- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
Major museum in Old Sacramento with restored locomotives, railcars, and exhibits on railroad history in California and the American West.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$116
Average price
$236
Fastest journey
12 h 25 m
Average duration
14 h 13 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
761 km
Cheap tickets
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 $236 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $116.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave San Diego, CA for Sacramento, CA on Sun, May 31, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct trains cover the 761 km distance in an average of 14 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 25 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest trains will take 17 h 48 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.
11:10 AM12h25San Diego, CA11:35 PMSacramento, CA$1161One-way0 transfers- 12:10 PM12h25San Diego, CA12:35 AMSacramento, CA$1301One-way0 transfers
- 1:01 PM17h48San Diego, CA6:49 AMSacramento, CA$4631One-way0 transfers
- 12:10 PM12h25San Diego, CA12:35 AMSacramento, CA$1301One-way0 transfers
- 11:10 AM12h25San Diego, CA11:35 PMSacramento, CA$1161One-way0 transfers
- 1:01 PM17h48San Diego, CA6:49 AMSacramento, CA$4631One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA
Omio 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 prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, and a flight costs an average of $82.
Distance: 472 miles (761 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$123 Average price | $108 Average price Cheapest | $283 Average price | $111 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 56m Average total duration 13h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 20m Average total duration 12h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 3h 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.
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA is a bus with an average price of $108 (€87).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA:
A bus is $15 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $123 (€99).
A bus is $175 (€141) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $283 (€228).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 11m.
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 50m.
Train takes on average 13h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Sacramento, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, 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 $123 (€99) compared to roughly $111 (€90) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-11.76 (€-9.47). The journey takes 13h 26m 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.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA trains for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 · 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 · 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 | |
| 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 · 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 | 13h49 | 7:50 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 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 · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 17h48 | 11:49 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 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 | |
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 Sacramento, 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 13h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $113 (€91) but you can travel from only $65 (€52) 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 12h 25m.
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 $65 (€52)
Distance 472 miles (761 km) |
Average train duration 13h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $113 (€91) |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 12h 25m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Bus from $65 (€52)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Sacramento, CA from $65 (€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
11h 10m
Cheapest Price
$94 (€76)
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 Sacramento
Things to do in Sacramento
Discover the best of Sacramento — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento trip today.
- Must visit
Crocker Art Museum
Premier art museum with California art, European works, ceramics, and rotating exhibitions in a historic mansion and modern expansion.
- Must visit
California State Capitol Museum
Museum inside the restored State Capitol featuring historic rooms, political history exhibits, and access to the landmark government building.
- Must visit
Old Sacramento Waterfront
Historic district with wooden sidewalks, Gold Rush-era buildings, river views, museums, and one of the city’s most visited walking areas.
- Recommended
Capitol Park
Tree-filled park surrounding the State Capitol, popular for walks, memorials, gardens, and easy downtown sightseeing.
- Recommended
Midtown Sacramento
Lively central neighborhood known for murals, boutiques, nightlife, and walkable streets that are popular with locals and visitors.
Farm-To-Fork Seasonal Plate
Sacramento is known as America’s Farm-To-Fork Capital, and many local menus highlight peak-season produce, local meats, and regional ingredients from the Central Valley.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
California Fresh Asparagus Dishes
The Sacramento region has deep ties to Delta asparagus farming. Grilled, roasted, or served in salads, it is a classic seasonal local ingredient.
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew popular across Northern California and commonly found in Sacramento restaurants, reflecting the city’s ties to coastal and river trade.
The Kitchen Restaurant
A celebrated Sacramento fine-dining institution known for an interactive tasting menu, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Mulvaney's B&L
A long-established farm-to-table restaurant in Midtown, praised for seasonal menus, local sourcing, and a warm upscale setting.
Selland's Market-Cafe
A well-known local favorite for casual California cooking, salads, sandwiches, and prepared foods with strong local appeal.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Casual dining and coffee are reasonable, but hotels and upscale dining can be pricey in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis or add 10-15%, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 as appropriate.
FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA
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.
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $113 (€91), while the average price is around $123 (€99).
The train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA takes 12h 25m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA is 472 miles (761 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Sacramento, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $65 (€52).
The train journey from San Diego to Sacramento offers scenic views of California's diverse landscapes, including coastal vistas, rolling hills, and agricultural areas, providing a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 25m, covering a distance of 472 miles (761 km). There are 12 trips per day available for trains.
To fully explore Sacramento's key attractions, including the California State Capitol Museum, Old Sacramento Waterfront, and the Crocker Art Museum, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA include Oakland, CA, Richmond, CA, Berkeley, CA, Martinez, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Old Sacramento and transit stations. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use official transportation options, avoid displaying valuables openly, and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Sacramento, CA
San Diego
Sacramento
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 Sacramento.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
- The Fish Market
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $1.25
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
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
5 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
Dining
- Casa Guadalajara
- Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- $0.25
Hotel
- Old Town Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
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
The major train station for arrivals in Sacramento is Sacramento Valley Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sacramento Valley Station for your journey to Sacramento from San Diego.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with both short-term and long-term options.
Dining
- The Firehouse Restaurant
- Ten22
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade
- Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena
- Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 60 places, covered
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas, platforms are accessible via a concourse.
Public transit options for Sacramento Valley Station
- Light Rail: Blue Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including local and regional buses
Sacramento, California State Capitol
information
Most popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sacramento, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to Sacramento, CA
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