- Must visit
Kern County Museum
Open-air history museum with dozens of restored buildings, regional exhibits, and Pioneer Village showcasing Kern County heritage.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chico, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $67. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $67, and a flight costs an average of $462.
Distance: 338 miles (544 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$70 Average price Cheapest | $115 Average price | $535 Average price |
8h 30m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 42m Average total duration 8h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 11m Average total duration Fastest 6h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Chico, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
A train is $44 (€36) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chico, CA to Bakersfield, CA costing on average $115 (€94).
A train is $465 (€380) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chico, CA to Bakersfield, CA costing on average $535 (€438).
Other travel options to Bakersfield, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 0m.
Bus takes on average 8h 12m.
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.
Trains from Chico, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€55) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 16:39. The fastest train covers the 338 miles (544 km) distance in 8h 30m.
Distance 338 miles (544 km) |
Average train duration 8h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 (€55) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 8h 30m |
First train 4:12 AM |
Last train 4:39 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Bakersfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield trip today.
Open-air history museum with dozens of restored buildings, regional exhibits, and Pioneer Village showcasing Kern County heritage.
Leading local art museum featuring rotating contemporary and regional exhibitions, sculpture garden, and community programs in Mill Creek Park.
Family-friendly museum focused on geology, paleontology, fossils, and natural sciences with hands-on displays in downtown Bakersfield.
The city's main historic and cultural core with theaters, murals, civic landmarks, and a growing arts and nightlife scene.
Popular lakeside park with walking paths, bridges, and sunset views, frequently featured in local social media content.
Scenic bluff-top walking area with sweeping city and Kern River views, especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
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.
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.
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.
A Bakersfield institution blending Italian American comfort food with local tradition. Known for ravioli, sandwiches, and a bustling, historic atmosphere.
Iconic Basque restaurant known for classic family-style meals, cocktails, and a historic boardinghouse atmosphere. One of Bakersfield’s signature dining experiences.
Long-running downtown Basque spot serving hearty family-style dinners and traditional specialties in a casual, old-Bakersfield setting.
Generally cheaper than major California cities. Hotels and dining are moderate, while car travel and some attractions add costs.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chico, CA to Bakersfield, CA by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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