4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
Cheapest price
$40
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
2 h 39 m
Average duration
2 h 41 m
Trains per day
28
Distance
180 km
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 $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Of the 28 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for San Diego, CA on Fri, Mar 20, 26 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Mar 20 the direct trains cover the 180 km distance in an average of 2 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 39 m .
On Fri, Mar 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 42 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.
564 Pacific Surfliner770 Pacific Surfliner584 Pacific Surfliner794 Pacific Surfliner774 Pacific Surfliner562 Pacific Surfliner794 Pacific Surfliner790 Pacific Surfliner564 Pacific Surfliner770 Pacific Surfliner
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 6m. 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 $24, and a flight costs an average of $205.
Distance: 111 miles (180 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$39 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $474 Average price |
4h 16m Average total duration 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 37m Average total duration 3h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 6m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | 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, March 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 562 Pacific Surfliner | 1:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h39 | 3:49 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 564 Pacific Surfliner | 2:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 4:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 566 Pacific Surfliner | 3:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 5:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 4:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 14h59 | 7:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 5:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 7:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 572 Pacific Surfliner | 6:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 7:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 9:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 580 Pacific Surfliner | 10:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 12:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 11:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 1:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, March 20 | |||||
| 584 Pacific Surfliner | 12:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 2:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, 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.
Mar 20
Mar 21
Mar 22
Mar 23
Mar 24
Mar 25
Mar 26
Mar 27
Mar 28
Mar 29
Mar 30
Mar 31
Apr 01
Apr 02
Apr 03
Apr 04
Apr 05
Apr 06
Apr 07
Apr 08
Apr 09
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 21 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.
There are 19 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 39m.
Distance 111 miles (180 km) |
Average train duration 3h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 21 |
Direct trains 19 |
Fastest train 2h 39m |
First train 03:50 |
Last train 22:10 |
Cheapest month Jul |
Cheapest day Sun |
High season Jul - Sep |
Low season Jan - Mar |
Busiest day Sat |
Least busy day Wed |
Best day to book ahead 5 days |
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 $24 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Carts
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- $1
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
- Cost $10
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
LockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- $0.50
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Orange Line
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- Located near the main entrance
- Free
- The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metrolink: Ventura County Line
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
- The Fish Market
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps.
- $1.25
- The Westin San Diego
- The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
- San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
- Casa Guadalajara
- Old Town Mexican Cafe
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- $0.25
- Old Town Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
- 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 Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
