San Diego, CA to Houston, TX train with Amtrak

Fri, Jun 19
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Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$425

Average price

$425

Fastest journey

1 d 17 h

Average duration

1 d 17 h 5 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

2094 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX will cost around $425 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $425.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 2 Sunset Limited
    4:10 PM41h00
    Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
    11:10 AMHouston Station, Houston, TX
    $4251One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 2 Sunset Limited
    4:01 PM41h09
    Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    11:10 AMHouston Station, Houston, TX
    $4261One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Houston, TX

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX 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 4h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $112, and a flight costs an average of $106.

Distance: 1301 miles (2094 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

$337

Average price

$433

Average price

$253

Average price

Cheapest

38h 29m

Average total duration

37h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 10m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 10m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

35h 23m

Average total duration

34h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX is a bus with an average price of $253 (€207).

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

A bus is $85 (€69) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX costing on average $337 (€276).

A bus is $180 (€147) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX costing on average $433 (€353).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 10m.

Other travel options to Houston, TX take longer:

Bus takes on average 34h 53m.

Train takes on average 37h 59m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Houston, TX including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX among Omio's users.

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Houston, TX train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Houston, TX trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak5:01 PM San Diego, CA
42h09
11:10 AM Houston, TX1 transfer

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 Houston, TX 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.

Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX run on average 2 times per day, taking around 37h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $216 (€177) but you can travel from only $106 (€87) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 16:01, the last at 18:55. The fastest train covers the 1301 miles (2094 km) distance in 40h 0m.

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 $106 (€87)
Distance
1301 miles (2094 km)
Average train duration
37h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$216 (€177)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
40h 0m
First train
4:01 PM
Last train
6:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
35 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 $106 (€87)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Houston, TX from $106 (€87). 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
40h 0m
Cheapest Price
$216 (€177)
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

Complete guide to Houston

Things to do in Houston

Discover the best of Houston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Houston trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

One of the largest art museums in the US, with major collections spanning antiquities to contemporary works across multiple buildings in the Museum District.

  • Must visit

Space Center Houston

The official visitor center for NASA Johnson Space Center, known for spacecraft displays, astronaut history, and tram tours to working NASA facilities.

  • Must visit

The Menil Collection

A renowned free art museum with strong surrealist, Byzantine, and modern collections, set in a quiet campus popular with locals.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Dining and transport are manageable, but hotels and car-related costs can add up.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-6 for a regular café coffee.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis/rideshares 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for coffee only if desired.

FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $216 (€177), while the average price is around $337 (€276).
The train from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX takes 40h 0m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX leaves at 4:01 PM.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX is 1301 miles (2094 km).
The last train from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX leaves at 6:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Houston, TX is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Houston Station, Houston, TX.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX is by flight, with a cost of around $106 (€87).
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX offers varied scenery, including coastal views, expansive deserts, and glimpses of the rugged landscapes of the American Southwest. However, much of the route passes through arid and less populated areas, which might be less visually striking compared to more mountainous or forested regions.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX is not feasible, as the journey takes 40h 0m and covers a distance of 1301 miles (2094 km). There are 2 trips per day for trains.
In Houston, TX, you can visit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, explore vibrant street art in the Houston Heights, and enjoy performances at the Houston Symphony. Discover the culinary scene with a food tour, and catch a baseball game at Minute Maid Park. For sights, explore Space Center Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Houston Zoo, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Enjoy outdoor activities at Buffalo Bayou Park with its trails and gardens.
To fully experience Houston, TX, including its cultural attractions, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX include Beaumont, TX.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, pickpocketing, and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Scams to watch out for include fake ticket sellers, overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers, and street vendors offering counterfeit goods. Staying in well-lit areas, using authorized transportation, and securing personal belongings can help minimize risks.
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 Houston, TX

Most San Diego, CA to Houston, TX trains use the Santa Fe Depot to Houston Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Houston, TX train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in San Diego
Arrival train stations in Houston

Which San Diego, CA station do trains to Houston, TX leave from?

Trains from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX leave from Santa Fe Depot. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Diego, CA city centre at 1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA.
Santa Fe Depot1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Fe Depot from San Diego city centre

Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min

Santa Fe Depot train station facilities and services

Santa Fe Depot has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.

Old Town Station4009 Taylor Street, San Diego, CA 92110, United StatesWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Old Town Station from San Diego city centre

Old Town Station is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCoaster · 7m · $7 · every ~2 min
Pacific Surfliner · 7m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusFlixBus 2017 · 15m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 9m · every ~18 min
Blue · 14m · every ~9 min

Old Town Station train station facilities and services

Old Town Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Casa Guadalajara, Old Town Mexican Cafe

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Old Town Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Old Town Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Old Town Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Old Town Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Old Town Station: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Old Town Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town, Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town.

More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Houston, TX

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Houston, TX and San Diego, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Houston, TXSan Diego, CA to Houston, TX train

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