- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and frequent blockbuster exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$385
Average price
$891
Fastest journey
2 d 5 h 45 m
Average duration
2 d 19 h 44 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
2983 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA will cost around $891 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $385.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least once.
421 Texas Eagle · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK2:10 PM80h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$3851One-way3 transfers- 421 Texas Eagle · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK2:10 PM80h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$3851One-way3 transfers
- 421 Texas Eagle · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK2:10 PM77h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$3851One-way3 transfers
- 5 California Zephyr · 5005 AMTRAK2:00 PM53h45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:45 PMSan Francisco, CA$5181One-way1 transfer
- 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 5011 AMTRAK3:05 PM68h15Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:20 AMSan Francisco, CA$6271One-way2 transfers
- 5 California Zephyr · 5005 AMTRAK2:00 PM53h45Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:45 PMSan Francisco, CA$5181One-way1 transfer
- 3 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight · 6619 AMTRAK1:30 PM59h00Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL10:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$30481One-way2 transfers
- 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 5011 AMTRAK3:05 PM68h15Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL9:20 AMSan Francisco, CA$6271One-way2 transfers
- 421 Texas Eagle · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK2:10 PM77h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL5:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$3851One-way3 transfers
- 421 Texas Eagle · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK2:10 PM80h20Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$3851One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $107. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 14h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $107, and a train costs an average of $238.
Distance: 1853 miles (2983 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$519 Average price | $280 Average price Cheapest | $444 Average price | $446 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
54h 27m Average total duration 53h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 53m Average total duration Fastest 14h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 54h 11m Average total duration 53h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 31h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.9 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.9 - 17.9kg CO2 emissions | 3.0 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is a flight with an average price of $280 (€230).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA:
A flight is $163 (€134) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA costing on average $444 (€364).
A flight is $238 (€196) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA costing on average $519 (€426).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 14h 53m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 53h 41m.
Train takes on average 53h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 $519 (€426) compared to roughly $446 (€366) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-72.96 (€-59.89). The journey takes 53h 57m versus 31h 15m 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
Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA trains for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Empire Builder · 11 Coast Starlight · 5011 AMTRAK | 3:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 68h15 | 9:20 AM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| Friday, July 10 | |||||
| 3 Southwest Chief · 14 Coast Starlight · 6619 AMTRAK | 1:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 59h00 | 10:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 5 California Zephyr · 5005 AMTRAK | 2:00 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 53h45 | 5:45 PM San Francisco, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 53h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $238 (€196) but you can travel from only $107 (€88) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:35, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 1853 miles (2983 km) distance in 53h 45m.
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 $107 (€88)
Distance 1853 miles (2983 km) |
Average train duration 53h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $238 (€196) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 53h 45m |
First train 4:35 AM |
Last train 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 days |
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 $107 (€88)
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA from $107 (€88). 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
53h 45m
Cheapest Price
$238 (€196)
Amtrak frequency
6 a day
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
Complete guide to San Francisco
Things to do in San Francisco
Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.
- Must visit
Exploratorium
Hands-on science and art museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.
- Recommended
de Young Museum
Leading fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park, known for American art, textiles, and its observation tower.
- Must visit
Fisherman's Wharf
Busy waterfront district known for classic San Francisco atmosphere, bay views, piers, and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Famous crooked block with steep curves, manicured gardens, and one of the city's most photographed street scenes.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Huge urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and broad walking and cycling routes across the western city.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in San Francisco, typically filled with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco’s famous tangy sourdough loaf, shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture and long baking tradition.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large foil-wrapped burrito associated with the Mission District, usually packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and extras.
House of Prime Rib
Classic San Francisco institution serving carved prime rib with old-fashioned hospitality and a lively, upscale supper-club feel.
La Taqueria
Iconic Mission District taqueria celebrated for Mission-style burritos and tacos with a simple, always-busy casual atmosphere.
Swan Oyster Depot
Historic seafood counter famous for ultra-fresh oysters, crab, and cioppino ingredients in a classic old-school San Francisco setting.
United States Dollar
Prices are high for hotels, dining, parking, and taxes. Budget options exist, but overall costs rank among the highest in the US.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15% or round up. Hotels: USD 2-5 for porters, USD 3-5 daily for housekeeping.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $238 (€196), while the average price is around $519 (€426).
The train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA takes 53h 45m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is 1853 miles (2983 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:35 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 10:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to San Francisco, CA is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $107 (€88).
Yes, the train journey from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is considered scenic, offering views of diverse landscapes including the rolling plains of the Midwest, the majestic Rocky Mountains, and the vast deserts and canyons of Nevada and California.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is not feasible as the travel duration is 53h 45m. However, there are 6 trips available per day by train for this journey covering a distance of 1853 miles (2983 km).
In San Francisco, CA, you can ride a cable car through steep streets, explore vibrant murals in the Mission District, and visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum. Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero for views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley. Key sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Chinatown, each offering unique experiences from panoramic views to vibrant culture and cuisine.
Three to four days in San Francisco, CA, allows you to explore major attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, while also enjoying some of the city's renowned dining and cultural experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to San Francisco, CA
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