Cheap train tickets from Reno to Merced

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Trip Summary

There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Reno to Merced. Travelling by train from Reno to Merced usually takes 8 hours and 10 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 6 hours and 7 minutes.

Distance: 158 mi (254 km)
Fastest train: 6h 7m
Lowest price: CHF 59.98
Trains per day: 3
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 1

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Reno to Merced Train Schedule

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There are several train options that can take you from Reno to Merced:

Amtrak tickets: CHF 60 one-way

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Reno to Merced?

In the last month, train tickets from Reno to Merced cost about CHF 66 when booked at the cheapest time. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 15 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 24.72 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Reno to Merced by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Reno to Merced will cost between CHF 66 and CHF 90. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Reno to Merced by month

Ticket prices for the train from Reno to Merced often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in August when the average ticket price is only CHF 68. If you're thinking of travelling from Reno to Merced during February, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 89 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in February, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Reno to Merced on Wanderu at least 15 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 24.72 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Reno to Merced?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Reno to Merced. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	3	8h 10m	CHF 78.33

Amtrak is the largest passenger railway service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned washroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 3 Amtrak trains from Reno to Merced every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 59.98.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Reno to Merced

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Reno to Merced. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Merced to Reno.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Reno and Merced is approximately 254 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 10 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 7 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

158

Distance (km)

254

The earliest train departs Reno at 7:45 a.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 2:30 p.m. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

7:45am

Last train

2:30pm

Trains from Reno to Merced are the most crowded on Monday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Monday

Least crowded

Sunday

City Information

Reno

Dazzling with neon lights and bustling through the night, Reno is a great destination for those seeking top-class entertainment. Though considerably outshined by Las Vegas, Reno still brings unique attractions to the table. Among the most notable destinations for non-gamblers is an independent art scene down at Riverwalk, where indie galleries as well as restaurants abound. Fans of the great outdoors should not miss out on nearby Lake Tahoe, which stands among the most beautiful vacation destinations in the country.

At its core, Reno is still a city for gamblers, and it certainly does not disappoint. Slot machines, table games and cabaret shows are available at the local casinos, ready to tempt risk-takers who wish to court Lady Luck.

Right in the heart of downtown Reno, you will find the Reno Amtrak station from where you can take a train to Northern California and beyond. The local Reno-Tahoe International Airport is located outside of the city and it provides quick access to international flight routes. The main bus stop that serves Reno is also located at the airport.

Merced

Merced is a beautiful city in the Central Valley of California. Nicknamed the Gateway to Yosemite, it’s no shock to learn Merced is only about an hour and a half drive from Yosemite National Park. But if you’d prefer to stay in town, Merced has an abundance of gorgeous parks, winding bike routes, golf courses, hiking, boating, fishing, camping – the list goes on.

For indoor fun, check out the Merced Multicultural Art Centre for art viewing and classes. Or, if you’re on the hunt for a bargain or home decor, visit the Merced Antique Mall with 7500 square feet of antiques and curios. Once you’ve worked up an appetite perusing, head to the Hilmar Cheese Company to tour the factory, watch the packaging process, and, the best part, eat all the free samples. To make it a full charcuterie meal, visit the Merced Fruit Barn. As a sort of farmer’s market, the Fruit Barn has arguably the best fresh and dried fruit in the state and a deli on-site for any and all sandwich needs.

The nearest major airport is Merced Regional Airport. Amtrak has routes through the city to Seattle, Yosemite Valley, and San Francisco, and Greyhound connects LA to Merced.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Reno?

Main departure station: Reno Amtrak Train Station

The Amtrak Station in Reno is one of the main travel hubs in the city and opened in 1868. Located on North Center St, the station is surrounded by the casinos, restaurants, and hotels which put Reno on the map. Due to its downtown location, the station waiting area and the train tracks are actually placed below ground level. The California Zephyr train line passes through this station on its route from Chicago to Emeryville as well as Amtrak Thruway buses which connect to Sacramento.

All train stations in Reno:

Reno Amtrak Train Station

Where is the train station in Merced?

Main arrival station: 324 W 24th St

Merced has one train station.

All train stations in Merced:

324 W 24th St

Need a return trip from Merced to Reno?

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