San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA train with Amtrak

Wed, Nov 26
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Showing times and prices for Nov 27

Cheapest price

$40

Average price

$40

Fastest journey

2 h 42 m

Average duration

2 h 46 m

Trains per day

24

Distance

180 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

Of the 24 trains that leave San Diego, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Thu, Nov 27, 24 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Nov 27 the direct trains cover the 180 km distance in an average of 2 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .

On Thu, Nov 27 the slowest trains will take 2 h 47 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.

Amtrak779 Pacific Surfliner
01:10PM2h47
Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
03:57PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak577 NA
12:10PM2h47
Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
02:57PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner
04:10AM2h47
Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
06:57AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner
02:10PM2h47
Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
04:57PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner
06:10AM2h47
Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
08:57AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA
$401One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 49m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, and a flight costs an average of €81.

Distance: 111 miles (180 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€32

Average price

€28

Average price

Cheapest

€260

Average price

3h 22m

Average total duration

2h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 37m

Average total duration

3h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 49m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Wednesday, November 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:11 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner12:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h56
2:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner12:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h47
2:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner2:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h56
4:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner2:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h47
4:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h51
6:52 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner4:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h42
6:52 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak573 Pacific Surfliner6:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h56
8:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak573 Pacific Surfliner6:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h47
8:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak577 NA8:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h56
10:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak577 NA8:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h47
10:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak779 Pacific Surfliner9:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h56
11:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak779 Pacific Surfliner9:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h47
11:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner10:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h56
12:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner10:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h47
12:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Thursday, November 27
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner12:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h56
2:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner12:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h47
2:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak587 Pacific Surfliner1:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
3h03
4:04 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak587 Pacific Surfliner1:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
2h54
4:04 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect

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 Los Angeles, 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.

Thu
Nov 27
Fri
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10

How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA?

The best time to book your train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 18 times per day, taking around 2h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€29) but you can travel from only $28 (€22) by bus.

There are 17 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 111 miles (180 km) distance in 2h 47m.

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 $28 (€22)
Distance
111 miles (180 km)
Average train duration
2h 52m
Cheapest ticket price
$35 (€29)
Trains per day
18
Direct trains
17
Fastest train
2h 47m
First train
03:50
Last train
22:10
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 $28 (€22)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA from $28 (€22). 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
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€29)
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

Traveling by train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

The train connection between San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA is a convenient and scenic option for travelers looking to explore Southern California. Operated by Amtrak, the Pacific Surfliner service offers comfortable seating and stunning views of the coastline along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their journey while enjoying onboard amenities that make travel enjoyable. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this route provides an efficient means to connect these two cities.

Train Connection: San Diego to Los Angeles

The train connection between San Diego and Los Angeles offers a direct service with a duration of approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes. There are up to 10 connections available per day, providing flexibility for travelers. Passengers can board at Santa Fe Depot or Old Town Station in San Diego, arriving at various stations including Chatsworth Station, Northridge Station, Union Station, and Van Nuys Metrolink Station in Los Angeles.

San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

The first daily train journey departs from San Diego at 11:10 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Los Angeles. The last departure is scheduled for 11:10 PM, allowing late-night arrivals into the bustling metropolis.

Train Tickets Price for San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between San Diego and Los Angeles is $34 (30.6€). This fare provides an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant Californian cities while enjoying a comfortable journey.

Exploring the Icons of Los Angeles: The Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and The Getty Center

The Hollywood Sign, originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development called "Hollywoodland," has since become an iconic symbol of the entertainment industry and dreams of stardom. Its towering letters stand at 45 feet tall and span over 350 feet across the hillside, making it not just a landmark but also a testament to Los Angeles' rich cinematic history. As you gaze upon this famous sign from various vantage points around the city, you'll feel its magnetic pull that draws millions each year to explore their own aspirations.

Perched atop Griffith Park, Griffith Observatory opened in 1935 and serves as both an astronomical observatory and a public space dedicated to science education. This architectural gem offers breathtaking views of downtown Los Angeles while providing visitors with interactive exhibits about space exploration and celestial phenomena. Don't miss your chance to peer through one of its historic telescopes or catch a show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium—it's truly where science meets wonder!

The Getty Center is renowned not only for its impressive collection of European paintings but also for its stunning architecture designed by Richard Meier amidst beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Los Angeles. Opened in 1997, this cultural haven combines art appreciation with educational programs that engage visitors on multiple levels—from ancient artifacts to contemporary photography exhibitions. Be sure to take time exploring both indoor galleries and outdoor spaces; every corner reveals something unique that enriches your understanding of art's role throughout history!

FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
In Los Angeles, CA, you can explore Venice Beach Boardwalk with its eclectic shops and street performers, visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience, or take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park for panoramic city views. Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or discover unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Best sights include the Griffith Observatory for stunning city views and astronomy exhibits, The Getty Center for art and gardens, the historic Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) with its diverse collections.
To fully experience Los Angeles, CA, it's ideal to spend at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time to visit popular attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Getty Center, while also exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings.
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35 (€29), while the average price is around $39 (€32).
The train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA takes 2h 47m and runs 18 per day.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 47m and covers 111 miles (180 km). However, there are 18 trains per day available for this route.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€22).
The last train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA offers scenic views of the Pacific coastline, with stretches where the tracks run close to the ocean, providing passengers with picturesque ocean and beach vistas along the way.
The first train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 111 miles (180 km).
Yes, there is a direct train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA. This service operates 17 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Los Angeles, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA

San Diego
Los Angeles
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 Los Angeles.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
Dining
  • The Fish Market
  • Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1.25
Hotel
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
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
Dining
Dining
  • Casa Guadalajara
  • Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • $0.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • Old Town Inn
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
  • Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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

Most popular trains to and from Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Los Angeles, CASan Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA train

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone