- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Hands-on science and technology museum in Downtown San Jose with interactive exhibits, design challenges, and an IMAX Dome Theater. A strong family-friendly stop in Plaza de César Chávez.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$145
Average price
$159
Fastest journey
10 h 58 m
Average duration
11 h 46 m
Trains per day
4
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 $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $145.
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$1451One-way1 transfer- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK · 748 Capitol Corridor7:52 AM12h18Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA8:10 PMSanta Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA$1511One-way2 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1681One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1701One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK7:52 AM10h58Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA6:50 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1451One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1701One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight7:52 AM11h54Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1681One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK · 748 Capitol Corridor7:52 AM12h18Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA8:10 PMSanta Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA$1511One-way2 transfers
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 $79. 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 $79, and a flight costs an average of $186.
Distance: 341 miles (550 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$125 Average price | $373 Average price | $91 Average price Cheapest | $78 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 $91 (€74).
This is compared to other travel options from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $33 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $125 (€102).
A bus is $282 (€230) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $373 (€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 $125 (€102) compared to roughly $78 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-47.00 (€-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, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 7:52 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 11h54 | 7:46 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK · 748 Capitol Corridor | 7:52 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 12h18 | 8:10 PM Santa Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 7:52 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 11h54 | 7:46 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK | 7:52 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 10h58 | 6:50 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, 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 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 $118 (€97) but you can travel from only $79 (€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 $79 (€64)
Distance 341 miles (550 km) |
Average train duration 10h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $118 (€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 $79 (€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 $79 (€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
$88 (€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
$172 (€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
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
One of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts on display in western North America, set in a distinctive Egyptian-inspired complex with gardens.
- Recommended
San José Museum of Art
Leading contemporary art museum in the city center, known for West Coast and international artists in a well-restored historic post office building. Good choice for modern art lovers.
- Must visit
Santana Row
High-profile mixed-use district known for stylish streets, palm-lined promenades, and lively people-watching. Popular with visitors, photographers, and social media creators.
- Must visit
Downtown San Jose
The city's main urban core with museums, plazas, nightlife, and event venues. Best area for first-time visitors wanting a central base and walkable attractions.
- Must visit
Japantown San Jose
One of the few remaining historic Japantowns in the United States, appreciated for its heritage character, murals, small businesses, and community feel.
Burrito
A large flour tortilla wrapped around beans, rice, meat, salsa, and other fillings. San Jose’s Mexican-American community makes it a staple local comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Super Taco
A street-style taco commonly found at taquerias and taco trucks, usually filled with grilled meats, onions, cilantro, and salsa. It reflects the city’s strong Mexican food culture.
- Gluten-free
Pho
Vietnamese noodle soup with aromatic broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat. San Jose has one of the strongest Vietnamese food scenes in the United States, making pho especially local to the area.
La Foret
An established fine-dining restaurant set in a historic creekside building, known for French-inspired cuisine and a romantic atmosphere.
Original Joe's San Jose
A long-running downtown classic known for Italian-American dishes, steaks, and old-school atmosphere. Popular for hearty portions and a historic San Jose dining experience.
Falafel's Drive-In
A beloved casual San Jose institution famous for falafel, gyros, and its well-known banana shake. Great for a classic local quick meal.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but overall costs are elevated.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast food or casual spots.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip delivery drivers 10-20%.
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 $118 (€97), while the average price is around $125 (€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 $79 (€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
Irvine
San Jose
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 Jose.
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 Jose is San José Diridon Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San José Diridon Station for your journey to San Jose from Irvine.
San José Diridon Station
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
5Parking
- Parking is available 7 days a week, with multiple lots surrounding the station.
Dining
- The Farmers Union
- Poor House Bistro
- La Victoria Taqueria
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Hotel De Anza
- The Westin San Jose
- AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose 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
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas, platforms for Caltrain, Amtrak, and ACE services, and connections to VTA buses and light rail.
Public transit options for San José Diridon Station
- Bus: VTA Bus Lines 22, 64A, 64B, 68, 168, 181
- Light Rail: VTA Green Line
- Caltrain
- Amtrak
- ACE
Santa Clara Station
Amenities at train station
DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmMost 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
Most popular train connections to San Jose, CA
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