San Diego, CA to Chico, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, Jul 10
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for San Diego, CA to Chico, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $112. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $112, and a flight costs an average of $63.

Distance: 549 miles (885 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$133

Average price

$114

Average price

Cheapest

$259

Average price

$119

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

16h 39m

Average total duration

16h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

14h 24m

Average total duration

13h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 43m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

9h 19m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA is a bus with an average price of $114 (€94).

This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA:

A bus is $19 (€15) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA costing on average $133 (€109).

A bus is $145 (€119) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA costing on average $259 (€213).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 43m.

Other travel options to Chico, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 13h 54m.

Train takes on average 16h 9m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Chico, 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 Chico, 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 $133 (€109) compared to roughly $119 (€98) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.60 (€-11.16). The journey takes 16h 9m versus 9h 19m 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.

Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to Chico, 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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Jul 10
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Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA

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Trains from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 16h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $127 (€104) but you can travel from only $63 (€52) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 549 miles (885 km) distance in 15h 50m.

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 $63 (€52)
Distance
549 miles (885 km)
Average train duration
16h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
$127 (€104)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
15h 50m
First train
4:01 AM
Last train
10:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
7 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
Flight from $63 (€52)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Chico, CA from $63 (€52). 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
13h 30m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€92)
Amtrak frequency
6 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 Chico, CA

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $127 (€104), while the average price is around $133 (€109).
The train from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA takes 15h 50m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA is 549 miles (885 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Chico, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Chico station, Chico, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $63 (€52).
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA offers a scenic experience, with views of the Pacific coastline, rolling hills, and diverse California landscapes, making it a picturesque route for travelers.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 15h 50m and covers 549 miles (885 km). There are 6 trips per day by train.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Chico, CA is ideal to explore its local attractions, including Bidwell Park, the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and the vibrant downtown area.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Chico, 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 Chico, CA include Redding, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Chico, 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 Chico, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. It's advisable to avoid leaving valuables unattended and to use well-lit, populated locations at night. While violent crime is relatively low, being aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure safety. Travelers should also be wary of common scams like overcharging or unofficial taxi services, and always use licensed transportation options.
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.

More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Chico, CA

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Most popular train connections to Chico, CA

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