Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, Aug 28
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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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 Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 28

Cheapest price

Kč6995

Average price

Kč7048

Fastest journey

1 d 23 h 58 m

Average duration

2 d 6 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

2658 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mendota, IL 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 Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA will cost around Kč7048 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only Kč6995.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak3 Southwest Chief · 770 Pacific Surfliner
    2:54 PM47h58
    Mendota Station, Mendota, IL
    12:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
    69951One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak3 Southwest Chief · 770 Pacific Surfliner
    2:54 PM48h13
    Mendota Station, Mendota, IL
    1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    69951One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak3 Southwest Chief · 770 Pacific Surfliner
    2:54 PM47h58
    Mendota Station, Mendota, IL
    12:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
    70891One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak3 Southwest Chief · 770 Pacific Surfliner
    2:54 PM48h13
    Mendota Station, Mendota, IL
    1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    71131One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train for Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from Kč5682. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 45h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of Kč5682, and a train costs an average of Kč5682.

Distance: 1651 miles (2658 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

Kč18344

Average price

Cheapest

Kč8570

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

45h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

45h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

28h 52m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of Kč7675.

This is compared to other travel options from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA:

A bus is Kč5038 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA costing on average Kč12713.

A bus is Kč10669 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA costing on average Kč18344.

The fastest way to travel from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 23m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 45h 18m.

Bus takes on average 55h 1m.

Yes, you can take a train between Mendota, IL and San Diego, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around Kč18344 compared to roughly Kč8570 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about Kč-9774.47. The journey takes 45h 18m versus 28h 52m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA trains for today, Thursday, August 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak3:49 PM Mendota, IL
42h15
10:04 AM San Diego, CA1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA by train

Compare train 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.

Fri
Aug 28
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Aug 29
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Tue
Sep 01
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Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03

Journey information

Overview: Train from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 45h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at Kč5682 but you can travel from only Kč4713 by flight.

The earliest train runs at 15:49, the last at 15:49. The fastest train covers the 1651 miles (2658 km) distance in 43h 32m.

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
Flight from Kč4713
Distance
1651 miles (2658 km)
Average train duration
45h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
Kč5682
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
43h 32m
First train
3:49 PM
Last train
3:49 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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
Flight from Kč4713

Train companies: Amtrak from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Mendota, IL and San Diego, CA from Kč5682. 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
43h 32m
Cheapest Price
Kč5682
Amtrak frequency
4 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 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

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • 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.

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 Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mendota, IL 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at Kč5682, while the average price is around Kč18344.
The train from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA takes 43h 32m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA is 1651 miles (2658 km).
The first train from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:49 PM.
The last train from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:49 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Mendota, IL that goes to San Diego, CA is Mendota Station, Mendota, IL, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA is by train, with a cost of around Kč5682.
Yes, the train journey from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA is scenic, offering views of the diverse landscapes of the Midwest, the expansive plains, and the picturesque desert vistas of the American Southwest before reaching the Pacific coastline in California.
A day trip from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 43h 32m. The distance is 1651 miles (2658 km), and there are 5 trains per day.
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 Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Mendota, IL 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 Mendota, IL 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA

Most Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA trains use the Mendota Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Mendota, IL and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Mendota
Arrival train stations in San Diego

Which Mendota, IL station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?

Trains from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA leave from Mendota Station. The station is from Mendota, IL city centre at 783 Main St, Mendota, IL 61342, USA.
Mendota Station783 Main St, Mendota, IL 61342, USA+1 800-872-7245Accessibility

Mendota Station train station facilities and services

Mendota Station has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Mendota Station.

Most popular train connections from Mendota, IL

More options for your journey from Mendota, IL to San Diego, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CAMendota, IL to San Diego, CA train

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