- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
$90
Average price
$90
Fastest journey
8 h 21 m
Average duration
8 h 25 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
508 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Fresno, 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 Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
712 Gold Runner · 5712 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner2:29 PM8h22Fresno station, Fresno, CA10:51 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers- 714 Gold Runner · 5714 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner4:29 PM8h21Fresno station, Fresno, CA12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner12:29 PM8h23Fresno station, Fresno, CA8:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner10:29 AM8h23Fresno station, Fresno, CA6:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner10:29 AM8h38Fresno station, Fresno, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$911One-way2 transfers
- 714 Gold Runner · 5714 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner4:29 PM8h21Fresno station, Fresno, CA12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 712 Gold Runner · 5712 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner2:29 PM8h22Fresno station, Fresno, CA10:51 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner12:29 PM8h23Fresno station, Fresno, CA8:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner10:29 AM8h23Fresno station, Fresno, CA6:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 714 Gold Runner · 5714 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner4:29 PM8h35Fresno station, Fresno, CA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$911One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $85.
Distance: 315 miles (508 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$95 Average price Cheapest | $691 Average price | $71 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
9h 28m Average total duration 8h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 19m Average total duration Fastest 4h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $95.
This is compared to other travel options from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $596 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $691.
The fastest way to travel from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 19m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Fresno, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner | 10:29 AM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h23 | 6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 702 Gold Runner · 5802 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner | 10:29 AM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h38 | 7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner | 12:29 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h38 | 9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner | 12:29 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h23 | 8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 712 Gold Runner · 5712 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner | 2:29 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h22 | 10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 712 Gold Runner · 5712 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner | 2:29 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h38 | 11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 714 Gold Runner · 5714 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 4:29 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h21 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 714 Gold Runner · 5714 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 4:29 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 8h35 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Fresno, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA and enjoy the approximately 315 miles (508 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 22:40.
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 $47
Distance 315 miles (508 km) |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 10:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 42 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
Bus from $47
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
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 Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Fresno, 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.
The distance by train from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA is 315 miles (508 km).
The first train from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The last train from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Fresno, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Fresno station, Fresno, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $47.
The train journey from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the agricultural landscapes of the Central Valley and the coastal areas near San Diego. Passengers can enjoy sights of rolling hills, farmlands, and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean as they approach their destination.
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 Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Fresno, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Fresno, 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 Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA
Most Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the Fresno Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Fresno, 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 Fresno
Arrival train stations in San Diego
Which Fresno, CA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?
Trains from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA leave from Fresno Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Fresno, CA city centre at 2650 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721, USA.
Fresno Station2650 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Fresno Station from Fresno city centre
Fresno Station is 1 km from Fresno city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22 · 3m · every ~3 min
Fresno Station train station facilities and services
Fresno Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Shepherd's Inn, Joe's Steakhouse
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Fresno Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Fresno Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fresno Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Fresno Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fresno Station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center, Radisson Hotel Fresno Conference Center, La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fresno Yosemite.
Which San Diego, CA station do trains from Fresno, CA arrive at?
Trains from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at Santa Fe Depot. Some services arrive at Old Town Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival station.
Santa Fe Depot1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Fe Depot from San Diego city centre
Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min
Santa Fe Depot train station facilities and services
Santa Fe Depot has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.
Old Town Station4009 Taylor Street, San Diego, CA 92110, United States
City-centre transport
Getting to Old Town Station from San Diego city centre
Old Town Station is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCoaster · 7m · $7 · every ~2 min
Pacific Surfliner · 7m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusFlixBus 2017 · 15m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 9m · every ~18 min
Blue · 14m · every ~9 min
Old Town Station train station facilities and services
Old Town Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Casa Guadalajara, Old Town Mexican Cafe
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Old Town Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Old Town Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Old Town Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Old Town Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Old Town Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Town Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town, Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town.
Most popular train connections from Fresno, CA
More options for your journey from Fresno, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Fresno, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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