- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
Orange County’s leading contemporary art museum, presenting rotating exhibitions and acclaimed modern artists near UC Irvine.
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 trains from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 21
Cheapest price on Oct 21
$77
Average ticket price on Oct 21
$77
Fastest journey on Oct 21
7 h 48 m
Average journey duration on Oct 21
7 h 48 m
Trains on Oct 21
1
Distance
470 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA will cost around $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast trains
On Wed, Oct 21, we found 1 trains from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Oct 21 the direct trains cover the 470 km distance in an average of 7 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 48 m .
On Wed, Oct 21 the slowest trains will take 7 h 48 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.
6:23 PM7h48Merced, CA2:11 AMIrvine, CA$771One-way0 transfers
- 6:23 PM7h48Merced, CA2:11 AMIrvine, CA$771One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA and enjoy the approximately 292 miles (470 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:49, the last at 23:55.
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 $85 (€71)
Distance 292 miles (470 km) |
First train 5:49 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $85 (€71)
Live departures
Merced, CA to Irvine, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Merced, CA to Irvine, CA trains for today, Tuesday, October 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:23 PM Merced, CA | 7h48 | 2:11 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Complete guide to Irvine, CA
Things to do in Irvine, CA
Discover the best of Irvine, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine, CA trip today.
- Recommended
University Art Gallery at UC Irvine
University art museum featuring exhibitions of contemporary and historical works, with thought-provoking programs and free admission.
- Recommended
Irvine Ranch Historic Park
Historic farm site with interpretive exhibits, original structures, and programs that bring Orange County’s agricultural past to life.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Major civic park with trails, sports areas, art spaces, and the iconic balloon, popular with both visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Irvine Spectrum Center
Lakeside shopping and entertainment district with landscaped plazas and a lively pedestrian setting day and night.
- Recommended
Aldrich Park
Circular park at the heart of UC Irvine with mature trees and paths, ideal for walking, picnics, and campus atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a Southern California staple: battered or grilled fish in corn tortillas with cabbage, crema, and salsa. They reflect the region’s Baja and coastal influence.
California Roll
California rolls were popularized in Southern California sushi culture. Crab, avocado, and cucumber make them approachable and iconic to the region’s Japanese influence.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a modern California café classic. Fresh avocado on artisan bread showcases the state’s produce culture and everyday brunch habits.
Habuya Okinawan Dining
Established Japanese restaurant in Diamond Jamboree known for quality sushi, izakaya dishes, and a polished yet comfortable setting.
North Italia
Well-known upscale-casual venue serving seasonal Californian cuisine. Stylish room and dependable service make it a strong fine dining option.
85C Bakery Cafe
Highly regarded Taiwanese bakery café famous for sea salt coffee, breads, and desserts. Casual, busy, and representative of Irvine’s café culture.
US Dollar ($)
Irvine is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is limited, so visitors often need taxis or rental cars, raising daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Merced, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA is 292 miles (470 km).
The first train from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 5:49 AM.
The last train from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA.
The train journey from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA offers scenic views, including the rolling hills and agricultural landscapes of the Central Valley, as well as glimpses of the Sierra Nevada foothills. As the train approaches Southern California, passengers can enjoy views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the diverse urban landscapes.
No, you cannot take the train from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA.
Popular day trips by train from Irvine, CA include San Diego, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Solana Beach, CA, Oceanside, CA, Carlsbad, CA.
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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Irvine, CA
Most Merced, CA to Irvine, CA trains use the Merced Station to Irvine Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Merced, CA and Irvine, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Merced
Arrival train stations in Irvine
Which Merced, CA station do trains to Irvine, CA leave from?
Trains from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA leave from Merced Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Merced, CA city centre at 324 W 24th St, Merced, CA 95340, USA.
Merced Station324 W 24th St, Merced, CA 95340, USA+1 800-872-7245
Merced Station train station facilities and services
Merced Station has practical services for this route, including Dining and Accessibility.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Merced Station.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Merced Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Which Irvine, CA station do trains from Merced, CA arrive at?
Trains from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA arrive at Irvine Station. Irvine Station is 4 miles (8 km) from Irvine, CA city centre.
Irvine Station15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Irvine Station from Irvine city centre
Irvine Station is 8 km from Irvine city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainOC Line, IE-OC Line · 7m · $8 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 24m · $3 · every ~1 min
86 · 25m · $3 · every ~1 min
86 · 28m · $3 · every ~1 min
Irvine Station train station facilities and services
Irvine Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Del Frisco's Grille, The Cheesecake Factory
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Irvine Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Irvine Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Irvine Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Irvine Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Irvine Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum, DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum.
Most popular train connections from Merced, CA
More options for your journey from Merced, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Irvine, CA and Merced, CA
Most popular train connections to Irvine, 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.
