Reno, NV to Merced, CA train with Amtrak

Sat, Sep 19
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Reno, NV to Merced, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Reno, NV to Merced, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of kr478 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 6h 35m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr478, while a train costs an average of kr940.

Distance: 157 miles (254 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

kr940

Average price

kr478

Average price

Cheapest

kr286

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 21m

Average total duration

8h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 35m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 46m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Reno, NV to Merced, CA is a bus with an average price of kr478.

This is compared to other travel options from Reno, NV to Merced, CA:

A bus is kr462 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reno, NV to Merced, CA costing on average kr940.

The fastest way to travel from Reno, NV to Merced, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 6h 5m.

Other travel options to Merced, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 8h 51m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reno, NV and Merced, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Reno, NV to Merced, CA among Omio's users.
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 kr940 compared to roughly kr286 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr-654.83. The journey takes 8h 51m versus 3h 46m 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 Reno, NV to Merced, 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reno, NV to Merced, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Reno, NV to Merced, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr863 but you can travel from only kr478 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:45, the last at 14:30. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (254 km) distance in 8h 51m.

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 kr478
Distance
157 miles (254 km)
Average train duration
8h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
kr863
Trains per day
1
Fastest train
8h 51m
First train
6:45 AM
Last train
2:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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 kr478

Train companies: Amtrak from Reno, NV to Merced, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Reno, NV and Merced, CA from kr478. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
8h 51m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
kr863
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Merced, CA

Things to do in Merced, CA

Discover the best of Merced, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Merced, CA trip today.

  • Recommended

Merced County Courthouse Museum

Local history museum inside the former courthouse, featuring exhibits on Merced County communities, agriculture, and civic life.

  • Recommended

Merced Multicultural Arts Center

Community arts venue in downtown Merced hosting visual art exhibitions, performances, and cultural events in a historic setting.

Carol Tomlinson-Keasey Gallery

University gallery presenting rotating contemporary art exhibitions and public programs on the UC Merced campus.

FAQs: Trains from Reno, NV to Merced, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reno, NV to Merced, 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 Merced, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Reno, NV to Merced, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr863, while the average price is around kr940.
The train from Reno, NV to Merced, CA runs once a day and takes approximately 8h 51m.
The distance by train from Reno, NV to Merced, CA is 157 miles (254 km).
The first train from Reno, NV to Merced, CA leaves at 6:45 AM.
The last train from Reno, NV to Merced, CA leaves at 2:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reno, NV to Merced, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reno, NV to Merced, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reno, NV to Merced, CA.
The train station in Reno, NV that goes to Merced, CA is Reno station, Reno, NV, which connects to Merced Station, Merced, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Reno, NV to Merced, CA is by bus, with a cost of around kr478.
The train journey from Reno, NV to Merced, CA offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Sierra Nevada mountains, featuring stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys.
A day trip from Reno, NV to Merced, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 51m with a distance of 157 miles (254 km). There are 3 train trips available per day.
For a visit to Merced, CA, two to three days are generally sufficient to explore local attractions such as the Merced National Wildlife Refuge, Applegate Park Zoo, and partake in outdoor activities at Lake Yosemite.
Yes, you can take the train from Reno, NV to Merced, CA.
Since neither Reno, NV nor Merced, 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.
Popular day trips by train from Merced, CA include Fresno, CA, Stockton, CA, Modesto, CA, Antioch, CA, Madera, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Reno, NV to Merced, CA among Omio's users.
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 Merced, CA, travelers should be aware of petty crimes such as car break-ins and pickpocketing, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated locations at night. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and ticket sellers. Staying vigilant, using official transportation options, and securing personal belongings can help 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 Reno, NV to Merced, CA

Most Reno, NV to Merced, CA trains use the Reno Station to Merced Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Reno, NV and Merced, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Reno
Arrival train stations in Merced

Which Reno, NV station do trains to Merced, CA leave from?

Trains from Reno, NV to Merced, CA leave from Reno Station. The station is from Reno, NV city centre at 280 North Center Street, Reno, NV 89501, USA.
Reno Station280 North Center Street, Reno, NV 89501, USA+1 800-872-7245LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Reno Station from Reno city centre

BusRTC Ride routes 1, 4, and 15
Taxi services available

Reno Station train station facilities and services

Reno Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery, Wild River Grille

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reno Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Reno Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reno Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reno Station: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Eldorado Resort Casino, Silver Legacy Resort Casino, Circus Circus Reno.

More options for your journey from Reno, NV to Merced, CA

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