The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA
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
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.
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.
779 Pacific Surfliner
577 NA
761 Pacific Surfliner
581 Pacific Surfliner
765 Pacific Surfliner
769 Pacific Surfliner
779 Pacific Surfliner
577 NA
761 Pacific Surfliner
581 Pacific SurflinerTravel 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 |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() 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.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
761 Pacific Surfliner | 12:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 2:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
761 Pacific Surfliner | 12:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 2:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner | 2:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 4:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner | 2:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 4:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
769 Pacific Surfliner | 4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h51 | 6:52 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
769 Pacific Surfliner | 4:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h42 | 6:52 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
573 Pacific Surfliner | 6:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 8:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
573 Pacific Surfliner | 6:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 8:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
577 NA | 8:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 10:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
577 NA | 8:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 10:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
779 Pacific Surfliner | 9:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 11:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
779 Pacific Surfliner | 9:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 11:57 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
581 Pacific Surfliner | 10:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 12:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
581 Pacific Surfliner | 10:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 12:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, November 27 | |||||
785 Pacific Surfliner | 12:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 2:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
785 Pacific Surfliner | 12:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 2:57 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
587 Pacific Surfliner | 1:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 3h03 | 4:04 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
587 Pacific Surfliner | 1:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h54 | 4:04 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA
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.
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 |
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
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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
- The Fish Market
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps.
- $1.25
- The Westin San Diego
- The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
- San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
- Casa Guadalajara
- Old Town Mexican Cafe
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- $0.25
- Old Town Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
- Trolley: Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available including 8, 9, 10, 28, 30, 35, 44, 88, 105, 150, 923, 928
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- Located near the main entrance
- Free
- The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metrolink: Ventura County Line
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- $1
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
- Cost $10
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- $0.50
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Orange Line
Most popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA
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