- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
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 Sun, Aug 02, 26 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 02 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 Sun, Aug 02 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.
790 Pacific Surfliner
770 Pacific Surfliner
584 Pacific Surfliner
588 Pacific Surfliner
580 Pacific Surfliner
562 Pacific Surfliner
794 Pacific Surfliner
790 Pacific Surfliner
770 Pacific Surfliner
584 Pacific SurflinerTrains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 23 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $20 (€17) by bus.
There are 21 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 2h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 23 |
Direct trains 21 |
Fastest train 2h 39m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 5 days |
The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Saturday, August 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
584 Pacific Surfliner | 5:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 7:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
584 Pacific Surfliner | 5:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 8:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
786 Pacific Surfliner | 6:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
786 Pacific Surfliner | 6:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
588 Pacific Surfliner | 7:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 10:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
588 Pacific Surfliner | 7:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 9:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
790 Pacific Surfliner | 8:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h41 | 10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
790 Pacific Surfliner | 8:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
794 Pacific Surfliner | 10:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h54 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
794 Pacific Surfliner | 10:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h40 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
562 Pacific Surfliner | 6:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h39 | 8:49 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
562 Pacific Surfliner | 6:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h54 | 9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
564 Pacific Surfliner | 7:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 9:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
564 Pacific Surfliner | 7:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 10:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
566 Pacific Surfliner | 8:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 10:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
566 Pacific Surfliner | 8:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 11:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 15h13 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 14h59 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
770 Pacific Surfliner | 10:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
770 Pacific Surfliner | 10:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 12:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
572 Pacific Surfliner | 11:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 2:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
572 Pacific Surfliner | 11:10 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 1:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
774 Pacific Surfliner | 12:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
774 Pacific Surfliner | 12:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
580 Pacific Surfliner | 3:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 6:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
580 Pacific Surfliner | 3:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 5:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
782 Pacific Surfliner | 4:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
782 Pacific Surfliner | 4:10 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h57 | 7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Most Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the Union Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Union Station has practical services for this route, including 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, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.
Chatsworth Station is 39 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
Chatsworth Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink options are available at Chatsworth Station.
Ticket office support is available at Chatsworth Station. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Available at Chatsworth Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Chatsworth Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chatsworth Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Santa Fe Depot 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 options include: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.
Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.
Old Town Station is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Old Town 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 options include: Casa Guadalajara, Old Town Mexican Cafe
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Old Town Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Old Town Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Old Town Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Old Town Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Old Town Station: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Old Town Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town, Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town.
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