- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome theater, and family-friendly displays in the heart of downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 22
Cheapest price
$119
Average price
$133
Fastest journey
10 h 58 m
Average duration
11 h 35 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
550 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Irvine, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA will cost around $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA without transferring at least once.
765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK7:52 AM10h58Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA6:50 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1191One-way1 transfer- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1381One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1401One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK7:52 AM10h58Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA6:50 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1191One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1381One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1401One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $64. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 50m. 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 $64, and a flight costs an average of $151.
Distance: 341 miles (550 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$102 Average price | $304 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 28m Average total duration 10h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 50m Average total duration Fastest 5h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 3m Average total duration 10h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.4kg 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 Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of $74 (€74).
This is compared to other travel options from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $27 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $102 (€102).
A bus is $230 (€230) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $304 (€304).
The fastest way to travel from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 50m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 33m.
Train takes on average 10h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Irvine, CA to San Jose, 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 $102 (€102) compared to roughly $63 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-38.30 (€-38.30). The journey takes 10h 58m versus 6h 5m 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
Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA trains for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:52 PM Irvine, CA | 10h58 | 1:50 AM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:52 PM Irvine, CA | 10h58 | 2:50 AM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Jose, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 9 times per day, taking around 10h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $97 (€97) but you can travel from only $64 (€64) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 341 miles (550 km) distance in 10h 58m.
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 $64 (€64)
Distance 341 miles (550 km) |
Average train duration 10h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€97) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 10h 58m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
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
Bus from $64 (€64)
Train companies: Amtrak, Metrolink Trains from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA trainsAmtrak, Metrolink Trains trains will get you between Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA from $64 (€64). 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
10h 50m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€72)
Amtrak frequency
9 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
Metrolink Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 26m
Cheapest Price
$140 (€140)
Metrolink Trains frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to San Jose
Things to do in San Jose
Discover the best of San Jose — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Large art museum known for modern and contemporary works, strong West Coast focus, and thoughtful rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Computer History Museum
A vast collection of restored computer history, from early machines to supercomputers, popular with tech enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Plaza de César Chávez
Signature downtown plaza for festivals, concerts, and civic life, surrounded by museums, hotels, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Japantown
A vibrant historic district with Japanese shops, temples, murals, and a strong sense of local community and heritage.
- Must visit
SoFA District
Lively arts district centered on galleries, murals, and monthly South First Fridays, ideal for an evening walk downtown.
Pho
A Vietnamese noodle soup with beef or chicken in a fragrant broth. San Jose's large Vietnamese community makes it a defining local comfort food.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette, often filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and pate. A staple tied to San Jose's Little Saigon.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Dosa
A South Indian rice and lentil crepe served with chutney and sambar. It is a local favorite thanks to San Jose's strong South Asian community.
Le Papillon
Refined fine dining destination offering modern French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Henry's Hi-Life
Beloved San Jose institution serving smoked meats, ribs, and classic sides in a casual, old-school barbecue setting.
Pupuseria Los Dubon
Casual neighborhood favorite for handcrafted pupusas and Salvadoran comfort food with a warm, family-run feel.
US Dollar ($)
San Jose is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining, and parking add up fast, though public transit and casual food can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Tax is usually added separately.
FAQs: Trains from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Irvine, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $97 (€97), while the average price is around $102 (€102).
The train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA takes 10h 58m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is 341 miles (550 km).
The first train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
The train station in Irvine, CA that goes to San Jose, CA is Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA, which connects to San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $64 (€64).
The train journey from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA offers a mix of urban and suburban views, with scenic highlights like the Pacific Ocean near the Los Angeles area and picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and open fields as you travel further north.
A day trip from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is not feasible. The journey takes 10h 58m one way and covers a distance of 341 miles (550 km). Trains run 9 times per day.
In San Jose, CA, you can explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, visit the Children's Discovery Museum, enjoy performances at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, and discover Silicon Valley's history at the Computer History Museum. For outdoor activities, take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park. Top sights include the Winchester Mystery House, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, and the Municipal Rose Garden.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in San Jose, CA is sufficient to explore its key attractions, such as the Tech Interactive, Winchester Mystery House, Santana Row, and local museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
Since neither Irvine, CA nor San Jose, 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 Jose, CA include Oakland, CA, San Francisco, CA, Salinas, CA, Berkeley, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Irvine, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Most Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA trains use the Irvine Station to San José Diridon Station station pair, with some services arriving at Santa Clara Station. Use this guide to compare Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Irvine
Arrival train stations in San Jose
Which Irvine, CA station do trains to San Jose, CA leave from?
Trains from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA leave from Irvine Station. The station is 4 miles (8 km) from Irvine, CA city centre at 15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA.
Irvine Station15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Irvine Station from Irvine city centre
Irvine Station is 8 km from Irvine city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainOC Line, IE-OC Line · 7m · $6 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 24m · $2 · every ~1 min
86 · 25m · $2 · every ~1 min
86 · 28m · $2 · every ~1 min
Irvine Station train station facilities and services
Irvine 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: Del Frisco's Grille, The Cheesecake Factory
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Irvine Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Irvine Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Irvine Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Irvine Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Irvine Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum, DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum.
Which San Jose, CA station do trains from Irvine, CA arrive at?
Trains from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA most often arrive at San José Diridon Station. Some services arrive at Santa Clara Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Jose, CA arrival station.
San José Diridon Station65 Cahill Street, San Jose, CA 95110, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to San José Diridon Station from San Jose city centre
San José Diridon Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 6m · $5 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 14m · $3 · every ~7 min
San José Diridon Station train station facilities and services
San José Diridon Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Farmers Union, Poor House Bistro, La Victoria Taqueria
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San José Diridon Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at San José Diridon Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San José Diridon Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at San José Diridon Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San José Diridon Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel De Anza, The Westin San Jose, AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Downtown.
Santa Clara Station1001 Railroad Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95050, USA+1 800-660-4287
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Clara Station from San Jose city centre
Santa Clara Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCapitol Corridor · 6m · $5
BusRapid 522, 22 · 17m · $5 · every ~16 min
22, Rapid 522 · 19m · $5 · every ~16 min
Santa Clara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Clara Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, and WC.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Santa Clara Station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Santa Clara Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Clara Station: Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Clara Station.
Most popular train connections from Irvine, CA
More options for your journey from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Jose, CA and Irvine, CA
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