- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Hands-on science and technology museum in Downtown San Jose with interactive exhibits, design challenges, and an IMAX Dome Theater. A strong family-friendly stop and one of the city’s signature museum
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 17
Cheapest price
$120
Average price
$164
Fastest journey
12 h 49 m
Average duration
13 h 36 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
671 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA will cost around $164 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $120.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA without transferring at least once.
769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 4119 AMTRAK8:01 AM14h04Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA10:05 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1201One-way3 transfers- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK6:01 AM12h49Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA6:50 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1601One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:01 AM13h45Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1871One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:01 AM13h45Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1881One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK6:01 AM12h49Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA6:50 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1601One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:01 AM13h45Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1871One-way1 transfer
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:01 AM13h45Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1881One-way1 transfer
- 769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 4119 AMTRAK8:01 AM14h04Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA10:05 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1201One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 32m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a flight costs an average of $75.
Distance: 416 miles (671 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$119 Average price | $282 Average price | $106 Average price Cheapest |
13h 23m Average total duration 12h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration Fastest 1h 32m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 18m Average total duration 10h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.0 - 4.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
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 San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of $106 (€86).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $13 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $119 (€96).
A bus is $175 (€142) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $282 (€228).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 32m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 48m.
Train takes on average 12h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA trains for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h45 | 7:46 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 12h49 | 6:50 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h45 | 7:46 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 13h36 | 7:46 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 13h36 | 7:46 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 12h40 | 6:50 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 4119 AMTRAK | 8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 14h04 | 10:05 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner · 5719 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 4119 AMTRAK | 8:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 13h55 | 10:05 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA by bus, train, or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 12h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $106 (€86) but you can travel from only $60 (€49) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 416 miles (671 km) distance in 12h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $60 (€49)
Distance 416 miles (671 km) |
Average train duration 12h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $106 (€86) |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 12h 49m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 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 $60 (€49)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and San Jose, CA from $60 (€49). 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
12h 24m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€82)
Amtrak frequency
13 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 San Jose
Things to do in San Jose
Discover the best of San Jose — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose trip today.
- Must visit
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Distinctive museum with one of the largest collections of Egyptian artifacts on display in western North America. Its architecture and mummy exhibits make it especially popular with first-time visit
- Must visit
Winchester Mystery House Museum Exhibits
The estate includes museum-style historical exhibits about Sarah Winchester and the property, complementing the guided house tour. A popular heritage experience with strong visitor interest.
- Must visit
Santana Row
Stylish mixed-use district known for palm-lined streets, upscale storefronts, and lively atmosphere. One of the most photographed and socially popular areas in the city.
- Must visit
Downtown San Jose
Core urban district with museums, plazas, theaters, light rail access, and a growing event scene. The best base for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of the city.
- Must visit
Municipal Rose Garden
Beautiful public garden famed for its seasonal rose displays and photogenic layout. Popular with locals for walks and social media-friendly snapshots.
- Gluten-free
Pho
Fragrant Vietnamese noodle soup that is especially popular in East San Jose, reflecting the city’s large Vietnamese community and local food culture.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette with pickled vegetables, herbs, and savory fillings; a signature everyday bite in San Jose.
Orange Sauce Burrito
A San Jose taqueria favorite: a burrito paired with the city’s cult orange taco sauce, a local staple with a creamy, spicy kick.
Adega
An upscale Portuguese restaurant recognized for refined cooking, polished service, and a destination-worthy fine dining experience.
Original Joe's San Jose
A long-running downtown institution known for Italian American comfort food, steaks, and a classic old-school atmosphere.
Falafel's Drive-In
A famous casual San Jose landmark celebrated for falafel, gyros, and its well-known banana shake in a retro drive-in setting.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but Silicon Valley costs make daily travel relatively expensive.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 per night for hotel housekeeping.
FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $106 (€86), while the average price is around $119 (€96).
The train from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA takes 12h 49m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA is 416 miles (671 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to San Jose, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $60 (€49).
The train journey from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA offers scenic views, including coastal landscapes and picturesque glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, especially between San Diego and Los Angeles, before transitioning to more urban and suburban environments as it approaches San Jose.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA is not feasible as the travel duration is 12h 49m. However, there are 13 trips per day available by train for this route, covering a distance of 416 miles (671 km).
In San Jose, CA, you can explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, visit the Children's Discovery Museum, enjoy performances at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, and discover Silicon Valley's history at the Computer History Museum. For outdoor activities, take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park. Top sights include the Winchester Mystery House, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, and the Municipal Rose Garden.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in San Jose, CA is sufficient to explore its key attractions, such as the Tech Interactive, Winchester Mystery House, Santana Row, and local museums.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA include Oakland, CA, San Francisco, CA, Salinas, CA, Berkeley, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps ensure safety.
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 San Jose, CA
San Diego
San Jose
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 San Jose.
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 San Jose is San José Diridon Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San José Diridon Station for your journey to San Jose from San Diego.
San José Diridon Station
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
5Parking
- Parking is available 7 days a week, with multiple lots surrounding the station.
Dining
- The Farmers Union
- Poor House Bistro
- La Victoria Taqueria
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Hotel De Anza
- The Westin San Jose
- AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose 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
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas, platforms for Caltrain, Amtrak, and ACE services, and connections to VTA buses and light rail.
Public transit options for San José Diridon Station
- Bus: VTA Bus Lines 22, 64A, 64B, 68, 168, 181
- Light Rail: VTA Green Line
- Caltrain
- Amtrak
- ACE
Santa Clara Station
Amenities at train station
DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmMost popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Jose, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to San Jose, CA
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