- Must visit
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
A renowned desert museum combining zoo, botanical garden, art, and natural history exhibits focused on the Sonoran Desert. It is one of Tucson’s signature attractions and highly regarded for immersive
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $121. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $121, and a flight costs an average of $131.
Distance: 761 miles (1226 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$140 Average price Cheapest | $200 Average price | $406 Average price | $175 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 48m Average total duration 18h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 17m Average total duration 16h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 51m Average total duration Fastest 3h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ is a train with an average price of $140 (€116).
This is compared to other travel options from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ:
A train is $60 (€49) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ costing on average $200 (€165).
A train is $265 (€218) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ costing on average $406 (€334).
The fastest way to travel from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 51m.
Other travel options to Tucson, AZ take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 47m.
Train takes on average 18h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Antonio, TX and Tucson, AZ including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ train times
The table below shows live departures for San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ trains for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Sunset Limited | 2:45 AM San Antonio Station, San Antonio, TX | 18h15 | 7:00 PM Tucson Amtrak Station, Tucson, AZ | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 421 Texas Eagle | 2:45 AM San Antonio Station, San Antonio, TX | 18h15 | 7:00 PM Tucson Amtrak Station, Tucson, AZ | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ 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 San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ
USAUSA
Trains from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ run on average 2 times per day, taking around 18h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $121 (€100) but you can travel from only $117 (€96) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 08:53. The fastest train covers the 761 miles (1226 km) distance in 18h 15m.
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 $117 (€96)
Distance 761 miles (1226 km) |
Average train duration 18h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $121 (€100) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 18h 15m |
First train 1:45 AM |
Last train 8:53 AM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $117 (€96)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Antonio, TX and Tucson, AZ from $117 (€96). 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
18h 15m
Cheapest Price
$121 (€100)
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 Tucson
Things to do in Tucson
Discover the best of Tucson — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tucson trip today.
- Recommended
Tucson Museum of Art
A major downtown art museum with American, Latin American, Indigenous, and contemporary collections. It is a strong cultural stop in the historic core and often recommended for first-time visitors.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson
A contemporary art museum in a converted fire station, featuring rotating exhibitions and regional artists. It is popular with visitors looking for a modern and more local creative perspective.
- Must visit
Saguaro National Park West
A spectacular desert landscape filled with giant saguaro cacti, scenic drives, and classic Sonoran views. It is one of the top outdoor experiences near Tucson and especially popular at sunset.
- Must visit
Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
A scenic canyon area known for desert walks, mountain views, and seasonal water crossings. It is a favorite for active visitors and one of Tucson’s most photographed natural areas.
- Must visit
Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
A dramatic mountain road climbing from desert to pine forest, with major changes in scenery and temperature. It is one of the region’s signature drives and highly popular with locals and visitors.
Sonoran Hot Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog in a bolillo-style bun, typically topped with beans, onion, tomato, mustard, mayo, and jalapeno sauce. It is one of Tucson's signature borderlands street foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Seca
Air-dried beef, often shredded and cooked with eggs, chiles, or vegetables. It is a classic Sonoran specialty strongly associated with Tucson's Mexican culinary heritage.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Crisp
An open-faced flour tortilla baked until crisp and topped with melted cheese, often finished with green chiles. It is a long-standing Tucson and Arizona favorite.
Cafe Poca Cosa
Well-known downtown restaurant celebrated for refined Mexican cuisine, elegant presentation, and a distinctive menu-driven dining experience.
The Parish
A popular gastropub blending Southern and Southwestern flavors, known for creative comfort food and a stylish but relaxed atmosphere.
Boca Tacos y Tequila
Casual favorite for inventive tacos, salsas, and tequila in a colorful, energetic setting that remains popular with locals and visitors.
United States Dollar
Generally cheaper than major U.S. tourist cities. Hotels vary by season, while dining and transport are usually manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or casual eats.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; 20% for strong service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson, AZ, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $121 (€100), while the average price is around $140 (€116).
The train from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ takes 18h 15m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ leaves at 1:45 AM.
The distance by train from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ is 761 miles (1226 km).
The last train from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ leaves at 8:53 AM.
There is no high speed train available from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ.
The train station in San Antonio, TX that goes to Tucson, AZ is San Antonio Station, San Antonio, TX, which connects to Tucson Amtrak Station, Tucson, AZ.
The cheapest way to get from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ is by bus, with a cost of around $117 (€96).
The train journey from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ offers scenic views of the desert landscapes, including vast open spaces, rugged mountains, and unique rock formations typical of the Southwest. Passengers can enjoy a glimpse of the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of the region.
A day trip from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ is not feasible as the travel duration is 18h 15m. The distance covered is 761 miles (1226 km). There are 2 train trips available per day.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore Tucson, AZ, allowing time to visit key attractions such as Saguaro National Park, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, and historic downtown.
Yes, you can take the train from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ.
Since neither San Antonio, TX nor Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson, AZ include Maricopa, AZ, Benson, AZ.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson, AZ, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Common scams include overcharging by taxis or rideshares and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. It's advised to use official transportation services and keep personal belongings secure. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings when exploring less populated areas to avoid safety risks.
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.
More options for your journey from San Antonio, TX to Tucson, AZ
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Tucson, AZ and San Antonio, TX
Most popular train connections to Tucson, AZ
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