- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 09
Cheapest price on Oct 09
$39
Average ticket price on Oct 09
$39
Fastest journey on Oct 09
3 h 17 m
Average journey duration on Oct 09
3 h 42 m
Trains on Oct 09
4
Distance
139 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $39 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner3:35 PM3h32Riverside Station, Riverside, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer- 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner9:00 AM3h52Riverside Station, Riverside, CA12:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer
- 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner9:00 AM4h07Riverside Station, Riverside, CA1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer
- 4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner3:35 PM3h17Riverside Station, Riverside, CA6:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer
- 4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner3:35 PM3h17Riverside Station, Riverside, CA6:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer
- 4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner3:35 PM3h32Riverside Station, Riverside, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer
- 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner9:00 AM3h52Riverside Station, Riverside, CA12:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer
- 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner9:00 AM4h07Riverside Station, Riverside, CA1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$391One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA and enjoy the approximately 86 miles (139 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:51, the last at 15:35.
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 $16
Distance 86 miles (139 km) |
First train 5:51 AM |
Last train 3:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $16
Live departures
Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Thursday, October 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 9:00 AM Riverside Station, Riverside, CA | 4h07 | 1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 9:00 AM Riverside Station, Riverside, CA | 3h52 | 12:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner | 3:35 PM Riverside Station, Riverside, CA | 3h32 | 7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner | 3:35 PM Riverside Station, Riverside, CA | 3h17 | 6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this 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
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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 5:51 AM.
The distance by train from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA is 86 miles (139 km).
The last train from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:35 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train journey from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA offers some scenic views, especially as it approaches the coast. Passengers can enjoy glimpses of rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and ocean views near the end of the trip.
No, you cannot take the train from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, 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.
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 Riverside, CA
More options for your journey from Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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