- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and a striking SoMa building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$77
Average price
$106
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 $106 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.
765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK9:13 AM10h47Union Station, Los Angeles, CA8:00 PMSan Francisco, CA$771One-way1 transfer- 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK10:55 AM9h35Union Station, Los Angeles, CA8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK7:50 AM9h40Union Station, Los Angeles, CA5:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5813 AMTRAK · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 AMTRAK5:50 AM9h40Union Station, Los Angeles, CA3:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 6619 AMTRAK12:55 PM9h35Union Station, Los Angeles, CA10:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK11:05 AM9h25Union Station, Los Angeles, CA8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK8:00 AM9h30Union Station, Los Angeles, CA5:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK10:55 AM9h35Union Station, Los Angeles, CA8:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 6619 AMTRAK12:55 PM9h35Union Station, Los Angeles, CA10:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 transfers
- 5713 AMTRAK · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 AMTRAK5:55 AM9h35Union Station, Los Angeles, CA3:30 PMSan Francisco, CA$931One-way2 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 $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 20m. 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 $47, and a flight costs an average of $120.
Distance: 347 miles (559 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$83 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $199 Average price |
10h 7m Average total duration 9h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 35m Average total duration 9h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration Fastest 3h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.7 - 3.4kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $78 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $83 (€67).
A bus is $121 (€97) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $199 (€161).
The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 20m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 5m.
Train takes on average 9h 37m.
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 today, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK | 10:55 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h35 | 8:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 AMTRAK | 11:05 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h25 | 8:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 6619 AMTRAK | 12:55 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h35 | 10:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| Wednesday, May 27 | |||||
| 5813 AMTRAK · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 AMTRAK | 5:50 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h40 | 3:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 5713 AMTRAK · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 AMTRAK | 5:55 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h35 | 3:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK | 7:50 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h40 | 5:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 AMTRAK | 8:00 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h30 | 5:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK | 9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 10h47 | 8:00 PM San Francisco, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 6619 AMTRAK | 9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 12h39 | 10:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 6014 AMTRAK | 9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 12h39 | 10:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 1 transfer | |
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.
Wed
May 27
May 27
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Jun 16
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.
Trains
from $71Buses
from $55Flights
from $160Journey information
Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 19 times per day, taking around 9h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $74 (€60) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) 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 9h 25m.
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 $47 (€38)
Distance 347 miles (559 km) |
Average train duration 9h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $74 (€60) |
Trains per day 19 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 9h 25m |
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 Sat |
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 $47 (€38)
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 $47 (€38). 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
9h 25m
Cheapest Price
$57 (€46)
Amtrak frequency
19 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
Things to do in San Francisco
Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.
- Must visit
Exploratorium
Hands-on science and perception museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.
- Must visit
California Academy of Sciences
Large natural history and science museum with aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest dome in Golden Gate Park.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Expansive urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, trails, and some of the city's best walking and cycling space.
- Must visit
Chinatown
One of North America's oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns, packed with temples, gates, markets, and side streets.
- Must visit
Lands End
Dramatic coastal walking area with cliffs, cypress-lined trails, Golden Gate views, and Sutro Baths ruins nearby.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian immigrant fishermen in San Francisco. It typically includes crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish, and is one of the city’s signature dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco is famous for its tangy sourdough, shaped by local wild yeast cultures. It is a historic staple often served as a loaf, toast, or bread bowl.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large foil-wrapped burrito associated with the Mission District, packed with rice, beans, meat or other fillings, salsa, and extras. It is one of the city’s most influential casual foods.
La Taqueria
A Mission District institution celebrated for outstanding Mission-style burritos and tacos. Lively, casual, and widely regarded as one of the city’s essential eats.
Swan Oyster Depot
A legendary seafood counter famous for ultra-fresh oysters, crab, and seafood cocktails. Casual, iconic, and one of the city’s best-known classic stops.
The House
A popular restaurant serving Asian fusion dishes with bold flavors in a cozy setting. Well known for garlic noodles and seafood-focused plates.
United States Dollar
San Francisco is one of the priciest U.S. cities. Hotels, dining, and parking are costly, though casual food options exist.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Not expected at fast food.
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.
Train ticket prices from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $74 (€60), while the average price is around $83 (€67).
The train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA takes 9h 25m and runs 19 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 $47 (€38).
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 9h 25m. 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
Los Angeles
San Francisco
The major train station for departures in Los Angeles is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco.
Amenities at train station
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 Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Dining
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
Shower
- Cost $10
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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 Station
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
25 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- $0.50
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Public transit options for Van Nuys, Metrolink Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Orange Line
Chatsworth Station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
Distance to city center
39 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
Information Desk
- Located near the main entrance
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
The major train station for arrivals in San Francisco is San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) for your journey to San Francisco from Los Angeles.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)
information
Most popular train connections from Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and Los Angeles, CA
Most popular train connections to San Francisco, 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.
