San Diego, CA to Merced, CA train

Thu, Sep 03
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 03

Cheapest price on Sep 03

$98

Average ticket price on Sep 03

$98

Fastest journey on Sep 03

9 h 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 03

10 h 7 m

Trains on Sep 03

3

Distance

593 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Merced, 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 Merced, CA will cost around $98 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.

Fast trains

On Thu, Sep 03, we found 3 trains from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA, including 3 direct services.

On Thu, Sep 03 the direct trains cover the 593 km distance in an average of 10 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 45 m .

On Thu, Sep 03 the slowest trains will take 10 h 51 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
    1:10 PM10h51
    San Diego, CA
    12:01 AMMerced, CA
    $981One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    12:10 PM9h45
    San Diego, CA
    9:55 PMMerced, CA
    $981One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    11:10 AM9h45
    San Diego, CA
    8:55 PMMerced, CA
    $991One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for San Diego, CA to Merced, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $119 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 9h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $119, while a bus costs an average of $119.

Distance: 368 miles (593 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$119

Average price

Cheapest

$89

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 59m

Average total duration

Fastest

9h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 20m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA is a bus with an average price of $119 (€97).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 9h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Merced, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA among Omio's users.

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Merced, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Merced, CA trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak11:10 AM San Diego, CA
9h45
8:55 PM Merced, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak12:10 PM San Diego, CA
9h45
9:55 PM Merced, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak1:10 PM San Diego, CA
10h51
12:01 AM Merced, 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 Merced, CA by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09

Journey information

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

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Take a train from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA and enjoy the approximately 368 miles (593 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 22:40.

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
Bus from $63 (€51)
Distance
368 miles (593 km)
First train
4:01 AM
Last train
10:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
1 day
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 $63 (€51)

FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA

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

FAQs
The first train from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA is 368 miles (593 km).
The last train from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA leaves at 10:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Merced, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Merced Station, Merced, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $63 (€51).
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the Pacific coast before heading inland through California's diverse landscapes, including rolling hills and agricultural fields.
For a visit to Merced, CA, two to three days are generally sufficient to explore local attractions such as the Merced National Wildlife Refuge, Applegate Park Zoo, and partake in outdoor activities at Lake Yosemite.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Merced, 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 Merced, CA include Fresno, CA, Stockton, CA, Modesto, CA, Antioch, CA, Madera, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Merced, 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 Merced, CA, travelers should be aware of petty crimes such as car break-ins and pickpocketing, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. It’s advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated locations at night. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and ticket sellers. Staying vigilant, using official transportation options, and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Merced, CA

Most San Diego, CA to Merced, CA trains use the Santa Fe Depot to Merced Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Merced, CA 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 Merced

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

Trains from San Diego, CA to Merced, CA 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.

Most popular trains to and from Merced, CA and San Diego, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Merced, CASan Diego, CA to Merced, CA train

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