- Must visit
Kern County Museum
A major local history museum with historic buildings, exhibits on Kern County, and the well-known Black Gold oil exhibit. Good for understanding Bakersfield’s regional identity.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$61
Average price
$62
Fastest journey
5 h 20 m
Average duration
6 h 19 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
342 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA without transferring at least once.
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK4:10 AM6h30Old Town Station, San Diego, CA10:40 AMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$611One-way1 transfer- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK6:10 AM7h35Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1:45 PMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$611One-way1 transfer
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 5885 AMTRAK4:10 PM5h20Old Town Station, San Diego, CA9:30 PMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$611One-way1 transfer
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 5885 AMTRAK4:01 PM5h29Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA9:30 PMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$621One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK6:01 AM7h44Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1:45 PMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$621One-way1 transfer
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 5885 AMTRAK4:10 PM5h20Old Town Station, San Diego, CA9:30 PMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$611One-way1 transfer
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 5885 AMTRAK4:01 PM5h29Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA9:30 PMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$621One-way1 transfer
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK4:10 AM6h30Old Town Station, San Diego, CA10:40 AMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$611One-way1 transfer
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK4:01 AM6h39Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA10:40 AMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$621One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK6:10 AM7h35Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1:45 PMBakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA$611One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a train costs an average of $59.
Distance: 212 miles (342 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$61 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest |
5h 42m Average total duration Fastest 5h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 38m Average total duration 6h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA is a bus with an average price of $56 (€45).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
A bus is $6 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA costing on average $61 (€49).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA is by train with an average journey time of 5h 12m.
Other travel options to Bakersfield, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Bakersfield, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA trains for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 6h39 | 10:40 AM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK | 4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 6h30 | 10:40 AM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 7h44 | 1:45 PM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 7h35 | 1:45 PM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK | 8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 7h44 | 3:45 PM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner · 5885 AMTRAK | 4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 5h29 | 9:30 PM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner · 5885 AMTRAK | 4:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 5h20 | 9:30 PM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 595 Pacific Surfliner · 5811 AMTRAK | 9:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 7h39 | 4:40 AM Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 (€47) but you can travel from only $37 (€29) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 23:20. The fastest train covers the 212 miles (342 km) distance in 5h 20m.
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 $37 (€29)
Distance 212 miles (342 km) |
Average train duration 5h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 (€47) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 5h 20m |
First train 4:01 AM |
Last train 11:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€29)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Bakersfield, CA from $37 (€29). 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
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€47)
Amtrak frequency
9 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 Bakersfield
Things to do in Bakersfield
Discover the best of Bakersfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield trip today.
- Recommended
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
A family-friendly museum focused on fossils, geology, archaeology, and regional natural history. Especially strong for dinosaur and Ice Age displays.
- Recommended
Bakersfield Museum of Art
The city’s main art museum, featuring California art, rotating exhibitions, and a sculpture garden in a pleasant park setting.
- Must visit
Downtown Bakersfield
The city’s main historic and cultural core, known for theaters, murals, civic buildings, and walkable blocks with the strongest concentration of sights.
- Must visit
The Park at River Walk
A popular lakeside park with paths, bridges, lawns, and sunset views. It is one of the city’s favorite casual walking and photo spots.
- Recommended
Panorama Vista Preserve
A scenic natural area with trails and river-edge habitat. A strong pick for a quieter local outdoor experience.
Basque Family-Style Dinner
A Bakersfield classic rooted in the city’s Basque community, typically including soup, beans, salad, pickled tongue, fries, bread, and a hearty meat main served in generous shared courses.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Central California’s signature beef cut, seasoned simply and grilled over red oak or similar hardwood. It is especially popular across Bakersfield for casual cookouts and steakhouse meals.
- Gluten-free
Chile Verde
A regional Mexican favorite widely loved in Bakersfield, made with pork simmered in a roasted green chile sauce. It reflects the city’s strong Mexican and Central Valley food culture.
24th Street Cafe
A well-known local breakfast and lunch spot serving generous American comfort food in a lively, welcoming diner atmosphere.
Wool Growers Restaurant
A landmark Basque restaurant famous for traditional family-style meals, classic cocktails, and a historic old-school dining atmosphere.
Pyrenees Cafe
A long-running downtown Basque favorite known for hearty set dinners, friendly service, and a casual historic setting.
United States Dollar
Costs are moderate by California standards. Dining is fairly affordable, while hotels and cars can add up.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or casual spots.
- 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 drip coffee or a 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 and delivery drivers.
FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $59 (€47), while the average price is around $61 (€49).
The train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA takes 5h 20m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA is 212 miles (342 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 11:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Bakersfield, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€29).
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA offers scenic views as it travels along the Pacific coastline, passes through rolling hills, and showcases diverse landscapes, including vast farmlands and picturesque valleys.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA is not feasible as the travel duration is 5h 20m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit for a feasible day trip. Additionally, the trip covers a distance of 212 miles (342 km). The journey is also serviced 7 times per day by train.
In Bakersfield, CA, visitors can explore the vibrant downtown area with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Attend a live performance at the historic Fox Theater or enjoy hiking and biking at the Panorama Vista Preserve. Discover fascinating exhibits at the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science and experience local flavors at the Bakersfield Farmers Market. Top sights include the Kern County Museum, Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, California Living Museum, Bakersfield Museum of Art, and Hart Memorial Park.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Bakersfield, CA, allowing time to visit popular attractions like the Kern County Museum, California Living Museum, and enjoy local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA include Fresno, CA, Hanford, CA, Wasco, CA, Corcoran, CA, Lemoore, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, travelers should remain cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving fake ticket sales or unauthorized transportation services can occur, so purchasing tickets only through official vendors is advised. It’s also important to stay aware of surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas for 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 San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA
San Diego
Bakersfield
The major train station for departures in San Diego is Santa Fe Depot. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Fe Depot for your trip from San Diego to Bakersfield.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
- The Fish Market
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $1.25
Hotel
- The Westin San Diego
- The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Santa Fe Depot
- San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
5 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
Dining
- Casa Guadalajara
- Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- $0.25
Hotel
- Old Town Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Old Town Station
- Trolley: Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available including 8, 9, 10, 28, 30, 35, 44, 88, 105, 150, 923, 928
The major train station for arrivals in Bakersfield is Bakersfield Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bakersfield Station for your journey to Bakersfield from San Diego.
Bakersfield Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with easy access from Truxtun Avenue.
Dining
- 24th Street Cafe
- Wool Growers Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Padre Hotel
- Marriott Bakersfield
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas, platforms are accessible via the main entrance.
Public transit options for Bakersfield Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Local transit connections available
Most popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bakersfield, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to Bakersfield, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
