Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, Oct 09
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
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 Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 09

Cheapest price on Oct 09

$75

Average ticket price on Oct 09

$101

Fastest journey on Oct 09

4 h 47 m

Average journey duration on Oct 09

4 h 58 m

Trains on Oct 09

4

Distance

212 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.

Fast trains

On Fri, Oct 09, we found 4 trains from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA, including 1 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 09 the direct trains cover the 212 km distance in an average of 4 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 47 m .

On Fri, Oct 09 the slowest trains will take 5 h 18 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.

  • Amtrak11 Coast Starlight
    6:48 AM5h18
    Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA
    12:06 PMSalinas Station, Salinas, CA
    $751One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak523 Capitol Corridor · 4790 Connecting Bus
    5:23 AM4h47
    Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA
    10:10 AMSalinas Station, Salinas, CA
    $1091One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak539 Capitol Corridor · 6241 Connecting Bus
    11:53 AM4h47
    Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA
    4:40 PMSalinas Station, Salinas, CA
    $1091One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak529 Capitol Corridor · 4794 Connecting Bus
    7:41 AM4h59
    Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA
    12:40 PMSalinas Station, Salinas, CA
    $1091One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA

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Trains from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:25, the last at 21:03. The fastest train covers the 131 miles (212 km) distance in 5h 18m.

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
Distance
131 miles (212 km)
Average train duration
5h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$38
Trains per day
1
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 18m
First train
3:25 AM
Last train
9:03 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
77 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

Live departures

Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA trains for today, Thursday, October 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak1:48 PM Sacramento, CA
5h18
7:06 PM Salinas, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2:48 PM Sacramento, CA
5h18
8:06 PM Salinas, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Sacramento, CA and Salinas, CA from $38. 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
5h 18m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$38
Amtrak frequency
1 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 Salinas, CA

Things to do in Salinas, CA

Discover the best of Salinas, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Salinas, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

National Steinbeck Center

The city’s signature museum explores John Steinbeck’s life, books, and Salinas roots through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays.

  • Recommended

Boronda Adobe History Center

Historic adobe museum presenting regional history, early settlement, and changing life in Monterey County through preserved rooms and exhibits.

Monterey County Historical Society

Small local-history museum and archive with rotating displays on Salinas Valley communities, agriculture, and historic photographs.

$ United States Dollar

Moderate for California: lodging is cheaper than major coastal cities, but dining and car-dependent transport keep typical visitor costs above many inland U.S. towns.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
$20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-20% for great service. Round up or tip 10% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or prompts; $1-2 is common.

FAQs: Trains from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, 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 Salinas, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38, while the average price is around $111.
The train from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA runs once a day and takes approximately 5h 18m.
The first train from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA leaves at 3:25 AM.
The distance by train from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA is 131 miles (212 km).
The last train from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA leaves at 9:03 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA.
The train station in Sacramento, CA that goes to Salinas, CA is Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA, which connects to Salinas Station, Salinas, CA.
The train journey from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the Central Valley's agricultural landscapes, rolling hills, and sections of the coastal mountain ranges, providing a pleasant and varied visual experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA.
Popular day trips by train from Salinas, CA include San Jose, CA, Paso Robles, 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 Salinas, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated neighborhoods after dark. Scams are not highly reported but staying alert to common travel scams, such as overcharging by local vendors or taxi drivers, is recommended. Keeping personal belongings secure and using reputable transportation services can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA

Most Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA trains use the Sacramento Valley Station to Salinas Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Sacramento, CA and Salinas, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Sacramento
Arrival train stations in Salinas

Which Sacramento, CA station do trains to Salinas, CA leave from?

Trains from Sacramento, CA to Salinas, CA leave from Sacramento Valley Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Sacramento, CA city centre at 401 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA.
Sacramento Valley Station401 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Sacramento Valley Station from Sacramento city centre

Bus30, 38, 62 · 6m · $4 · every ~10 min
45 · 23m · $4
TramGold · 3m · $4 · every ~7 min

Sacramento Valley Station train station facilities and services

Sacramento Valley Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Firehouse Restaurant, Ten22

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento Valley Station: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade, Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena, Kimpton Sawyer Hotel.

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