San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA train

Mon, Aug 24
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Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 24

Cheapest price

$84

Average price

$112

Fastest journey

13 h 59 m

Average duration

14 h 14 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

727 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco, CA will cost around $112 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave San Diego, CA for South San Francisco, CA on Mon, Aug 24, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 24 the direct trains cover the 727 km distance in an average of 14 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 59 m .

On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest trains will take 14 h 29 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
    1:01 PM13h59
    San Diego, CA
    3:00 AMSouth San Francisco, CA
    $841One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    4:01 PM14h29
    San Diego, CA
    6:30 AMSouth San Francisco, CA
    $1391One-way
    0 transfers

Live departures

San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA trains for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak1:01 PM San Diego, CA
13h59
3:00 AM South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco, CA by train

Compare 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.

Mon
Aug 24
Tue
Aug 25
Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

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Take a train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA and enjoy the approximately 451 miles (727 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 22:35.

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
451 miles (727 km)
Trains per day
9
First train
4:01 AM
Last train
10:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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

FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

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

FAQs
The first train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA is 451 miles (727 km).
The last train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA leaves at 10:35 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA.
The train journey from San Diego to South San Francisco offers scenic views, particularly along the Pacific coastline and through rolling hills, providing passengers with picturesque landscapes and glimpses of California's natural beauty.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in South San Francisco, CA, is generally sufficient to explore the area, including nearby attractions like Oyster Point Marina and the scenic views of the San Bruno Mountains.
No, you cannot take the train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor South San Francisco, 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.
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 South San Francisco, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers or ride-share services, so it's advisable to use reputable transportation options. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps 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 South San Francisco, CA

Most San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA trains use the Santa Fe Depot to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) station pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco

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

Trains from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, 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.

More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to South San Francisco, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USASan Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA train

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