San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, May 29
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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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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA

Showing times and prices for May 29

Cheapest price

$38

Average price

$126

Fastest journey

4 h 49 m

Average duration

6 h 45 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

136 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave San Diego, CA for Palm Springs, CA on Fri, May 29, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, May 29 the direct trains cover the 136 km distance in an average of 6 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 49 m .

On Fri, May 29 the slowest trains will take 8 h 35 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
    9:01 PM4h59
    San Diego, CA
    2:00 AMPalm Springs, CA
    $381One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    3:01 PM4h49
    San Diego, CA
    7:50 PMPalm Springs, CA
    $401One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    12:01 AM8h35
    San Diego, CA
    8:36 AMPalm Springs, CA
    $771One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    11:01 PM8h35
    San Diego, CA
    7:36 AMPalm Springs, CA
    $3501One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $38, and a bus costs an average of $43.

Distance: 84 miles (136 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$56

Average price

Cheapest

$77

Average price

$26

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 17m

Average total duration

4h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA is a train with an average price of $56 (€45).

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

A train is $21 (€17) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA costing on average $77 (€62).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA is by train with an average journey time of 4h 20m.

Other travel options to Palm Springs, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 47m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, 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 $56 (€45) compared to roughly $26 (€21) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-30.50 (€-24.66). The journey takes 4h 20m versus 2h 10m 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.

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA trains for today, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4970 AMTRAK8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
4h59
1:00 PM Palm Springs, CA1 transfer
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4970 AMTRAK8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
4h49
12:50 PM Palm Springs, CA1 transfer
Amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner · 4982 AMTRAK2:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
4h59
7:00 PM Palm Springs, CA1 transfer
Amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner · 4982 AMTRAK2:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
5h09
7:10 PM Palm Springs, CA1 transfer
Friday, May 29
Amtrak12:01 AM San Diego, CA
8h35
8:36 AM Palm Springs, CA0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, 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.

Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 02:02, the last at 16:10. The fastest train covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 4h 49m.

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
Distance
84 miles (136 km)
Average train duration
4h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$38 (€31)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
4h 49m
First train
2:02 AM
Last train
4:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
2 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

Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Palm Springs, CA from $38 (€31). 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
4h 49m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Amtrak frequency
5 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 Palm Springs, CA

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $56 (€45).
The train from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA takes 4h 49m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA is 84 miles (136 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 2:02 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 4:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA is by train, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
The train journey from San Diego to Palm Springs offers a scenic view of Southern California's diverse landscapes, including coastal vistas, rolling hills, and desert scenery, providing a visually pleasant experience during the ride.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA is not feasible as the duration is 4h 49m. However, there are 5 trips per day available by train, covering a distance of 84 miles (136 km).
In Palm Springs, CA, you can explore the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, visit the Palm Springs Air Museum, enjoy golfing at world-class courses, stroll through the lively Palm Springs VillageFest, and relax at luxurious spas. For breathtaking sights, consider the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Joshua Tree National Park, the Palm Springs Art Museum, Indian Canyons, and Moorten Botanical Garden.
To fully enjoy Palm Springs, CA, and its offerings, plan for a 3 to 4-day visit to explore its attractions, including Joshua Tree National Park, the Aerial Tramway, and local museums.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Palm Springs, 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers or ride-share services and unauthorized street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation options and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night. Additionally, travelers should be mindful of heat-related risks during summer months.
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 Palm Springs, CA

San Diego
Palm Springs
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 Palm Springs.
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 train connections to Palm Springs, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Palm Springs, CASan Diego, CA to Palm Springs, CA train

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