Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Sun, Nov 01
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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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Journey information

Overview: Train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA

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Trains from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 66h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $349 (€292) but you can travel from only $113 (€95) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 08:15, the last at 16:10. The fastest train covers the 2367 miles (3810 km) distance in 63h 2m.

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 $113 (€95)
Distance
2367 miles (3810 km)
Average train duration
66h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$349 (€292)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
63h 2m
First train
8:15 AM
Last train
4:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
1 day
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 $113 (€95)

Frequently asked questions about your Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA.

Train ticket prices from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $349 (€292), while the average price is around $1,051 (€881).
The train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA takes 63h 2m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA is 2367 miles (3810 km).
The first train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA leaves at 8:15 AM.
The last train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:10 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA.

Live departures

Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Saturday, October 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak5:42 PM Philadelphia, PA
75h11
8:53 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Philadelphia, PA and San Diego, CA from $113 (€95). 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 Amtrak Duration
63h 2m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$349 (€292)
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Philadelphia, PA and San Diego, CA

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a night train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA.
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.

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.

Plan your visit to San Diego, CA

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in San Diego, CA.

The train journey from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA offers varied scenery, including the urban landscapes of the East Coast, the rolling hills and farmland of the Midwest, and the dramatic desert and mountain views of the Southwest, providing a diverse and picturesque experience.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Philadelphia, PA 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
Yes, you can take the train from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA

Most Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA trains use the 30th Street Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia
Arrival train stations in San Diego

Which Philadelphia, PA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?

Trains from Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA leave from 30th Street Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Philadelphia, PA city centre at 2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
30th Street Station2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA+1 215-349-2135WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to 30th Street Station from Philadelphia city centre

30th Street Station is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainAir, War, Wil, Med, Wtr, Lan, Pao, Cyn, Nor, Tre, Chw, Fox · 4m · $4 · every ~21 min
Bus414, 417, 555 · 9m · $3
31, 44, 62, 124, 125 · 10m · $4 · every ~16 min
TramT1, T2, T3, T4, T5 · 6m · $4 · every ~57 min

30th Street Station train station facilities and services

30th Street Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Bridgewater's Pub, The Porch at 30th Street Station

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at 30th Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at 30th Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at 30th Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at 30th Street Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at 30th Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, The Study at University City.

Train stations for Philadelphia, PA to San Diego, CA

Check train stations information for Philadelphia, PA and San Diego, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Philadelphia, PA that goes to San Diego, CA is 30th Street Station, which connects to Old Town Station.

Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Philadelphia, PA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CAPhiladelphia, PA to San Diego, CA train

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