- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome theater, and family-friendly displays in the heart of downtown.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 15
Cheapest price on Oct 15
$15
Average ticket price on Oct 15
$15
Fastest journey on Oct 15
2 h 2 m
Average journey duration on Oct 15
2 h 2 m
Buses on Oct 15
1
Distance
42 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA will cost around $15 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.
Fast buses
On Thu, Oct 15, we found 1 buses from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 15 the direct buses cover the 42 km distance in an average of 2 h 2 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 2 m .
On Thu, Oct 15 the slowest buses will take 2 h 2 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.
12:00 AM2h02Santa Cruz, CA2:02 AMSan Jose, CA$151One-way0 transfers
- 12:00 AM2h02Santa Cruz, CA2:02 AMSan Jose, CA$151One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Take a bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA and enjoy the approximately 26 miles (42 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 04:55, the last at 21:51.
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 26 miles (42 km) |
First bus 4:55 AM |
Last bus 9:51 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 02:02AM | Duration 2h02 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 03:02AM | Duration 2h02 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $15 |
Live departures
Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, October 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:00 AM Santa Cruz, CA | 2h02 | 2:02 AM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Bus providers: Santa Cruz Metro from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA with Santa Cruz Metro. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Santa Cruz Metro
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Santa Cruz Metro Duration
44m
Cheapest Santa Cruz Metro Price
$8 (€6)
Santa Cruz Metro frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to San Jose, CA
Things to do in San Jose, CA
Discover the best of San Jose, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose, CA trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Large art museum known for modern and contemporary works, strong West Coast focus, and thoughtful rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Computer History Museum
A vast collection of restored computer history, from early machines to supercomputers, popular with tech enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Plaza de César Chávez
Signature downtown plaza for festivals, concerts, and civic life, surrounded by museums, hotels, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Japantown
A vibrant historic district with Japanese shops, temples, murals, and a strong sense of local community and heritage.
- Must visit
SoFA District
Lively arts district centered on galleries, murals, and monthly South First Fridays, ideal for an evening walk downtown.
Pho
A Vietnamese noodle soup with beef or chicken in a fragrant broth. San Jose's large Vietnamese community makes it a defining local comfort food.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette, often filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and pate. A staple tied to San Jose's Little Saigon.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Dosa
A South Indian rice and lentil crepe served with chutney and sambar. It is a local favorite thanks to San Jose's strong South Asian community.
Le Papillon
Refined fine dining destination offering modern French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Henry's Hi-Life
Beloved San Jose institution serving smoked meats, ribs, and classic sides in a casual, old-school barbecue setting.
Pupuseria Los Dubon
Casual neighborhood favorite for handcrafted pupusas and Salvadoran comfort food with a warm, family-run feel.
US Dollar ($)
San Jose is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining, and parking add up fast, though public transit and casual food can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Tax is usually added separately.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Cruz, 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.
The earliest bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 4:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 9:51 PM.
When taking a bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA, you can count on Santa Cruz Metro for the best way to get you to San Jose, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Cruz, CA and San Jose, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, you can take a bus between Santa Cruz, CA and San Jose, CA.
No, the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Cruz, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Jose, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
