:55 PM18h50Santa Barbara, Bus station8:45 AMSacramento, Bus Terminal$691One-way2 transfers- 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr10:05 PM12h07Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA10:12 AMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$751One-way1 transfer
- 5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK12:00 PM9h50Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:50 PMSacramento, CA$881One-way2 transfers
- 5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK12:00 PM9h50Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:50 PMSacramento, CA$881One-way2 transfers
- 5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK12:00 PM10h00Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA10:00 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$921One-way2 transfers
- 6238 AMTRAK · 538 Capitol Corridor7:35 AM10h21Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA5:56 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$1641One-way1 transfer
- 4785 AMTRAK · 522 Capitol Corridor10:05 PM10h25Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA8:30 AMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$691One-way1 transfer
- 4761 AMTRAK · 544 Capitol Corridor10:05 AM10h36Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA8:41 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$1641One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $67. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $67, and a flight costs an average of $160.
Distance: 304 miles (490 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$99 Average price Cheapest | $128 Average price | $352 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 2m Average total duration 9h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 48m Average total duration 11h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 12m Average total duration Fastest 4h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is a bus with an average price of $99.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA:
A bus is $29 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $128.
A bus is $252 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $352.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 12m.
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 32m.
Train takes on average 11h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 05:56PM | Duration 10h21 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $164 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:31AM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 13h19 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 07:53PM | Duration 9h48 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $164 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 18h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 18h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 17h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $219 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 9h 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $67 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:10, the last at 22:20. The fastest bus covers the 304 miles (490 km) distance in 9h 50m.
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 304 miles (490 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 9h 50m |
First bus 5:10 AM |
Last bus 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 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 from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA with FlixBus for as low as $67. 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
20h 45m
Cheapest Price
$80
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.
Complete guide to Sacramento, CA
Things to do in Sacramento, CA
Discover the best of Sacramento, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Crocker Art Museum
Excellent art museum known for California art, ceramics, photography, and engaging modern exhibitions in Midtown Sacramento.
- Recommended
California State Capitol Museum
State history museum inside the capitol, featuring restored offices, political artifacts, and architecture that defines California government.
- Must visit
Midtown Sacramento
Tree-lined central district known for restaurants, shops, murals, nightlife, and easy walking between major Sacramento attractions.
- Recommended
William Land Park
Large riverside park with trails, gardens, ponds, and open lawns, ideal for strolling, picnics, and seeing local wildlife.
- Recommended
Sacramento River Parkway Trail
Long riverfront path popular for walking and cycling, linking parks and neighborhoods with broad Sacramento River views.
Farm-To-Fork Seasonal Plates
Farm-to-fork seasonal plates built from Sacramento Valley produce. They reflect the city's agricultural identity and restaurant culture more than a single fixed recipe.
- Gluten-free
California Salmon Plate
A local spin on California cuisine using grilled salmon, asparagus, citrus, and herbs. It highlights nearby river fish and regional produce.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Delta Asparagus
Fresh Delta asparagus, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is a celebrated spring ingredient from the nearby Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
The Kitchen Restaurant
Contemporary fine dining destination focused on seasonal Sacramento ingredients, tasting menus, and polished service.
Tower Cafe
Beloved local bakery and cafe for breakfast, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee with a lively neighborhood feel.
The Firehouse Restaurant
Historic upscale restaurant in Old Sacramento known for steaks, seafood, and classic dining room service in a refined setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for California. Hotels are often pricier than smaller US cities, while casual dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-22% for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts; small tips are appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA can start from as little as $67 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is $99 ; 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is 9h 50m to travel the 304 miles (490 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 5:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Sacramento, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Santa Barbara, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Santa Barbara, Bus station, Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA . When arriving in Sacramento, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Sacramento, Bus Terminal .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Barbara, Bus station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Sacramento, Bus Terminal, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Sacramento, CA from Santa Barbara, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Sacramento, CA are:
- California State Capitol Museum, a historic building housing the state government and offering tours of its legislative chambers and exhibits
- Crocker Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of art from California and around the world, including European, Asian, and contemporary works
- Old Sacramento State Historic Park, a preserved district with Gold Rush-era buildings, museums, and shops along the Sacramento River
- Sacramento Zoo, home to over 500 animals from around the globe, focusing on conservation and education
- American River Parkway, a scenic 23-mile parkway offering trails for biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing along the American River.
The best things to do in Sacramento, CA include:
- Old Sacramento Waterfront, a preserved historic district with shops, restaurants, and museums reflecting the Gold Rush era
- American River Bike Trail, a scenic 32-mile path perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying nature
- Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, a reconstructed 19th-century fort offering insights into California's early pioneer history
- Midtown Farmers Market, a vibrant market showcasing local produce, crafts, and food vendors every Saturday
- Tower Bridge, an iconic vertical lift bridge offering picturesque views of the Sacramento River and city skyline.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Sacramento, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Old Sacramento and transit stations. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use official transportation options, avoid displaying valuables openly, and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to Sacramento, Bus Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Santa Barbara
Arrival bus stations in Sacramento
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses to Sacramento, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA leave from Santa Barbara, Bus station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at Santa Barbara, CA, USA.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara, Bus station bus station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, Bus station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located inside the station building.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, Bus station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Wheelchair accessible routes available.
Which Sacramento, CA station do buses from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA arrive at Sacramento, Bus Terminal. Sacramento, Bus Terminal is 1 miles (2 km) from Sacramento, CA city centre.
Sacramento, Bus TerminalSacramento, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Sacramento, Bus Terminal from Sacramento city centre
Sacramento, Bus Terminal is 1 km from Sacramento city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus142 · 15m · $2 · every ~2 min
42B · 19m · $4 · every ~3 min
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service · 21h 20m · $5
Sacramento, Bus Terminal bus station facilities and services
Sacramento, Bus Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Fast food and coffee shop available
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free with registration. ATMs are multiple ATMs near ticket office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sacramento, Bus Terminal.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sacramento, Bus Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento, Bus Terminal: Wheelchair ramps and elevators available.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sacramento, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
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