- Must visit
New Orleans Museum of Art
Leading art museum in City Park with major European, American, African, and contemporary collections plus a renowned sculpture garden.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$1034
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$1954
Fastest journey on Aug 29
3 d 6 h 32 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
3 d 15 h 57 m
Trains on Aug 29
3
Distance
3093 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA will cost around $1954 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $1034.
Fast trains
On Sat, Aug 29, we found 3 trains from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 3093 km distance in an average of 3 d 15 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 d 6 h 32 m .
On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 4 d 10 h 47 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.
3:25 PM106h47San Francisco, CA2:12 AMNew Orleans, LA$10341One-way0 transfers- 3:15 PM78h32San Francisco, CA9:47 PMNew Orleans, LA$16201One-way0 transfers
- 2:15 PM78h32San Francisco, CA8:47 PMNew Orleans, LA$32081One-way0 transfers
- 3:15 PM78h32San Francisco, CA9:47 PMNew Orleans, LA$16201One-way0 transfers
- 2:15 PM78h32San Francisco, CA8:47 PMNew Orleans, LA$32081One-way0 transfers
- 3:25 PM106h47San Francisco, CA2:12 AMNew Orleans, LA$10341One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $428 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 8h 23m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $428, while a train costs an average of $940.
Distance: 1921 miles (3093 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$940 Average price | $428 Average price Cheapest | $712 Average price |
72h 26m Average total duration 71h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 52h 21m Average total duration 51h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 23m Average total duration Fastest 6h 23m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA is a bus with an average price of $428.
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA:
A bus is $284 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA costing on average $712.
A bus is $511 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA costing on average $940.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 23m.
Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:
Bus takes on average 51h 51m.
Train takes on average 71h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and New Orleans, LA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA trains for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 60h10 | 2:40 AM New Orleans, LA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:00 PM San Francisco, CA | 59h40 | 2:40 AM New Orleans, LA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA 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 Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA
USAUSA
Trains from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 71h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $472 but you can travel from only $156 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 13:45. The fastest train covers the 1921 miles (3093 km) distance in 71h 56m.
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
Flight from $156
Distance 1921 miles (3093 km) |
Average train duration 71h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $472 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 71h 56m |
First train 4:55 AM |
Last train 1:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Flight from $156
Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and New Orleans, LA from $213. 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 Amtrak Duration
71h 56m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$472
Amtrak frequency
1 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 New Orleans, LA
Things to do in New Orleans, LA
Discover the best of New Orleans, LA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect New Orleans, LA trip today.
- Must visit
The National WWII Museum
Powerful museum using immersive exhibits to explain World War II through personal stories, artifacts, and major military history.
- Recommended
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Smithsonian-affiliated museum devoted to Southern art, design, and culture in a contemporary warehouse district setting.
- Must visit
French Quarter
The city’s most famous neighborhood, packed with historic architecture, music, courtyards, and essential New Orleans street life.
- Must visit
Jackson Square
Lively public square facing St. Louis Cathedral, ideal for architecture, performers, and a classic introduction to the city.
- Must visit
City Park
Vast urban park with oak groves, lagoons, museums, and trails, offering one of the best green escapes in New Orleans.
- Gluten-free
Jambalaya
A hearty Creole rice dish with sausage, chicken, and seafood. It reflects Spanish, French, and local influences central to New Orleans cooking.
Gumbo
A rich Louisiana stew usually made with roux, okra or filé, and seafood or sausage. It is a signature dish of Creole and Cajun tradition.
Po' Boy
A classic po' boy is a French bread sandwich stuffed with fried shrimp, oysters, or roast beef. It is one of the city's most iconic everyday foods.
Commander's Palace
Celebrated Creole restaurant famous for gumbo z'herbes, turtle soup, and jazz brunch in an elegant Garden District mansion.
Johnny's Po-Boys
Casual landmark for classic po' boys and fried seafood. Expect a lively, old-school New Orleans atmosphere near the French Quarter.
Café du Monde
Historic coffee stand best known for beignets and chicory café au lait. It is busy, informal, and one of the city's essential stops.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. cities: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but food and transit are reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or po'boys.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or $1 at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Trains from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $472, while the average price is around $940.
The train from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA runs once a day and takes approximately 71h 56m.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA is 1921 miles (3093 km).
The first train from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The last train from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA leaves at 1:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA.
The cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA is by bus, with a cost of around $213.
The train journey from San Francisco to New Orleans offers scenic views, including the picturesque Pacific Coast, the diverse landscapes of California, the expansive deserts of the Southwest, and the charming bayous of Louisiana, providing a diverse and visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA is not feasible as the travel duration is 71h 56m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit for a day trip. The distance between the two cities is 1921 miles (3093 km). Additionally, there are 4 train trips per day available for this route.
In New Orleans, LA, you can enjoy traditional jazz performances at Preservation Hall, relax in Audubon Park with its zoo and golf course, and experience live music on Frenchmen Street. Take a scenic cruise on the Steamboat Natchez and explore City Park's botanical gardens and art museum. Discover the French Quarter's vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage, visit Jackson Square and the historic St. Louis Cathedral, admire the Garden District's antebellum mansions, and explore the National WWII Museum's immersive exhibits.
Three to four days are recommended to fully explore New Orleans, allowing time to visit its historic neighborhoods, enjoy live music, savor local cuisine, and experience cultural landmarks such as the French Quarter and Garden District.
Yes, you can take the train from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA include Hammond, LA, Gulfport, MS, McComb, MS, Bay Saint Louis, MS, Picayune, MS.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the French Quarter. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated neighborhoods and to use authorized transportation services to 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 Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA
Most San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA trains use the San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) to Union Passenger Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and New Orleans, LA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in San Francisco
Arrival train stations in New Orleans
Which San Francisco, CA station do trains to New Orleans, LA leave from?
Trains from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA leave from San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). The station is 1 miles (3 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at 4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) train station facilities and services
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are accessible in the vicinity.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi available at surrounding public areas. ATMs are aTMs available in nearby buildings.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Station is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Which New Orleans, LA station do trains from San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA arrive at Union Passenger Terminal. Union Passenger Terminal is 0 miles (1 km) from New Orleans, LA city centre.
Union Passenger Terminal1001 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Passenger Terminal from New Orleans city centre
Bus202, 51, 52, 53-O, 57, 91 · 4m · $2 · every ~17 min
202, 114A, 114B, 103 · 4m · $2 · every ~7 min
Tram46 · 7m · $2 · every ~4 min
Union Passenger Terminal train station facilities and services
Union Passenger Terminal 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: Cochon Restaurant, Herbsaint
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Passenger Terminal. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Passenger Terminal. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Passenger Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Passenger Terminal: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Passenger Terminal: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Regency New Orleans, Le Pavillon Hotel, Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans.
Most popular train connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to New Orleans, LA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from New Orleans, LA and San Francisco, CA
Most popular train connections to New Orleans, LA
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