Riverside, CA to Merced, CA train with Amtrak

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$82

Average price

$82

Fastest journey

11 h 10 m

Average duration

11 h 10 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

465 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $82.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Riverside, CA for Merced, CA on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 465 km distance in an average of 11 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 10 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 11 h 10 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.

  • Amtrak
    12:51 PM11h10
    Riverside, CA
    12:01 AMMerced, CA
    $821One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Riverside, CA to Merced, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $67. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $67, and a flight costs an average of $54.

Distance: 288 miles (465 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

$80

Average price

$88

Average price

$71

Average price

Cheapest

8h 42m

Average total duration

8h 12m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 18m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 13m

Average total duration

7h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA is a bus with an average price of $71 (€58).

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

A bus is $10 (€8) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA costing on average $80 (€66).

A bus is $18 (€15) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA costing on average $88 (€72).

The fastest way to travel from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 18m.

Other travel options to Merced, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 43m.

Train takes on average 8h 12m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Riverside, CA and Merced, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA among Omio's users.

Live departures

Riverside, CA to Merced, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Riverside, CA to Merced, CA trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak12:51 PM Riverside, CA
11h10
12:01 AM Merced, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Riverside, CA to Merced, CA by bus, train, or flight

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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Journey information

Overview: Train from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $76 (€62) but you can travel from only $54 (€44) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 06:20, the last at 13:23. The fastest train covers the 288 miles (465 km) distance in 11h 10m.

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
Flight from $54 (€44)
Distance
288 miles (465 km)
Average train duration
8h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$76 (€62)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
11h 10m
First train
6:20 AM
Last train
1:23 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
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
Flight from $54 (€44)

Train companies: Amtrak from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Riverside, CA and Merced, CA from $54 (€44). 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 Duration
7h 26m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
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

FAQs: Trains from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riverside, CA 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 Riverside, CA to Merced, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $76 (€62), while the average price is around $80 (€66).
The train from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA takes 11h 10m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA is 288 miles (465 km).
The first train from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA leaves at 6:20 AM.
The last train from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA leaves at 1:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA.
The train station in Riverside, CA that goes to Merced, CA is Riverside Station, Riverside, CA, which connects to Merced Station, Merced, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
The train journey from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA offers scenic views of California's diverse landscapes, including glimpses of rolling hills, farmlands, and the distant Sierra Nevada mountains, making it a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 11h 10m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit. The distance is 288 miles (465 km), and there are 4 trips per day available for trains.
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 Riverside, CA to Merced, CA.
Since neither Riverside, CA 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 Riverside, CA 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 Riverside, CA to Merced, CA

Riverside
Merced
The major train station for departures in Riverside is Riverside Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Riverside Station for your trip from Riverside to Merced.
Riverside StationWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available 7 days a week with multiple entry and exit points
Dining
Dining
  • Mission Inn Restaurant
  • The Salted Pig
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms
WC
WC
  • $0.50
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hyatt Place Riverside/Downtown
  • The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
  • Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
  • Platform 1: Metrolink services
  • Platform 2: Amtrak services
Public transit options for Riverside Station
  • Bus: Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) routes available
  • Metrolink: 91/Perris Valley Line, Inland Empire-Orange County Line, Riverside Line

Most popular train connections from Riverside, CA

More options for your journey from Riverside, CA to Merced, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Merced, CA and Riverside, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Merced, CARiverside, CA to Merced, CA train

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone