Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Thu, May 28
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for May 28

Cheapest price

$1106

Average price

$1106

Fastest journey

2 d 29 m

Average duration

2 d 29 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

3167 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA will cost around $1106 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $1106.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Amtrak
    9:35 AM48h29
    Detroit, MI
    10:04 AMSan Diego, CA
    $11061One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $146. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 47m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 1.0 - 2.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $146, and a flight costs an average of $196.

Distance: 1967 miles (3167 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$271

Average price

$229

Average price

Cheapest

$584

Average price

$481

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

51h 36m

Average total duration

51h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

50h 20m

Average total duration

49h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 47m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

33h 53m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

1.0 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.2 - 7.9kg

CO2 emissions

9.5 - 19.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $229 (€185).

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

A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA costing on average $271 (€219).

A bus is $355 (€286) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA costing on average $584 (€471).

The fastest way to travel from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 47m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 49h 50m.

Train takes on average 51h 6m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Detroit, MI and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Detroit, MI 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 $271 (€219) compared to roughly $481 (€388) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $210 (€169). The journey takes 51h 6m versus 33h 53m 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

Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA trains for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak10:26 AM Detroit, MI
57h41
8:07 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 Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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.

Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03

Journey information

Overview: Train from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA

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Icon of train

Trains from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 51h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $251 (€203) but you can travel from only $146 (€118) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 06:26, the last at 16:10. The fastest train covers the 1967 miles (3167 km) distance in 57h 41m.

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 $146 (€118)
Distance
1967 miles (3167 km)
Average train duration
51h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$251 (€203)
Trains per day
1
Fastest train
57h 41m
First train
6:26 AM
Last train
4:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 $146 (€118)

Train companies: Amtrak from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Detroit, MI and San Diego, CA from $146 (€118). 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
57h 41m
Cheapest Price
$251 (€203)
Amtrak frequency
1 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

FAQs: Trains from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $251 (€203), while the average price is around $271 (€219).
The train from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA runs once a day and takes approximately 57h 41m.
The first train from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA leaves at 6:26 AM.
The distance by train from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA is 1967 miles (3167 km).
The last train from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Detroit, MI that goes to San Diego, CA is Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $146 (€118).
The train journey from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, including views of the Great Lakes, the vast landscapes of the Midwest, and the picturesque terrains of the Southwest, providing a diverse and scenic experience.
A day trip from Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 57h 41m and covers 1967 miles (3167 km). The frequency is 1 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 Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Detroit, MI 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI to San Diego, CA

Detroit
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Detroit is Detroit Amtrak. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Detroit Amtrak for your trip from Detroit to San Diego.
Detroit AmtrakWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available adjacent to the station.
Dining
Dining
  • Cuisine Restaurant
  • New Center Eatery
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel St. Regis
  • The Inn on Ferry Street
  • MotorCity Casino Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas
  • platforms are accessible via the main entrance.
Public transit options for Detroit Amtrak
  • QLine streetcar
  • Bus: Several lines available

Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Detroit, MI

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CADetroit, MI to San Diego, CA train

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