- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of North America’s premier rail museums, with restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and strong California history context.
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$118
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$141
Fastest journey on Aug 29
12 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
12 h 48 m
Trains on Aug 29
15
Distance
761 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA will cost around $141 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $118.
It's difficult to get from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA without transferring at least 3 times.
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK
769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK
765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK
769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3815 AMTRAK
765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAKOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $146 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 9m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $146, while a flight costs an average of $609.
Distance: 472 miles (761 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$233 Average price | $146 Average price Cheapest | $609 Average price | $112 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 34m Average total duration 17h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 44m Average total duration 13h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration Fastest 4h 9m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 2.3 - 4.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA:
A bus is $88 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $233.
A bus is $464 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $609.
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 14m.
Train takes on average 17h 4m.
Tickets start at around $233 compared to roughly $112 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-121.12. The journey takes 17h 4m versus 7h 57m 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.
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 12h34 | 4:35 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 12h44 | 4:45 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK · 746 Capitol Corridor | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 17h04 | 9:05 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3815 AMTRAK | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 12h49 | 4:50 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
761 Pacific Surfliner · 5815 AMTRAK · 715 Gold Runner · 3715 AMTRAK | 4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 12h25 | 4:35 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 17h48 | 11:49 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK · 748 Capitol Corridor | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 17h14 | 11:15 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3817 AMTRAK | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h54 | 7:55 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h49 | 7:50 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 17h48 | 11:49 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h39 | 7:40 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 5817 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 13h30 | 7:40 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK | 8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h49 | 9:50 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK | 8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h59 | 10:00 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK | 8:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 13h40 | 9:50 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 17h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $122 but you can travel from only $64 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 472 miles (761 km) distance in 16h 54m.
Distance 472 miles (761 km) |
Average train duration 17h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $122 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 16h 54m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Sacramento, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento, CA trip today.
One of North America’s premier rail museums, with restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and strong California history context.
Excellent art museum known for California art, ceramics, photography, and engaging modern exhibitions in Midtown Sacramento.
State history museum inside the capitol, featuring restored offices, political artifacts, and architecture that defines California government.
Tree-lined central district known for restaurants, shops, murals, nightlife, and easy walking between major Sacramento attractions.
Large riverside park with trails, gardens, ponds, and open lawns, ideal for strolling, picnics, and seeing local wildlife.
Long riverfront path popular for walking and cycling, linking parks and neighborhoods with broad Sacramento River views.
Farm-to-fork seasonal plates built from Sacramento Valley produce. They reflect the city's agricultural identity and restaurant culture more than a single fixed recipe.
A local spin on California cuisine using grilled salmon, asparagus, citrus, and herbs. It highlights nearby river fish and regional produce.
Fresh Delta asparagus, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is a celebrated spring ingredient from the nearby Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
Contemporary fine dining destination focused on seasonal Sacramento ingredients, tasting menus, and polished service.
Beloved local bakery and cafe for breakfast, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee with a lively neighborhood feel.
Historic upscale restaurant in Old Sacramento known for steaks, seafood, and classic dining room service in a refined setting.
Moderate for California. Hotels are often pricier than smaller US cities, while casual dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-22% for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts; small tips are appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA trains use the Santa Fe Depot to Sacramento Valley Station station pair, with some services arriving at Sacramento, California State Capitol. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Sacramento, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.
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 Station is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Casa Guadalajara, Old Town Mexican Cafe
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Old Town Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Old Town Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Old Town Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Old Town Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Old Town Station: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Old Town Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town, Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town.
Sacramento Valley 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: The Firehouse Restaurant, Ten22
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento Valley Station: Ramps.
Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade, Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena, Kimpton Sawyer Hotel.
Sacramento, California State Capitol has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: A cafe is available inside the station
Wi-Fi is available at Sacramento, California State Capitol. ATMs are aTM available near the ticket counters.
Ticket office support is available at Sacramento, California State Capitol.
Available at Sacramento, California State Capitol: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento, California State Capitol: Station is wheelchair accessible.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need