San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Fri, Dec 05
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Amtrak
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Italo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Dec 06

Cheapest price

$274

Average price

$274

Fastest journey

1 d 22 h 41 m

Average duration

1 d 22 h 41 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

2784 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL will cost around $274 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $274.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave San Diego, CA for Chicago, IL on Sat, Dec 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Dec 06 the direct trains cover the 2784 km distance in an average of 1 d 22 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 22 h 41 m .

On Sat, Dec 06 the slowest trains will take 1 d 22 h 41 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.

Amtrak
09:01PM46h41
San Diego, CA
07:42PMChicago, IL
$2741One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €108. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 29m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €108, and a train costs an average of €161.

Distance: 1729 miles (2784 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€255

Average price

€234

Average price

€200

Average price

Cheapest

50h 3m

Average total duration

49h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 29m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

54h 22m

Average total duration

53h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.8 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

8.4 - 16.7kg

CO2 emissions

2.8 - 7.0kg

CO2 emissions

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 Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday, December 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 10:06 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief10:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
46h41
8:42 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief10:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
46h32
8:42 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
Saturday, December 6
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 422 Texas Eagle12:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
67h43
7:44 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr12:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
68h38
8:39 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2 transfers
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 422 Texas Eagle12:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
67h34
7:44 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL1 transfer
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr12:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
68h29
8:39 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL2 transfers

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 Chicago, IL 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.

Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

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Icon of train

Trains from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 49h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $199 (€161) but you can travel from only $91 (€73) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 11:03, the last at 16:40. The fastest train covers the 1729 miles (2784 km) distance in 46h 41m.

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
Flight from $91 (€73)
Distance
1729 miles (2784 km)
Average train duration
49h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$199 (€161)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
46h 41m
First train
11:03
Last train
16:40
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
Flight from $91 (€73)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL from $91 (€73). 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
46h 41m
Cheapest Price
$200 (€161)
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

FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

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

FAQs
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey duration is 46h 41m and the distance is 1729 miles (2784 km). There are 4 trips per day for trains.
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $199 (€161), while the average price is around $316 (€255).
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $91 (€73).
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL offers varied scenery, including coastal views, desert landscapes, and mountainous terrains as it traverses through Southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico, transitioning into the plains of the Midwest.
The train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL takes 46h 41m and runs 4 per day.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Chicago, IL is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL is 1729 miles (2784 km).
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.
The first train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:03 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:40 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from San Diego, CA to Chicago, IL

San Diego
Chicago
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 Chicago.
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 Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA

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