- 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.
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 Madera, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$92
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$92
Fastest journey on Sep 19
8 h 58 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
8 h 58 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
541 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madera, 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 Madera, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $92 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $92.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 541 km distance in an average of 8 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 58 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 8 h 58 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.
4:54 PM8h58Madera, CA1:52 AMSan Diego, CA$921One-way0 transfers
- 4:54 PM8h58Madera, CA1:52 AMSan Diego, CA$921One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Madera, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $80 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 9h 53m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $80, while a bus costs an average of $80.
Distance: 336 miles (541 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$80 Average price Cheapest | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 53m Average total duration Fastest 9h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $80.
This is compared to other travel options from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $498 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $579.
The fastest way to travel from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 9m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 23m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Madera, CA and San Diego, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
Madera, CA to San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Madera, CA to San Diego, CA trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:54 PM Madera, CA | 8h58 | 1:52 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madera, CA to San Diego, CA by bus
Compare bus 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Journey information
Overview: Train from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA and enjoy the approximately 336 miles (541 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 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 $77
Distance 336 miles (541 km) |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 35 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 $77
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
FAQs: Trains from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madera, 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.
The first train from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The distance by train from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA is 336 miles (541 km).
The last train from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Madera, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Madera Station, Madera, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $77.
The train journey from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA offers scenic views, particularly through the San Joaquin Valley with its expansive agricultural landscapes, and as you approach Southern California, you may enjoy glimpses of coastal areas and rolling hills.
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.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Madera, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Madera, CA nor San Diego, 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 Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Madera, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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.
Most popular train connections from Madera, CA
More options for your journey from Madera, 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 Madera, 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.
