ChicoSan Diego
Sat, Jul 18, 1 adult
Sat, Jul 18
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Sat, Jul 18
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The cheapest and fastest trainsfrom Chico, CA to San Diego, CAShowing times and prices for Jul 17

Cheapest price

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Average price

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Fastest journey

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Average duration

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Trains per day

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Distance

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Chico, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chico, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $112. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $112, and a flight costs an average of $236.

Distance: 549 miles (885 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$161

Average price

$118

Average price

Cheapest

$277

Average price

$119

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

16h 52m

Average total duration

16h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

14h 59m

Average total duration

14h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 35m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 35m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $118 (€97).

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

A bus is $43 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $161 (€132).

A bus is $159 (€130) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $277 (€227).

The fastest way to travel from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 35m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 14h 29m.

Train takes on average 16h 22m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chico, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chico, 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 $161 (€132) compared to roughly $119 (€98) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-41.76 (€-34.27). The journey takes 16h 22m versus 8h 57m 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

Chico, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Chico, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak3:25 PM Chico, CA
14h26
5:51 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak4:25 PM Chico, CA
14h26
6:51 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Saturday, July 18
Amtrak12:12 PM Chico, CA
25h23
1:35 PM 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 Chico, CA to San Diego, 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.

Sat
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
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Jul 20
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Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
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Jul 24

Journey information

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

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Trains from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 16h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $127 (€104) but you can travel from only $112 (€92) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 549 miles (885 km) distance in 14h 26m.

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 $112 (€92)
Distance
549 miles (885 km)
Average train duration
16h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$127 (€104)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
14h 26m
First train
4:01 AM
Last train
10:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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 $112 (€92)

Train companies: Amtrak from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chico, CA and San Diego, CA from $112 (€92). 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
14h 0m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€92)
Amtrak frequency
8 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 Diego

Things to do in San Diego

Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

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

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chico, 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 Chico, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $127 (€104), while the average price is around $161 (€132).
The train from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA takes 14h 26m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA is 549 miles (885 km).
The first train from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The last train from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Chico, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Chico station, Chico, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $112 (€92).
Yes, the train journey from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA is scenic, offering views of California’s diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, agricultural fields, and coastal views as the train approaches Southern California.
A day trip from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible due to a travel duration of 14h 26m. The distance is 549 miles (885 km), with a frequency of 8 trips per day for trains.
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 Chico, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Chico, 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 Chico, 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 Chico, CA to San Diego, CA

Most Chico, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the Chico Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Chico, CA and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chico
Arrival train stations in San Diego

Which Chico, CA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?

Trains from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA leave from Chico Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Chico, CA city centre at 450 Orange Street, Chico, CA, USA.
Chico Station450 Orange Street, Chico, CA, USA+1 800-872-7245DiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelBike ParkingLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Chico Station from Chico city centre

BusB-Line routes available nearby

Chico Station train station facilities and services

Chico Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Chico Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chico Station: Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Chico Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chico Station: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Diamond Chico, Quality Inn Chico, Oxford Suites Chico.

More options for your journey from Chico, CA to San Diego, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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