Fresno

When planning a trip to Fresno, you are embarking on a journey to the very heart of the San Joaquin Valley, where life is bustling and the route to California's famous national parks begins. This city, serving as a vital economic and cultural hub of the region, attracts travellers with its convenient location and developed infrastructure. You can reach this destination in a variety of ways: by flying in, using the railway service, taking a bus, or enjoying a drive along the picturesque roads of the USA.

The fastest way to reach the city is to take a flight to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT). This modern aviation hub receives flights from many major cities and is located just a few kilometres from the centre, ensuring easy access to key locations.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you might consider flying to neighbouring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest alternatives include airports in the city of Merced (about 88 km away) or in Lemoore (48 km), however, FAT remains the most comfortable option for arrival.

Contrary to popular belief, travelling to Fresno by rail is very convenient thanks to the national Amtrak network. The city is served by the popular San Joaquin route, which connects the valley with the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento, offering passengers scenic views from the window.

Trains arrive at the historic Santa Fe Passenger Depot, located directly in the city centre. This makes train travel an excellent alternative to driving, allowing you to avoid traffic congestion and comfortably begin exploring the region immediately upon arrival.

Bus services are a reliable and budget-friendly option for travelling around the region. For example, the route from the city of Clovis will take about 1.4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 23 km. This is a good choice for moving between nearby settlements.

For travellers coming from more distant points, trips are available from the city of Merced (about 93 km, travel time — 2 hours) and from Lemoore (73 km), from where the journey will take around 1.7 hours. Intercity buses in the USA are typically equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats.

Travelling by car offers you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the Californian landscapes. The drive from the neighbouring city of Clovis is practically seamless and takes only about 12 minutes (15 km). The journey from Lemoore will require slightly more time — approximately 40 minutes (53 km).

If you are heading from the direction of Merced, expect to spend about 55 minutes on the road, covering a distance of 90 km. The road network here is excellently developed, and navigation is simple and clear even for those visiting the region for the first time.

To ensure your stay in Fresno is as pleasant and safe as possible, it is worth noting a few local specifics in advance. The following tips will help you better prepare for your trip and avoid common tourist mistakes.

1. Seasonal Clothing: Summers here can be extremely hot (often above +35°C), so pack light clothing made from natural fabrics and a head covering. Winters are cool and rainy, so a waterproof jacket will be useful.
2. Transport: Fresno is a city built for motorists. Car rental is the best way to get around, especially if you plan to visit Yosemite or Sequoia National Parks.
3. Sun Protection: The sun in the valley is very intense. Using high SPF cream and wearing sunglasses is mandatory, even in cloudy weather.
4. Money and Tipping: Cards are accepted everywhere, but cash dollars are useful for small expenses. In restaurants in the USA, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20%; this is an important part of the service culture.
5. Safety: As in any major city, observe basic precautions: do not leave valuable items visible in the car and avoid walking in deserted areas after dark.
6. Language: The main language is English, but due to the large Spanish-speaking community, you will often hear Spanish. Knowing a few phrases in English will significantly simplify communication.

By following these simple recommendations, you can comfortably enjoy the atmosphere of the city and focus on the vivid impressions of your Californian journey.