- Recommended
The Fresno Art Museum
A leading regional museum with modern and contemporary art, photography, and rotating exhibitions, plus a respected Mesoamerican collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$90
Average price
$94
Fastest journey
8 h 44 m
Average duration
9 h
Trains per day
10
Distance
508 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Fresno, 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 Fresno, CA will cost around $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner4:10 AM8h44Old Town Station, San Diego, CA12:54 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$901One-way2 transfers- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner4:10 AM8h44Old Town Station, San Diego, CA12:54 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner6:10 AM9h46Old Town Station, San Diego, CA3:56 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner6:10 AM9h46Old Town Station, San Diego, CA3:56 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner6:01 AM9h55Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA3:56 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$911One-way2 transfers
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner4:10 AM8h44Old Town Station, San Diego, CA12:54 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner4:10 AM8h44Old Town Station, San Diego, CA12:54 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$901One-way2 transfers
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner4:01 AM8h53Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA12:54 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$911One-way2 transfers
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner4:01 AM8h53Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA12:54 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$911One-way2 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner6:10 AM9h46Old Town Station, San Diego, CA3:56 PMFresno station, Fresno, CA$901One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $109.
Distance: 315 miles (508 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$90 Average price | $57 Average price Cheapest | $254 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 12m Average total duration 7h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 36m Average total duration 8h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 21m Average total duration Fastest 1h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA is a bus with an average price of $57 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA:
A bus is $34 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA costing on average $90 (€73).
A bus is $197 (€159) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA costing on average $254 (€205).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 21m.
Other travel options to Fresno, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 42m.
Bus takes on average 8h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Fresno, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Fresno, 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 $90 (€73) compared to roughly $77 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.08 (€-10.55). The journey takes 7h 42m versus 5h 32m 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
San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA trains for today, Tuesday, May 26. 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 · 715 Gold Runner | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h53 | 12:54 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h53 | 12:54 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner | 4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h44 | 12:54 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 5715 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner | 4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h44 | 12:54 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 9h55 | 3:56 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 11h55 | 5:56 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 9h55 | 3:56 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5717 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 9h46 | 3:56 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 11h46 | 5:56 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 9h46 | 3:56 PM Fresno station, Fresno, CA | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Diego, CA to Fresno, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA run on average 11 times per day, taking around 7h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 (€63) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 22:40. The fastest train covers the 315 miles (508 km) distance in 8h 44m.
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 $47 (€38)
Distance 315 miles (508 km) |
Average train duration 7h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $78 (€63) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 8h 44m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 10:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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 $47 (€38)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Fresno, CA from $47 (€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 Duration
7h 44m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€39)
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 Fresno
Things to do in Fresno
Discover the best of Fresno — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Fresno trip today.
Meux Home Museum
A restored 1889 Victorian house museum offering a glimpse into Fresno's early civic history and domestic life.
African American Historical and Cultural Museum of the San Joaquin Valley
A small but important local museum preserving African American history, community stories, and cultural heritage in the region.
- Must visit
Tower District
Fresno's best-known urban neighborhood for walking, nightlife, architecture, murals, and an independent local atmosphere.
- Must visit
Woodward Park
A large, popular park with walking trails, open green space, river access, and scenic spots favored by locals and visitors.
- Recommended
Shinzen Japanese Garden
A serene landscaped garden inside Woodward Park with bridges, ponds, and seasonal blossoms, especially photogenic in spring.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Central California barbecue staple featuring seasoned beef tri-tip grilled over red oak. It is especially associated with the San Joaquin Valley and nearby Central Coast traditions.
Basque Family-Style Dinner
A long-standing regional dining tradition in the Central Valley, with courses such as soup, beans, salad, stewed meats, fries, and bread served communally in Basque restaurants.
- Gluten-free
Chile Verde
Pork simmered in a tangy green chile sauce, commonly found across Fresno's Mexican restaurants. It reflects the city's strong Mexican and Central Valley food culture.
Santa Fe Basque Restaurant & Bar
Established Basque restaurant serving hearty family-style meals that reflect one of Fresno's classic regional dining traditions.
The Annex Kitchen
Popular upscale restaurant known for Italian-inspired dishes, house-made pasta, wood-fired cooking, and a stylish contemporary atmosphere.
Dog House Grill
Well-known casual Fresno favorite for barbecue, burgers, and especially tri-tip sandwiches. Lively, local, and consistently popular.
United States Dollar
Fresno is generally cheaper than coastal California cities. Hotels and dining are moderate, while fine dining and car costs add up.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants before tax. 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 Fresno, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Fresno, 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 Fresno, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $78 (€63), while the average price is around $90 (€73).
The train from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA takes 8h 44m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA is 315 miles (508 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA leaves at 10:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Fresno, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Fresno station, Fresno, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from San Diego to Fresno offers scenic views, including coastal landscapes as you depart San Diego, rolling hills and agricultural fields as you travel through California's Central Valley, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA is not feasible due to the travel time of 8h 44m and a distance of 315 miles (508 km). Trains operate 12 times per day.
For a fulfilling experience in Fresno, CA, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal to explore popular attractions like the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Forestiere Underground Gardens, and the vibrant arts scene in the Tower District.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Fresno, 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 Fresno, CA include Hanford, CA, Modesto, CA, Merced, CA, Turlock, CA, Wasco, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Fresno, 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 Fresno, CA, travelers should be cautious of vehicle break-ins, especially in parking lots and less busy areas. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated places at night. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and distraction techniques used near popular attractions. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation options 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 San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA
San Diego
Fresno
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 Fresno.
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 Fresno is Fresno Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Fresno Station for your journey to Fresno from San Diego.
Fresno 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 on-site with both short-term and long-term options.
Dining
- Shepherd's Inn
- Joe's Steakhouse
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center
- Radisson Hotel Fresno Conference Center
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fresno Yosemite
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak trains
Public transit options for Fresno Station
- Bus: Fresno Area Express (FAX) routes 22, 26, 28, 34, 38
Most popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Fresno, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Fresno, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to Fresno, CA
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