Merced

If you have decided to visit Merced, a cosy city in California's San Joaquin Valley, you are about to discover the renowned "gateway" to Yosemite National Park. Travellers have access to many route options across the USA, so the question of how to get to the destination is easily solved: you can comfortably arrive here by plane, train, intercity bus, or car.

The city is served by Merced Regional Airport (MCE), which is located just a few kilometres from the centre. It is worth noting that this air hub receives a limited number of flights, so planning a route directly to this point can be challenging.

As a convenient alternative, many travellers choose Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT). This is the nearest major transport hub, located approximately 90 km from the city. It receives significantly more scheduled flights, making it a popular "gateway" to this region.

Travelling by train is one of the most scenic and relaxing ways to get to Merced. The city has an Amtrak railway station located in the centre, making arrival here maximally convenient for tourists who do not wish to use a car.

The popular San Joaquin route passes through the station, connecting the valley with the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento. Daily services make it easy to plan a trip, and during the journey, passengers can enjoy views of agricultural lands and the vast expanses of California's Central Valley.

Bus services connect Merced with neighbouring California cities, offering travellers a budget-friendly and sufficiently comfortable way to move around the region. A trip from the major transport hub, the city of Fresno, will take about an hour, as the distance between points is only 90 kilometres.

The route from the city of Modesto, located 60 kilometres to the northwest, is no less convenient: the journey from here usually takes less than 50 minutes. You can also get there by scheduled bus from the city of Clovis, covering a path of approximately 100 kilometres in an hour and a half while enjoying views of the valley.

Travelling by car to Merced allows you to enjoy the landscapes of the Central Valley and gives complete freedom of movement. The fastest route runs from the city of Modesto: a journey of about 60 kilometres along the highway usually takes approximately 45 minutes. If you are departing from Fresno, expect to spend about an hour on the road, covering a distance of 90 kilometres.

Another convenient starting point is Clovis, from which a trip of about 100 kilometres will take a little over an hour. Tourists without private transport can use taxi services or popular ride-hailing apps; however, the cost of an intercity trip in the USA will be significant and can vary from 80 to 120 dollars depending on the time of day.

To ensure your trip to Merced goes smoothly and leaves only positive emotions, it is useful to learn about the specifics of the region in advance. We have collected practical tips that will help you feel confident in this Californian city.

1. Climate and Wardrobe: Summer in the Central Valley is hot and dry, with temperatures often rising above 35°C, so light clothing, a head covering, and sunscreen are mandatory. In winter, it is cool and damp here, and thick fogs known as "Tule fog" are not uncommon, so a waterproof jacket and layered clothing will be useful.
2. Getting Around: Although the city has a public transport system called "The Bus", renting a car is highly recommended for comfortably exploring the surroundings and visiting national parks. This will give you the necessary freedom and flexibility that is difficult to achieve by relying solely on the bus schedule.
3. Monetary Matters: The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is worth always carrying some cash (bills of 1, 5, and 10 dollars). They will be useful for paying for small purchases at farmers' markets, fares, or tips for porters.
4. Tipping and Etiquette: The tipping culture is very strongly developed in the USA. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill (often this is the main income for waiters), taxi drivers are given 10–15%, and staff serving beverages usually receive a dollar per drink. The absence of a tip may be perceived as an expression of extreme dissatisfaction with the service.
5. Language Barrier: The main language is English, but due to the demographic features of the region, you will often hear Spanish. Locals are friendly to tourists, and a basic knowledge of English is usually quite sufficient for solving everyday questions.
6. Safety: Merced is a calm city, but observing general safety rules is necessary. Do not leave valuables in plain sight in the car, park in well-lit places, and in case of an emergency, call the unified number 911.
7. Local Specialities: The region is famous for its agriculture. Do not miss the opportunity to buy the freshest almonds, pistachios, sweet potatoes, or seasonal fruits at local markets — these natural and healthy treats make for excellent souvenirs from your trip.

By considering these simple recommendations, you will be able to avoid everyday difficulties and focus on the main thing — exploring the sights and relaxing.