- Must visit
Palm Springs Art Museum
The city’s main art museum, known for modern and contemporary art, architecture, and rotating exhibitions. A leading cultural stop in downtown Palm Springs.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $78. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 8h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $78, and a train costs an average of $86.
Distance: 326 miles (525 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$90 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $76 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 43m Average total duration 11h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 46m Average total duration Fastest 8h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA is a bus with an average price of $78 (€64).
This is compared to other travel options from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA:
A bus is $12 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA costing on average $90 (€74).
The fastest way to travel from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 8h 16m.
Other travel options to Palm Springs, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Merced, CA and Palm Springs, CA including taking a bus and train.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $90 (€74) compared to roughly $76 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.79 (€-11.29). The journey takes 11h 13m versus 5h 34m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 (€70) but you can travel from only $78 (€64) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:02, the last at 07:50. The fastest train covers the 326 miles (525 km) distance in 11h 13m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $78 (€64)
Distance 326 miles (525 km) |
Average train duration 11h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 (€70) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 11h 13m |
First train 2:02 AM |
Last train 7:50 AM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $78 (€64)
Complete guide to Palm Springs
Things to do in Palm Springs
Discover the best of Palm Springs — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Palm Springs trip today.
- Must visit
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
A modern museum presenting the history, culture, and living traditions of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. One of the city’s most important recent cultural additions.
- Must visit
Palm Springs Air Museum
A highly regarded aviation museum with flyable historic aircraft, large hangars, and strong exhibits on World War II and later conflicts.
- Must visit
Palm Canyon Drive
The main downtown street lined with shops, design spots, hotels, and public art. It is the core strolling area for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Downtown Palm Springs
The city’s central district for walking, shopping, events, and nightlife, with strong Mid-Century Modern character and frequent visitor activity.
- Recommended
VillageFest
A popular weekly street fair in downtown Palm Springs featuring local vendors, entertainment, and a lively evening atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Date Shake
A classic Coachella Valley drink made with locally grown dates blended into a rich milkshake. It is one of the region’s most iconic treats because date farming helped define the desert area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Medjool Dates
Fresh or dried Medjool dates are a signature local product of the Palm Springs area. They are prized for their soft texture and deep caramel-like sweetness.
- Vegetarian
Date Nut Bread
A traditional desert-area baked loaf made with local dates and nuts. It is a longstanding regional specialty often served as a snack or breakfast item.
Spencer's Restaurant
A long-running Palm Springs favorite serving classic American and continental dishes in an elegant setting beneath the mountains.
Sherman's Deli & Bakery
An established casual favorite known for generous deli classics, bakery items, and dependable comfort food in a busy, welcoming setting.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar
A stylish, established downtown restaurant known for seasonal California cooking, craft cocktails, and a dramatic industrial dining room.
United States Dollar
Palm Springs is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or diner meals.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 70+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86 (€70), while the average price is around $90 (€74).
The train from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA takes 11h 13m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 2:02 AM.
The distance by train from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA is 326 miles (525 km).
The last train from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 7:50 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
The train station in Merced, CA that goes to Palm Springs, CA is Merced Station, Merced, CA, which connects to Palm Springs Station, Palm Springs, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $78 (€64).
The train journey from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA offers scenic views, particularly through the Central Valley and Tehachapi Pass, showcasing agricultural landscapes and mountain vistas, enhancing the travel experience with natural beauty.
A day trip from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 13m and the distance is 326 miles (525 km). Trains operate 4 times per day.
In Palm Springs, CA, you can explore the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, visit the Palm Springs Air Museum, enjoy golfing at world-class courses, stroll through the lively Palm Springs VillageFest, and relax at luxurious spas. For breathtaking sights, consider the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Joshua Tree National Park, the Palm Springs Art Museum, Indian Canyons, and Moorten Botanical Garden.
To fully enjoy Palm Springs, CA, and its offerings, plan for a 3 to 4-day visit to explore its attractions, including Joshua Tree National Park, the Aerial Tramway, and local museums.
No, you cannot take the train from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Since neither Merced, CA nor Palm Springs, 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.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 Palm Springs, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers or ride-share services and unauthorized street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation options and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night. Additionally, travelers should be mindful of heat-related risks during summer months.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Merced
Palm Springs
The major train station for departures in Merced is Merced Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Merced Station for your trip from Merced to Palm Springs.
Merced Station
Amenities at train station
DiningAccessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms
The major train station for arrivals in Palm Springs is Palm Springs Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Palm Springs Station for your journey to Palm Springs from Merced.
Palm Springs Station
Amenities at train station
DiningAccessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmPalm Springs, International Airport (E Tahquitz Canyon Way)
information
Palm Springs, SunLine Transit Bus Stop
information
More options for your journey from Merced, CA to Palm Springs, CA
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Most popular trains to and from Palm Springs, CA and Merced, CA
Most popular train connections to Palm Springs, CA
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