Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Tue, May 26
+ Add return
Amtrak
North County Transit
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
North County Transit
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for May 26

Cheapest price

$19

Average price

$19

Fastest journey

44 m

Average duration

45 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

52 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $19 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Carlsbad, CA for San Diego, CA on Tue, May 26, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, May 26 the direct trains cover the 52 km distance in an average of 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 44 m .

On Tue, May 26 the slowest trains will take 45 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
    8:05 AM0h45
    Carlsbad, CA
    8:50 AMSan Diego, CA
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    7:05 AM0h45
    Carlsbad, CA
    7:50 AMSan Diego, CA
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    8:08 PM0h44
    Carlsbad, CA
    8:52 PMSan Diego, CA
    $191One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $19, and a bus costs an average of $13.

Distance: 32 miles (52 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$19

Average price

Cheapest

$48

Average price

$8

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 24m

Average total duration

54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 19m

Average total duration

Fastest

49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

37m

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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $19 (€16).

This is compared to other travel options from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA:

A train is $29 (€24) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $48 (€39).

The fastest way to travel from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 49m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 54m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlsbad, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 $19 (€16) compared to roughly $8 (€6) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-11.34 (€-9.15). The journey takes 54m versus 37m 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.

Live departures

Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner8:05 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
8:49 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner8:05 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner9:08 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
9:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner9:08 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
10:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner10:08 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
11:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner10:08 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
10:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner12:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner12:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
12:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner1:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
2:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner1:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
1:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner2:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner2:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner5:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
6:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner5:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
5:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner6:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner6:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak584 Pacific Surfliner7:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
8:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak584 Pacific Surfliner7:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
7:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner8:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner8:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak588 Pacific Surfliner9:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h44
9:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak588 Pacific Surfliner9:08 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h59
10:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner10:05 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
1h02
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner10:05 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
0h46
10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, May 26
Amtrak7:05 AM Carlsbad, CA
0h45
7:50 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak8:05 AM Carlsbad, CA
0h45
8:50 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01

Journey information

Overview: Train from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA

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Icon of train

Trains from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 21 times per day, taking around 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $13 (€10) by bus.

There are 21 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 32 miles (52 km) distance in 44m.

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 $13 (€10)
Distance
32 miles (52 km)
Average train duration
54m
Cheapest ticket price
$19 (€15)
Trains per day
21
Direct trains
21
Fastest train
44m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
10:28 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
1 day
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 $13 (€10)

Train companies: Amtrak, North County Transit from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak, North County Transit trains will get you between Carlsbad, CA and San Diego, CA from $13 (€10). 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
44m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
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

North County Transit

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
54m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€6)
North County Transit frequency
12 a day

FAQs: Trains from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19 (€15), while the average price is around $19 (€16).
The train from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA takes 44m and runs 21 per day.
The first train from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is 32 miles (52 km).
The last train from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:28 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 21 times per day, provided by Amtrak, North County Transit.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Carlsbad, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $13 (€10).
Yes, the train journey from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal cliffs, and charming beach towns along the route.
Yes, a day trip from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is feasible. The journey takes approximately 44m and covers a distance of 32 miles (52 km). With a frequency of 19 trains per day, traveling between these two locations is convenient.
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Carlsbad, CA nor San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA

Carlsbad
San Diego
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
Dining
  • The Fish Market
  • Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Westin San Diego
  • The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
  • Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Santa Fe Depot
  • San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
Dining
Dining
  • Casa Guadalajara
  • Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • $0.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • Old Town Inn
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
  • Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
  • Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Old Town Station
  • Trolley: Green Line
  • Bus: Several lines available including 8, 9, 10, 28, 30, 35, 44, 88, 105, 150, 923, 928
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CACarlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA train

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