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

Tue, Aug 25
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 25

Cheapest price

$77

Average price

$103

Fastest journey

9 h 25 m

Average duration

9 h 32 m

Trains per day

10

Distance

559 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK
    9:13 AM10h47
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    8:00 PMSan Francisco, CA
    $771One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK
    8:00 AM9h30
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    5:30 PMSan Francisco, CA
    $931One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak5713 AMTRAK · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 AMTRAK
    5:55 AM9h35
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    3:30 PMSan Francisco, CA
    $931One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK
    11:05 AM9h25
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA
    $931One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK
    10:55 AM9h35
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA
    $931One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 44m. 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 $31, and a flight costs an average of $33.

Distance: 347 miles (559 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

$117

Average price

$78

Average price

Cheapest

$553

Average price

12h 8m

Average total duration

11h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 9m

Average total duration

8h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 44m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

1.7 - 3.4kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

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 Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $78.

This is compared to other travel options from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA:

A bus is $39 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $117.

A bus is $475 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $553.

The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 44m.

Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 39m.

Train takes on average 11h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.

Live departures

Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak5813 AMTRAK · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 AMTRAK5:50 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
9h40
3:30 PM San Francisco, CA2 transfers
Amtrak5713 AMTRAK · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 AMTRAK5:55 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
9h35
3:30 PM San Francisco, CA2 transfers
Amtrak5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK7:50 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
9h40
5:30 PM San Francisco, CA2 transfers
Amtrak5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK8:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
9h30
5:30 PM San Francisco, CA2 transfers
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
10h47
8:00 PM San Francisco, CA1 transfer
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 6014 AMTRAK9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
12h39
10:30 PM San Francisco, CA1 transfer
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 6619 AMTRAK9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
12h39
10:30 PM San Francisco, CA1 transfer
Amtrak5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK10:55 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
9h35
8:30 PM San Francisco, CA2 transfers
Amtrak5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK11:05 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
9h25
8:30 PM San Francisco, CA2 transfers
Amtrak5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 6619 AMTRAK12:55 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
9h35
10:30 PM San Francisco, CA2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA?

The best time to book your train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA.

Journey information

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

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 but you can travel from only $31 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 347 miles (559 km) distance in 11h 30m.

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 $31
Distance
347 miles (559 km)
Average train duration
11h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$73
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
11h 30m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
10:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 $31

Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA from $31. 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
11h 30m
Cheapest Price
$73
Amtrak frequency
3 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

Complete guide to San Francisco, CA

Things to do in San Francisco, CA

Discover the best of San Francisco, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

California Academy of Sciences

Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.

  • Must visit

de Young Museum

Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.

  • Must visit

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.

US Dollar ($)

Very high hotel, dining, and transport costs make San Francisco pricier than most US cities and many major tourist destinations.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$90+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and round up or tip $1 at cafes for good service.

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

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73, while the average price is around $117.
The train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA takes 11h 30m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is 347 miles (559 km).
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 10:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA.
The train station in Los Angeles, CA that goes to San Francisco, CA is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, which connects to Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $31.
Yes, the train journey from Los Angeles to San Francisco offers scenic views, including picturesque coastal areas, rolling hills, and diverse Californian landscapes, enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 11h 30m. However, there are 20 train trips available per day for this route.
In San Francisco, CA, you can ride a cable car through steep streets, explore vibrant murals in the Mission District, and visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum. Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero for views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley. Key sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Chinatown, each offering unique experiences from panoramic views to vibrant culture and cuisine.
Three to four days in San Francisco, CA, allows you to explore major attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, while also enjoying some of the city's renowned dining and cultural experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Los Angeles, CA nor San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA

Most Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA trains use the Union Station to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) station pair. Use this guide to compare Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Los Angeles
Arrival train stations in San Francisco

Which Los Angeles, CA station do trains to San Francisco, CA leave from?

Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA leave from Union Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Los Angeles, CA city centre at 800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
Union Station800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA+1 213-683-6875WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Union Station from Los Angeles city centre

TrainSouthwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 57h 43m · $1046
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · $1118
BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · $564

Union Station 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 and drink

Food options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.

Van Nuys, Metrolink Station7720 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91405, USALockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Van Nuys, Metrolink Station from Los Angeles city centre

Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPacific Surfliner · 30m · $7
VC Line · 31m · $9
Bus20 · 2h 30m · $5 · every ~8 min

Van Nuys, Metrolink Station train station facilities and services

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.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.

Chatsworth Station10046 Old Depot Plaza Road, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA+1 800-371-5465ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Chatsworth Station from Los Angeles city centre

Chatsworth Station is 39 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPacific Surfliner · 45m · $10
VC Line · 48m · $10
Bus419 · 1h 16m · $5
419 · 1h 27m · $5
Metro G Line · 1h 36m · $5 · every ~11 min

Chatsworth Station train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink options are available at Chatsworth Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chatsworth Station. Information desks are located near the main entrance.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chatsworth Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Chatsworth Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chatsworth Station: Ramps, restrooms.

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

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