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The cheapest and fastest trains from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jan 08
Cheapest price
$80
Average price
$82
Fastest journey
2 h 23 m
Average duration
2 h 23 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
123 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $80.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
05:41PM2h23
Irvine, CA08:04PMSan Diego, CA
$801One-way
1 transfer
06:41PM2h23
Irvine, CA09:04PMSan Diego, CA
$801One-way
1 transfer
10:41PM2h23
Irvine, CA01:04AMSan Diego, CA
$801One-way
1 transfer
06:41AM2h23
Irvine, CA09:04AMSan Diego, CA
$861One-way
1 transfer
07:41AM2h23
Irvine, CA10:04AMSan Diego, CA
$861One-way
1 transfer
06:41AM2h23
Irvine, CA09:04AMSan Diego, CA
$861One-way
1 transfer
07:41AM2h23
Irvine, CA10:04AMSan Diego, CA
$861One-way
1 transfer
03:41PM2h23
Irvine, CA06:04PMSan Diego, CA
$861One-way
1 transfer
05:41PM2h23
Irvine, CA08:04PMSan Diego, CA
$801One-way
1 transfer
06:41PM2h23
Irvine, CA09:04PMSan Diego, CA
$801One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €24. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 39m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €24, and a bus costs an average of €20.
Distance: 76 miles (123 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€24 Average price Cheapest | €27 Average price |
2h 13m Average total duration 1h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA trains for tomorrow, Thursday, January 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 9:35 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 580 Pacific Surfliner | 12:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h38 | 1:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 580 Pacific Surfliner | 12:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h52 | 2:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 582 Pacific Surfliner | 1:09 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h55 | 3:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 582 Pacific Surfliner | 1:09 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h41 | 2:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 784 Pacific Surfliner | 2:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h52 | 4:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 784 Pacific Surfliner | 2:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h38 | 3:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 586 Pacific Surfliner | 3:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h38 | 4:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 586 Pacific Surfliner | 3:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h52 | 5:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 5:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h36 | 6:48 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 5:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h52 | 7:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:41 AM Irvine, CA | 2h23 | 9:04 AM San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 7:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h52 | 9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 7:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1h38 | 8:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:41 AM Irvine, CA | 2h23 | 10:04 AM San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 10:15 AM Irvine, CA | 2h52 | 1:07 PM San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 11:41 AM Irvine, CA | 2h26 | 2:07 PM San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 12:15 PM Irvine, CA | 2h49 | 3:04 PM San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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
Jan 08
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Jan 14
Why should you book Irvine to San Diego trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Metrolink Trains offer trains services from Irvine to San Diego. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Irvine to San Diego.
Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Amtrak, but also compare tickets for the likes of Metrolink Trains to find the best option for your trip from Irvine to San Diego.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Irvine to San Diego.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Amtrak tickets can be bought on Amtrak's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Metrolink Trains to help you choose the right option for your journey from Irvine to San Diego.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Irvine to San Diego.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 17 times per day, taking around 1h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 76 miles (123 km) distance in 1h 38m.
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 $25 (€20)
Distance 76 miles (123 km) |
Average train duration 1h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 16 |
Fastest train 1h 38m |
First train 03:50 |
Last train 23:12 |
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 $25 (€20)
Train companies: Amtrak, Metrolink Trains from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak, Metrolink Trains trains will get you between Irvine, CA and San Diego, CA from $25 (€20). 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
1h 55m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
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
Metrolink Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€65)
Metrolink Trains frequency
7 a day
FAQs: Trains from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Irvine, 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.
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.
Train ticket prices from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $30 (€24).
The cheapest way to get from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
Yes, a day trip from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA is feasible. The journey takes 1h 38m, covering a distance of 76 miles (123 km), with 17 trains available per day.
Yes, the train journey from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal bluffs, and charming beach towns, especially on sections where the tracks run parallel to the coast.
The first train from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The distance by train from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA is 76 miles (123 km).
The train from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA takes 1h 38m and runs 17 per day.
The train station in Irvine, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
Yes, you can take the train from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA.
The last train from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Irvine, CA to San Diego, CA
Irvine
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Irvine is Irvine Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Irvine Station for your trip from Irvine to San Diego.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
8 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 7 days a week with multiple lots around the station.
Dining
- Del Frisco's Grille
- The Cheesecake Factory
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Marriott Irvine Spectrum
- Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum
- DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 54 places, covered
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak
Public transit options for Irvine Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Shuttle: Local shuttle services
The major train station for arrivals in San Diego is Santa Fe Depot. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Fe Depot for your journey to San Diego from Irvine.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
- The Fish Market
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $1.25
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
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
5 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
Dining
- Casa Guadalajara
- Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- $0.25
Hotel
- Old Town Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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
Most popular train connections from Irvine, CA
More options for your journey from Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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