- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome theater, and family-friendly displays in the heart of downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
$112
Average price
$114
Fastest journey
13 h 54 m
Average duration
13 h 54 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
554 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Riverside, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA will cost around $114 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $112.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Riverside, CA for San Jose, CA on Sat, Aug 01, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 554 km distance in an average of 13 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 54 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 13 h 54 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.
2:20 PM13h54Riverside, CA4:14 AMSan Jose, CA$1121One-way0 transfers- 1:20 PM13h54Riverside, CA3:14 AMSan Jose, CA$1161One-way0 transfers
- 2:20 PM13h54Riverside, CA4:14 AMSan Jose, CA$1121One-way0 transfers
- 1:20 PM13h54Riverside, CA3:14 AMSan Jose, CA$1161One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $87. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $87, and a flight costs an average of $207.
Distance: 344 miles (554 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$116 Average price | $328 Average price | $98 Average price Cheapest | $80 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 30m Average total duration 11h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 55m Average total duration 9h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of $98 (€80).
This is compared to other travel options from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $18 (€14) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $116 (€94).
A bus is $230 (€187) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $328 (€267).
The fastest way to travel from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 25m.
Train takes on average 11h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Riverside, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Riverside, CA to San Jose, 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 $116 (€94) compared to roughly $80 (€65) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-35.77 (€-29.13). The journey takes 11h 0m versus 6h 12m 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
Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA trains for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:20 PM Riverside, CA | 13h54 | 3:14 AM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:20 PM Riverside, CA | 13h54 | 4:14 AM San Jose, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Riverside, CA to San Jose, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $110 (€89) but you can travel from only $87 (€70) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 344 miles (554 km) distance in 13h 54m.
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 $87 (€70)
Distance 344 miles (554 km) |
Average train duration 11h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€89) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 13h 54m |
First train 5:35 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Bus from $87 (€70)
Train companies: Amtrak, Metrolink Trains from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA trainsAmtrak, Metrolink Trains trains will get you between Riverside, CA and San Jose, CA from $87 (€70). 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
10h 30m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€70)
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
Metrolink Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 45m
Cheapest Price
$173 (€141)
Metrolink Trains frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to San Jose, CA
Things to do in San Jose, CA
Discover the best of San Jose, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose, CA trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Large art museum known for modern and contemporary works, strong West Coast focus, and thoughtful rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Computer History Museum
A vast collection of restored computer history, from early machines to supercomputers, popular with tech enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Plaza de César Chávez
Signature downtown plaza for festivals, concerts, and civic life, surrounded by museums, hotels, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Japantown
A vibrant historic district with Japanese shops, temples, murals, and a strong sense of local community and heritage.
- Must visit
SoFA District
Lively arts district centered on galleries, murals, and monthly South First Fridays, ideal for an evening walk downtown.
Pho
A Vietnamese noodle soup with beef or chicken in a fragrant broth. San Jose's large Vietnamese community makes it a defining local comfort food.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette, often filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and pate. A staple tied to San Jose's Little Saigon.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Dosa
A South Indian rice and lentil crepe served with chutney and sambar. It is a local favorite thanks to San Jose's strong South Asian community.
Le Papillon
Refined fine dining destination offering modern French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Henry's Hi-Life
Beloved San Jose institution serving smoked meats, ribs, and classic sides in a casual, old-school barbecue setting.
Pupuseria Los Dubon
Casual neighborhood favorite for handcrafted pupusas and Salvadoran comfort food with a warm, family-run feel.
US Dollar ($)
San Jose is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining, and parking add up fast, though public transit and casual food can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Tax is usually added separately.
FAQs: Trains from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riverside, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $110 (€89), while the average price is around $116 (€94).
The train from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA takes 13h 54m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA is 344 miles (554 km).
The first train from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 5:35 AM.
The last train from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA.
The train station in Riverside, CA that goes to San Jose, CA is Riverside Station, Riverside, CA, which connects to San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $87 (€70).
The train journey from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA offers scenic views, including glimpses of the Pacific coastline, rolling hills, and diverse landscapes of California's inland areas, providing a pleasant and varied visual experience.
A day trip from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA is not feasible, as the travel duration is 13h 54m. Trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 344 miles (554 km).
In San Jose, CA, you can explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, visit the Children's Discovery Museum, enjoy performances at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, and discover Silicon Valley's history at the Computer History Museum. For outdoor activities, take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park. Top sights include the Winchester Mystery House, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, and the Municipal Rose Garden.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in San Jose, CA is sufficient to explore its key attractions, such as the Tech Interactive, Winchester Mystery House, Santana Row, and local museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA.
Since neither Riverside, CA nor San Jose, 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 Jose, CA include Oakland, CA, San Francisco, CA, Salinas, CA, Berkeley, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Riverside, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps 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 Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA
Most Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA trains use the Riverside Station to San José Diridon Station station pair, with some services arriving at Santa Clara Station. Use this guide to compare Riverside, CA and San Jose, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Riverside
Arrival train stations in San Jose
Which Riverside, CA station do trains to San Jose, CA leave from?
Trains from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA leave from Riverside Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Riverside, CA city centre at 4066 Vine Street, Riverside, CA 92507, USA.
Riverside Station4066 Vine Street, Riverside, CA 92507, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Riverside Station from Riverside city centre
Riverside Station is 3 km from Riverside city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthwest Chief · 61h 25m · $1066
Southwest Chief · 64h 42m · $1065
BusGreyhound US1210 · 77h 36m · $675
Riverside Station train station facilities and services
Riverside Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Mission Inn Restaurant, The Salted Pig
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Riverside Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Riverside Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Riverside Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Riverside Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Riverside Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Place Riverside/Downtown, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center.
Which San Jose, CA station do trains from Riverside, CA arrive at?
Trains from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA most often arrive at San José Diridon Station. Some services arrive at Santa Clara Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Jose, CA arrival station.
San José Diridon Station65 Cahill Street, San Jose, CA 95110, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to San José Diridon Station from San Jose city centre
San José Diridon Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 6m · $6 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 14m · $4 · every ~7 min
San José Diridon Station train station facilities and services
San José Diridon Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Farmers Union, Poor House Bistro, La Victoria Taqueria
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San José Diridon Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at San José Diridon Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San José Diridon Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at San José Diridon Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San José Diridon Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel De Anza, The Westin San Jose, AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Downtown.
Santa Clara Station1001 Railroad Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95050, USA+1 800-660-4287
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Clara Station from San Jose city centre
Santa Clara Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCapitol Corridor · 6m · $6
BusRapid 522, 22 · 17m · $6 · every ~16 min
22, Rapid 522 · 19m · $6 · every ~16 min
Santa Clara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Clara Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, and WC.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Santa Clara Station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Santa Clara Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Clara Station: Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Clara Station.
Most popular train connections from Riverside, CA
More options for your journey from Riverside, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Jose, CA and Riverside, CA
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