Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, Nov 28
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Nov 28

Cheapest price

$40

Average price

$50

Fastest journey

2 h 38 m

Average duration

2 h 40 m

Trains per day

26

Distance

180 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

Of the 26 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for San Diego, CA on Fri, Nov 28, 24 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Nov 28 the direct trains cover the 180 km distance in an average of 2 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 38 m .

On Fri, Nov 28 the slowest trains will take 2 h 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner
08:10PM2h38
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
10:48PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner
05:10PM2h40
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
07:50PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak582 Pacific Surfliner
04:10PM2h40
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
06:50PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
10:10PM2h40
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
12:50AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner
06:10AM2h40
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
08:50AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €37, and a train costs an average of €73.

Distance: 111 miles (180 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€73

Average price

€37

Average price

Cheapest

3h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 26m

Average total duration

2h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Thursday, November 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:20 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner3:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
6:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner3:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
5:50 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner4:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h43
6:53 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner4:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
14h59
8:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
15h13
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner6:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h43
8:53 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner6:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner7:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
10:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner7:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h43
9:53 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner8:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
11:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner8:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
10:50 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner11:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
2:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner11:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
1:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Friday, November 28
amtrak582 Pacific Surfliner12:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
2:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak582 Pacific Surfliner12:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
3:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner1:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
3:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner1:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
4:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak586 Pacific Surfliner2:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
5:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak586 Pacific Surfliner2:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
4:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner4:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h38
6:48 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner4:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
7:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner6:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
8:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner6:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner2:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
5:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner2:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h40
4:50 PM Old Town Station, 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 Los Angeles, 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.

Fri
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04

Why should you book Los Angeles to San Diego trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Los Angeles to San Diego. Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • 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 Los Angeles to San Diego.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Amtrak tickets can only be bought on Omio or Amtrak's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Amtrak tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Los Angeles to San Diego.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?

The best time to book your train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 19 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $90 (€73) but you can travel from only $46 (€37) by bus.

There are 17 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 111 miles (180 km) distance in 2h 54m.

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 $46 (€37)
Distance
111 miles (180 km)
Average train duration
2h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$90 (€73)
Trains per day
19
Direct trains
17
Fastest train
2h 54m
First train
03:50
Last train
22:10
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 $46 (€37)

Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA from $46 (€37). 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
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€73)
Amtrak frequency
8 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

Traveling by train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

The train connection between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA is a convenient and scenic option for travelers looking to explore Southern California. Operated by Amtrak, the Pacific Surfliner service offers comfortable seating and stunning views of the coastline along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their journey to enjoy all that both cities have to offer.

Train Connection: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

The train connection between Los Angeles and San Diego offers a direct service with a duration of 2 hours and 38 minutes. There are up to 8 connections available per day. Passengers can board from stations including Northridge Station, Van Nuys Metrolink Station, Chatsworth Station, and Union Station in Los Angeles. The journey concludes at either Old Town Station or Santa Fe Depot in San Diego.

Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

The first daily train journey departs from Los Angeles at 5:10 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the beautiful coastal city of San Diego. The last departure is scheduled for 10:10 PM, allowing late-night arrivals for those wishing to maximize their time in this vibrant destination.

Train Tickets Price for Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Los Angeles and San Diego is $34 (30.6€). The average ticket price tends to be around $37 (33.3€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant Californian cities.

Exploring San Diego's Cultural Treasures

Welcome to Balboa Park, a stunning urban oasis that dates back to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. This cultural gem is significant not only for its beautiful gardens and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture but also as home to world-class museums, theaters, and the renowned San Diego Zoo. One of its unique features is the vibrant diversity of attractions within walking distance—whether you're exploring art galleries or enjoying live performances in lush surroundings.

Next on our journey is the USS Midway Museum, which offers an extraordinary glimpse into naval history aboard one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers. The significance of this landmark lies in its role during pivotal moments such as World War II and beyond; it symbolizes courage and innovation at sea. What sets it apart are the interactive exhibits where you can experience life on board through flight simulators and guided tours led by veterans who served here.

Finally, we arrive at Cabrillo National Monument, commemorating Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's historic landing in California in 1542—the first European explorer to set foot on West Coast soil. Its significance extends beyond exploration; it's a testament to maritime heritage while offering breathtaking views of San Diego Bay and Pacific Ocean vistas from atop Point Loma cliffs. Unique features include tidal pools teeming with marine life along with well-preserved trails that invite visitors to connect deeply with nature's beauty while reflecting on early encounters between cultures.

FAQs: Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $90 (€73), while the average price is around $90 (€73).
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $46 (€37).
The train journey from Los Angeles to San Diego is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal cliffs, and charming beach towns along the way.
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA takes 2h 54m and runs 19 per day.
Yes, there is a direct train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 17 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.
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.
A day trip from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 54m. However, there are 19 trains available per day for this route, and the distance is 111 miles (180 km).
The distance by train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is 111 miles (180 km).
The train station in Los Angeles, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
There is no high speed train available from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Los Angeles
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Los Angeles is Chatsworth Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chatsworth Station for your trip from Los Angeles to San Diego.
Chatsworth StationParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
39 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the main entrance
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
Public transit options for Chatsworth Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Metrolink: Ventura County Line
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
12
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Dining
Dining
  • Traxx Restaurant
  • Union Station Cafe
  • Philippe The Original
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
  • Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
  • Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
Shower
Shower
  • Cost $10
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
  • Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
  • Hall 3: Bus terminal
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
  • Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
Van Nuys, Metrolink StationLockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
25 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
WC
WC
  • $0.50
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Public transit options for Van Nuys, Metrolink Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Metro: Orange Line
Northridge StationDiningAccessibilityWC
Amenities at train station
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
34 km
Los Angeles, Westwood Amtrak (UCLA)
information

Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA

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